Today in Mississippi April 2018 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

News for members of Electric Cooperatives in Mississippi

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Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finally here!

The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience opens in Meridian p. 4

6 History comes alive at Shaifer House 10 Mississippi Cooks: Southern comfort cookinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 17Cooperatives sponsor Youth Leadership Workshop

12 I Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Central Electric Power Association A tradition of dependable, hometown service since 1937 Carthage 601-267-5671 • Philadelphia 601-656-2601 • Rankin 601-829-1201 • Sebastopol 601-625-7422

Central EPA Annual Meeting Over 500 people attended the 81st Annual Meeting of the Membership of Central Electric Power Association March 20 at the coliseum in Carthage. The crowd was entertained by Bros. 4, a southern gospel quartet based out of Rankin County. Members enjoyed the old convention-style singing. General Manager Brian Long opened the meeting followed by the invocation given by Phillip Crosby, a member of the board of directors. Mayor Jimmy Wallace of Carthage welcomed the crowd and complimented Manager Long and the board of directors for the wonderful job they do for the community. Michael Callahan with the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and John Malone with

the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) were guests at the meeting. Both the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and TVA value their partnership with Central Electric Power Association and the hard work that has been accomplished through the years. Manager Long reported that by the end of 2017, the association had 36,428 members in central Mississippi and 4,269 miles of underground and overhead distribution and transmission lines. Long also praised his staff for working hard, being safe, and keeping the lights on. To conclude the meeting, a raffle took place. Dozens of prizes, including an electric grill, were given to away to lucky members. The grand prize given away was a 2010 Ford F-150 extended cab pickup to Curt Pace of Neshoba County.

Bros. 4 provided musical entertainment.

A crowd of more than 500 people attended the

2018 Annual Meeting

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

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G R A N D PR I Z E WINNER

Tim Stewart, Sebastopol district manager presents Curt Pace, Pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church, the keys to this 2010 Ford F-150 extended cab pickup.

Curt Pace, of Nesh oba County, was the winner of a 2 010 Ford F-150 extended cab pic kup.

Foch Dickens and Chance Sistrunk talk to a member about energy efficient light bulbs.

A commitment to community is a tradition at Central Electric including a health fair held at the annual meeting. Rachel Wolverton from Sebastopol was the winner of a patio bistro grill. She is pictured with her cousin Rudolph Williams who also won a door prize.

Board member Phillip Crosby delivered the invocation.

Mayor Jimmy Wallace welcomed the crowd to Carthage while giving a report on the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progress.

Board member Danny Thornton reports the minutes of the 2017 annual meeting.

Brian Long delivers his first annual report as general manager at the recent annual meeting.

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April 2018

Central Electric sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Above: Ron Stewart, senior vice president of Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi, presents Wallace with an award for winning the Overall Youth Leadership Council (YLC) Award. Wallacec will represent Mississippi for a one-year term and will join YLC’s from around the United States for a conference in Washington, D.C., the statewide Annual Meeting on the Gulf Coast and the NRECA Annual Meeting in 2019 in Orlando, Fla. Congratulations to Wallace on being selected for this prestigious award. Left: Sarah Burns uses her leadership skills as she guides her team to complete a difficult challenge.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already-present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, Feb. 21, and continued through Friday, Feb. 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Wallace Bass, Sarah Burns, Gabby Caldwell, Allyson Crocker, Courtney Gill, Brian Pace, Alana Patterson and Arrow Scott were selected among the schools in Central Electric’ Power Association’s service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” This year, 80 students attended the workshop which was held at the Marriott in downtown

Jackson. When the students arrived on Wednesday, the workshop began with a “get acquainted” session and they were put into situations where they had to learn about others. They were then asked to participate in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives who serve in state government on behalf of the districts in which they reside. The breakfast was well-attended with over 40 legislators in attendance. Before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves spoke to the students and encouraged them to work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his speech, he encouraged the students to pursue their

“We are proud to have these outstanding students represent Central Electric.” – Brian Long General Manager

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS April 2018

Today in Mississippi I 12c

Gov. Phil Bryant

Above from left: Courtney, Alana, Gabby, Sarah, Rep. Scott Bounds, Arrow, Allyson, Wallace and Brian. Right: The students pose during the Fun Time photobooth session.

dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. He discussed the positive economic factors happening in Mississippi and told them that they don’t have to go far from home to become successful. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, there are many advantages to staying right here at home,” he said. The students also heard from other motivational speakers and participated in a fun evening with local magician, Dorian LaChance where he wowed them with his illusions. When the workshop came to a close, the students had made many new friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Building leaders is fundamental to building a strong

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves

munity and through this program, Central Electric hopes to prepare these young people for a bright future. The program has proven to encourage students to reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. Central Electric is a proud sponsor of the program. “We are proud to have these outstanding students represent Central Electric,” said Brian Long, general manager. “They are our future leaders, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.” In June, the students will travel with the youth group to Washington, D.C. The seven-day trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Arrow, Allyson, Sarah, Gabby, Courtney, Wallace, Brian and Alana visit the Mississippi State Capitol.

Bro. Terry Rhodes

Magician Dorian LaChance

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Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Spoonfudge! owners continue to

By Elissa Fulton In 2011, Tarah “Queenie” Boykin and Alesia “Nelly” Johnson took a leap of faith and purchased a small growing website business with unlimited potential. The residents of Sebastopol are all too familiar with the charming little restaurant downtown that sells delectable fudge in over 120 flavors from little jars. In the seven years the two have owned and operated Spoonfudge!, they have listened to their customers and have expanded several times, gaining more business than they ever could have initially dreamed for. A map with pins on the low-hanging ceiling in Sebastopol shows the locations the fudge has shipped to all over the world. The first order of business was to style the business as their own. Tarah’s marketing background was beneficial when taking on the task of rebranding. At the time that the two women acquired Spoonfudge! there was only one small kitchen in the space. In 2012, when the customers began to urge Tarah and Alesia to open a space to gather, the ladies added a few tables and opened their doors three days a week, serving coffee and pastries. It was instantly popular and became a trendy spot for the people of Sebastopol. The next urging came when the customers wanted a space to have birthday parties and small gatherings. Taking their customers advice once again, after the Christmas rush of 2013, Tarah and Alesia closed the doors in January 2014 to do a large expansion and renovation.

expand

“We have a great landlord who has been very supportive of our business so he was very accommodating with the expansion. We knocked out walls, added another kitchen in the back and built the Loft upstairs for parties and overflow seating,” said Tarah. “Although

Alesia “Nelly’ Johnson and Tarah “Queenie’ Boykin

the original plan was just to be a small café selling our pastries and coffees, our customers asked us to consider serving lunch since there was really nowhere in town to eat. We started doing that too, and it’s just kind of boomed from there.” In September 2017, Tarah and Alesia got what they call a “wonderful opportunity” to open another location in Newton called Spoonfudge 2! Although the flagship

PEARL RIVER FOODS TO HOLD JOB FAIR Pearl River Foods will hold a job fair April 9th at the old elementary school in Carthage, Mississippi, located at 500 North Van Buren Street. The job fair will start at 9:00A.M. and close at 7:00 P.M.. Make plans to be there for 2 to 2.5 hours as that is how long the process could take and make sure to bring your photo id. Pearl River Foods will be hiring for the following positions:

Sizers/Cutters Production Workers Forklift Drivers/Pallet Drivers Sanitation Quality Assurance Maintenance Technicians Administrative Assistant

To see a detailed job description and preregister for the job fair visit your local WIN Job Center. Pearl River Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

location in Sebastopol still produces the Spoonfudge! product and stocks the Newton store, the two locations are very different. The focus of the Newton location is primarily on their lunch service, while the Sebastopol location is centered on the production of their gourmet fudge. “The locations are very different and the atmosphere is really different in Newton,” said Tarah. “For one thing our building in Newton is much larger and there’s a lot more seating.” A few months after opening the new store, they realized that their upstairs room wasn’t being used quite as often, since many of their Newton County residents are now taking advantage of the closer location. “The room served its purpose, but then we had another idea,” said Tarah. “Through the years, we’ve been blessed to have so many Mississippi-makers come to us and ask our advice. At times, it’s been a hard road for us to figure out and we are still figuring it out every day. So we thought, maybe this is what God wants us to do – to help other Mississippi-makers and give them a leg-up.” That’s when the pair opened The Loft at Spoonfudge! In Sebastopol. The upstairs area in the main location has now become home to many unique items made primarily in central Mississippi. The artists pay a percentage of sales and Tarah and Alesia handle their inventory, help to sell the items and even gift wrap for special occasions. “We really love The Loft because we love to buy from people we know and supporting that mission, because if it hadn’t been for those kinds of hearts and minds supporting us, we wouldn’t still be here seven years later,” said Tarah. “It didn’t really hit us until seven years ago when we became a Mississippi-made product, how important it is to support other Mississippi products and that’s just been a really important thing to us.” Tarah and Alesia stay busy between the Sebastopol and Newton stores and they also co-chair the town festi-

Central Electric needs your CURRENT phone number! Please call your local Central EPA office and verify/update your telephone number you are most likely to call from when reporting an outage, including cell phone numbers. These numbers will be used by the automated outage reporting system to quickly locate your account and more quickly address your power outage!

Please call today to update your information!

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

Spoonfudge 2 114 S Main Street • Newton, MS (601) 685-2000 Hours Tuesday-Friday 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Saturday – 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. *Kitchen closes 30 minutes prior to shoppe!

Spoonfudge! and Loft @ Spoonfudge! 24 Hwy 492 • Sebastopol, MS (601) 625-7923 Hours Tuesday-Friday 10:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Saturday – 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. *Kitchen closes 30 minutes prior to shoppe!

val in the fall – Sebastopolooza – with help from many of the town volunteers. Tarah also just took on her first term as Alderwoman, so they are both certainly enthusiastic to support the community. With all of the obligations the women have, they depend on their staff a great deal. “Stretching ourselves between here and Newton, we certainly couldn’t do it without the great staff we have,” said Tarah. Owning and operating a local business is very personal to Tarah and Alesia and they want to give the best service possible to their customers and would like to continue supporting other Mississippi artists. Tarah said, “We have really listened to our customers over the years and kind of gone in the direction that they push us toward and if that’s where God wants us to be, then it has always seemed to just work out.” For more information or to order online visit www.spoonfudge.com and follow Spoonfudge on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Top photo: Spoonfudge! original store located in downtown Sebastopol. Above: The Loft at Spoonfudge! has unique gifts such as T-shirts, candles, crafts, etc. All products in The Loft are Mississippi-made by artists from central Mississippi.

Thank a lineworker on April 9 America’s electric cooperRemember to #ThankALineworker atives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. the clock on high-voltage lines,” said Brian Long, On April 9, 2018, Central Electric will honor Central Electric general manager. “Conditions can the dedicated men and women who often work in be dangerous, but they power through to ensure challenging conditions to keep the lights on. We reliable service for our members.” proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the To honor these brave lineworkers Central services they perform around the clock in danger- Electric invites members to take a moment and ous conditions to keep power flowing and protect thank a lineworker for the work they do. Use the public’s safety. #ThankALineworker to show your “Our lineworkers are the first responders of our support for the men and women who light our electric distribution system, and they work around lives.

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Thank a lineworker on April 9 America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 9, 2018, Coahoma Electric Power Association will honor the dedicated men who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. We proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety. “Our lineworkers are the first responders of our electric distribution system,

and they work around the clock on high-voltage lines,” said Keith Hurt, Coahoma Electric general manager. “Conditions can be dangerous, but they power through to ensure reliable service for our members.” Seventeen men maintain 1,611 miles of line in Coahoma Electrics’s service territory. To honor these brave men Coahoma Electric invites members to take a moment and thank a lineman for the work they do. Use #ThankALineworker on social media to show your support for the men and women who light our lives.

April 2018

Today in Mississippi I 13

Plant the right tree in the right place Trees beautify our neighborhoods, and when planted in the right spot, can even help lower energy bills. But the wrong tree in the wrong place can be a hazard... especially to power lines.

LARGE TREES 40-45 feet from lines • Southern Magnolia • Pecan • Oak • Maple • Hickory

Month

MEDIUM TREES 30-35 feet from lines • Laurel • Ornamental Plum • Japanese Maple • Crabapple • Fruit Trees • Weeping Willow

SMALL TREES Avoid planting within 20 feet of power lines.

20-25 feet from line • Crape Myrtle • Flowering Dogwood • Wax Myrtle • Redbud • Purple Leaf Plum • Little Gem Magnolia

70 ft.

Tipof the

For more tips on smart tree planting in your community, visit www.ArborDay.org.

6 0 ft.

50ft.

When streaming online content, use the smallest device that makes sense for the number of people watching. Avoid streaming on game consoles, which use 10 times more power than streaming through a tablet or laptop. Source: energy.gov

4 0 ft.

30 ft.

20ft.

10 ft.

The board, management and employees of Coahoma offer our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of our lineman and friend, Mason Overall, who passed away on March 8, 2018. Mason served as a lineman in the Tunica area and it was with great sadness that we learned of his passing. God bless him and all of you at this time of sorrow.

Watch out for power poles! Farm equipment’s a lot taller and wider than it used to be. That’s why you should use extreme caution when operating equipment near power poles and lines, leaving a clearance of at least 10 feet. Knocking over a power pole or getting tangled up in the lines can be dangerous — even deadly. So think safety around power lines.

Think Safety

around power poles!

12 I Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Communicators: April Lollar and Merilee Sands For Today in Mississippi information, call 877-7MY-CEPA (877-769-2372) www.coastepa.com

Where our members have the power CEO’s message

Coast employees are dedicated to providing quality service initiatives and improved technology to name Last April, I became Coast Electric’s President and CEO. This past year has been full just a few. I can’t wait to share more with you as these programs develop. I think you will like of new challenges and opportunities to serve what you see, and I hope that you you, the members and owners of will continue to give us your feedthis cooperative. Being memberback. focused isn’t just something that’s One message co-op employees important to me, it’s something heard over and over in previous years everyone at Coast Electric believes was the desire for renewable energy is crucial for success. resources. Prices for producing solar Each day, I see the employees of energy have fallen, and our generayour cooperative work to make tion and transmission cooperative, improvements for you. Whether Cooperative Energy, constructed a we are using your feedback to large-scale solar project that is develop new programs and Ron Barnes improve current services or partici- President and CEO producing enough energy to power 11,400 homes for co-op members in pating in projects that improve the south Mississippi. Make sure you read more quality of life in our communities, these hardabout the Sumrall-based plant on pg. 8. working men and women are always looking This first year has gone by quickly and with out for you. so many projects on the horizon, I can only When I became the leader of this cooperative, I worked with our employees, management imagine how quickly I will be looking back on year two. I can’t tell you how much I have team, board members and industry experts to appreciated your support and hope you will outline a strategic vision for Coast Electric. continue to see Coast Electric as your commuWe’ve been working on several initiatives that nity partner, dedicated to improving the quality will enhance your service including system upgrades, more options with our solar program, of life in our communities. increased community and school outreach

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Watt’s up this month 12a PAGE

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I Coast Electric CEOs Recognized

I Youth Leadership Workshop

training local students I Lineworker

Appreciation Day • April 9 and Fill a Bucket I Earth Month Celebration I Energy Fair

May 3 Poplarville & Picayune June 1 Gulfport & Biloxi

Most Holy Trinity Spring Fest April 13-15 Rides • Bands • Vendors • Food • Crawfish Car Show • Corn Hole Kiln-Delisle Road, Pass Christian Call 228-669-7119 or visit Most Holy Trinity Spring Fest on Facebook.

April 2018

Cooperatives are different from other businesses. Coast Electric is a not-for-profit business that is owned and led by those we serve. As someone who receives service from Coast Electric, you are a member and owner of the cooperative. For the co-op to function effectively, it takes everyone doing their part – employees, board members and you – to work toward a common goal. Although the tasks in each department may differ, the goal is the same – to provide superior service to the people of south Mississippi. Every meter, transformer and pole on Coast Electric’s system has a physical location. Maintaining digital records of our electric system helps us make better decisions for future growth and planning. The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) department is essential in providing solutions for employees and members. When a member calls to report an outage, a digital map finds the member and alerts the dispatchers. Once a crew is assigned, digital maps are used in the trucks to show the exact location of the outage. Members are also able to stay

Today in Mississippi

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GIS Supervisor Jay Santinelli and GIS Technician Ted Holland are part of the team that locates and maps all of the cooperative's assets.

up-to-date and view Coast Electric’s outage map on www.coastepa.com. The information our GIS department collects and shares helps us work more efficiently for members like you.

Coast Electric current and former CEOs recognized with awards Coast Electric President and CEO Ron Barnes was recently recognized by the Mississippi Business Journal as one of the state’s best leaders. The Journal recognizes leaders who demonstrate excellence and who have made an impact on their companies and the communities where they serve. Former Coast Electric CEO Bob Occhi received the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) President’s Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made

outstanding leadership contributions to rural electrification, the nation, their states or communities on the occasion of a special celebration, action or event. Coast Electric employees and members alike are served by leaders who have been recognized for their excellence in leading those who work to power our communities.

Tipof the Month

12b I Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Coast Electric sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Top photo: Conner, Gage, Marion and Stephen represented Coast Electric for the 2018 Youth Leadership workshop. Above: Ron Stewart, senior vice president of Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi, presents Stephen with the Leadership Award during the workshop. Stephen will receive a $500 scholarship at graduation.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already-present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, Feb. 21 and continued through Friday, Feb. 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Stephen Azar, Gage McClinton, Marion Pohl and Conner Thurtell were selected from a large pool of qualified candidates to represent the Coast Electric during this hands-on event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” This year, 80 students attended the workshop which was held at the Marriott in downtown Jackson. When the students arrived on

Wednesday, the workshop began with a “get acquainted” session and they were put into situations where they had to learn about others. They were then asked to participate in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives who serve in state government in the districts where the students reside. The breakfast was well-attended with more than 40 legislators in attendance. Before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves spoke to the students and encouraged them to work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his speech, he encouraged the students to pursue their

“We are proud to have these outstanding students representing Coast Electric.” – Ron Barnes President and CEO

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Gov. Phil Bryant

Above: From left, Sen. Angela Burks Hill, Rep. David Baria, Marion, Conner, Rep. Patricia Willis, Gage, Stephen and Sen. Mike Seymour. Right: Gage, Stephen, Marion and Conner pose during the Fun Time photobooth session.

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves

community and through this program, Coast Electric hopes to prepare these young people for a bright future. The program has proven to encourage students to reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. Part of the Youth Leadership workshop is the opportunity to apply for three scholarship opportunities. Coast Electric representative Stephen Azar received one of these leadership awards and will receive a $500 scholarship his senior year. In June, the students will travel with the youth group to Washington, D.C. The seven-day trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Sen. Philip Moran visited with Stephen, Gage, Marion and Conner at the Mississippi State Capitol.

Bro. Terry Rhodes

Gage McClinton, Marion Pohl, Stephen Azar and Conner Thurtell

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Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Lineman Appreciation Day

#ThankALineworker

and Fill a Bucket food drive • April 9 Donations go to local food pantries. Check Coast Electric’s Facebook page for details.

HELP YOUR NEIGHBORS IN NEED.

Thanks to the more than 130 uniformed employees at Coast Electric who power our lives.

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Earth Day celebration Each day, we celebrate the natural beauty of the environment around us and in April, we want you to celebrate with us! Coast Electric employees will be celebrating Earth Day all month and if you are a member who works to reduce your energy use through our Time of Use (TOU)

program, you are eligible for a fantastic prize. Not taking advantage of this rate that helps you save? Sign up in April and you will be eligible for a prize, too! Each of our six local offices will hold a drawing for existing or new TOU members so stop in and ask us about how you can use less energy and save with TOU. What’s the prize? There will be drawings for six carts full of things to help you save on the TOU program such as:

• LED light bulbs – These bulbs use much less energy and last for a long time, making these a great and simple upgrade for your home. • Water heater timers – Having a timer that keeps your water heater from cycling on during peak hours is a great way to save. • Power strips – Make sure your appliances aren’t using energy when you aren’t around by plugging everything into an energy-efficient power strip that you can easily turn off and on. • Potting soil and plants – It’s been a beautiful spring so unplug and

Energy Fairs COAST ELECTRIC

Learn how you can reduce your energy use and save at our energy fairs! May 3 Poplarville & Picayune June 1 Gulfport & Biloxi

All energy fairs will be at 8 a.m. and end at 2 p.m.

We hope to see you there!

recharge by getting outside and planting something. Just remember to call 811 before you dig. • Carts are valued at $175. Sign up for TOU today for your chance to win! Winners will be announced via Facebook Live at 3 p.m. on May 1 so make sure you follow Coast Electric on Facebook. We will also have coloring books, crayons, piggy banks (for all of those energy savings), sunglasses and lots of seeds as giveaways throughout the month in each of our offices for you to enjoy.

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Greenwood • Winona Cleveland • Indianola

Thank a lineworker on April 9 Keep the lights on

America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 9, Delta Electric Power Association salutes the dedicated employees who often work in challenging conditions to keep your lights on. We proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the services they perform around the clock—every day of the year—to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety. “Delta Electric’s lineworkers are the first responders of

our electric distribution system when our members’ service is disrupted,” said David O’Bryan, Delta Electric general manager. “Even in dangerous conditions, they respond quickly to rebuild lines and restore power after storms come through.” To honor these brave lineworkers Delta Electric invites its members to take a moment to thank a lineworker for the work they do. Use #ThankALineworker to show your support for the electric cooperative lineworkers who light our lives.

April 2018

Delta Electric members to receive capital credit refunds totaling over $5M On May 11, Delta Electric Power Association will mail capital credit refund checks to members as the cooperative has done for the past 29 years. These capital credit refund checks will be mailed to all members who received a bill from Delta Electric during the years 1993, 1994 and 2017. One hundred percent of 1993 and 1994 Delta Electric operating margins will be retired, along with 16.4 percent of 2017 Delta Electric operating margins. Since 1989, when the first capital credit refunds

were made, and including this year’s refund, Delta Electric has returned to members a total of more than $51 million. Unlike an investor-owned utility, which is operated for profit, Delta Electric is a cooperative and does not operate on a profit basis. Each bill a member pays goes toward the funding of the cooperative. At the end of each year, all revenue received in excess of the cost to operate the cooperative goes into a capital credit fund for the benefit of the members.

Delta Electric adds new IVR system Delta Electric will introduce a new, automated interactive voice response (IVR) system on May 1 to its members. Delta Electric member service representatives have routinely accepted credit card and electronic check payments from its members over the telephone for payment on electric accounts. Delta Electric will no longer process credit card or electronic checks through a Delta Electric employee over the telephone after April 30. Instead, a caller will be transferred to the automated system to make the payment. In addition to accepting payments, the new automated system will contain a short menu allowing Delta Electric members to: • Check an account balance • Make an arrangement

• Report a power outage There will be an option on the menu to speak to a Delta Electric customer service representative if the member encounters a problem with a transaction or has a question. Delta Electric customers that utilize the new system should have their account number ready when using the system. In many cases, when Delta Electric has on file the telephone number the member is calling from, the system will automatically recognize the member’s Delta Electric account number. The IVR system will be available 24 hours a day seven days a week for the convenience of Delta Electric’s members. The new IVR phone number will be published in the May edition of Today in Mississippi.

Delta Electric offers new

Autopay Service Delta Electric is pleased to announce the addition of Autopay as a method of payment for its residential customers. After an initial setup, Autopay allows a customer’s bill to be automatically paid on a set date each month by debiting the customer’s credit card. Autopay can be set up by the customer through Delta Electric’s mobile application, but the customer must first establish a username and password through Delta Electric’s internet portal. Please contact your local Delta Electric office for setup if you don’t have internet access. There are NO convenience fee charges for Autopay, but Autopay is limited to residential accounts and is limited to a maximum $1,200 per month. It’s important that the Autopay date chosen be sometime between your normal billing date and due date so that late charges are not assessed on the account. If you have questions about Autopay or need assistance, please contact your local Delta Electric office.

Today in Mississippi

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY

April 22, 2018

Go green with big-ticket renovations Going “green” means living in a way that’s friendly to the planet. But it also means keeping a little more “green” in your pocket by living more efficiently. Even if a tight budget is keeping you from making over your whole house so it’s more energy efficient, you can convert it a little bit at a time. Next time you need to replace an appliance or other home product, consider an eco-friendly choice. Here are some suggestions for going green at home: • When replacing major appliances, it pays to buy those that are Energy Star-qualified. These are significantly more efficient than other models so they’re cheaper to operate. • Buy appliances with “energy-saver” options. New dishwashers and washing machines, for example, use less water than older models and let you choose load size and water temperature. Turn off your dishwasher’s heated drying cycle, and chose a clothes dryer that automatically shuts off when it senses that clothes are dry. • Place the dishwasher and refrigerator on opposite sides of the kitchen so the heat from the dishwasher won’t force the refrigerator to work harder. Resist the temptation to store an extra freezer or refrigerator in the garage, where the extreme heat will force it to work so hard it will send your energy bills soaring. • When it’s time to replace windows, go with double- or triple-paned glass. Those models cost more than singlepane windows, but they prevent your heated or air-conditioned air from leaking outside, so you’ll save money on energy bills.

Tip of the Month

12 I Today in Mississippi I April 2018

Dixie Electric is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

Understanding the decision to join a regional transmission organization Last month we talked about Dixie Electric’s relationship with Cooperative Energy, our wholesale energy provider. This month we’re continuing that conversation by discussing Cooperative Energy’s relationship with Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), the regional transmission organization (RTO) and reliability coordinator (RC).

Energy operated independently. Cooperative Energy serves 11 member distribution cooperatives statewide. Of those 11 cooperatives, seven of them are in or next to Entergy’s service area. Since Cooperative Energy didn’t Randy Smith have generation or transmisGeneral Manager sion facilities in the western part of the state, a relationship with Entergy was formed to provide better service for those members in the Entergy area. Here is a little history. In 2012, when Entergy began investigating joining an RTO, Cooperative Energy did the same

Cooperative Energy made the decision to join MISO, beginning in 2013. It was a difficult decision, but ultimately the one that made the most sense. Joining MISO has been favorable, particularly from an economic perspective. Like most things that have advantages, there have also been challenges. Being able to share in using the lowest available cost of power throughout the MISO region also means being responsible for sharing the reliability for the other members in the region. This may mean occasionally being faced with the decision to ask our members to reduce their electric energy use as we saw in midJanuary. Cooperative Energy has always had reliability levels it was responsible for meeting. Before joining MISO, it only included the 11-member distribution cooperatives that it serves. If Cooperative Energy lost a generation unit for some reason and was unable to purchase power on the market to replace it, the members were Midcontinent Independent System responsible for reducing enough load to match Operator (MISO) Service Territory the generation available. Depending on the size MISO North of the unit that was lost, the reduction could MISO South have been substantial for each system. In MISO, because of the amount of reserves that are typically because of the interconnection between the two available, the levels of reduction for each member companies. cooperative are much less than if Cooperative During the evaluation process, here were some

considerations: Operationally, it meant giving up a significant amount of control over when generation units would be called to generate electricity. MISO would always call on the most cost-effective units to run at any given time and that may or may not include Cooperative Energy’s units. Also, MISO would always be focused on which units are most economical at any time and not necessarily what made the most sense from an operational standpoint. After taking the operational issues into consideration, from an economic perspective it still made sense to join MISO. Entergy’s decision to join MISO seriously affected Cooperative Energy’s member distribution systems and its operations. In MISO, Entergy’s generation and transmission facilities would be dedicated first to the MISO system, leaving Cooperative Energy and its member cooperatives, who are in the Entergy area, in a difficult position. Costs to move power through the MISO area to reach those members would be higher, and there would be operational considerations that would make it more difficult. These factors helped confirm Cooperative Energy’s decision to join MISO. I hope this helps explain how we got to the point in January where we were required to ask members to reduce their electricity use.

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

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Heroes Wear Hard Hats Lineman appreciation day is April 9. CELEBRATE EARTH DAY

#ThankaLineman

April 22, 2018

Go green with big-ticket renovations Going “green” means living in a way that’s friendly to the planet. But it also means keeping a little more “green” in your pocket by living more efficiently. Even if a tight budget is keeping you from making over your whole house so it’s more energy efficient, you can convert it a little bit at a time. Next time you need to replace an appliance or other home product, consider an eco-friendly choice. Here are some suggestions for going green at home: • When replacing major appliances, it pays to buy those that are Energy Star-qualified. These are significantly more efficient than other models so they’re cheaper to operate. • Buy appliances with “energy-saver” options. New dishwashers and washing machines, for example, use less water than older models and let you choose load size and water temperature. Turn off your dishwasher’s heated drying cycle, and chose a clothes dryer that automatically shuts off when it senses that clothes are dry. • Place the dishwasher and refrigerator on opposite sides of the kitchen so the heat from the dishwasher won’t force the refrigerator to work harder. Resist the temptation to store an extra freezer or refrigerator in the garage, where the extreme heat and cold will force it to work so hard it will send your energy bills soaring. • When it’s time to replace windows, go with double- or triple-paned glass. Those models cost more than your single-pane windows, but they prevent your heated or air-conditioned air from leaking outside, so you’ll save money on your energy bills.

Tipof the Month

Right-of-way clearing projects underway Dixie Electric Power Association clears trees, limbs and underbrush from the area around and below the power lines, called the right-of-way. Right-of-way clearing decreases the number of outages and reduces the risk of someone coming in contact with the power lines. Here are the substations and surrounding communities that are either currently being cleared or will be cleared soon: • South Waynesboro substation – Winchester, Denham-Progress, Sunlight, Big Rock, and the Central School area • Glade substation – Glade, Antioch and Powers communities • Macedonia substation - Macedonia, Leeville, Union, Corinth Church and the Ovett oilfields Clearing the right-of-way protects individuals from the hazards of electricity and makes power restoration quicker and safer for both Dixie Electric’s members and personnel.

12b I Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Dixie Electric sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Top photo: Garrett Crowder and Aubrey Gaudet represented Dixie Electric for the 2018 Youth Leadership workshop. Above: Ron Stewart, senior vice president of Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi, presents Aubrey with an award for qualifying as a finalist for the Youth Leadership Council during the workshop.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, Feb. 21, and continued through Friday, Feb. 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Garrett Crowder and Aubrey Gaudet were selected among the schools in Dixie Electric’s service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” This year, 80 students attended the workshop which was held at the Marriott in downtown Jackson. When the students arrived on Wednesday, the workshop began with a “get acquainted” session

and they were put into situations where they had to learn about others. They were then asked to participate in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives who serve in state government on behalf of the districts in which they reside. The breakfast was well-attended with over 40 legislators in attendance. Before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves spoke to the students and encouraged them to work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his speech, he encouraged the students to pursue their dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. He discussed the positive economic factors happening

“We are proud to have these two outstanding students represent Dixie Electric.” – Randy Smith General Manager

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Gov. Phil Bryant

Above: From left, Rep. Shane Barnett, Rep. Gary Staples, Aubrey, Sen. Dennis DeBar, Garrett and Rep. Larry Byrd. Right: Garrett and Aubrey pose during the Fun Time photobooth session.

in Mississippi and told them that they don’t have to go far from home to become successful. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, there are many advantages to staying right here at home,” he said. The students also heard from other motivational speakers and participated in a fun evening with local magician, Dorian LaChance where he wowed them with his illusions. When the workshop came to a close, the students had made many new friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Building leaders is fundamental to building a strong community and through this program, Dixie Electric hopes to prepare these young people for a bright future. The pro

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves

gram has proven to encourage students to reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. Dixie Electric is a proud sponsor of the program. “We are proud to have these two outstanding students represent Dixie Electric,” said Randy Smith, general manager. “They are our future leaders, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.” In June, Garrett and Aubrey will travel with the youth group to Washington, D.C. The sevenday trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Sen. Chris McDaniel visited with Aubrey and Garrett at the Mississippi State Capitol.

Bro. Terry Rhodes

Garrett Crowder and Aubrey Gaudet

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12d I Today in Mississippi I April 2018

. g n i v i G . f l GoGreat day!

Pollyanna Magee presents the morning flight winners with their prizes. They are Thomas Prine, Mike Kenny, Dwain Strickland and Joey Landrum.

DIXIE ELECTRIC HOSTS ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

On a beautiful, cool sunny day at the Laurel Country Club, Dixie Electric hosted its tenth annual charity golf tournament that benefited the American Cancer Society. The four-man scramble tournament featured morning and afternoon flights with a total of 38 teams participating. The one-day tournament on Thursday, March 22, raised $11,400, which will be given to the American Cancer Society through their Relay for Life events in late April and early May. Dixie Electric is an electric cooperative; concern for community is a principle that cooperatives seek to fulfill. Hosting this annual charity tournament is one way that Dixie Electric lives out this principle. “This was our tenth year to host our charity American tournament. I’m so appreciative to Dixie Cancer ® Electric’s vendors and Society

members of the local community who support the American Cancer Society through our annual tournament,” Community Relations Coordinator Pollyanna Magee said. Closest-to-the-hole winners were John Luke in the morning flight and Jacob Sullivan in the afternoon flight. Closest-to-the-hole prizes were sponsored by the Laurel Country Club. The winning teams for the morning flight wereas follows: • FIRST PLACE: Dwain Strickland’s team - Thomas Prine, Mike Kenny, Dwain Strickland, Joey Landrum; • SECOND PLACE: Scott Thames’ team – Scott Thames, Will Thames, Ernie Joiner, Brent Smithers; • THIRD PLACE: Cooperative Energy – Don Hinton, Trey Cannon, Steven Jackson, Jeff Lazenby. Tommy Ulmer makes a putt for his team during the four-man scramble tournament. Other team members are Jason Holder, Will Pitts and Kenny Batte.

The winning teams for the afternoon flight were as follows: • FIRST PLACE: Community Bank – Justin Holifield, Sawyer Taylor, Al Taylor, Andrew Hudson; • SECOND PLACE: First State Bank – Darren Dodd, Mark Waller, Jim Clark, Joey Landrum; • THIRD PLACE: Hugh Parker Team – Jim Henderson, Steve Brantley, Hugh Parker, Donald Coleman. The flight winners received gifts provided by Canebrake Country Club and Dixie Electric. Hole-in-one prizes were provided by Kim’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep Toyota and Woolwine Ford of Collins, and Lunch was donated by Bush Construction and R&C Sons, LLC.

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

PRIZES WERE DONATED BY: • Boomtown Casino • Canebrake Country Club • IP Casino Resort & Spa • Kim’s No Bull

• Laurel Country Club • Pearl River Resort • Woolwine Ford Lincoln

TOURNAMENT SPONSORS

The first place team in the afternoon was Community Bank. The team members, Justin Holifield, Andrew Hudson, Sawyer Taylor and Al Taylor, received their winnings from Pollyanna Magee.

• Aertker Co. • Anderson Design Center • BancorpSouth Bank • Border States Electric • Bourne Brothers Printing Co., Inc. • Bush Construction • Cspire • Cooperative Finance Corporation • Chancellor, Inc. • Coca-Cola Bottling Company • Cooperative Energy • Desoto Treated Materials • Ditch Witch Midsouth • Drake Lighting • Emerald Transportation • E-Z-Go Golf Carts • Futura Systems • Garner Lumley Electric • Godwin Group • Golf Cart Repair and Sales - Randall Culpepper • Gresco

• Hell Fighters Motorcycle Shop • Holt & Associates PLLC • Howard Industries • Industrial Services of Laurel • Kirby Plumbing • MDR Construction • Milsoft Utility Solutions • Mississippi-Tennessee Transformers Inc. • National Information Solutions Cooperative • Osmose • Priority Electric • R&C Sons • Royals Western • Substation Enterprises • T & C Specialty Distributors • Terex Utilities • Tessco Technologies, Inc. • Thomas Tax Financial • Titan Utility Services • Trustmark National Bank • Walters Construction • Woolwine Ford Lincoln

Thank you from: Cooperative Energy takes a shot during the morning flight. They were the third place winners for that flight.

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

East Mississippi Electric Power Association Louisville 662.773.5741

Meridian 601.581.8600

Quitman 601.776.6271

DeKalb 601.743.2641

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

“WE CAN”Shoot for a Cure For five years now EMEPA has sponsored an event we’ve called Shoot for a Cure. It is our effort to raise awareness and monies to fight the dreaded disease called Cancer. During this five-year journey, we’ve seen coworkers, family members and friends fight this disease. For many, the treatments developed using funds from events such as this have allowed them to hear “you’re in remission.” For others, the research benefits have extended their CEO Randy Carroll time with us and family. March 8th began with coolness in the air. The ice on the windshield required a few extra minutes of defrost before hitting the road to the Boy Scout sporting clay range. I drove with eager anticipation of what the day would bring. The past three years we experienced heavy rain the day of the event, and we were forced to shift to an alternate day causing scheduling conflicts for some. This year, we moved up by a month to try and avoid the April showers and all systems were a go for the day. As I arrived at the parking area of the scout camp, I could already feel the warmth of the day. Although the

Tip of the Month

sun was coming up, the warmth I felt was from old and new friends who were shaking hands, patting each other on the back and poking a little fun at how they expected each other to do on the sporting clay course. Warm biscuits and hot coffee greeted the participants and provided the breakfast of champions for the day’s challenge. East Mississippi is blessed with an exceptional sporting clay course at the Camp Binachi Boy Scout Camp. This is a challenging course maintained by the Choctaw Area Council that meanders through the woods of east Mississippi. The course provides an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of busy days and enjoy a slower pace. Our event is a time when employees and vendors come together as a team. This year we had 59 vendors attend and/or contribute to this event. These vendors support us all year long and are truly partners in our effort to provide the energy that empowers lives. Without their support, many of our day-to-day operations would be slowed while we wait for truck parts, tires, poles, wire, connectors and a host of other items.

American Cancer Society ® Joining our vendors, we had 65 of our employees contribute a minimum of $100 each as Relay For Life team members. Many others also worked to support the effort. Our employees worked tirelessly to contact the vendors, signup teams, sell raffle tickets, set up the morning of the event and take everything down late that afternoon. Many will do the same the night of Relay For Life. Their dedication to our communities always shines brightly but especially during events like this. Let me say how humbled and honored I am to be a small part of such an effort. Throughout the day, I received nothing but positive comments about the event. It was an exceptional day filled with friendships, laughter, food and fellowship. I can’t wait for next year.

CURE

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

12a

EMEPA hosts 5th Annual

Shoot for A Seventy-four teams gathered at Camp Binachi in Lauderdale County on Thursday, March 8 for East Mississippi Electric Power Association’s Fifth Annual Shoot For A Cure event. Through this annual clay shooting event, EMEPA employ-

ees and supporters raised more than $20,000 for the American Cancer Society. “This event not only gives us the opportunity to enjoy a day of fun and friendly competition, but also allows us to help support those who are bat-

tling cancer,” said EMEPA Chief Executive Officer Randy Carroll. “We’ve all been touched in some way by this horrible disease, and helping to raise funds that go to research and patient support is the least we can do.”

Thank you

Thomas Gun and Pawn

in Meridian for donating a Remington 870 7-round, 12-gauge Tactical shotgun to be raffled at Lauderdale County’s Relay For Life on Friday, May 4. Raffle tickets are available for purchase at any EMEPA office for a $1 donation.

Thank you to our 5th Annual Shoot For A Cure sponsors: Asset Engineering Benefits Management Group CoBank Davidson Hauling & Construction Deanco Auction Co. EMEPA Board of Directors Garner Lumley Electric Gresco

Piggly Wiggly of Collinsville SEDC Southern Business Supply Southern Clearing T&Z Hydraulic Service, Inc Thomasson Company Waste Pro Wilson & Biggs PLLC

X-Treme Truck 4way Electric/ Emerald Trans Atmos Energy Campbell/ Keene Coca-Cola Cspire D and H Construction Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

Ed Chaney Tire Pros Floor Décor Heblon Heating&Air Irby Electric Jon T. Flint, DMD North Lauderdale Water Association Osmose

Prime Developers, Inc. Rock House Gun & Pawn Slay Steel, Inc. Southern Tire Mart, LLC Storm Services, LLC The Trading Post Twin States Flooring Woodall Electric

12b I Today in Mississippi

April 2018

EMEPA sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Top photo: Lydia works with her team to create a leadership song. Above: Michaiah and Maya have fun dressing up during the photobooth session. Below: Shon Willis received an award for qualifying as a finalist for the Youth Leadership Council during the workshop.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, Feb. 21 and continued through Friday, Feb. 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Michaiah Bolar, Maya Clay, Lydia Palmer, Sierah Roberts and Shon Willis were selected among the schools in EMEPA’s service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” This year, 80 students attended the workshop which was held at the Marriott in downtown Jackson. When the students arrived on

Wednesday, the workshop began with a “get acquainted” session and they were put into situations where they had to learn about others. They were then asked to participate in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives who serve in state government on behalf of the districts in which they reside. The breakfast was well-attended with over 40 legislators in attendance. Before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves spoke to the students and encouraged them to work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his speech, he encouraged the students to pursue their

“We are proud to have these five outstanding students represent EMEPA.” – Randy Carroll CEO

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Gov. Phil Bryant

Above from left: Lydia Palmer, Michaiah Bolar, Shon Willis, Rep. Michael Evans, Siera Roberts and Maya Clay. Right: Lydia, Maya, Shon, Michaiah and Sierah pose during the Fun Time photobooth session.

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves

community and through this program, EMEPA hopes to prepare these young people for a bright future. The program has proven to encourage students to reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. EMEPA is a proud sponsor of the program. “We are proud to have these five outstanding students represent EMEPA,” said Randy Carroll, CEO. “They are our future leaders, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.” In June, the students will travel with the youth group to Washington, D.C. The seven-day trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill. Sierah’s teammates lift her in the air and she has to learn to trust them during this activity.

Maya participates in a leadership game. She is trying to guess her partner’s birthday without speaking.

Bro. Terry Rhodes

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Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Thank a lineworker on April 9 America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 9, 2018, East Mississippi Electric Power Association will honor the dedicated men and women who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on, as well as those that provide support. We proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety.

“Our lineworkers are the first responders of our electric distribution system, and they work around the clock in challenging situations,” said Randy Carroll, EMEPA CEO. “Conditions can be dangerous, but they power through to ensure reliable service for our members.” To honor these brave lineworkers EMEPA invites members to take a moment and thank a lineworker for the work they do. Use #ThankALineworker to show your support for the men and women who light our lives.

Keep the lights on

Heroes Wear Hard Hats

Lineworker Appreciation Day April 9, 2018

Remember to #ThankALineworker

Board of Directors nominations According to Section 4.04(a) of the Bylaws of East Mississippi Electric Power Association, any 50 members acting together may make a nomination by petition. Any petition for nomination shall be submitted on a form designated and provided by the Association. Each member signing such petition shall place thereon the date of signing, address, account number and service location of the member. Qualified nominations made by petition, if any, must be received on or before the second Wednesday in May before the committee on nominations meeting in June. The committee on nominations shall receive and consider any suggestions as to nominees submitted by members of the Association and shall review the regularity of all nominations and all petitions for nomination and approve or reject the same. ATTALA COUNTY

Louisville

WINSTON COUNTY

NOXUBEE COUNTY

De Kalb

NESHOBA COUNTY

KEMPER COUNTY

LAUDERDALE COUNTY

Meridian

I-20

NEWTON COUNTY

I-59

CLARKE COUNTY

JASPER COUNTY

Quitman

WAYNE COUNTY

We have an app for that!

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

EMEPA has an app that lets you I I I

I I I

pay your bill with your smartphone keep up with multiple accounts view your billing history payment history track your use view our outage map Apps for iPhone, iPad and Android are available to download and they’re free!

OTHER FEATURES AVAILABLE

Search in Apple App Store or Google Play Store for EMEPA.

• Sign up to receive email or text notifications • Great for Prepay customers

Co-op Connections Business Spotlight Each month, EMEPA spotlights local businesses that participate in the Co-op Connections Program. This month’s featured businesses are: King $59 .99 + tax Two doub les or queens $69.00 + ta x

20 % off fierswt ith

ic month’s serv ent em annual agre

6451 JO Thomas Road • Phone: (601) 632-4733 EMEPA has been delivering value to our communities for more than 79 years and now we are proud to offer another member benefit – the Co-op Connections Card. Through this free program, you will receive discounts on products and services from participating local and

2915 St. Paul Street • Phone: (601) 485-2722

national businesses. The card is a simple membership card that in identifying you as a member, also qualifies you for special discounts and offers at local participating businesses. There are no sign-up or participation fees and we do not track

your participation or purchases. There is no charge to you for this program. This is just one more way you benefit from being a cooperative member. To receive discounts, simply show your Co-op Connections card to any participating business.

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Board of Directors

www.4county.org • 1-800-431-1544

Marty Crowder, President John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr., Vice President Johnny Johnson, Secretary/Treasurer Mike Banks Bill Bell Kenneth Seitz Ernest H. “Bud” Tumlinson

YOUR COOPERATIVE

Here’s An Idea

By Joe Cade CEO/General Manager

This spring, think summer

Safety above all else “Safety” is a universal word that is mentioned often and used loosely. Communities large and small as well as companies across all industries are committed to safety. Sports leagues, at every level, take safety seriously. Unfortunately, when it really counts, steps to keep the public, workers, athletes and loved ones safe are often ignored in the interest of expediency or convenience. However, safety is a serious issue, especially when it comes to electrical safety. For 4-County Electric Power Association, it’s the number one priority. This is not empty talk. Over time, 4-County has created a culture of safety by putting our employees’ safety and that of the community above all else. At its essence, 4-County’s mission is to provide safe, affordable and reliable electricity to its member-owners. At the end of the day, we strive to deliver affordable and reliable electricity to our member-owners, but equally important, we want to return our workers home safely to their loved ones. To do this requires ongoing focus, dedication and vigilance. Following leading national safety standards Working with electricity is an inherently dangerous job, especially for lineworkers. 4-County has a safety team whose focus is keeping employees and the community safe around electricity. We established and follow safety protocols based on leading national safety practices for the utility industry. We require our lineworkers to wear specialized equipment when working next to or with power lines. There are specific protocols that our lineworkers follow when dealing with electricity. Our safety team has regular meetings where they discuss upcoming projects from a safety perspective. They monitor and track near-misses of accidents in order to understand them, share “lessons learned”

and improve in the future. As importantly, we encourage all of our crews to speak up and hold each other accountable for safety. By cultivating a culture of openness and transparency, we promote problem-solving with regard to safety, rather than defaulting to a blame game. We examine the information and data gleaned from near-misses and accident reports to discern patterns and use safety metrics to improve in those areas where we have fallen short. As appropriate, we brief contractors on our safety protocols and set expectations for their engagement. Keeping the community safe Because we live and work in the community we serve, we care about our neighbors. 4-County conducts electrical safety demonstrations for schools and for community events. We also provide a portable hot-line demonstration in association with our safety efforts. May is National Electrical Safety Month. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, each year thousands of people in the United States are critically injured and electrocuted as a result of electrical fires, accidents and electrocution in their own homes. Many of these accidents are preventable. There is much you can do to keep yourself and your community safe around electricity. Don’t attempt electrical DIY projects or overload your outlets. Report downed power lines, unlocked substations or padmount transformers that look amiss. Contact 4-County for additional electrical safety tips. If you would like us to provide a safety demonstration at your school or community event, please contact Joe Miller, 4-County’s safety, training and loss prevention coordinator at 1-800-431-1544.

Warm temperatures this spring make it a great time to think about how warm it could get this summer. A rise in temperature can also mean a rise in energy bills as well. Give your air conditioner a fighting chance at keeping your home cool in the months ahead, without using more electricity than necessary. Here are some tips to keep energy bills low this summer: • Trade your traditional incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). The new generation of CFLs uses far less energy. • Call a service technician to give your air-conditioning system—and any window units—a thorough onceover before the weather gets hot. • Change air conditioner filters monthly from now until October.

Ceiling fans can cool off energy costs Ceiling fans can be a great way to increase the energy savings in your home while providing a comfortable living environment. An alternative to light fixtures, ceiling fans can cut summer energy use. Ceiling fans do not lower the temperature in a room. The cooling effect occurs when air from the ceiling fan blows across a person’s skin. “When you leave the room, switch the fan and its lights off. You’ll save energy and money,” said Ronnie Vernon, 4-County marketing specialist.

Co-op Connections Card saves Since the Co-op Connections Card was unveiled in September 2011, 4-County members have saved over $650,275 on prescription drugs through February.

Look here each month to see the savings total!

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Nominees submitted for board of directors Three incumbent directors are nominated for re-election to 4-County Electric Power Association’s board of directors. The Association’s nominating committee met March 14 and submitted the names of Kenneth M. Seitz of Starkville for District 2, Oktibbeha County; E.H. “Bud” Tumlinson of West Point for District 3, Clay and Monroe Counties; and John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr. of Mathiston for District 6, Webster and Chickasaw counties. All three candidates’ names have been placed in nomination for re-election to three-year terms on the Associ- Kenneth M. Seitz E.H. “Bud” Tumlinson ation’s board of directors June 7 at the a member and past director of the Mis- attended Wood Junior College. He is cooperative’s annual membership sissippi Soybean Association; past area also owner/manager of Gilliland Outmeeting. The meeting will be held at vice president of the Mississippi Cattle- doors LLC. East Mississippi Community College, He is a Blue Lodge Mason/Shriner man’s Association; and a past Board of Golden Triangle campus, Mayhew. and a member of Mathiston First BapTrustee of First United Methodist tist Church. Gilliland and his wife, Church of West Point. Kenneth M. Seitz Sandy, are the parents of two daughHe and his wife, Bobbie, are the District 2 ters and one son, and they have three parents of a daughter. Kenneth Seitz of Starkville has grandchildren. served as a member of 4-County ElecJohn E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr. tric Power Association’s board of direcNOMINATIONS District 6 tors since 1990. Nominating committee reports were Jay Gilliland of Mathiston, coSeitz is a cattle farmer and has interposted March 14 in each 4-County owner and manager of Gilliland’s Pigest in row crops and forestry. He is a gly Wiggly and president of Gilliland’s office. The cooperative is requesting board member for East Oktibbeha that any additional nominations for of Mathiston Inc., has served on the Wastewater District. director, by petition of at least 50 con4-County Electric Power Association He is a graduate of Starkville High sumer/members, be turned in by noon board of directors since 1988. School and of Mississippi State UniMonday, April 23. The Webster County native is a versity where he received a degree in Petitions are available at the Mathiston High School graduate and agricultural economics. Seitz, active in community affairs for a number of years, is currently a director for the Oktibbeha County Coop and is a member of the Cattleman’s Association. He is a member of First United Pursuant to Article II, Sections 1 and 3 of the 4-County Methodist Church of Starkville. He Electric Power Association Bylaws, notice is hereby given and his wife, Mary Lynn, have two that the Annual Meeting of members of 4-County Electric daughters, and four grandchildren. Power Association will be held at the East Mississippi Community College, Golden Triangle campus, at Mayhew E.H. “Bud” Tumlinson on Thursday, June 7, at noon. District 3 In accordance with the laws of the state of Mississippi A Clay County native, Bud Tumand the Bylaws of the Association, three directors will be linson has been a 4-County Electric elected for three-year terms, reports will be given on the Power Association director since 1993. operation of the Association for the past year and other He is a farmer. matters of business will be addressed. A West Point High School graduate, he earned a degree in mathematics Johnny Johnson from Millsaps College. He also served Secretary-Treasurer in the U.S. Navy. 4-County Electric Power Association Board of Directors Tumlinson is a past board member of First National Bank of West Point,

Official notice of 4-County’s annual meeting

John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr. 4-County Starkville office, at the Corporate Center in Mayhew or online at www.4county.org. Ballot/proxies will be mailed by May 8 to all 4-County members. The deadline for returning ballot/proxies is noon, June 1, six days prior to the June 7 annual membership meeting. Members of the nominating committee present for the March 14 meeting were Paul Crowley, Willard Easley, Benny Graves, Charles McMinn, Pete O’Shea, Belk Weems, Frank Howell, John Partridge, Thomas Robinson, Sammie Williams, Julius Beck, Grey Land III, Tom Breland, Henri Sue Kennard, Odie Shaw, Gary Holtman (secretary) and Donald Land (chairman).

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April 2018

4-County sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

4-County Youth Tour delegates Clay Walters, Lake Little and Haley Fye (pictured with ECM’s Ron Stewart) recently graduated from the prestigious Youth Leadership Workshop. At the workshop, the trio met with area legislators like Rep. Gary Chism, above.

4-County 2018 Youth Tour delegates Haley Fye, Clay Walters and Lake Little participated in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi (ECM) 32nd Annual Youth Leadership Workshop Feb. 2123 in downtown Jackson. Each year, about 1,000 of Mississippi’s brightest high school juniors vie for the opportunity to attend the three-day workshop through their local electric cooperatives. This year, 80 students participating in the leadership activities. Leadership through team building is the theme of the workshop. The students heard speeches from a variety of motivational speakers, had a photo session and breakfast with their state legislators, and toured the state Capitol. This hands-on learning experience is designed to provide the students a first-hand look at leadership and state government. Gov. Phil Bryant is a strong supporter of the program. He spoke to the group during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn, encouraging the students to pursue their dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. In a presentation to the young leaders, he highlighted Mississippi’s positive economic factors and encouraged the group to pursue career endeavors in the Magnolia State. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, there are

many advantages to staying right here at home,” he said. During the legislative breakfast, students visited with their state legislators and discussed important issues that affect their local communities. Sens. Gary Jackson and Chuck Younger met with the 4-County students. Before touring the Capitol, students were addressed by Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves. He encouraged the students to work hard for their dreams. Reeves gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. While visiting the Capitol, the group was able to watch their legislators at work from the galleries of the House and Senate, and were once again able to talk one-on-one with their senators and representatives. Rep. Gary Chism also met with students at the Capitol for photos and discussion. At the workshop, the students participated in a wide range of leadership development activities aimed at motivating students for the future, with an emphasis on teamwork and good communication. They were divided into smaller groups in order to problem-solve and achieve common goals. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, ECM’s senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

Gov. Phil Bryant

Sens. Chuck Younger and Gary Jackson, above, met with Walters, Fye and Little. The young leaders made a trip to the Senate floor, right, while visiting the state Capitol.

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” Haley said the experience helped develop her leadership skills. “Recently, I was fortunate enough to attend the Youth Leadership Conference. In those three short days, I was surrounded by teenage leaders, each with our own gifts and potential. Together, we learned that our jobs as leaders in our schools and communities is to take our gifts, our passion for serving and our ideas and put them to action. I am truly blessed to be a part of a program like this,” she said. Clay echoed Haley’s statements. “The Electric Cooperatives Youth Leadership Program was an unforgettable experience. It introduced me to so many future leaders that I now consider to be my friends. In just three quick days, I built relationships with so many new people from around the state through team building activities and other events. Meeting our state leaders was also a great experience. Listening to them I learned what it truly takes to lead people and communities as a whole. I cannot thank 4-County enough for giving me the opportunity to experience something so special,” he said. Lake, one of 10 students earning leadership honors at the workshop, agreed with her counterparts in their assessment of the program. “We came together and were leaders to each other. To me, that is true leadership. I have made

friends from Ocean Springs to Olive Branch that I would have never meet without being selected to go on this wonderful leadership conference. Jackson was so much fun, and being selected as one of the top leaders there was such an honor and has given me more confidence to go back to my school and community to make an impact. I will forever be grateful for this leadership opportunity,” she said. 4-County is a proud sponsor of the program. “We are proud to have Haley, Clay and Lake represent 4-County,” said Joe Cade, 4-County CEO/general manager. “They are our future leaders, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.” In June, the 4-County leadership trio will travel with the statewide youth group to Washington, D.C. The seven-day trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Bro. Terry Rhodes

Magician Dorian LaChance

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Watts Happening This listing of area events is compiled from information provided by area chambers of commerce and visitors bureaus. The events listed are subject to change. Please call to confirm dates, times and additional details. THURSDAY, APRIL 5

Columbus Pilgrimage; continues through Saturday, April 14; details, (662) 329-1191.

Guest Artist Recital Featuring Cain Budds (Guitar); Poindexter Hall on the campus of Mississippi University for Women in Columbus; 8:15 to 9:15 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191. Noon Tunes; Trotter Convention Center, 123 Fifth St. N. in Columbus; 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; continues April 12 and April 19; details, (662) 329-1191. FRIDAY, APRIL 6 Tales from the Crypt; Friendship Cemetery, Fourth Street S. in Columbus; 7 to 10 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1101. The Bass Federation HS State; continues Saturday, April 7; details, (662) 329-1191. SATURDAY, APRIL 7 Touch-A-Truck; Starkville Sportsplex; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322. 28th Annual International Fiesta; Mississippi State University Drill Field in Starkville; (662) 323-3322. Catfish in the Alley & Artisans Alley; Catfish Alley and other parts of downtown Columbus area; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191.

Hitching Lot Farmers’ Market; Second Avenue at Second Street N. in Columbus; 7 to 10 a.m.; continues each Monday, Thursday and Saturday from April through October; details, (662) 328-6305. Columbus Pilgrimage Half Marathon and 5K; 7 a.m.; details, (662) 329-1191. MONDAY, APRIL 9 Through the Lens of Carl Brown: Lowndes County in the 1940s-1950s Exhibit; Columbus-Lowndes Public Library, 314 Seventh St. N.; 5 p.m.; continues through Friday, April 27; details, (662) 329-1191. TUESDAY, APRIL 10 Buttahatchee Barn Quilt Trail Tea Cakes & Tea; Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church, 2382 Wright Road in Caledonia; 4 to 6 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191. THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Regional Business After Hours; Graham Roofing, Hwy. 45 Alt. in West Point; 5 to 7 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322. Art ‘N Antiques Show and Sale; Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St. in Columbus; 7 p.m.; continues through Saturday, April 14; details, (662) 328-2787. Edible Book Festival; Columbus-Lowndes Public Library, 314 Seventh St. N.; 4 to 6 p.m.; details, (662) 329-5300.

FRIDAY, APRIL 13 Old Main Music Festival; details, (662) 3233322. TUESDAY, APRIL 17 MUW Jazz Ensemble; Poindexter Hall on the campus of Mississippi University for Women in Columbus; 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191. FRIDAY, APRIL 20 Super Bulldog Weekend; campus of Mississippi State University in Starkville; continues through Sunday, April 22; details, (662) 3233322. SATURDAY, APRIL 21 Historic Cotton District Arts Festival; Starkville; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; details, (662) 3233322. Starkville Symphony Orchestra at MUW; Whitfield Hall in Rent Auditorium on the campus of Mississippi University for Women; 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191. Wings Over Columbus 2018; Columbus Air Force Base; 8 a.m.; continues through Sunday, April 22; details, (662) 329-1191. SUNDAY, APRIL 22 Starkville Restaurant Week; throughout Starkville; continues through Sunday, April 29; details, (662) 323-3322.

MONDAY, APRIL 23 Guest Artist Recital featuring J. Warren Mitchell (Tenor); Poindexter Hall on the campus of Mississippi University for Women in Columbus; 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191. TUESDAY, APRIL 24 Songs of the Theater; Poindexter Hall on the campus of Mississippi University for Women in Columbus; 7:30 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191. FRIDAY, APRIL 27 MUW Choral Concert; Poindexter Hall on the campus of Mississippi University for Women in Columbus; 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.; details, (662) 329-1191. Admiral’s Cup Soccer Tournament; Columbus Soccer Complex, 406 N. Third St.; continues through Sunday, April 29; details, (662) 329-1191. SATURDAY, APRIL 28 Sugarcane Jane in Concert; Omnova Theater in the Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St. in Columbus; 7 to 9 p.m.; tickets $15 in advance, $17 at the door for Columbus Arts Council members; $20 in advance, $22 at the door for non-members; $5 for children (12 years and younger); details, (662) 328-2787.

4-County employees saluted for years of service April 2018

Today in Mississippi

With 630 years of service in a wide variety of specialized jobs, 32 cooperative employees and two board directors are being honored this month. The cooperative salutes those achieving years of service milestones. 40 Years

35 Years

Anthony Miller

Ricky Blake

30 Years

Bert Hadaway

Joe Miller

Arnell Brown

Junior Eads

20 Years

25 Years

Mike King

Keith Monahan

Robbie Agnew

Dale Hall

Larry King

Ronnie Vernon

Johnny Johnson (Director)

Mike Banks (Director)

10 Years

15 Years

Cora Lindsey

Willie Terry

Becky Bishop

Margaret Blackwell

Jonathan Edwards

Ricky Wright

Wanda Bledsoe

Emily Bratton

Maria Burton

Jacob Fulper

Justin Marro

Chris Moore

Eddie Pennington

Chrissy Townley

5 Years

Thank you for your years of service!

Jonathan Tuggle

Kim Harris

Darvin Hemphill

Jonathan Howell

Chance Ingram

Hayden Nickels

Today in Mississippi I April 2018

2018 Annual Meeting held in MEP auditorium A bigger-than-normal crowd attended the 2018 Magnolia Electric Power Annual Meeting, which was held at the headquarters in Summit. The meeting was held March 22 in the auditorium of the office, and three incumbent directors were re-elected to their posts. A Lincoln County-based group, The Bridge Band, entertained the crowd with gospel music prior to the business meeting, which is a part of the annual meeting. Members of the band are Tyler Bridge, Nick Bridge, Ron Donegan and Shelley Smith. During the business meeting, John McCabe of Amite County, Pat Ard of Lincoln County and Hollis Alford of Pike County were re-elected to three-year terms on the board of directors. The election of the board members was directed by the board attorney, Reggie Jones. As part of the business meeting, Auditor Mark Biggs informed the crowd that MEP remains in sound financial condition, and Magnolia Electric’s General Manager Darrell Smith gave his Annual Meeting report. Smith stated that the purpose of his report is to keep the members apprised of the financial condition of the cooperative and the improvements made since the last meeting. He also described the plans for the year ahead to keep Magnolia Electric Power a reliable and efficient source for their electrical needs. “In 2017, we spent approximately $7.3 million to improve and maintain the reliability of our electrical grid,” Smith said. “The number of meters served by Magnolia in 2017 increased by 203 from the previous year, bringing us to 31,654 meters served. We sold 606,271,625 kilowatt-hours in 2017, a reduction

of 43,000,995 from 2016. “Also, at the end of 2017 your Board of Directors authorized the return to the membership of $2,352,768 in capital credits. Since 1960, Magnolia has returned to our members $46,038,719 in capital credits,” Smith said. As always, Magnolia’s main objective is to keep the lights on, and when they go out sometimes, due to the severe storms Southwest Mississippi is noted for, to restore power as quickly as possible, Smith explained. To further explain, he discussed that “in 2017, we changed out 12.5 miles of old copper line to aluminum in Amite, Pike, and Franklin counties. We also converted seven miles of single-phase to threephase in Pike and Amite counties,” he said. Right-of-way (ROW) maintenance continues to be a big program for the company. “In 2017, we trimmed 700 miles of overhead primary out of the Norfield, Brookhaven and East Lincoln substations. This year, in 2018, we are trimming the East McComb, Friendship and Arlington subtations in addition to work orders and line changes,” Smith said. “We sprayed the floors of the Jayess, Dexter and parts of the Pisgah stations last year. This year we will be spraying the Norfield, East Lincoln and Brookhaven subs. We are spraying the subs that were trimmed the previous year and this has worked well in our vegetation management program,” he explained. Mowing is a part of the ROW maintenance process too. “We Bush Hogged the Liberty, Progress and parts of the Pisgah subs. This year we will be focusing on areas around our system that we missed because of wet conditions, and fast growth due to all the rain we have had,” Smith said. The school-age students in our service area are important to us. “Since our last annual meeting, we held our ‘Safety around Power Lines’ program at five schools in

“In 2017, we spent approximately $7.3 million to improve and maintain the reliability of our electrical grid.”

our service area, reaching 478 students,” Smith said. “We also held a program for the Lexie Fire Department, which involved 25 firefighters,” he added. “Our Youth Leadership program was continued in 2017, and three students were selected to take part. They are Alvie Mixon of South Pike High School, Cruz Maxwell of West Lincoln High School and Molly Lawson of South Pike High School,” Smith said. In conclusion, Smith spoke for a moment on the cold weather we had in January and referenced questions we received about high bills. “I am well aware that many of you saw bills higher than in recent memory. Everyone who heated their home with anything other than wood saw higher light bills due to higher consumption of electricity,” Smith said. “January 2018 required twice the heating days that January 2017 required. Hopefully, this was one of those weather anomalies we experience from time to time and won’t happen very often. As always we are understanding of the hardships high light bills place on our members and are ready and willing to help all we can to make the payment of these bills easier.” Before the Annual Meeting was dismissed, winners’ names were drawn from those in attendance. Betty Thomas won $500 worth of electricity in the prize designed to encourage attendance at the meeting. Additional $50 awards for electricity given for those in attendance went to Olen Brumfield, Eugene Magee, Samuel L. Quin, Alice Jackson and Reba Wilkinson. Before the meeting started, winners from those who sent in proxies were drawn. The proxy winners, who have been notified by mail, include a $500 award for electricity to Iva Carson and $50 awards for electricity to Christina R. Freemyer, Wallace L. Givens, Jesse J. Johnson Jr., Charles Kendrick and Hulon L. Wallace. Magnolia Electric Power is an electric cooperative and holds an annual meeting for its members. Members participate by either returning their proxy or attending the annual meeting.

April 2018

Magnolia Electric Power General Manager Darrell Smith, left, presented certificates to the winners of electricity who attended the 2018 Annual Meeting. The winners are, from left, Betty Thomas, $500, and $50 winners Alice Jackson, Louise Brumfield, Reba Wilkinson, Samuel L. Quin and Eugene Magee.

A large number of MEP members attended the 2018 Annual Meeting held this year at the office, located at 3027 Highway 98 West, Summit.

The Bridge Band entertained the crowd with gospel at the 2018 Magnolia Electric Power Annual Meeting.

Today in Mississippi

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April 2018

Magnolia Electric Power sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Top photo: Alvie Mixon, Cruz Maxwell and Molly Lawson represented Magnolia Electric Power at the 2018 Youth Leadership workshop. Above: Alvie works with his team to solve a difficult leadership game.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, Feb. 21, and continued through Friday, Feb. 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Alvie Mixon, Cruz Maxwell and Molly Lawson were selected among the schools in Magnolia Electric Powers’ service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” This year, 80 students attended the workshop, held at the Marriott in downtown Jackson. When the students arrived on Wednesday, the

workshop began with a “get acquainted” session and they were put into situations where they had to learn about others. They were then asked to participate in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives who serve in state government on behalf of the districts in which they reside. The breakfast was well-attended with over 40 legislators in attendance. Before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves spoke to the students and encouraged them to work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his speech, he encouraged the students to pursue their dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. He

“We are proud to have these three outstanding students represent Magnolia Electric Power.” – Darrell Smith General Manager

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS

April2018 2018 II Today Today inin Mississippi Mississippi II 10c 12c February

Gov. Phil Bryant

Above, from left: Alvie Mixon, Sen. Angela Hill, Rep. Bill Pigott, Molly Lawson and Cruz Maxwell. Right: Alvie, Molly and Cruz pose during the Fun Time photobooth session.

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves discussed the positive economic factors happening in Mississippi and told them that they don’t have to go far from home to become successful. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, there are many advantages to staying right here at home,” he said. The students also heard from other motivational speakers and participated in a fun evening with local magician Dorian LaChance, who wowed them with his illusions. When the workshop came to a close, the students had made many new friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Building leaders is fundamental to building a strong community, and through this program Magnolia Electric Power hopes to prepare these young people for a bright future. The program has proven to encourage students to

reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. Magnolia Electric Power is a proud sponsor of the program. “We are proud to have these three outstanding students represent Magnolia Electric,” said Darrell Smith, general manager. “They are our future leaders, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.” In June, the students will travel with the youth group to Washington, D.C. The seven-day trip will include visits to popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Bro. Terry Rhodes

Magician Dorian LaChance

Alvie, Sen. Tammy Witherspoon, Molly, Sen. Sally Doty and Cruz at the Missisissippi Capitol building.

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April 2018

Thank a lineworker on April 9

Keep the lights on

America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 9, Magnolia Electric Power will honor the dedicated men and women who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. We proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous

conditions to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety. “Our lineworkers are the first responders of our electric distribution system, and they work around the clock on high-voltage lines,” said Darrell Smith, Magnolia Electric Power general manager. “Conditions can be dangerous, but they power through to ensure reliable service for our members.”

To honor these brave lineworkers Magnolia Electric Power invites members to take a moment and thank a lineworker for the work they do. Use #ThankALineworker to show your support for the men and women who light our lives.

“Heroes Wear Hard Hats”

Lineworker Appreciation Day April 9, 2018

Remember to #ThankALineworker

Account Management April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Outage Reportin g a

Made easier!

SmartHub lets you manage all aspects of your Magnolia Electric Power account. SmartHub allows you to view your daily use and manage your account right from your mobile device. With SmartHub, you have the tools you need to manage your accounts with mobile and Web apps fully intregrated with Magnolia Electric Power. SmartHub delivers account information, mobile payments and more in a secure environment.

t your fin gertips!

With the extreme cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing, SmartHub is a convenient way to manage your daily power use. These graphs show an actual member’s use.

MANAGE WEBSITE VERSION My Account Visit www.mepcoop.com Click on MANAGE my Account. This will direct you to our SmartHub site.

MOBILE APP VERSION A mobile version of SmartHub is available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Search for “smarthub” to install.

With SmartHub you can: View your billing history • Check your use • View a bill comparsion Pay your bill • Set up automatic notifications • Report an outage

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Providing affordable, reliable electricity to our members since 1936.

MONROE COUNTY ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

Thank a lineworker on April 9 Keep the lights on

America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 9, 2018, Monroe County Electric will honor the dedicated men and women who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. We proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety. “Our lineworkers are the first responders of our electric

distribution system, and they work around the clock on highvoltage lines,” said Barry Rowland, Monroe County Electric general manager. “Conditions can be dangerous, but they power through to ensure reliable service for our members.” To honor these brave lineworkers Monroe County Electric invites members to take a moment and thank a lineworker for the work they do. Use #ThankALineworker to show your support for the men and women who light our lives.

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Change Habits to

BEAT THE PEAK CELEBRATE EARTH DAY April 22, 2018

Go green with big-ticket renovations Going “green” means living in a way that’s friendly to the planet. But it also means keeping a little more “green” in your pocket by living more efficiently. Even if a tight budget is keeping you from making over your whole house so it’s more energy efficient, you can convert it a little bit at a time. Next time you need to replace an appliance or other home product, consider an eco-friendly choice. Here are some suggestions for going green at home: • When replacing major appliances, it pays to buy those that are Energy Star-qualified. These are significantly more efficient than other models so they’re cheaper to operate. • Buy appliances with “energy-saver” options. New dishwashers and washing machines, for example, use less water than older models and let you choose load size and water temperature. Turn off your dishwasher’s heated drying cycle, and chose a clothes dryer that automatically shuts off when it senses that clothes are dry. • Place the dishwasher and refrigerator on opposite sides of the kitchen so the heat from the dishwasher won’t force the refrigerator to work harder. Resist the temptation to store an extra freezer or refrigerator in the garage, where the extreme heat and cold will force it to work so hard it will send your energy bills soaring. • When it’s time to replace windows, go with double- or triple-paned glass. Those models cost more than your single-pane windows, but they prevent your heated or air-conditioned air from leaking outside, so you’ll save money on your energy bills.

Tipof the Month

You can beat the peak (and save money!) by decreasing your power use when energy demand and prices are at their highest. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Laundry for Less: Full loads mean fewer cycles, and washers and dryers run in the late evenings add less heat and humidity to the home. Energy can cost less outside of peak hours.

lighting and electronics that generate heat, resist the urge to turn down the thermostat and remember, lower fan settings use less energy.

Intramural Competition: Online gaming with each active player using their own computer, display, gaming console and internet connection gets pricey. Play each other at home on one screen and save. Countertop Convenience: Range or oven cooking can really warm up a kitchen. Microwaves, convection ovens, induction cooktops, Crock-Pot® and toaster ovens put more cooking heat where you need it.

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

ANNUAL MEETING Monday, April 23, 2018, 7 p.m. Eupora High School Auditorium

When you think of Natchez Trace EPA do you think of a lineman?

Norma Kilgore General Manager

When you think of an employee of Natchez Trace EPA what comes to mind? For most people, it’s probably the tan shirt and white hardhat of a lineman. You probably picture someone in a bucket truck or at the foot of a power pole working with high voltage electricity. While linemen are certainly a huge part of our team at Natchez Trace EPA, they make up about 40 percent of our workforce. The other 60 percent is made up of accountants, mechanics, cashiers, member service clerks, office personnel, engineers, meter technicians, substation personnel and right-of-way

workers, among other positions. Simply put, it takes a lot of different people from a lot of different backgrounds doing a lot of different jobs to keep Natchez Trace EPA running, and your electricity flowing. Over the next several years, Natchez Trace EPA, like many corporations across the United States, will see a major shift in our professional landscape. We’re already noticing this change, as our resident Baby Boomer Generation moves into retirement. Electric co-ops have a strong commitment to the communities we serve. Important decisions are made locally with input from a democratically elected board of directors whose interest is the greater good of those we serve. Also, our employees are constantly working to serve our members. We’re also constantly growing and evolving. Technology is changing how energy is generated and distributed through the electric grid to homes and businesses. These changes have brought new challenges and opportunities to electric co-op employees working to keep pace with the developing changes. I want to thank all of the employees of Natchez Trace EPA for working so hard to serve our members.

Annual meeting prizes Each member attending the annual meeting will receive a free door prize.

5 - $100 cash prize drawings 2 - $50 cash prize drawings

Hectic schedule? We can help. SIGN UP FOR BANK DRAFT TODAY Bank Draft is safe, convenient and reliable. By signing up you can avoid the monthly hassle of having to make the payment manually. We take all of the sweat out of it for you! Drafting lets your money stay in your account longer than when you mail it or bring it in. It also prevents the expense of paying the gross amount, as draft customers always pay the lesser “net amount.” Why not sign up today? Just swing by your local office with a voided check to enroll in the bank draft program.

BANK DRAFT AUTHORIZATION ________________________________, Miss. ________________________________, 2018 Natchez Trace Electric Power Association Houston, Mississippi Until further notice, you are requested and hereby authorized to draw on my checking account at _____________________________ (bank), _____________________________ (bank number) to cover electric billing on the following accounts. Account Number:

Account Name:

The above bank will be authorized to honor such checks, which should be drawn in accordance with my signature below. Signed _________________________________________ Customer bank account no. _____________________________

Good Neighbors is a volunteer program designed to help (on a onetime basis) families who fall on hard times and need help in paying their electric bill. NTEPA customers voluntarily agree to add at least $1 per month to their electric bill as a contribution to this worthy cause. NTEPA collects and Community Action agencies administer this fund at no charge. Anyone interested in helping such families as a “Good Neighbor” can call 662-456-3037.

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

NATCHEZ TRACE ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2017 ASSETS Utility Plant Original Cost $86,161,699 Less Depreciation $32,643,096 Net Plant Special Funds & Investments Current and Accrued Assets Cash-General $1,156,684 Accounts Receivable $2,541,422 Materials and Supplies $ 692,379 Prepayments & Other $3,967,069 Total Current & Accrued Assets Deferred Debits Total Assets LIABILITIES Capital & Accumulated Earnings Memberships Accumulated Earnings Total Equity Long Term Debt Current and Accrued Liabilities Accounts Payable Customer Deposits Other Liabilities Total Current & Accrued Liabilities RHIP Advances Deferred Credits Total Liabilities & Other Credits Equity as a Percent of Total Assets

$53,518,603

$ 8,357,554 $ 1,166,381 $63,042,538

$ 124,796 $45,529,629 $45,654,425 $10,042,357 $2,724,965 $1,770,568 $2,468,764 $6,964,297 $ 209,816 $ 171,643 $63,042,538

2017 OPERATING REVENUE & EXPENSES AND 2018 BUDGET Actual for Year Ending 12/31/2017 2018 Budget Totals Revenue: Electric (Sales) Miscellaneous & Other Interest Income Total Revenue

$34,794,975 $ 1,050,549 $ 60,233 $35,905,757

$35,058,077 $ 935,674 $ 44,606 $36,038,357

Expenses: Wholesale Power Cost Operations & Maintenance Consumer Accounts Administrative, General & Other Depreciation Taxes Interest Expense Total Expense

$25,712,469 $ 3,378,587 $ 1,172,688 $ 1,177,619 $ 2,072,850 $ 214,398 $ 409,672 $ 34,138,283

$25,898,407 $ 3,335,701 $ 1,005,215 $ 1,138,142 $ 2,236,578 $ 212,821 $ 599,978 $ 34,324,699

System Margins

$ 1,767,474

$ 1,713,658

12a

Directors election process explained According to our Bylaws, three of our nine directors are elected every April. The process starts in January when the Board appoints the Committee on Nominations, as well as the Credentials and Elections Committee. Though separate committees with entirely different functions, they are usually made up of the same persons. After the Nominating Committee is constituted, Natchez Trace publishes their names in the three principal papers within our service area, as well as its stating of the time and place of the Nominating Committee meeting. The purpose of this notice is to give the members ample opportunity for inputs to the Nominating Committee before they act, including attending the Nominating Committee meeting if they wish. This year the Nominating Committee members are: Perry Bailey of Calhoun City; Dan Burchfield of Eupora; Max Johnson of Mantee; David Martin of Derma; Walter B. Meek III of Eupora; Bobby Mooneyham of Houston; Leon Morris of Woodland; Charley V. Porter of Houston; and Michael Watkins of Calhoun City. These same persons constituted the Credentials and Elections Committee. The Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney announced that after the Nominating Committee makes its decision as to the nominee or nominees for each of (the three) positions, we would post these at the three principal offices of the Association. If a member or group of members is unsatisfied with the Nominating Committee recommendations, there would be another opportunity for additional inputs as to board candidates, in the form of nomination by petition, until March 9, 2018. After the committee members decided to separate the respective responsibilities of the Nominating Committee and of the Credentials and Elections Committee, the Committee on Nominations nominated the three incumbent directors whose respective slots were coming vacant to run again, namely: Earline Wilson, Houston, District One; Joe Hays, Eupora, District Two; and Jimmy Ball, Calhoun City, District Three.

BALLOT ATTACHED

72.4%

Return your attached ballot promptly for a chance to win a $500 credit for electricity. You do not have to be present at the annual meeting in Eupora in order to win this prize. Thanks to all of the members (1164) who voted their ballot last year. We need your ballot again this year in order to have a valid directorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s election and annual meeting. Please vote your ballot, seal it in the postage prepaid envelope, sign the envelope at the appropriate place, and return it to us. Please vote for one director in each district, three in total. Remember, you may win the $500 credit by doing so promptly. Members can vote by mail or in person at the Annual Meeting. Members who vote by mail are also encouraged to attend the Annual Meeting. As noted above, members who vote by mail are eligible for a chance to win the $500 Credit. Members who also attend in person are eligible for a chance to win a $100 or $50 cash prize drawing. So if a member votes by mail and attends the Annual Meeting in person, he/she has a double opportunity for winning a prize.

12b

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

BOARD OF DIRECTORS FROM YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The value of electricity continues to shine How many of us remember dropping into a Natchez Trace EPA office with our parents and grandparents to pay the light bill? Today, whether you do that in person, by mail or online, paying your monthly bill does a lot more than just keep the lights on. Electricity keeps us connected to our modern world. Consider all the necessities and conveniences we enjoy in part because of the power lines running to the electric meter outside your home. Count up your televisions, computers, printers, gaming consoles, music and video players and personal assistant devices. Whether they get used every day or just occasionally, the electricity that keeps them working comes from Natchez Trace EPA. Have you looked around your kitchen lately? Between the coffee maker and toaster and the microwave and pressure cooker, a lot of us have added several other modern small appliances. If you’ve got a craft nook or workshop, the power tools and machines you use to cut and shape your projects are either plugged in or recharged from the outlets connecting your household wiring to Natchez Trace EPA. You use electricity to run all these devices, and still keep the lights on, use the stove, heating and air conditioning, and get hot water from the tap. The good news is, even as we rely more on electricity, it’s still a bargain, especially compared to other things we pay for regularly. Since 2011, medical care, residential rental rates and education have increased at rates of 3 percent or more per year. Butter, meat and egg costs have been up by more than one to 2 percent annually, and even bread costs have risen better than a half point on average. Electricity costs rise about 1 percent a year, but co-ops across the country have reported a decline in average residential use per household since 2010. That means we’re doing more things with less energy. When it comes to value, electricity is a clear winner, and we’re always looking for ways to work with you to make it even better. That’s why Natchez Trace EPA urges energy efficiency, encourages you to look for ENERGY STAR appliances, and promotes technology, designed to give members more control over their electricity use. That’s why we’re always working to provide service that’s reliable, keep it affordable, and make it even more valuable to our members – you, your family and your neighbors.

Terry Willis, President District 2, Post 1

Danny Ellison District 1, Post 1

Mike Wade District 3, Post 1

Robbie Harrington District 2, Post 3

Kenneth Linton District 1, Post 3

Dot Hardin District 3, Post 3

Earline Wilson District 1, Post 2

Joe Hays, Secretary District 2, Post 2

Jimmy Ball, Vice-President District 3, Post 2

2018 YOUTH LEADERSHIP WINNERS Mary Grace Davis, a student at Vardaman High School, and Weston Warren, a student at Houlka Attendance Center, were selected to represent Natchez Trace Electric Power Association as the 2018 Youth Tour delegates. They will travel to Washington, D.C., for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour of the Capital, June 9-15, 2018. Twelve candidates competed for the opportunity to win the expensepaid trip. Nominated by his/her high school, each student completed an application reflecting school and

extracurricular activities. Two judges affiliated with the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi interviewed each of the 12 students Oct. 23-24, at each of the area high schools. The purpose of the local youth program is to provide leadership development and training opportunities for young Natchez Trace consumers and to educate a future generation about the cooperative form of business. Mary Grace lives with her parents Wyndi and Jason Davis of Houston. She hopes to become an occupational or physical therapist.

Mary Grace plays softball, basketball, runs track and is on the powerlifting team. She is a member of many clubs at her school. She is actively involved in 4-H and the youth group at her church. Weston is the son of Roger and Chandra Warren of Pontotoc. He is a member of the Beta Club, student council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and is an honor roll student. He is very active in the youth group at First Baptist Church. Weston plans to pursue a career in architechture. Mary Grace Davis Natchez Trace applauds these students on their accomplishments. Vardaman High School

Weston Warren Houlka Attendance Center

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

12c

Making lifelong memories at Dorroh Lake

Ethan and Charlotte Nanney

By Elissa Fulton The smell of camp fires and aerosol sunscreen take us all back to our days at summer camp – when we wrote letters home from the bunk house and took our first dive into the lake with friends old and new. For Charlotte and Ethan Nanney, they are blessed to spend everyday at camp as caretakers for Dorroh [Dur-ah] Lake. Their story began with Charlotte whose large family has long ties to Dorroh Lake. Her family has been meeting together at the campsite in Webster County for nearly 29 years during the week of Thanksgiving. “I grew up just a couple of miles through the woods and I came to camp here as a little girl,” said Charlotte. “When my grandparents passed, my mom and her eight siblings wanted to remain close, so they decided to meet at Dorroh Lake every year. When we started coming here, they had just built the Brewer Building [couples building] and so we all pile up the week of Thanksgiving and spend it together. It has been a second home to us.” Because of Charlotte’s family connection to the camp, when the previous caretakers felt that God was leading them in another direction, Charlotte and her husband Ethan found themselves praying about the position and couldn’t quit thinking about the role they would eventually take on. They felt the Lord was leading them to guide the camp into the next generation of campers. They have been caretakers and

camp directors for almost four years. This summer will be their fifth summer to lead camp at Dorroh Lake. The camp is a non-profit organization that has been operational since the 1950s and this will year will mark 64 years since the establishment has seen its first campers. It began when three county Baptist Associations established it and held a Girls in Action (GA) camp in 1955. The next year it became a nonprofit on its own and operates through donations and fees. A board presides over its procedures, and although it is not a part of the Southern Baptist Convention, many of the local churches support its operations and upkeep. “We have an unbelievable board that has been whole-heartedly supportive of us and we all seem to be going in the same direction,” said Ethan. “They give us the ability to dream. Sometimes my wife is good at pulling back my dreams, as she’s the more practical minded one.” The property was the original home place of the Dorroh family. The land was acquired from Rev. Joel Dorroh. He built the lake and they held the first camps in the original home. When the needs outgrew the original home place, building new space began. Today, as caretakers and managers of the camp, Charlotte and Ethan hold three camps in the summer – a teen girls camp, a girl’s camp and a boy’s camp – throughout the month of June. All other times, the facility is being used by other

churches and organizations who rent the facility and hold their own camps and events. Although camps are their first priority, families and other organizations can rent the space for various functions. “As long as it’s Christian-based and Christ is the center, then we are all about family and other organizations we know,” said Ethan. “We also have a history with Natchez Trace Electric. When the workers come in from other states and the hotels can’t handle it, we can house them here with help from the community.” Charlotte and Ethan wear many hats. Charlotte handles all of the meal preps and rental business, while Ethan handles maintenance and upkeep of the property. In addition to their duties, they also homeschool their four children who range in ages from four to 15-years-old. Their children also play a large role in the camps that are hosted at Dorroh Lake, as the family lives on site. “We’ve always been of the mindset that if we are in the ministry, our family is in the ministry with us, and so our kids see this as a ministry opportunity. Whatever event there is, they are rolling up their sleeves and going to work with us,” said Ethan. “The kids love it. They’ve seen different kids come through every summer, and they look forward to the camps every year. They are growing up along side of these campers,” said Charlotte. The Nanney’s see this opportunity as

a huge blessing for their family. “The scripture says you know there is a God based off the creation. He’s been revealing himself through his creation to us, so we love to see kids scattered throughout the place and they are in their Bible; especially early morning. There’s some decisions being made here,” said Ethan. “Sometimes I have to be reminded that this is a really special place for a lot of people.” Charlotte and Ethan have big visions for the future, including the hosting of family camps and continuing to update the facilities. “We really want to honor the work that has been going on here for over 60 years. And we want to leave it better than when we found it when the Lord tells us it’s time to go. He’s not telling us now, or anytime soon, but we are wrestling against everything now; sports and other activities. There’s a lot available for kids to do these days, so to make sure that the camp is still here for the future, we have to really think about what keeps the kids coming here. There’s a lot of competition,” said Ethan. “We just think, 30 years from now, is someone going to say they gave their heart to the Lord, right now, during this time while we are here. We just want to do whatever we can to make sure that happens.” For more information on camps held at Dorroh Lake, or for available rental dates, call 662-258-7545, email come2dlake@gmail.com, visit dorrohlake.com or follow Dorroh Lake Camp on Facebook.

12d

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

April 9 is National Lineworker Appreciation Day.

#ThankALineworker

Natchez Trace EPA’s construction work plan Every five years Natchez Trace EPA (NTEPA) submits a Construction Work Plan (CWP) to Rural Utilities Service (RUS) for approval of the construction projects in that five-year span. There are different types of construction projects submitted in the CWP and they are coded Shawn Edmondson by type. Code 100’s are for the new underground and overhead services we construct to new customers each year. Code 300’s are special projects designed to meet load growth identified in our 20-year long-range system study or provide better power quality and reliability to our existing customers. Code 600’s are maintenance projects, such as pole and conductor change-outs. NTEPA has averaged 170 pole change-outs for the last three years. Here are some of the special projects NTEPA will be completing over the next five years. Eupora – NTEPA will construct a five-mile tie-line to quickly get electricity back to the water wells west of Eupora in the event of an extended outage. These wells provide the water to the City of Eupora. Calhoun City – NTEPA will increase the wire size of five miles of line that supplies Big Creek and the Grenada Lake Area. This will improve voltage regulation in this area. Houston – NTEPA will double the voltage on our distribution lines that supply the Rocky Mount

and Pontotoc County areas of our service territory. This will improve power quality and reliability in these areas. Other annual maintenance projects include: Amp readings will be taken by NTEPA personnel to determine the capacity of our system at peak times and identify other special projects that may need to be completed to ensure the reliability of our system. Infra-red programs conducted by NTEPA in conjunction with TVA personnel will scan 500 miles of line a year to identify weak or overloaded hardware and equipment. The NTEPA right-of-way program will trim and bush hog 110 miles of line each year. All of these projects have one goal in common. To keep your lights on and to make sure you have adequate electrical power for your needs.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Person with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202)720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800)877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_ filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C., 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Candidates for director Earline Wilson is a candidate for director in District One in Chickasaw and Pontotoc counties. Wilson is a lifelong resident of Houston. She has served as a director on the Natchez Trace EPA board since 1994. Wilson has received her certificate as a Credentialed Cooperative Director. She retired from MAP, Inc. where she worked with the McIntosh Headstart Center for 46 years as a social worker. She is a member of the Second Baptist Church in Houston, as well as a member of the NCNW, NAACP, Heroines of Jericho – Court EARLINE WILSON #123, MSWC and the FEMA advisory board. She is a former member of the city and county Democratic Executive Committee. Wilson was married to the late Leander Wilson and is the mother of four children with one son deceased. She has four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Joe Hays is a candidate for Director of District Two in Webster and Clay counties. He is a lifelong resident of Webster County. Hays has completed his Credentialed Cooperative Director certification. He is a 1973 graduate of Eupora High School; he then continued his education at Mississippi State University, where he received a B.S. Degree in 1976 and his master’s degree in education in 1985. Hays worked in the Calhoun County school system from 1976 -1978 and then the Webster County school system from 1978-2013. He is now retired and runs a cattle JOE HAYS farm. His hobbies include hunting and fishing. Joe is a member of Walthall Baptist Church where he serves as Deacon. He is married to Angela James Hays and they have one son Zachary Hays of Flowood, Miss.

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS Pursuant to the Bylaws of the Association, notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of the members of Natchez Trace Electric Power Association will be held at the Eupora High School Auditorium in Eupora, Mississippi, at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 23, 2018, for the purpose of electing directors, receiving reports and transacting such other business as may come before the meeting. Notice is further given that three (3) Directors are to be elected at the annual meeting and that the nominations for Directors made by the Committee on Nominations and/or the Credentials and Elections Committee are as follows:

District 1 (Chickasaw and Pontotoc Counties) Earline Wilson, P.O. Box 544, Houston, MS 38851

District 3 (Calhoun, Grenada and Yalobusha counties) Jimmy Ball, P. O. Box 577, Calhoun City, MS 38916

District 2 (Webster and Clay counties) Joe Hays, 384 Carroll St., Walthall, MS 39771

Eupora High School Band will bring musical entertainment at the annual meeting on

Jimmy Ball is a candidate for director of District Three of Calhoun, Grenada and Yalobusha counties. He has served on the Natchez Trace EPA Board since Feb. 2002. He has received his Credentialed Cooperative Director certification and continues his training in the Board Leadership Certificate program. Ball presently serves as Vice-President of the Board. He is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Ball of Calhoun City. He and his wife Mary Lynn live in Calhoun City. He has two sons, Trey (Alison) of Hernando and Wesley of JIMMY BALL Southaven; step-son Cameron (Emily) of Cabot, Ark., and step-daughter Taylor (Troy) Strunk of Fairhope, Ala. (Taylor works for Baldwin Electric Membership Corporation in Summerdale, Ala.). They have five grandchildren. Ball is a member of First Baptist Church in Calhoun City where he serves as an usher. He is owner of Ball Building Supply. Ball graduated from Calhoun City High School in 1966 and continued his education at Mississippi State University, receiving a B.S. degree in 1970. He is a member of the Rotary Club, past president and a Paul Harris Fellow. He is an Eagle Scout, vigil member of Order of the Arrow and the executive board. His hobbies include MSU sports, hunting, landscaping and history.

Monday, April 23, 2018

Houston Flywheel Festival April 28-29, 2017 • Houston Mississippi Valley Flywheelers 37th Annual Spring Antique Engine and Tractor Show featuring tractor pulls, obstacle course and barrel racing. Festival activities also include corn meal exhibit, lard demonstration, hominy and cracklings, 5K Run, arts and crafts, flea market items, food vendors and lots of entertainment. Held in the Joe Brigance Park in Houston. Contact the Chickasaw Development Foundation at P.O. Box 505, Houston, MS 38851, telephone 662/456-2321, fax 662/456-2595. For more information, please see: www.houstonms.org. Events Saturday will include antique cars and motorcycles.

AMI I

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Like us on Facebook by searching for “North East Power”

10 PR 2050 • Oxford, MS 38655 662-234-6331 • Toll Free: 877234-6331 • Fax: 662-234-0046

makes the member smart, not the meter

By Elissa Fulton Electricity meters have been a source of contention and skepticism since electricity was first introduced into homes around the turn of the 20th century. After hearing these tales from generations passed, it’s no wonder many of us still feel that way today. If our electricity bills increase, it must be because of the meter, right? Advanced Meter Infrastructure (AMI) has equally received its fair share of ridicule since first being introduced in the 1980s. AMI meters have largely been misunderstood and perhaps not properly defended, but in fact, all they do is communicate readings. Their daily readings and technology offer a great deal of convenience and quality for the members of North East Mississippi Electric Power Association (NEMEPA). In addition to the quality these meters offer, they also offer great reliability. The decision to install these AMI meters in 2006 was made to offer that great quality, reliability and the convenience to our members. Jake Parmer, AMI technician for NEMEPA has a long history with meters and is very familiar with how they operate. The Iowa native was first introduced to NEMEPA when he was installing AMI meters on electric systems across the United States. He moved to Oxford in 2010 to join NEMEPA’s team, primarily dealing www.nemepa.org with the meters and the technology that accompany them. “When I go out into the field I try to explain to our members that these meters are tested before installation and they have to be within .03 percent of accuracy or they can’t be Choose account. installed,” said Parmer. “Out of all the site visits we did during the past winter spell – approximately 75 site visits – not one of the meters had failed against the member.” According to Parmer, most of the extreme electricity use comes from

HVAC systems, or an appliance that is failing in the home. “On a 1,500 square foot home, a heat pump, which is your outdoor unit, will run for about 40-50 cents an hour. However, when it gets down to about 32 degrees or below, it has to rely on the furnace that’s in the home, and when it goes to the furnace in the home, it’s around $1.50 per hour to run,” said Parmer. “So when no one touches their thermostat, and no one does anything Dec. 20, 2017 different, they are living the same way, but the temperature drastically drops; that piece of equipment that was creating your bill last month for 50 cents an hour, is the same piece of equipment that is now having to run at three times, depending on the size of the home. It’s not the members’ fault, it’s not our fault. There’s a middle ground that’s never been explained before. So when the member gets that bill during a winter month, it’s easy to assume that our rates have changed, but nothing has changed except that device they rely on to heat their home, has to use a different device, and it uses a lot of electricity when it’s 20 degrees outside.” North Mississippi typically has a two-tofive-day cold wave. This year it was about 10-15 days. When the weather conditions drop and the home begins to use its furnace instead of its outdoor heating pump, that is Jan. 17, 2018 what makes the bills double and sometimes triple. The good news is that NEMEPA has the technology available for energy m technology available that allows our memNEMEPA’s website www.nemepa.or bers to view their daily use and to monitor app available in the Apple Store or A ‘NEMEPA’. “When a member visits our websi a member login. A new user can sign New User,” said Helton. “Once they Usage. If the member has more than account they want to view and it wil Ledger, Billing History, Payment Hi to left). Reading the graphs and alerts “When a member views the usage charts of each day in the month and View My Usage. lows. If you hover over the days, it w where their energy is being used, or to uncover the things that may be day and the actual kWh use for that failing in the home. With this information, a family can determine where for a member to figure their usage is they can make sacrifices during the extreme weather days. approximately 10 cents. So in this gr Pam Helton, manager of office services, works closely with Parmer on the high for the day on Wednesday,

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Youth Leadership 2018

Feb. 28, 2018 was 55 degrees. The electricity use for this member on that day was 47 kWh. On that day they used roughly $4.70 worth of electricity on a day that was 59 degrees.” A few days later on Jan. 17, 2018, the temperature dropped to 23 degrees during the day and 7 degrees at night (see image to the left) and the electricity use went up to 172 kWh. That’s approximately $17.20 on that day for the electricity use, almost four times the use on Dec. 20.” And then again on Feb 28, 2018, the temperature is back up to a high of 68 degrees and a low of 58 degrees (see image above) with a 26 kWh use; that’s lowered that bill back down to $2.60,” said Parmer. “So as you can see, the days fluctuate the most by temperature. By hovering over each of these days on the chart, you can see the use for each day and determine where you need to make sacrifices on the extreme weather days.” Energy efficiency appliances also make a difference. When building a home, most people are more concerned with the cosmetic elements of a

monitoring. The information is on rg (see image at top left) or there is an Android Market by searching

ite from a web browser, they will see n up for this service by clicking on y are logged in, they will click on My n one account they can click on the ll offer services such as Account istory and Usage History.” (See image

e graphs, they will see interactive bar d you can easily see the highs and will show the highs and lows for each day,” said Parmer. “The easiest way s to know that each kWh costs raph (top image above) we see that Dec. 20, was 59 degrees and the low

My Alerts home, but choosing energy efficient appliances, installing high quality insulation or windows and other energy efficiency upgrades can make a huge difference in the electric bill and can save you over time.

Five students were selected from the schools in NEMEPA’s service area to attend the 2018 Youth Leadership Workshop held Feb. 21-23, in downtown Jackson, and the Washington, D.C., Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in June. Alexis McLarty, Siena Cizdiel, Marissa Harrison, J.R. McClure and Jackson Dear were selected to represent NEMEPA. We congratulate these outstanding students! Another handy feature NEMEPA offers its members in the Member Services Portal is the Alerts section. “Once you grasp how the graphs work and on average how much electricity you are using, you can start customizing for alerts that will notify you when your electricity use goes above your stated average,” said Parmer. “If the first day of summer hits, and you haven’t had your HVAC serviced, your alerts will notify you that your electricity use has increased, and you’ll know you might need to have that unit serviced.” The alerts can be customized by kWh or by dollar amount, and will send alerts by text every day if you set it to. There’s also low usage alerts and payment confirmations; and coming soon will be outage declared and outage restored alerts. “There’s so many different ways to look at these features,” said Parmer. “And there’s so many ways for these alerts and this technology to help our members plan their electricity budget.” In the coming months when Mississippi will see it’s warmest weather, NEMEPA encourages our members to take advantage of this technology and all of its uses that are made possible because of AMI meters. And if you have questions, there are dedicated employees at NEMEPA that are here to help you. “Members will see some relief in the next coming months with the nice spring weather,” said Parmer. “This technology is here to help in those extreme times and so are we.”

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Northcentral sends local students to

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Front row, left to right: Cambell Webb, Emily Merz, Marcy Vanderburg, Camille Howell, Kelli Rhea Second row, left to right: Bryce Smith, Landon Wardlaw, Daisha Matthews, Jeffery Rhea, Kyana Conway, Faith Cox, Max Allen and Meredith Lee (not pictured, Erin Lomenick).

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, Feb. 21 and continued through Friday, Feb. 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Max Allen, Kyana Conway, Faith Cox, Camille Howell, Meredith Lee, Erin Lomenick, Daisha Matthews, Emily Merz, Jeffery Rhea, Kelli Rhea, Bryce Smith, Marcy Vanderburg, Landon Wardlaw and Cambell Webb were selected among the schools in Northcentral Electric’s service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home

and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” This year, 80 students attended Front row, left to right: Kel Back row, left to right: Sen the workshop which was held at Blackwell, Landon Wardlaw the Marriott in downtown Jackson. When the students arrived on Wednesday, the workshop began with a “get acquainted” session and they were put into situations where they had to learn about others. They were then asked to participate in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students lu enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives sp who serve in state government on behalf of the disth tricts in which they reside. The breakfast was wellva attended with over 40 legislators in attendance. Before fa visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate th Reeves spoke to the students and encouraged them to h work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and in work hard. “If you do these three things, you can W accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. te Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this prost gram by speaking to the students each year during a

April 2018

o Youth Leadership Workshop

Today in Mississippi

#ThankALineman THANK YOU FOR POWERING OUR LIVES.

lli Rhea, Emily Merz, Meredith Lee, Cambell Webb, Marcy Vanderburg, Camille Howell, Kyana Conway and Daisha Matthews. n. Chris Massey, Erin Lomenick, Rep. Robert Foster, Max Allen, Rep. Dana Criswell, Sen. David Parker, Bryce Smith, Sen. Kevin w, Sen. Neil Whaley, Jeffery Rhea, Rep. Jeff Hale, Faith Cox, Rep. Bill Kinkade and Rep. Steve Massengill.

uncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his peech, he encouraged the students to pursue heir dreams and hold on to their Mississippi alues. He discussed the positive economic actors happening in Mississippi and told hem that they don’t have to go far from home to become successful. “There are so many opportunities for you n Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a echnical trade, there are many advantages to taying right here at home,” he said. The students also heard from other moti-

vational speakers and participated in a fun evening with local magician, Dorian LaChance where he wowed them with his illusions. When the workshop came to a close, the students had made many new friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Building leaders is fundamental to building a strong community and through this program, Northcentral Electric hopes to prepare these young people for a bright future. The program has proven to encourage students to reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. Northcentral Electric is a proud sponsor of the program. “We are proud to have these outstanding students represent Northcentral Electric,” said Kevin Doddridge, CEO/General Manager. “They are our future leaders, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.” In June, the students will travel with the youth group to Washington, D.C. The sevenday trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

NATIONAL LINEMAN APPRECIATION DAY APRIL 9, 2018

2017 Youth Tour student attends NRECA Annual Meeting

In 2017, Chris Brown of Olive Branch was selected to represent Mississippi for a one year term as a Youth Leadership Council member. Following the 2017 Youth Tour, Chris returned to Washington, D.C., for a conference with other council members from across the United States. He also represented Mississippi at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Annual Meeting in

Nashville Feb. 24-28, 2018. Chris is pictured at the Annual Meeting with Kevin Doddridge, CEO/general manager and Michael Bellipanni, director of marketing and business development for Northcentral Electric. Northcentral Electric congratulates Chris on his accomplishments and wishes him the best in his future endeavors.

12 Today in Mississippi

April 2018

PRVEPA Contact Information: Columbia: 601-736-2666 Hattiesburg: 601-264-2458

Purvis: 601-794-8051 Wiggins: 601-928-7277

To pay bills or report outages:

855-2PRVEPA (855-277-8372) 1938 - 2018

Visit us on line at www.PRVEPA.com

Member owned. Locally operated. That’s the cooperative difference.

A message from your general manager

Committed to meeting member needs—80 years later Pearl River Valley Electric believes in course, but when you look around your neighneighbors helping neighbors—people and borhood, there’s a good chance our employees families who are members of our electric have played some small role in helping to make power association. That’s just another things better. way of saying we’re committed to the Because we’re your neighbors, our kids attend communities we serve, and it’s the central the same schools. Members of our staff are right focus for everything we do. there with you at parent-teacher organization PRVEPA has been in existence for 80 fundraisers. We see the same challenges and years now as a member-owned, not-fordepend on the same services you do. At any local Randy Wallace profit, locally managed business. We were gathering, you’ll see some of our line workers or General Manager formed as a rural electric cooperative in member services representatives listed on the 1938 because it was the best way to bring reliable, afford- roster of volunteers. able electricity to the areas we serve, and we have manWe work with our members to help solve problems aged to stay committed to our roots in spite of the vast and create opportunities in our communities. But none changes and extensive growth we’ve seen over the years. of this is new. Since the beginning, the people behind We keep your power flowing, which means providing your Association have regularly helped their communities one of the basic requirements for enjoying a modern find solutions to meeting needs. American quality of life. That’s our main mission, of Listening to members still helps us to see and learn

Applications for Community College Scholars program due August 10, 2018 Funded by members who are rounding up their monthly bills, these scholarships are intended to assist students who will attend a Mississippi community college as a freshman this fall.

Applications are available at PRV offices and online at www.PRVEPA.com. Completed applications must be postmarked or emailed by August 10. Scholarship recipients must be a PRVEPA member, spouse or child of a member participating in the Round Up program. Recipients must be full time (12 hours or more per semester) freshmen students enrolled in academic or career-technical programs. Scholarship funds will be credited to each student’s college account—no checks will be issued to individuals. Scholarships should be awarded by the end of September. Students must be enrolled in good standing at the time funds are released to the colleges. More information is available at our website, www.PRVEPA.com.

about new concerns. That’s how our Round Up for Education program got started. Based on the belief that access to education is vital to the future of students as well as their families, in just five year the Community College Scholarship Program has helped provide financial assistance to more than 1,000 students. We also are proud to support the Youth Leadership Program conducted by our statewide association. You can read more about the three local students who are participating this year on the opposite page. All of our efforts and programs are designed to help meet needs for our members and strengthen their communities. We care about the things you care about— large and small—because we live here too. Each and every one of us connected to the Pearl River Valley Electric is committed to being here and serving members each and every day. That’s always been the cooperative difference.

#ThankALineman THANK YOU FOR POWERING OUR LIVES.

NATIONAL LINEMAN APPRECIATION DAY APRIL 9, 2018

N Y

April 2018 Today in Mississippi From left: Thomas Hahn, Rep. Bill Pigott, Sen. Angela Hill, Rep. Ken Morgan and Katie Norris.

Students learn leadership lessons Pearl River Valley Electric sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop Feb. 21-23 in downtown Jackson. The annual event brought 80 students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already present leadership abilities. Jacob Brogan of Lamar Christian, Thomas Hahn of Columbia High and Katie Norris of West Marion High were selected from among the schools in Pearl River Valley Electric’s service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on workshop. The students participated in team-building activities and discussions, met with their state legislators and visited the state Capitol. They also heard from a variety of motivational speakers, as well as from Mississippi’s top leaders, Gov. Phil Bryant and Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves. Gov. Bryant Thomas Hahn continues his supColumbia High School port of the program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his remarks, he encouraged the participants to pursue their dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on

Jacob, Thomas and Katie having fun at the workshop participating in group activities, as well as a visit to the state Capitol.

to college or choose a technical trade, there are many advantagesto staying right here at home,” he said. Lt. Gov. Reeves encouraged the students to work hard for their dreams, giving them three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Training young leaders is fundamental to building strong communities and through this program, Pearl River Valley Electric hopes to prepare promising students for a bright future. “We are proud to have these three outstanding young people represent Pearl River Valley Electric,” said Randy Wallace, general manager. “Each year, the youth leadership program has encouraged students to expand their view of the world, and they take away lifelong lessons and develop lasting relationships. They are our future leaders, and Katie Norris we look forward to seeing West Marion High School them be successful in their schools and communities.” Jacob is the son of Tommy Brogan and Susan Haynes Johnson of Purvis, Thomas is the son of Lawrence and Angela Hahn of Columbia, and Katie is the daughter of Kevin and Patricia Norris of Foxworth. In June, the three will travel with the group to Washington, D.C. for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour. The seven-day trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

“Pioneers In America’s Rural Electrification”

Lifelong Bruce resident enjoys work life, family ties in hometown By Jennifer Johnson Sandra Clark has always called the Town of Bruce home, and she’s just fine with that. Clark, head cashier at Pontotoc Electric’s Bruce District Office, grew up in the Bruce school system where she was in the same graduating class as husband Wade. They married in 1971. Her first job after graduation was with Glenn Slacks, a garment plant, starting out as a laborer in the plant and later transitioning to the office where she did the payroll. Clark worked there until the plant closed in 1982. After spending some time working for a cable company, Clark found her way to Pontotoc Electric and took a job in the office in 1986. Clark said she has always enjoyed her job and fondly remembers the days when processes were entirely manual. “I can remember when the meter readers would bring in actual books where they wrote down the meter reading for each customer. I would punch in those numbers and send them to CSA (a utility billing company). I loved putting in the information.” Clark said computers eventually came to Pontotoc Electric, and she learned to adapt. “I had done some computer work at the cable company, so I was familiar with them. Before Pontotoc Electric got computers, we had a box with a handle on top that held all our receipts. When customers came in to pay their bills, we used the handle on top of the box to cut the bill into two sections. The larger piece was returned to the customer, and the smaller piece fell down into the box. We would balance at the end of the day using all the receipts that were inside the box. Nowadays the computer prints out a receipt for the customer.” She’s seen other changes in her workplace too. “Years ago, we knew where things were by referring to landmarks. We didn’t have road numbers. Now we can look at a computerized mapping system to view locations on our power system.” No matter what the job or the method for doing it, Clark said Pontotoc Electric’s employees have always been like a family to her. She recalled working with

employees who went on to retire or left the company over the years, such as Smokey Barefield and Frances Box. She’s also worked under former Bruce District Managers Scott Collins and Bobby Wells, and currently works for Ben Hogan, who took the reins of the Bruce District Office a few years ago. Speaking of family, Clark noted that a blood relative of hers holds a place in Pontotoc Electric history. “My mother’s brother Jake Ivy helped to build the line from Pontotoc to Bruce back in 1936.” Clark said the team at Pontotoc Electric has always had fun together while they worked, and there were always funny stories to share. She mentioned one in particular: “I wasn’t very good with plants because I just didn’t have time for them when my kids were young. Frances gave me a daylily plant and told me it would be fine in my yard because it was such a hearty plant. She said, ‘You can’t kill it.’ Well, Wade and the boys mowed over it so many times, the daylily didn’t come back.” Clark even had good memories of working during some tough times. “The ice storm in 1994 was hard. We had to try to assist customers with complaints, let folks know our progress on getting the lines back up, dispatch the crews, and so many other things. We would get to work at 6:00 a.m., and we went home every day after dark.” Clark said the town rallied around Pontotoc Electric during that time too. “People were so nice. They brought food to us. It was really special to know our community cared about us and knew we were trying our best to get things up and running again.” Clark said she is proud of her town, and she’s

Sandra Clark

“My mother’s brother Jake Ivy helped to build the line from Pontotoc to Bruce back in 1936.” delighted that her sons Casey (and wife Jody) and Kyle (and wife Claire) live in the area and are raising their own families here. Grandchildren Caden, Hadley, Beckett, Josey, and Joley are growing up in the same “stomping grounds” where Clark spent her childhood, and that means another generation of her family is making a life in a place so special to her.

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

Thank a lineworker on April 9

Keep the lights on America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 9, Pontotoc Electric Power Association will honor the dedicated men and women who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. We proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety. “Our lineworkers are the first responders of our electric distribution system, and they work around the clock on highvoltage lines,” said Chuck Howell, Pontotoc Electric general manager. “Conditions can be dangerous, but they power through to ensure reliable service for our members.” To honor these brave lineworkers Pontotoc Electric invites members to take a moment and thank a lineworker for the work they do. Use #ThankALineworker to show your support for the men and women who light our lives.

Heroes Wear Hard Hats

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12b I Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Pontotoc Electric sends local student to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Nicole Brewer represented Pontotoc Electric at the 2018 Youth Leadership Workshop. She participated in leadership activities and made new friends from across Mississippi.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, February 21, and continued through Friday, February 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Nicole Brewer was selected among the schools in Pontotoc Electric’s service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, ECM senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” This year, 80 students attended the workshop which was held at the Marriott in downtown Jackson. When the students arrived on

Wednesday, the workshop began with a “get acquainted” session and they were put into situations where they had to learn about others. They were then asked to participate in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives who serve in state government on behalf of the districts in which they reside. The breakfast was well attended with over 40 legislators in attendance. Before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves spoke to the students and encouraged them to work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his speech, he encouraged the students to pursue their

“We were proud to have Nicole represent Pontotoc Electric.” – Chuck Howell General Manager

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS

2018 II Today Mississippi II 10c April2018 Today inin Mississippi 12c February

Gov. Phil Bryant

Above from left: Rep. Mac Huddleston, Rep. Jim Beckett, Sen. Russell Jolly and Nicole. Right: Nicole poses during the Fun Time photobooth session.

dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. He discussed the positive economic factors happening in Mississippi and told them that they don’t have to go far from home to become successful. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, there are many advantages to staying right here at home,” he said. The students also heard from other motivational speakers and participated in a fun evening with local magician Dorian LaChance, who wowed them with his illusions. When the workshop came to a close, the students had made many new friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves

Building leaders is fundamental to building a strong community, and through this program, Pontotoc Electric hopes to prepare these young people for a bright future. The program has proven to encourage students to reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. Pontotoc Electric is a proud sponsor of the program. “We were proud to have Nicole represent Pontotoc Electric,” said Chuck Howell, general manager. “These students are our future leaders, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.”

Nicole is pictured with students representing electric cooperatives around Mississippi.

Bro. Terry Rhodes

Magician Dorian LaChance

12d

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Construction projects Our crew at Pontotoc Electric works hard to improve and upgrade our lines to give you efficient, reliable power. We take pride in powering the homes and businesses of our communities.

Apprentice Lineman Byron Steen (left) and Apprentice Lineman Brandon Jenkins clear right-of-way on Waters Road in Pontotoc County for a new single-phase tie line, which has been recently completed.

An existing overhead line in Ingomar will feed the underground transformers for a new subdivision near the Tanglefoot Trail.

Pontotoc Electric is installing underground service in a new subdivision in Ingomar. The green box is a padmount transformer, which will carry electricity into the house.

General Foreman Don Patterson checks a new three-phase electronic breaker on Andrews Road.

A new double circuit three-phase line, when completed in the future by the line crew at the Bruce District, will feed the Banner circuit out of the Southwest Bruce Substation.

Groundman/Equipment Operator Benny Moorman takes a quick break for a photo on South Liberty Street before starting back on the trim work for the right-of-way.

Journeyman Lineman Jackie Swords uses a bucket truck to remove vines on South Liberty Street in Pontotoc. Swords was part of a crew preparing for a new three-phase line to serve new houses along this street and also serve as a new tie-line for this area.

A WORD OF CAUTION WHEN MAKING ONLINE PAYMENTS TO PONTOTOC ELECTRIC Online payments should only be made through the official Pontotoc Electric website at www.pepa.com. Be aware that there are scams on the internet that will direct you to another site to make your

payment. These unauthorized sites may hold your payment for days or weeks before sending to Pontotoc Electric, or your payment may never reach Pontotoc Electric. To protect yourself against scam

websites, please make your payment online only at www.pepa.com. If you have any questions, please contact our offices at 662-489-3211 (Pontotoc) or 662-983-2727 (Bruce).

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

PONTOTOC SAYS...

Thank You! Pontotoc Electric participated in the annual Downtown Pontotoc Customer Appreciation Event. We didn’t let a little rain dampen our spirits. A great time was had by all!

Apprentice Lineman Byron Steen enjoyed visiting – and even snapping a few photos with our members during customer appreciation.

Tree planting tips for right-of-way areas By Jennifer Johnson Tree planting is an effective way to add beauty and color to your property. A properly placed tree can help create an attractive landscape. At Pontotoc Electric, we hope you’ll consider trees with their mature height and spread in mind when planting them in or near the utility right-of-way areas. Trees that grow into our electric lines can cause power outages for our members and can create serious safety issues. We manage tree and vegetation growth near our power lines to reduce power service interruptions and better serve you. Mississippi State University agent James Shannon reviews a collection of resources on tree planting. Here are some tips to keep in mind when planting trees near the 10 feet away from the front of a transformer for utility right-of-way: underground service and three feet away from the • Always choose and plant trees with their other sides. mature height and spread of the tree in mind. Mississippi State University Agriculture Extension • Call MS 811 before digging to check for Agent James Shannon said this is a common mis- underground utility lines. • Check out extension.msstate.edu for informatake in tree planting. “That’s the main thing we see. People don’t think about how big a tree will tion about tree planting, landscape architecture, and more. Shannon said that information is also get.” • Keep shrubs and structures such as fence panels available at the local extension office.

Fun Apprentice Lineman Tyler Parker (left) hands out ice cream bars during the recent customer appreciation event.

Watts Cooking? Lemon Cookies Karen Laprade, Pontotoc Electric Payroll Clerk 1 box lemon cake mix 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice 1 egg, slightly beaten 1/2 cup vegetable oil Mix ingredients and roll dough into balls about the size of a walnut. Place on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 F for 10 minutes for a soft, chewy cookie or a little longer for a crispy cookie. Glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar Fresh lemon juice Mix ingredients and spread on top of cooled cookies. Makes two dozen large cookies.

• Pontotoc Electric maintains a network of 1,708 miles of line. • Fruit-bearing trees planted on the south and southwest sides of your home will provide shade, which may help control energy costs. • Evergreens planted on the north and northwest sides can divert winds.

Hamburger Casserole Bobby Wells, Pontotoc Electric Retired Bruce District Mananger 1 1/2 lbs. hamburger meat 5 medium potatoes 1 large onion Salt and pepper 1 can cheese soup Shape meat into small patties. In separate bowls, slice potatoes and onion into thin slices. Starting with meat patties, alternately layer meat, onions, and potatoes in a casserole dish until all are used. Salt and pepper each layer to taste. Pour soup on top of final layer. Bake at 400 F for about 45 minutes or until potatoes are done.

12 I Today in Mississippi I April 2018 Pay Bill Report Outages

Brian Hughey, General Manager & CEO Lorri Freeman, APR, Manager of Public Relations Amanda Parker, Public Relations Specialist For more information, call 601-947-4211, 228-497-1313 or visit our website at singingriver.com. SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

CEO’s Message

Check Energy Use

Round Up Bill

April is Lineman Appreciation Month

As our alarm sounds, most of us wake with a good idea of what’s ahead of us for the day. While eating breakfast, we usually begin to consider our evening plans which may include a birthBrian Hughey day dinner with family, a child’s General Manager and CEO ballgame or simply a relaxing Singing River Electric night at home. A day in the life of a lineman is not so easy to predict. If fortunate enough to get a full night’s sleep, the lineman may hear of family plans for the evening while enjoying breakfast with family. He knows there’s a chance that he may not make these events due to an unexpected power outage. SRE linemen receive calls all hours of the day and night requiring them to sacrifice family time in order to respond and restore electric service to our members. They do

Ask about our Heat Pump Rebates

View Outage Map

this willingly and without hesitation. During this Lineman Appreciation Month, we want to say “THANK YOU” to our linemen who take pride in keeping our lights on. To the families of our linemen, we know you support our linemen and make similar time sacrifices, so we thank you as well. SRE linemen have built and continue to maintain over 7,400 miles of electric power lines throughout seven counties in southeast Mississippi, and two counties in southwest Alabama. While our linemen strive to provide excellent, around-theclock service, they must always keep safety as their main focus. Their lives and the safety of our members depend on it. If you would like to show your appreciation for our hard-working linemen, please take a moment and say thanks as you see them in the community, or visit Singing River Electric’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages and give them a shout out.

A new electric heat pump can help you stay comfortable year-round, while increasing your energy savings. Our heat pump rebates can add to the savings if replacing an electric or gas furnace. Visit www.singingriver.com for more information.

Energy Fairs scheduled for Greene and Jackson counties in April

Jeff Gray Member Services Representative gray@singingriver.com

Singing River Electric is hosting three Energy Fairs for our members in April, and I hope you will make time to join us. We’ll be sharing ways to use less energy around your home and suggesting do-it-yourself projects to make this happen. Here are the dates: • April 19 – Knobtown Community Center on Knobtown Road – 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. • April 24 – East Central Storm Shelter on Highway 613 – 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. • April 26 – Vancleave Storm Shelter on Ballpark Road – 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Come to an Energy Fair and talk to me and our other trained professionals about: • SRE’s SmartHub app. We’ll explain this helpful tool so you can monitor daily energy use, view/pay your bill, and report a power outage. • LED bulbs. View our lighting display to see how efficient LEDs are, and receive free bulbs to see for yourself. • Caulk and foam sealants. Learn how to stop air infiltration around windows and doors and other home improvement tips. For more information and tips on energy efficiency, visit www.singingriver.com, and join the conversation on social media including Facebook/Instagram (SingingRiverElectric) and Twitter (SRECooperative).

April 2018

Today in Mississippi 12a

Heroes wear hard hats April is National Lineman Appreciation Month. It is a day to recognize and say thank you to a hardworking, selfless group that go above and beyond every day to ensure Singing River Electric members have reliable electric service. You know the efforts they make to restore power at all hours day and night, but they also work hard throughout their normal work day to construct power lines, substations and Keep the lights on keep our electrical system running efficiently. “Our linemen are knowledgeable when it comes to skill and safety measures,” said Brian Hughey, Singing River Electric CEO/General Manager. “Line work is a challenging profession and our employees rise to the challenge. Their strength of character, love of family, community and country is seldom matched.” To honor these brave men Singing River Electric invites you please take a moment and say thanks as you see them in the community, or visit Singing River Electric’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages and give them a shout out.

Energy Fairs: April 19 – Knobtown Community Center 115 Knobtown Rd., State Line

April 24 – East Central Storm Shelter 18413 Highway 613, Hurley Special presentations on heat pumps and energy audits at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. • Free LED Bulbs • Energy Experts

• Prize Wheel • Demonstrations

Free to SRE Members * In partnership with Jackson County Civic Action. Participate in three efficiency demonstration stations, Receive FREE LED bulbs, Engage energy experts, Obtain advice on home efficiency projects.

April 26 – Vancleave Storm Shelter 5500 Ballpartk Rd., Vancleave

June 28 – SREC Lucedale Office, 11187 Old 63 S, Lucedale

Time for all events is 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

12b I Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Singing River Electric sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Top photo: Zikeya, Micah, Cari and Eli represented Singing River Electric for the 2018 Youth Leadership workshop. Above: Cari works with her team to complete a difficult task with a tennis ball.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought 80 students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, Feb. 21 and continued through Friday, Feb. 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Zikeya Byrd, Fruitdale High School; Micah Pickering, Perry Central High School; Eli Ramirez, Pascagoula High School and Cari Sims, Vancleave High School were selected to represent Singing River Electric’s at this event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi senior vice president and program coordinator. When the students arrived on Wednesday, the workshop began with a “get acquainted” session, and they were put into situations where they had to learn about each other. They participated in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them

to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives who serve in state government on behalf of the districts in which they reside. The breakfast was well-attended with over 40 legislators in attendance. Before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves spoke and encouraged the students to work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his speech, he encouraged the students to pursue their dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. He discussed the positive economic factors happening in Mississippi and told them that they don’t have to go far from home to become s uccessful. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, there are many advantages to staying right here at home,” said Bryant. The students also heard from other motivational

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Gov. Phil Bryant

Above: From left, Sen. Mike Seymour, Rep. Shane Barnett, Cari, Micah, Zikeya, Sen. Dennis DeBar, Eli, Sen. Michael Watson and Rep. John Read Right: Cari, Zikeya, Micah and Eli pose during the Fun Time photobooth session.

speakers and participated in a fun evening with local magician, Dorian LaChance who captivated them with his illusions. When the workshop came to a close, the students had made many new friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Singing River Electric is a long-time sponsor of the program. “Four outstanding students represented Singing River Electric,” said Brian Hughey, general manager and CEO. “They are amazing leaders and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.” In June, Zikeya, Micah, Eli and Cari will travel with the youth group to Washington, D.C. The seven-day trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves

Bro. Terry Rhodes

Left: Micah, Zikeya, Rep. Manly Barton, Eli and Cari visit on the House floor in the state Capitol. Above right: Eli and Micah having fun at the workshop.

Zikeya was Magician Dorian LaChance’s assistant during this hat trick.

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12dI Today in Mississippi

April 2018

You have a vote, a say, returned capital credits and more. We were organized 80 years ago by neighbors in southeast Mississippi and still represent those same communities today. That is the cooperative difference and what makes us unique.

You are a member of one of the fastest growing electric cooperatives in the state and nation. Singing River Electric is the 49th largest out of 809 electric distribution co-ops nationwide and is one of more than 750 Touchstone Energy cooperatives in the United States.

COUNTIES SERVED

7 MS AND 2 AL MEMBERS SERVED

>74,000 MEMBERS ON THE BOARD

9 NEIGHBORS 2017 RETIRED CAPITAL CREDITS

> $2.4 MILLION TOTAL RETIRED CAPITAL CREDITS

> $24.9 MILLION

April 22 is

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Our community partnership doesn’t end with our NHN Community Grants, Energy Assistance, scholarships and support of our local schools. Singing River Electric also supplies COOPERATIVE POWER on EARTH DAY and all year. Our employees go above and beyond to help clean up and make improvements to leave our beautiful community the way we found it – or even better.

COMMUNITY POWER:

SRE employees donate their time at the Mississippi Coastal Cleanup at Gautier City Park and Pier.

How you can go green this Earth Day: • Bring your spent household CFL bulbs to any SRE office for FREE recycling. • Choose paperless billing and download our SmartHub app to pay your bill and report power outages.

Join us at the Jackson County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, April 21, from 8 a.m. to noon at Singing River Mall, Highway 90, Gautier.

12 I Today in Mississippi I April 2018

Appreciating our linemen As the CEO of Southern Pine Electric, I am afforded the opportunity to witness hardworking people at their best, and I consider it a privilege to be able to let them know just how much their hard work is appreciated. On April 9, I will again have the chance to thank our outstanding team of people here at Southern Pine that I consider to be the “best in the business.” Lineman Appreciation Day is recognized throughout our industry as the date to acknowledge the accomplishments of the men and women who have built and maintain this nation’s electrical system. Jason S. Siegfried Linemen have been President/CEO around since electricity became an integral part of our lives, and without them life as we know it would not exist. They have one of the most dangerous jobs on Earth, and often work in the worst weather conditions imaginable. They are a strong-willed group that takes a tremendous amount of pride in the work they do, but most important, they are a brotherhood that cannot be broken. They work under the code of “Be Your Brothers’ Keeper,” which is a resounding statement of their individual commitment to each other. I could go on and on about the work they do and the sacrifices they make, but this space is better served by letting you see for yourself. On April 9, please make sure you take the time to #thankalineman and let them know how much we appreciate the work they do to Bring the Power to our lives each and every day.

April 2018 I Today in Mississippi

Answering the call

With spring just around the corner and summer fast approaching, the need for electricity remains constant, regardless of the season. The comforts and conveniences that we rely on for our homes or businesses do not just happen by flipping a switch. Instead, it takes a group of specialized hard-working individuals known as line workers to get the power there and keep it flowing. Using their respected skills, linemen are the ones responsible for building and maintaining this vast infrastructure that we depend on daily. Line work is considered one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in Jamie Baucum America and is Newton District Manager often overlooked or not even thought about until power outages occur. In most cases, outages occur due to strong storms that may have impacted an area, causing a disturbance in power. At this point, crews are dispatched in response to these outages, regardless of weather conditions. These crews are made up of linemen that share a unique culture throughout the power industry and are well known for the demands they encounter each day. Although weather can be challenging, obstacles such as fallen trees, swamps and adverse terrain make the task that much harder. Being a lineman requires special training to achieve the skills needed to ensure that safety is of upmost importance while performing his/her duties.

Magnolia Beef & Poultry Expo Southern Pine Electric is proud to be a partner of the annual Magnolia Beef & Poultry Expo in Raleigh. This year’s event is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 12 at the Smith County Agricultural Complex. The expo offers educational seminars on a variety of topics for beef and poultry producers. In addition, a trade show will feature tractors, feed distributors, ATVs, farm equipment and much more. Plus, door prizes will be given at each seminar. The agricultural complex is located at 131 Oil Field Road off Highway 35 South.

Communication is the key among fellow workers performing linework because it requires a strategic plan and leaves no room for error. Therefore, working together requires a special trust among one another, a brotherhood if you will. This distinctive bond shared among coworkers is like no other because one wrong move may be the last one made. Advances in technology and equipment have certainly made the job of a lineman safer, but despite these improvements, the hazards remain the same. When duty calls, linemen respond whatever the case may be, but being a lineman requires many sacrifices—missing holidays, family gatherings and children’s activities. When storms prevail and tear down lines that took years to build, linemen take it personally. Yet, in times of despair the bond among workers seems to get even closer and unleashes a stronger sense of urgency for repair. The closeness they share comes from the togetherness and commitment of being their brothers’ keeper and is a common bond shared among linemen across this great nation. Linemen may share a closeness like no other but can be found throughout the communities they serve. They can be found attending church, ballgames or community events but are always willing and ready to respond when the need arises. Even though the demand for electricity continues to grow, it takes essential personnel to deliver and maintain it. So, the next time you flip a switch or adjust that thermostat, take time to remember the linemen who sacrifice day in and day out to Bring the Power.

Join us for Touch A Truck The Junior League of Jackson will sponsor the Touch A Truck event April 13 and 14 at Trustmark Park in Pearl. This annual event provides children with opportunities to explore, climb and touch trucks, emergency response vehicles, heavy machinery and other equipment. Southern Pine Electric will have a bucket truck and a track machine. Get details at TouchATruckJackson.com. We hope to see you there!

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

P.O. Box 5 • 18671 Highway 61 • Lorman, MS 39096 601-437-3611 or toll-free 1-800-287-8564 • Fax: 601-437-8736

Adams • Amite • Claiborne • Copiah • Franklin Hinds • Jefferson • Lincoln • Wilkinson Southwest Electric is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

www.southwestelectric.coop

Southwest Electric

SWElectricCoop

sw_electric_coop

Heroes Wear Hard Hats

America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 9, 2018, Southwest Electric will honor the dedicated employees who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. We proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the services they perform around the clock in

dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety. “Our lineworkers are the first responders of our electric distribution system, and they work around the clock on high-voltage lines,” said Kevin Bonds, Southwest Electric CEO/General Manager. “Conditions can be dangerous, but they power through to ensure

reliable service for our Members.” Fifty-eight men maintain 4,202 miles of line in Southwest Electrics’s service territory. To honor these brave employees, Southwest Electric invites Members to take a moment and thank a lineworker for the jobs they do. Use #HeroesWearHardHats to show your support for the people who light our lives.

Southwest to conduct pole inspections Southwest Electric uses Osmose Utility Services to inspect our poles in different sections of our service area on a rotating basis. If you live in the area indicated on the map, you may see Osmose trucks and employees digging around and treating our utility poles. The Osmose crews will be working in our service area from April through June.

April 2018 Today in Mississippi

Students learn leadership lessons Southwest Electric sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop Above from left: Noah Lambert, Mallory Hinson, Sen. Sally Doty, Damira McGruder and Nicholas Lambert. Below: Mallory and Damira explain the traits of a good leader.

Above left to right: Sen. Bob Dearing, Mallory, Damira, Sen. Tammy Witherspoon, Noah, Nicholas and Sen. Albert Butler.

Mallory, Nicholas, Noah and Damira having fun at the workshop participating in group activities, as well as a visit to the state Capitol.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop Feb. 21-23 in downtown Jackson. The annual event brought 80 students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already present leadership abilities. Mallory Hinson, Nicholas Lambert, Noah Lambert and Damira McGruder were selected from among the schools in Southwest Electric’s service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on workshop. The students participated in team-building activities and discussions, met with their state legislators and visited the state Capitol. They also heard from a variety of motivational Mallory Hinson Cathedral High School speakers, as well as from Mississippi’s top Nicholas Lambert leaders, Gov. Phil Wisdom From His Word Bryant and Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves. Gov. Bryant continues his support of the program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his remarks, he encouraged the participants to pursue their dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leader-

ship roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, there are many advantages to staying right here at home,” he said. Lt. Gov. Reeves encouraged the students to work hard for their dreams, giving them three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Training young leaders is fundamental to building strong communities, and through this program, Southwest Electric hopes to prepare promising students for a bright future. “We are proud to have four outstanding students represent our cooperative,” said Kevin Bonds, CEO. “This program is an investment in our community. We look forward to seeing Damira McGruder Cathedral High School what the future holds for these students.” Noah Lambert In June, the four will Wisdom From His Word travel with the group to Washington, D.C. for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour. The seven-day trip will include visits to all of the popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Mallory, Damira, Rep. Sam Mims, Noah and Nicholas.

12 I Today in Mississippi I April 2018

‘It’s always a

Twin County Electric Power Association observes Lineworker Appreciation Day each year with a tribute to the linemen based at one of the cooperative’s four offices. This year, we present the crew working from the Greenville branch office.

challenging job’

By Debbie Stringer Of the thousands of days they’ve worked together, the linemen at Twin County’s Greenville branch say no two are alike. “It’s always something different, not just every day but every hour or so it changes,” said lineman Bud Etheridge. Etheridge was referring to the 24/7 challenges all Twin County lineworkers face in keeping some 2,300 miles of power lines humming with electricity. Severe storms frequently cause power outages, in part by pushing trees and limbs into the lines. But something as small as a tree frog or snake can knock out power by crawling onto a transformer. Linemen have even found catfish tangled in line equipment near farm Marcus Ross, left, a former lineman who now manages Twin County’s Greenville branch office, says he misses line work but has the utmost confidence in his crew members. ponds. “It’s always a challenging job because They are, from left, lineman Mike Manor, serviceman Daniel Humphrey and lineman Bud Etheridge. Lineman Roger Valdez is also a member of the Greenville crew. This year’s Lineworker Appreciation Day is April 9. you never know what you’re going to come up against when you go into “As time went on, I felt like I wanted to be a lineRoss began his career in 1983 as an assistant in the [troubleshooting] situations. That made it exciting for Hollandale headquarters’ warehouse. His duties includ- man. The job seemed interesting so I wanted to join me,” said Marcus Ross, a former lineman who now the team too,” he said. ed issuing power line construction materials to crews manages the Twin County’s Greenville branch office. Learning skills and safety procedures on the job, on their way to work sites.

April 2018

Ross made good on his dream to become a lineman and later a crew leader. In 2009 Twin County named him manager of the Greenville branch office. “I do miss [line work] and I try to get out as much as I can, but I can’t keep up with these guys no more,” Ross said, laughing. Four lineworkers are based at the cooperative’s Greenville branch: linemen Mike Manor, Bud Etheridge and Roger Valdez, and serviceman Daniel Humphrey. Manor worked in the catfish business before Twin County hired him. Like Ross, he learned line work on the job. “You know, it is scary when you first start climbing poles, but within the first year I knew this was what I wanted to do. I’ve always loved working with my hands,” Manor said. Humphrey, a Navy veteran, has been a Twin County employee since 1996. He, too, learned how to be a lineman by listening to and watching fellow crew members; lineman training programs were not widely available then as now. “They just handed you a set of hooks and said, ‘Climb up there. If you don’t, you go home,’” Humphrey quipped. Etheridge, hired in 2001, was one of the first Twin County employees to attend the 16-week apprentice lineman training program at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, in Lucedale. “I had no idea about line work until I applied for the

job,” he said. “But once I got there, learning and climbing, I enjoyed it. I loved being outside every day.” Lineman training is now offered at other community colleges to equip aspiring linemen with the skills, knowledge and safety consciousness they will use every day on the job. Etheridge said he would recommend line work as a career for young people to consider. “If you’re careful,

“I’d like our members to understand that we’re really dedicated to giving them good service. We want to give them the best service we can.” – Mike Manor

the job’s not hard. But if you’re always in a hurry, it’s not for you because you could get hurt.” “It’s not an 8 to 5 job,” Humphrey said. “You have to be ready to go out at any time. You get out of the shower, get in bed, head hits the pillow and then the phone rings.” Manor said, “I’d recommend it to anybody who has

Today in Mississippi

the desire and really wants to serve and work with people.” (Manor’s own two sons are electric linemen.) For a lineman, nothing is more important than returning home safe after a day (or night) spent working on the lines. Crew members watch each other’s back and are quick to remind a co-worker of safety considerations. “They’ll wear you out reminding you,” Etheridge said. “But that’s good.” Working on energized lines, climbing poles in all kinds of weather and being called out to restore power at any time of day or night—all pose dangerous challenges to linemen. Equally scary is the inattentive driver who speeds past a Twin County work zone, ignoring the crew working alongside the road. Mississippi state law requires drivers to move over a lane, or at least slow down, when approaching emergency or utility vehicles parked on roadsides with lights flashing. Despite the dangers, these Twin County linemen say they set out every day to do the best work they can. “I’d like our members to understand that we’re really dedicated to giving them good service. We want to give them the best service we can,” Manor said. “It can be fun and it can be miserable. But it’s more fun than miserable,” Etheridge said, smiling. Of his four linemen, Ross said, “I think I’ve got the best crew. They’re dependable, everybody has a good attitude and we work together good—and we’re just like family. I wouldn’t trade this for anything.”

Notice of Amendment to By-Laws On March 20, 2018, the Board of Directors of Twin County Electric Power Association amended its By-Laws to include, among other things, a provision requiring alternative dispute resolution. Members have 60 days to option out of this provision. A copy of Twin County’s By-Laws is available at any of Twin County’s offices.

For after-hours outages, call

866-897-7250

Today in Mississippi

April 2018

Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association Manager of Member Services: Dennis McFee For Today in Mississippi information, call 662-746-4251, or email dmcfee@yazoovalley.com

Southerners are quite aware that the blues originated in the Mississippi Delta, inspiring rock-and-

Yazoo City, Mississippi

roll greats through the 1900s. Mississippi is known for two “Kings” in the entertainment industry: Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll,” and B.B. King, the “King of the Blues.” The musicians, actors and actresses, writers, inventors and athletes of Mississippi have shaped much of the culture we see through the United States. What you may not know is that Yazoo County and Holmes County have quite a history and have produced legends of its own. Over the next few issues, Yazoo Valley will feature a few of the markers on the Blues Trail and tell their story. Look for these stories in upcoming issues of Today in Mississippi.

Bentonia, Mississippi

Arnold “Gatemouth” Moore was born in 1913 in Kansas, a descendant of emancipated slaves. He was a popular blues singer, gospel singer, radio announcer and pastor. Moore died in Yazoo City in 2004. His marker is located in Yazoo City near Ubon’s Restaurant.

Look for more information on The Blue Front Cafe and other blues legends in the next few issues. Photos by Dawn Davis

April 2018

Today in Mississippi

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Thank a lineworker on April 9 America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 9, 2018, Yazoo Valley Electric will honor the dedicated men and women who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. We proudly recognize all electric lineworkers for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and protect the

#ThankALineworker

public’s safety. “Our lineworkers are the first responders of our electric distribution system, and they work around the clock on high-voltage lines,” said Ron White, Yazoo Valley Electric general manager. “Conditions can be dangerous, but they power through to ensure reliable service for our members.” To honor these brave lineworkers Yazoo Valley Electric invites members to take a moment and thank a lineworker for the work they do. Use #ThankALineworker to show your support for the men and women who light our lives.

Yazoo Valley crew visits Batson Children’s Hospital Dennis McFee, manager of member services, and Wade O’Briant, line crew foreman, along with linemen Reggie Green, Jonathon Demita and William Johnson visited Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children on March 8. Batson Children’s Hospital is the only medical facility in Mississippi with pediatricians and specialists dedicated to the care and treatment of children. The purpose of the visit was to brighten the kids’ day and give the educational safety presentation normally given in schools. “We give this presentation in the local schools, and we realize that some of the patients aren’t able to go to school for an extended period of time,” said McFee. “We wanted to give them the opportunity to learn about electrical safety and meet our linemen. This is always a fun learning opportunity for young people.” The presentation was organized by Batson Hospital Public Affairs Representative Annie Oeth and Child Life Coordinator Laura Heiden. “Having visits that are educational helps the healing process and gives our patients an opportunity to learn,” said Laurie Heiden, hospital school and child life coordinator at Batson Children’s Hospital, a part of Children’s of Mississippi. “We’d like to thank Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association’s team members for their lessons in how electricity works and tips for safety. Seeing the linemen’s gear and getting to ask them questions about their work gave the children an interesting and fun afternoon.”

Top photo, from left: William Johnson, Jonathon Demita, Layla Jones, Wade O’Briant and Reggie Green. Above, from left: Jonathon Demita, Batson Children’s Hospital teacher Allyn Anderson, Child Life Specialist Ashley Prendez, Child Life Assistant Michelle Chambers, Public Affairs Representative Annie Oeth. Back row: Reggie Green, Child Life Recreational Therapist Bruce Beal, William Johnson, Dennis McFee and Wade O’Briant.

Batson Children’s Hospital patient Layla Jones of Forest smiles in the Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association photo booth.

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April 2018

Yazoo Valley Electric sends local students to Youth Leadership Workshop

Leading the Way into the

FUTURE through Mississippi’s brightest students

Top photo: Ron Stewart, senior vice president of Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi, presents Cameron with the Friendship Award during the closing ceremonies. This award was voted on by his peers at the workshop. Above: Cameron and Colbie visit with Sen. Barbara Blackmon at the Capitol building.

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi recently held the 32nd Youth Leadership Workshop in downtown Jackson. This annual youth event brought students from across Mississippi to the state capital to meet their legislators and to participate in activities designed to enhance their already-present leadership abilities. The workshop began on Wednesday, Feb. 21, and continued through Friday, Feb. 23. Electric cooperatives from all areas of Mississippi participate in the program each year. Colbie Merritt and Cameron Shaffer were selected among the schools in Yazoo Valley Electric’s service area to represent the electric cooperative during this hands-on event. “The program was developed to help young leaders determine their strengths and weaknesses while showing them ways to become better leaders. We then encourage them to return home and put their skills to use,” said Ron Stewart, senior vice president and program coordinator. “We challenge these young people to go out and make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifying true leadership.” This year, 80 students attended the workshop, which was held at the Marriott in downtown Jackson. When the students arrived on Wednesday, the workshop began with a “get

acquainted” session and they were put into situations where they had to learn about others. They were then asked to participate in a Town Hall meeting, which encouraged them to discuss issues they are facing as young people. Together with their groups, they developed possible solutions to these issues, and were encouraged by group leaders to take the skills they learned back to their schools where they could make a real difference in the lives of their peers. On Thursday morning, the students enjoyed breakfast with senators and representatives who serve in state government on behalf of the districts in which they reside. The breakfast was well-attended with over 40 legislators in attendance. Before visiting the Mississippi State Capitol, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves spoke to the students and encouraged them to work hard for their dreams. He gave the students three guidelines for success: dream big, make a plan and work hard. “If you do these three things, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he said. Gov. Phil Bryant continues to support this program by speaking to the students each year during a luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn. During his speech, he encouraged the students to pursue their

“We are proud to have these two outstanding students represent Yazoo Valley Electric.” – Ron White General Manager

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS April 2018

Today in Mississippi

Gov. Phil Bryant

Above, from left: Colbie Merritt, Sen. Buck Clarke and Cameron Shaffer. Right: Colbie and Cameron pose during the Fun Time photo booth session.

dreams and hold on to their Mississippi values. He discussed the positive economic factors happening in Mississippi and told them that they don’t have to go far from home to become successful. “There are so many opportunities for you in Mississippi to take on leadership roles here. Whether you go on to college or choose a technical trade, there are many advantages to staying right here at home,” he said. The students also heard from other motivational speakers and participated in a fun evening with local magician Dorian LaChance, who wowed them with his illusions. When the workshop came to a close, the students had made many new friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Building leaders is fundamental to building a strong community and through this program, Yazoo Valley

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves

Electric hopes to prepare these young people for a bright future. The program has proven to encourage students to reach their goals year after year, and the students take away lifelong relationships. Yazoo Valley Electric is a proud sponsor of the program. “We are proud to have these two outstanding students represent Yazoo Valley Electric,” said Ron White, general manager. “They are our future leaders, and we look forward to seeing all that they accomplish.” In June, Colbie and Cameron will travel with the youth group to Washington, D.C. The sevenday trip will include visits to popular monuments and memorials, as well as meetings with Mississippi’s congressional delegation during a visit to Capitol Hill.

Sen. Briggs Hopson, Colbie Merritt, Cameron Shaffer and Dennis McFee, manager of member services for Yazoo Valley, visit at the Mississippi State Capitol building.

Bro. Terry Rhodes

Colbie Merritt and Cameron Shaffer

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Today in Mississippi I April 2018

A Great New Feature To Help You Save!

You can now view your daily electricity use on our website. By monitoring your use throughout your billing cycle, you compare your daily lifestyle to your daily kilowatt-hour use. With this new feature you can view average, high and low tempatures for a specific date. You can even view the heating and cooling degrees. There is also a feature that allows you to add notes to individual days to help you keep track of your activities.

TO ACCESS THIS FEATURE: Visit www.yazoovalley.com Click on Pay Online Log in using your secure customer login Click Usage History under the My Usage tab. We continuously look for new and improved ways to help our members save time and money. If you have any questions about this new feature, please call us at 662-746-4251.

April 2018

Parade held for native

Super Bowl LII Champion On Saturday, March 24, Fletcher Cox returned to Yazoo City to be honored in his hometown with a parade along Grand Avenue. Residents of Yazoo City were filled with pride when the Philadelphia Eagles won Super Bowl LII in a 41-33 win against the New England Patriots on Feb. 4. Fletcher Cox played football for Yazoo City High School and Mississippi State University, and was drafted as a defensive tackle for the Eagles in 2012.

Top photo: Fletcher Cox rides a float and shows off his Eagles pride to the residents of Yazoo City. Above left: The Jim Hill Marching Band performs in the Fletcher Cox Hometown Parade. Left: The Manchester Academy football team rides a float in support of Super Bowl Champ Fletcher Cox. All photos courtesy of Dawn Rosenberg Davis.

Today in Mississippi

Yazoo Valley makes changes to member rates For more than 80 years Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association has been “Strong on Service” by putting the needs of its members first in every action and decision. As a not-for profit electric cooperative we serve our members with a small but effective workforce. We take advantage of new technologies to gain efficiency in our daily work processes. We competitively bid contracts for materials and services. We work hard to keep costs to the Association at the minimum. In order to continue providing responsive, effective service to our members and meet the financial obligations of the cooperative, part of our job is to ensure that each member pays his or her fair share of the cost of the service provided by the Association. Recently, Yazoo Valley contracted the independent engineering firm Fisher & Arnold to conduct a cost-of-service and rate study for the Association. The study revealed that certain rate adjustments were necessary for Yazoo Valley to maintain financial stability, both now and in the future. Based on the conclusions and recommendations from the study, the Yazoo Valley Board of Directors authorized certain increases to our electric rates. These rate increases are necessary due to the rising costs of labor, materials and supplies, special equipment and the cost of purchased power. Economic growth in the rural areas we serve has remained static for many years. Our meter density, measured in meters per mile of line, is 4.5 meters per mile, the lowest in Mississippi. Yazoo Valley also has many seasonal and agricultural loads that require high electrical capacity but have very low annual use. Low meter density and the seasonal nature of a large number of our electrical loads create a high cost of service. In addition, Yazoo Valley has incurred severe damage to our electrical network due to extreme weather events in recent years. The 2010 F-4 tornado, the 2011 Mississippi River flood, the 2016 tornado outbreak and many more smaller events have been very costly to the Association. Despite the magnitude of these events, we’ve been there to rebuild lines and restore power to the storm-damaged areas. The board of directors and employees of Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association take pride in serving our membership by providing a fast and effective response during times of disaster, as well as great day-to-day service to the rural communities we call home. The new rate adjustments will take effect with billings after April 1, 2018. You can view the rate changes on our website at www.yazoovalley.com along with answers to frequently asked questions.