Today in Mississippi April 2021 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

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

107 EAST MAIN STREET • CARTHAGE, MS 39051

Board of Directors election results Due to COVID-19, we were unable to hold our annual membership meeting in March. During that meeting we would have held an election for our board of directors. In order to provide each Central Electric member an opportunity to vote in a director election, we offered a vote by mail process. There were 2,787 ballots received by mail. In accordance with the laws of Mississippi and the bylaws of the association, members elected the following three directors for a three year term: Hanna Watson, Neshoba County; David Boyd, Rankin County; Pettey Leach, Scott County. Central Electric members who returned their ballots were eligible to win one of the following prizes: slow cooker, coffee

Download Central Electric’s mobile app today! • Monitor your energy use • Make fast, secure payments • Receive important alerts and reminders

Scan with your smartphone to get started.

Iphone IOS

Google Play 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

maker, clock/radio, electric skillet, electric can opener, toaster, popcorn machine, ice cream machine, coffee percolator or iron. There were 10 winners drawn from each of our four districts: Carthage, Philadelphia, Sebastopol and Rankin County. The board, management and staff of Central Electric appreciate the patience and understanding of our membership during these challenging times and remind each of you to be safe.

TVA delivers service reliability With the severity of February’s icy weather behind us and a likely hot summer ahead, let’s take time to think about the reliability of your cooperative’s power system and the importance of our partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). April is a time of year that doesn’t stress the electric system because temperatures are more moderate, and while storms can hit, the damage is more localized than what can happen with a major ice event. As you will remember, February brought the kind of weather that can really test an electric system. Central Electric Power Association (CEPA) had significant ice and extremely low temperatures that persisted for nearly a week. People ask about what happened to Texas in February and could it happen here. Just as Mississippi did, Texas experienced downed lines because of trees and ice, but the bigger issue was power generation and transmission. CEPA is fortunate to have our power generated by TVA, which also owns and operates the transmission network — which includes the large, metal tower lines that traverse our area (they are the interstate highways of the electric system). TVA does a tremendous job designing and building a system that delivers world-class reliability and one that’s ready for the worst day Mother Nature can throw at us. If you don’t plan ahead, you simply can’t be ready when it happens. And unlike the Texas grid, TVA’s grid is interconnected, which means if its generation facilities run into significant problems (a great rarity), TVA can access power supply from other parts of the country. TVA delivers service reliability you can count on. While no electric provider can promise 100% reliability, it’s what we constantly strive toward.

If you were asked to associate an image or a person with Central Electric Power Association, I bet you would picture a lineman. Some of the most visible employees of the co-op, linemen work tirelessly to ensure our community receives uninterrupted power 24/7. “Lineman” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, linemen must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heaving equipment to get the job done.

skilled professionals working behind the scenes. Engineers provide ongoing expertise and guidance on the operations side of the co-op. Member service representatives are always standing by to take your calls and questions. Our support staff are behind the scenes working in safety regulations, economic development, legislative, communications and administrative roles. And these are just a few of the folks who work together to ensure we can deliver the service and reliability you expect and deserve. Without them, our linemen wouldn’t be able to “bring the light” to our community. Our dedicated and beloved linemen are proud to represent Central Electric, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 12, and any time you see a lineman, we hope you’ll join us in thanking them for their exceptional service. We also hope you’ll remember that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at the co-op whose commitment to service runs just as deep.

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

#thankalineman Being a lineman is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work around the clock to keep the lights on. While linemen may be the most visible employees at Central Electric, it’s important to note that there is a team of highly

Some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140 degrees, but most households usually only require them to be set at 120 degrees. Consider lowering your water heater’s temperature to save energy and slow mineral buildup in the heater and pipes. Source: www.energy.gov APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

2021 WINTER STORMS The February 2021 Winter Storms will be remembered for several years. Central Electric Power Association experienced its first outages from the frozen precipitation in the early morning hours of Monday, February 15. Linemen were sent into the field to begin working those outages. The initial outages were centralized in Scott and Neshoba counties. Working conditions deteriorated as the ice continued to cover everything, making roads hard to travel, therefore making it difficult to respond to outages quickly. The linemen continued to restore power to as many members as they safely could. Due to the severe weather conditions, outage numbers fluctuated on Monday and Tuesday. On Wednesday, February 17, another round of ice took down much of the power that had been restored. The second storm caused extensive damage to 57% of Central Electric’s system. Damage was widespread with over 133 broken poles, 58 transformers, miles of wire and trees down. By 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 25, 2021, power was restored to all members that could receive power. We understand the hardship of being without power for an extended length of time and want to sincerely thank our membership for their tremendous support and patience. Manager Brian Long would like to thank the Central Electric employees along with the 100+ workers who worked tirelessly in the power restoration efforts.

Many trees could not bear the weight of ice and fell on power lines.

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The damage to our electrical system was extensive due to the ice.

Icy roads made travel and restoration difﬁcult during the ice storms.

Assistance arrived from Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas to aid in power restoration. Central Electric would like to thank the following organizations for their assistance in rebuilding our power system: • CEPA retirees • Arkansas Valley Electric • Black Warrior Electric Membership Cooperation • Central Alabama Electric Cooperative

• • • • • • • • • •

Delta Electric Power Association Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas First Electric Cooperative HJM Forest Resource Management Services, LLC North East Electric Power Association Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association Petit Jean Electric Cooperative Philadelphia Utilities Southwest Arkansas Electric Tennessee Valley Authority

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P.O. BOX 188 • 340 HOPSON STREET • LYON, MS 38645 662-624-8321 • FAX 662-624-8327 • www.coahomaepa.com • cepa@coahomaepa.com

While linemen may be the most visible employees at If you were asked to associate an image or a person with Coahoma Electric, it’s important to note that there is a team Coahoma Electric Power Association, we bet you would of highly skilled professionals working behind the scenes. picture a lineman. Some of the most visible employees of Engineers provide ongoing expertise the co-op, linemen work tirelessly to and guidance on the operations side of ensure our community receives uninterthe co-op. Member service represenrupted power 24/7. tatives are always standing by to take “Lineman” is listed as one of the top your calls and questions. Our support 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. staff are behind the scenes working in This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power safety regulations, economic development, legislative, communications and lines. Regardless of the time of day, havadministrative roles. And these are just ing to brave stormy weather and other a few of the folks who work together challenging conditions, linemen must to ensure we can deliver the service climb 40 feet in the air, often and reliability you expect and deserve. carrying heaving equipment to get Without them, our linemen wouldn’t the job done. be able to “bring the light” to our Being a lineman is not a glamorous community. or easy profession. It takes years of Our dedicated and beloved linemen specialized training, ongoing educaare proud to represent Coahoma Election, dedication, and equally important, tric, and they deserve all the appreciaa sense of service and commitment. tion and accolades that come their way How else can you explain the willingon Lineman Appreciation Day. ness to leave the comfort of your home On April 12, and any time you see to tackle a challenging job in difficult a lineman, we hope you’ll join us in conditions, when most are sheltering Coahoma Electric linemen worked through the bitter cold thanking them for their exceptional comfortably at home? This dedication while repairing lines in February 2021. service. We also hope you’ll remember and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women the scenes at the co-op whose commitment to service runs just who work around the clock to keep the lights on. as deep.

#thankalineman

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Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

Some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140 degrees, but most households usually only require them to be set at 120 degrees.

THANK A LINEMAN This month, we’re recognizing linemen for the amazing job they do to make sure we have electricity! Think about all the ways you use electricity every day. Do you use a phone, watch TV, play video games or turn on lights? You’re able to do all of these things because of linemen. Below is space to write a short thank you note to your local linemen. Write your note, then ask an adult to help you send it back to us so we can share it with our crews.

Consider lowering your water heater’s temperature to save energy and slow mineral buildup in the heater and pipes.

Source: www.energy.gov

OUR LINEMEN

Build. Maintain. Repair. Repeat. That’s how linemen power our lives.

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FOR TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI INFORMATION, CALL 877-7MY-CEPA (1-877-769-2372) WWW.COASTEPA.COM

Where our members have the power

If you were asked to associate an image or a person with Coast Electric, I bet you would picture a lineman. Some of the most visible employees of the co-op, linemen work tirelessly to ensure our community receives uninterrupted power 24/7. “Lineworker” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. Being a lineworker is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication and a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are comfortable at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is what sets our employees apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate those who work around the clock to keep the lights on. While linemen may be the most visible employees at Coast Electric, there is a team of highly skilled professionals working behind the scenes. Engineers provide ongoing expertise and guidance on the operations side of the co-op. Member service representatives are always standing by to take your calls and questions. Our information technology experts are continuously

Communicators: April Lollar & Merilee Sands

monitoring our system to help safeguard sensitive data. And these are just a few of the folks who work together to ensure we can deliver the service and reliability you expect and deserve. Without our entire team, we wouldn’t be able to power our communities. Our dedicated and beloved linemen are proud to represent Coast Electric, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 12, and any time you see a lineworker, I hope you’ll join me in thanking them for their exceptional service. I also hope you’ll remember that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at the co-op whose commitment to service runs just as deep.

Build. Maintain. Repair. Repeat. That’s how lineworkers power our lives. #thankalineman 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

by Ron Barnes President and CEO

Summer Power Cost Decrease Twice each year, Coast Electric makes a power cost adjustment. Power cost adjustments occur because of changes in the cost of generating power. Costs paid to Coast Electric’s power supplier, Cooperative Energy, are typically higher in the winter and lower in the summer. Coast Electric can pass along these decreased costs to members. Over a period of 12 months, your power costs remain the same. However, members will see a decrease in power costs this summer. Mississippi typically has milder winters, and long, hot summers, so Coast Electric members will have more opportunities for comfort in the months when it’s needed most. Temperatures greatly impact member-consumers’ bills since heating and cooling use the most energy. That means you will see higher bills in extreme hot or cold weather. We recommend managing your energy use every season, even with a power cost decrease. For tips on how you can manage your use and save, visit www.coastepa.com.

Reduce Your Use is Back! Our popular Reduce Your Use energy savings contest is back! Coast Electric wants you to reduce your energy use and see savings on your monthly energy costs. Each month, you will have an opportunity to register to win a prize that will help you reduce the energy consumption in your home. Heating water in your home is a large part of your monthly energy use. To help you manage your use and save, we are giving away a water heater timer. All you have to do is visit www.coastepa.com and fill out our entry form. It only takes a few seconds, and you could win a prize that helps you save! Winners will be announced in future issues of Today in Mississippi and on our social media channels.

The summer power cost adjustment will begin April 1.

Time of Use Time Change If you take advantage of our Time of Use (TOU) rate plan, remember that the summer period begins April 1. If you have water heater timers, pool pump timers or programmable thermostats, make sure to change the settings to reflect the summer peak hours of 3-6 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you have not taken advantage of our TOU rate plan, what are you waiting for? The plan comes with a six-month guarantee, so if you don’t save, you haven’t lost a penny. That’s a great deal!

Tips for the TOU time change: • Reset your programmable thermostats • Reset your water heater timer • If you are using fans instead of your AC, remember that fans cool you, but they don’t change the temperature of the room. Make sure you turn them off when you leave the room. • Reset pool pump timers

• Get outside and enjoy the warmer weather from 3-6 p.m.! • Consider cooking outdoors, too! • Avoid doing laundry and washing dishes in peak times. Most machines have delay options so you can get a load ready and set it to wash during off-peak times.

Each April, we celebrate Earth Day all month. Our lobbies will be decorated and educational and Earth-friendly giveaways will be available for adults and kids! Earth Day is a great reminder to care for the Earth we’ve been given, but it’s not something we can only observe one day a year. We can celebrate Earth Day every day in big and small ways to ensure the places we love remain beautiful for the next generation. Here’s what Coast Electric does to celebrate Earth Day every day. • We work with our generation and transmission cooperative, Cooperative Energy, to have a balanced power generation mix, including solar and hydro electric generation. • We offer programs that encourage members to reduce their energy use. • Our Comfort Advantage and Comfort Advantage Plus Home programs encourage energy efficient building practices that help members manage their energy use. • The Time of Use rate encourages members to use less energy during peak hours, helping curb the need for more power generation. • We have energy efficiency experts on staff to help our residential and commercial members determine how they can best manage their energy use. • We offer online tools like our home energy calculators to help members understand how they can reduce their energy use. • Our Kiln headquarters building now has charging stations for electric vehicles. We volunteer! • We have three stretches of highway with MDOT’s Adopt-A-Highway program. Employees regularly meet to clean the space. • We participate in cleanups of our area’s waterways and parks. • We, along with our community partners, sponsor Household Hazardous Waste Day in Hancock County to allow residents to safely dispose of hazardous materials. What can you do to celebrate Earth Day every day? • Sign up for Time of Use. This rate allows you to save just by avoiding peak hours. When you use less energy, we produce less and everyone saves. Visit www.coastepa.com for information. Be energy efficient in your home. • LED bulbs help you use less energy and save on lighting costs. • Use a programmable thermostat so you can set it for maximum savings. Don’t have a programmable thermostat? Set your cool setting on 78 and your heat setting on 68 for savings. Heating and cooling make up nearly half of your energy use each month, so anything you can do to save on these costs will reduce your use and your costs. • Seal cracks that allow air in your home. • Install a water heater timer. • Use window coverings. • Use the resources available to you through Coast Electric and www.coastepa.com. We have web tools and experts on staff who can help you determine the ways you can manage your energy use and save. • Enter our Reduce Your Use contest each month on www.coastepa.com!

Coast Electric employees and their families clean up McLeod Park and the Jourdan River in Hancock County.

Thousands of old tires are recycled each year at Household Hazardous Waste Day.

Coast Electric employees have Adopt-A-Highway sections of land in Hancock, Harrison and Pearl River counties. Employees regularly volunteer to clean these corridors.

runoff pollution before it enters by Eric L. Sparks the water. ost folks dream of As an alternative to shoreowning a piece of shoreline hardening, living shoreline line property on a river, projects reduce or reverse a lake or the Gulf Coast. There erosion and are good for the is something about looking out environment. Additionally, these over the water that is hard to projects are typically cheaper describe. and longer lasting than hardAdditionally, recreational ened shorelines. The types and opportunities like fishing aren’t Armored shorelines typically lead to a reduction of buffer vegetation that is shapes of living shoreline projbad either. critical for intercepting and filtering out runoff pollution before it enters the water and limiting erosion. (File photo by MSU Extension Service) ects vary according to the speIf you’re fortunate enough to cific location and desires of the own a piece of shoreline propproperty owner, but all of them erty, the last thing you want to If you are interested in learning more about involve conserving or restoring happen is for it to erode. shoreline management, feel free to contact native shoreline vegetation. This fear of losing shoreline the director of coastal and marine Extension This vegetation plays a combined with an increase of critical role in maintaining the shoreline stressors, such as powwith the Mississippi State University Extension health of waterbodies, but it erful boat wakes, has led to the Service and coastal ecology specialist with the also provides other benefits that hardening of many shorelines Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium, at are at the core of why some throughout the state. Typical eric.sparks@msstate.edu or 228-546-1025. people purchase shoreline types of hardened shorelines are property: nature and wildlife. bulkheads and seawalls. Private landowners are by far the largest group of shoreline For example, more than 62% of all the privately owned property owners. Therefore, they have the collective power to parcels of land along the shores of Back Bay on the coast are improve health for themselves, fish, wildlife and most waterbodalready hardened. While these structures do a good job of reducing erosion and ies across Mississippi. A simple decision of choosing a more natural shoreline are necessary in some higher energy situations, they are considmanagement option over a hardened shoreline can lead to big ered harmful for the environment. There are many ways they cause harm. For one, they limit the environmental changes. exchange between the shoreline and water that many fish and Eric L. Sparks is an assistant extension professor and director wildlife rely on for habitat and nutrition. Another is that armored of Mississippi State University’s Coastal Marine Extension shorelines typically lead to a reduction of buffer vegetation that Program. is critical for limiting erosion and intercepting and filtering out APRIL 2021 | TODAY 17

Delta Electric’s new IVR phone number is 662-743-4425 – USE IT ANY TIME 24/7

✓GET ACCOUNT INFO ✓MAKE A PAYMENT ✓REPORT AN OUTAGE ✓MAKE AN ARRANGEMENT

by David O’Bryan If our Members were asked to associate an image or a person with Delta Electric, I bet our Members would picture one of our linemen. Some of the most visible employees of our co-op, our linemen work tirelessly to ensure our community receives uninterrupted power 24/7. “Lineman” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, linemen must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heaving equipment to get the job done. Being a lineman is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men who work around the clock to keep the lights on.

This dedication and commitment to our Members became evident when Delta Electric was hit by Winter Storm Viola during the evening of Wednesday, Feb. 17. At the height of the ice storm, Delta Electric had 3,200 meter outages primarily in Carroll, Holmes and Montgomery counties. Construction crews and servicemen were moved from the Cleveland and Indianola district offices to assist our Winona and Greenwood crews. Our dedicated B&B Utility Construction contract crews were also activated. Our men worked in brutal, frozen and hazardous conditions over the next three days to restore power to Delta Electric customers with power being fully restored by noon on Saturday, Feb. 20. We sincerely thank our linemen and other employees for their extraordinary efforts in our recovery from Winter Storm Viola and we congratulate them on doing this in a safe manner with no injuries. Our dedicated and beloved linemen are proud to represent Delta Electric and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 12 and any time you see one of our linemen, I hope you’ll join me in thanking them for their exceptional service. I also hope you’ll remember that we have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at the co-op whose commitment to service runs just as deep.

#thankalineman

14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

OUR LINEMEN

Build. Maintain. Repair. Repeat. That’s how linemen power our lives.

Three options to pre-register for fiber internet service

DELightSpeed.coop 662-477-1975 or info@delightspeed.coop APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

“Powering communities and empowering lives” Dixie Electric is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

dixieepa.com | defastlink.net | prepared.dixieepa.com | AFTER HOURS: 888-465-9209 | 601-425-2535 @DixieElectricMS

@DixieEPA

@dixie_electric

Thank a Lineworker on April 12 Some of the most visible employees at Dixie Electric are our lineworkers. They work tirelessly to ensure our community receives reliable electric service. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, lineworkers must climb 30 to 45 feet in the air, often carrying equipment and tools to get the job done. Being a lineworker is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work around the clock to keep the lights on. While lineworkers may be the most visible employees at Dixie Electric, it’s important to note that there is a team of highly skilled professionals working behind the scenes. The engineering department provides expertise and guidance for the construction

and maintenance of the electrical distribution system. Member service representatives and billing specialists are always standing by to take your calls and questions. Our information technology (IT) experts are continuously monitoring our system to help safeguard sensitive data. And these are just a few of the folks who work together to ensure we can deliver the service and reliability you expect and deserve. Without them, our lineworkers wouldn’t be able to “bring the light” to our community. I also hope you’ll remember that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at the co-op where commitment to service runs deep.

by Randy Smith General Manager

LINEWORKERS BRING THE LIGHT.

Lineworker Appreciation Day On April 12, remember to #thankalineworker 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Linemen brave cold weather conditions Three line crews, three servicemen and the line construction supervisor headed to Southern Pine Electric, headquartered in Taylorsville, Miss., to help restore power in mid-February. Southern Pine Electric was hit with two winter storms, causing outages from downed power lines and tree limbs falling on lines. Dixie Electric’s linemen aided with restoration for several days. The same winter weather system affected Southwest Electric Power Association, headquartered in Lorman, Miss. After the second round of ice storms struck, Southwest Electric had 21,400

meters without power, which is roughly 85% of their entire service territory. They requested help from servicemen, so Dixie Electric sent two journeymen linemen and two linemen to work alongside them. Working in winter weather conditions is tough, but these linemen are committed to restoring electric service to the Mississippians who were affected by the extreme cold temperatures and power outages. Dixie Electric is part of a network of electric cooperatives nationwide who provide assistance during major outages, like the one caused by winter storm Uri.

Clearing trees and limbs for reliable service 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. 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.

CLEARING PROJECTS UNDERWAY • Petal substation: Petal, Sunrise, Hillcrest and Macedonia • Clara substation: Clara, Big Creek and Waynesboro • Burr Creek substation: Moselle, Union and Ellisville • Hoy substation: North Laurel, Hoy, Moss, Shady Grove, Matthews and Springhill Road

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Electrifying kitchen appliances

to save time and energy

by Abby Berry Whether your oven and stove top are powered by gas or electricity, it’s no secret that they consume more energy than smaller countertop appliances, like slow cookers and toaster ovens. In addition to efficiency, smaller kitchen appliances can provide faster cooking times and less hassle with cleanup. If you’re looking for convenient cooking methods with the added bonus of energy efficiency, here are three electrifying appliances for your kitchen: 1. Air fryers are becoming increasingly popular, and consumers have a lot of good things to say about these handy little appliances. Air fryers use convection to circulate hot air and cook the food — this means little to no oil is required, resulting in healthier meals than those from traditional fryers. Air fryers are fairly small, so they won’t take up much of your counter space, and with everything cooked in the fryer, cleanup will be a breeze. Air fryers are available in a variety of sizes, and prices range from $40 to $200+. 2. Electric griddles have certainly been around for a while, and they offer several benefits for any home chef (beyond bacon and eggs!). Griddles are convenient because you can cook everything at once — like a “one-pan” meal, and the possibilities are endless. From fajitas to sandwiches to French toast, griddles can help satisfy any taste buds. They consume small amounts of energy and provide quick cooking times, so your energy bill will thank you. Prices and sizes for griddles vary, but you can typically find one for about $30 at your local retail stores. 3. Pizza brings people together, so why not consider a pizza maker for your kitchen? These compact, countertop machines are an inexpensive alternative to a costly brick oven, and they use less energy than your traditional oven. Choose your own fresh ingredients to whip up a faster, healthier pizza at home. Plus, most pizza makers are multifunctional and can be used to cook flatbreads, frittatas, quesadillas and more. You can purchase a pizza maker for about $30 to $150+ online or at your local retailer. These are just a few electrifying appliance options for your kitchen. Remember, when you’re cooking a smaller meal, countertop appliances can save time and energy. To learn about additional ways to save energy at home, visit dixieepa.com. Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives.

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Air fryers circulate hot air (convection) to cook the food. This means little to no oil is required, resulting in healthier meals than those from traditional fryers.

Electric griddles consume small amounts of energy and provide quick cooking times, so your energy bill will thank you.

Pizza makers are compact and inexpensive, and they use less energy than your traditional oven. Photos credit: Hamilton Beach

Commissioners visit to learn about high-speed internet progress DE Fastlink, Dixie Electric’s high-speed internet subsidiary, is moving forward with its service to members. Federal Communications Commissioner Brendan Carr, a Trumpappointee to the five-member commission in Washington, D.C., along with Mississippi Public Service Commission Chairman Dane Maxwell, visited Dixie Electric on Thursday, March 5. The update provided to the commissioners included a discussion on the progression of DE Fastlink’s pilot project. The fiber deployment for both phases has been finished, with service to homes in phase one nearing completion. Service to homes in phase two is now underway. General Manager Randy Smith also explained expansion plans for 2021 and how DE Fastlink plans to install 3,000 miles of fiber optic cable to serve rural areas with high-speed internet over the next four to five years.

Both commissioners were complimentary of DE Fastlink’s efforts and were pleased with how the company plans to spend the grant money it has been awarded. DE Fastlink received more than $3 million in grant money from the CARES Act through the state of Mississippi for the pilot project and has been awarded another $21 million from the FCC through the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund. The total cost of the project is estimated at $125 million. Management will continue to seek grant funding. “This is going to be a great partnership between the state and the federal government,” Maxwell said. “They are going to continue to invest in this until we have high-speed internet all over the state of Mississippi.” Members who are interested in receiving high-speed internet will be contacted when the service is expanded into their area. For more information about DE Fastlink and the packages it offers, visit defastlink.net.

Compare PRICE. Compare SPEED. Compare SERVICE. You’ll see there’s really NO COMPARISON.

DE Fastlink packages start at just $64.95 for 100 Mbps speed! High-speed internet from DE Fastlink is coming soon! Don’t sign a contract with any other service provider without comparing packages. DE Fastlink will give you blazing speed, great rates and a reliable network—all backed by local people you know and trust.

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DeKalb 601-743-2641 • Louisville 662-773-5741 • Quitman 601-776-6271 • After-Hours Outages, Call 601-581-8600

MEMBER OWNED. LOCALLY OPERATED. THAT’S THE COOPERATIVE DIFFERENCE.

Spring planning A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO When I was a young boy, I knew spring was near when my grandfather and dad got their old Farmall Super A’s out of the barn to begin spring planting. They would disk up the garden patches and then put the plows on the tractor to get the rows ready for planting the seeds that would become the fresh vegetables for late summer, fall and winter. Jim Rohn, a man some considered to be America’s Foremost Business Philosopher, summed up what I believe my grandfather and dad believed about raising food when he said, “Everyone has to get good at one of two things — planting in the spring or begging in the fall.” Today, we are blessed with many options for purchasing our food. Although we do not have to beg for food, others must still put in the hours of work required to supply our food needs. Raising food still requires planting in the spring, tilling the soil, removing the weeds and harvesting the crop at the appropriate time. When others do their job well, we all benefit from the abundance. Being successful at raising America’s crops requires careful planning and awareness of the conditions to ensure a successful harvest. At East Mississippi Electric Power Association, we also pay careful attention to the forces that impact providing electric service to our members. We have annual planning cycles to ensure we are ready for spring storms, summer heat and hurricanes as well as winter peak demands and ice storms like we experienced in February. While we hope the summer heat is not severe and the hurricanes don’t come, we must be prepared in case they do. EMEPA personnel updates our emergency plan each year to ensure we are ready to respond to what Mother Nature throws at us. Employee assignments are reviewed to ensure we are

prepared to answer the calls, dispatch the proper response teams and communicate with our members in the most efficient way possible. This planning also involves communication with the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi statewide association and other cooperatives so that when we call on them, or they on us, we are prepared to respond. Load requirement studies and construction work plans provide the foundation to ensure our distribution system is ready to meet peak load demands of summer highs and winter lows. Just as with planning for storms, we cannot wait until the demand on the distribution system reaches a critical peak to begin building lines required to deliver the power necessary to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. We also continue to make great progress on our broadband buildout. Over the last six months, over 500 miles of fiber has been constructed and over 880 customers connected. The same careful attention and detail in planning used to ensure we provide the reliable electric service you expect and deserve is being used to plan the broadband system. Lastly, I want to thank you for all the positive comments received during and after the February ice storm. Your patience during the outages, encouragement while working the extreme conditions and praise for our employees and their dedication warms our hearts.

by Randy Carroll CEO — East Mississippi Electric Power Association

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. 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

If you were asked to associate an image or a person with East Mississippi Electric Power Association (EMEPA), we bet you would picture a lineman. Some of the most visible employees of the co-op, linemen work tirelessly to ensure our community receives uninterrupted power 24/7. “Lineman” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, linemen must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heaving equipment to get the job done. Being a lineman is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women

who work around the clock to keep the lights on. While linemen may be the most visible employees at EMEPA, it’s important to note that there is a team of highly skilled professionals working behind the scenes. Engineers provide ongoing expertise and guidance on the operations side of the co-op. Member service representatives are always standing by to take your calls and questions. Our support staff are behind the scenes working in safety regulations, economic development, legislative, communications and administrative roles. And these are just a few of the folks who work together to ensure we can deliver the service and reliability you expect and deserve. Without them, our linemen wouldn’t be able to “bring the light” to our community. Our dedicated and beloved linemen are proud to represent EMEPA, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 12, and any time you see a lineman, we hope you’ll join us in thanking them for their exceptional service. We also hope you’ll remember that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at the co-op whose commitment to service runs just as deep.

#thankalineman

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

GROWING EAST MISSISSIPPI

East Mississippi Connect continues making progress Every $1 invested in the creation of a fiber optic internet returns $4 to the community — that’s the economic power unlocked by East Mississippi Electric Power Association’s fiber internet service. Launched last fall, East Mississippi Connect is not only transforming the quality of life in the region but also the economy. According to Purdue University Center for Regional Development, access to rural broadband will result in key gains in modern health care and education, economic and workforce development, farm income and consumer savings. “Bringing electricity to our communities is one of the most significant events in the history of east Mississippi,” EMEPA CEO Randy Carroll said. “Providing reliable, high-speed fiber internet service to our rural communities is just as significant as when we first brought light. This advancement will continue to transform living today and into the future.” Construction continues to blaze ahead to bring this transformative service to EMEPA members. Crews have hung more than 500 miles of fiber and provided high-speed fiber internet to more than 880 members.

To learn more or preregister for service, visit EastMSConnect.com.

Phase 1 • Vimville – In service • Cleveland – In-home installations in progress • Bonita – Make-ready construction in progress • DeKalb – Make-ready construction in progress • Townsend – Make-ready construction in progress

Phase 2 Target 2022 • Kewanee • Briarwood • Handle • Quitman • Clarkdale

Phase 3 Target 2023 • Louisville • Noxapater • Blackwater • Lost Gap

Phase 4 Target 2024 • King Road • Collinsville • Bond

Phase 5 Target 2025 • Carmichael • Nancy • Scooba

East Mississippi Connect’s fast, fiber internet allows you to stream with ease. The possibilities are endless with East MS Connect’s fast, fiber internet. You can cut the cord and ditch your expensive monthly cable bill while still enjoying your favorite TV programs. With download speeds of up to 1 Gbps, you can enjoy live TV through a streaming service such as Hulu, Netflix, YouTube TV and more. Stream with East MS Connect in just two easy steps: choose your device, choose your service. 16 TODAY | APRIL 2021

➤ CHOOSE YOUR DEVICE If you don’t have a smart TV with internet connectivity, a streaming device is necessary. Here are some popular choices. Roku Roku has several options available, from the entry level Express ($30) to the more expensive Ultra ($99) that has more robust performance, 4K streaming capability and a voice control remote. Amazon Fire TV Stick If you want to stream 4K, go straight for the Fire TV Stick 4K ($49.99) or the Fire TV cube ($119.99), featuring hands-free voice control, 16 GB storage — double that of the Stick — and a hexacore processor.

Chromecast with Google TV The latest generation of Chromecast ($49.99) devices support 4K streaming and voice control with Google Assistant to control your smart home devices and more. ➤ CHOOSE YOUR SERVICE Once you have chosen your device, you’re ready to select a streaming service or services. Here are some of the most popular. Popular livestreaming Popular on-demand options: options: • YouTube TV • Netflix • Hulu + Live TV • HBO Max • Sling TV • Amazon Prime • Disney+ • FuboTV • Philo • Discovery+ • Apple TV • DirecTV Now

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Johnny Johnson, President • Mike Banks, Vice President • Marty Crowder, Secretary/Treasurer • Bill Bell • John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr. • Bruff Sanders • Kenneth Seitz

Info vital in outage management In the utility business, we know rough weather will occur, and sometimes power outages simply can’t be avoided. But did you know there are steps you can take to ensure your electricity is restored as quickly and safely as possible? By keeping your contact information up to date, you can take full advantage of the services 4-County Electric Power Association offers. You may have noticed prompts through Today in Mississippi, bill stuffers, press releases, advertisements or social media requesting that you update contact information. If we don’t have the correct phone number linked to your home address, it makes it much more difficult for you to report an outage. In the “old days,” you had to speak to a customer service representative in order to report a power outage. Waiting on hold could be frustrating and time consuming. Today, with the press of a button, you can easily report an outage. At 4-County, we use the phone number you provide to link your service address to our outage man-

agement system. For example, if you call us to report an outage, our automated system instantly recognizes your phone number and can determine the particular service address from which you are reporting an outage. Once you give our system a response, your outage is reported. It’s that simple! But remember — this only works if your current phone number is linked to your service address. Updating your contact information is helpful because it also speeds up the power restoration process. With correct information, our outage management system can predict the location and the possible cause of an outage, making it easier for our crews to correct the problem. Call 1-800-431-1544 and make sure you’re up to date.

Thank a lineman

We proudly recognize all electric linemen through the nation who perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety. 4-County honors its lineman and invites members to take a moment to thank a lineman for the work he does.

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association has designated the second Monday of April as National Lineman Appreciation Day. 4-County will give a special tip of the hat (as we do each and every day) in April to the hardworking men who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

This spring, think summer 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. 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 (CFL) bulbs or light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. These bulbs use far less energy. • Call a service technician to give your air-conditioning system — and any window units — a thorough once-over before the weather gets hot. • Change air conditioner filters monthly from now until October.

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

#thankalineman

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. A decorative alternative to typical 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. For more tips, go to www.4county.org.

FASTquotes on FASTnet FASTnet, 4-County Electric Power Association’s broadband subsidiary, is blazing a trail to hook up customers to the fastest internet around. Here are a few testimonials from new FASTnet customers: Mary Watson (West Point) “My husband and I are so appreciative of FASTnet service. It enables us to communicate with our out of state kids and grands through Facetime and videos. We can see them every day if we want to now. This was not possible with our satellite service because of the weak signals. Keep up the good work. A lot more people are counting on you to provide this service to them. Again, thank you for this amazing service. I want you to know that all of the people (from the workers that pulled the wire to my house to the installers) have been so courteous, friendly and helpful in explaining everything.”

Carolyn Golson (West Point) “I was excited when we got it. I work at a school and it was hard for me to work at home before. It’s no problem now. It’s nice.”

Mary Catherine Jones (West Point) “It’s important, especially with the virtual learning that’s going on now. My little sister, who’s still in school, would hesitate to come see us if she had school work. Now she can come see us with no worries about getting her school work done. We have definitely enjoyed it so far.”

Jeannie Johnson (West Point) “We love it. We can stream things and actually watch them. As a teacher, I believe it’s making a big difference for kids in the area.”

Paul Young (Pheba) “It’s the most wonderful thing that has happened to us since we’ve lived here. FASTnet has brought us into the 21st century. This is outstanding. You think it, and it’s already there. We’re really pleased. Everyone we’ve worked with has been outstanding.”

Haines Loden (West Point) “Tasha (FASTnet CSR) was great. Dillon (FASTnet fiber tech) was fabulous. Everything has been great. We couldn’t believe the difference. I have the opportunity to work from home sometimes, and it is so much better.”

Matt Fondren (downtown Cedar Bluff) “For us, it’s opened a lot of doors. My wife and I both work at Mississippi State University. FASTnet will allow us to do some work-related things from home when we need to. And our streaming options have improved so much. Our kids are able to enjoy watching movies and playing games that we couldn’t have accessed before. It has helped improve our home security system. From what we had to what we have now with FASTnet, there’s no comparison. It’s been a life-changing experience.”

www.4cFastnet.com

NOTICE TO ELECTRIC SYSTEM CONSUMERS OF INVESTMENT IN COMMERCIAL BROADBAND 4-County Electric Power Association requested authorization from its regulator, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), to invest electric system revenues in its commercial broadband subsidiary. This Notice is being provided to 4-County Electric Power Association’s members pursuant to TVA’s regulatory transparency requirements. Previously, 4-County Electric Power Association filed an application with TVA requesting authorization to invest its electric system revenues in its broadband subsidiary, 4-County Fiber LLC d/b/a FASTnet. Specifically, FASTnet will use electric system revenues to finance the deployment of broadband equipment and start-up its commercial broadband business in its service territory over multiple years. The total combined fiber investment for electric and

commercial broadband purposes is projected to be $110,200,000. Of this amount, 4-County Electric Power Association plans to loan $19,672,450 to FASTnet, for commercial broadband purposes. Per TVA requirements and conditions of TVA’s authorization, FASTnet, is required to repay 4-County Electric Power Association for the electric funds being loaned to it for commercial broadband purposes. It is estimated that the total investment for both electric and commercial broadband will not have rate impacts associated with the investment. Any questions regarding this broadband investment should be directed to 4-County Electric Power Association, Brian Clark at Post Office Box 351, Columbus, Mississippi 39703-0351, 662-327-8900 or clarkb@4county.org. APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

Glo lights way to Sesame S by Brad Barr Not only can Hagan Walker and Anna Barker tell you how to get to Sesame Street, the young business duo is lighting a path of creative imagination for children to get there. The twenty-something year-old entrepreneurs, owners of Starkville-based Glo, have recently inked a licensing agreement with Sesame Workshop to market Glo Pals, an imaginative toy that brightens play and bath time for children, particularly those with autism. Sesame Workshop is the nonprofit organization behind “Sesame Street.” Walker and Barker were budding entrepreneurs in Mississippi State University’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Outreach a few years ago when they hit on an innovative technology that generated light when mixed with liquid. They leveraged the discovery to create colorful cubes that, when dropped in liquid, light up in bright party colors. The result? Glo designs and manufactures products that spark imagination by intersecting light, liquid and learning. Since its inception in 2015, the company has sold more than three million products to customers in nearly 40 countries. What began as a college senior project has brightened the lives of Walker, Barker and their customers. “We were challenged in class to create something that would draw attention to our product. What’s better than light?” Hagan said. GloCubes (the company’s initial offering and still a successful part of its product inventory today) are 1 by 1-inch plastic ice cubes with LED components inside. “It adds a little color, and fun, to any drink.” Upon graduation from MSU, Hagan (degree in electrical engineering) and Barker (dual degrees in international business and Spanish) turned down lucrative job offers to pursue their dream of owning their own company. Their big break happened after they sent a few product samples to a YouTube channel that featured new and innovative products. “We got hundreds of orders within a day or two. Maybe we weren’t quite prepared for that,” Barker, now the company’s vice president of business development, said with a grin. But the young business team sat criss-cross applesauce in their tiny office and filled the or-

16 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Anna Barker

Hagan Walker

ders. Today, the company has grown to 20 employees and is in the midst of relocating to the old Rex Theatre in downtown Starkville. The 7,000-square-foot space is full of lofty ceilings, exposed brick and larger-than-life decorative remnants of a magical and theatrical past. “It fits us,” Barker said. Walker, Glo’s chief executive officer, and Barker grew up with small town work ethics and big dreams. Hagan’s afternoons and summers in Columbus were often filled with roofing jobs, attic insulation or cutting yards. In high school, he became interested in computers. “I wanted to start a computer repair business. My father brought home his boss’s computer. The deal was if I could repair it, I could start the business,” he said. He repaired the computer and, at 16, his after-school job became the Golden Triangle area’s second largest computer repair company. Like Hagan, Anna grew up in small-town Mississippi (Monticello), in the southwest part of the state. She grew up cheering for the home team, studying hard and learning valuable life lessons. The business couple’s tenure at Mississippi State changed everything. “It opened eyes and opened doors,” Anna said. “The college of business at Mississippi State and the Center of Entrepreneurship & Outreach was life-altering for us,” she added. The business quickly grew and re-invented itself. Customer feedback from an appreciative mom, who used the cubes to

e Street create a soothing and happy environment for bath time for her autistic child, led the innovators to repurpose the cube technology into the popular Glo Pals that inspire imaginative learning and sensory play. This month, in celebration of National Autism Awareness Month, two new friends will join the Glo Pals family — Julia, a Muppet with autism, and Elmo, everyone’s favorite furry monster. Sesame Workshop’s “See Amazing in All Children” autism initiative offers families free tools and tips to manage common challenges, simplify activities and build a community of support. “The idea that we could base our business on helping brighten the lives of young families, including those affected by autism, is inspirational to us,” Barker said. “We want to do more than just build a successful company — we want to help make our community and world a better place.” Glo Pals already accounts for 90% of Glo’s rocketing sales. As part of the company’s business imperative to improve their communities, Glo contributes a portion of profits to the Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children, a part of Children’s of Mississippi in Jackson. “We at Sesame Workshop are very excited to be partnering with Glo, an inspiring young company whose mission to make a difference aligns with “Sesame Street’s” longtime history of helping all children open their minds to learning through fun and inspiration,” said Gabriela Arenas, Sesame Workshop’s vice president of licensing, North America. The partnership to add Julia and Elmo to the popular Glo Pals line shines a spotlight on another Mississippi entrepreneur, Jim Henson, creator of the original Muppets. “It’s true that the famous Muppets were ‘born’ right here in Mississippi, just like Glo,” Walker said. ‘We are proud to continue the tradition of learning and fun Mississippian Jim Henson began when he created the original Muppets decades ago.” Walker and Barker may have never met author Mary Anne Radmacher, but her statement on light is a glowing tribute to their lives and careers: “As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.” In unison, Walker and Barker are quick to agree. “That’s us.”

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 17

Nominees submitted for board of directors Jay Gilliland of Mathiston, Kenneth Seitz of Starkville and Bruff Sanders of West Point are nominated for three-year terms on 4-County Electric Power Association’s board of directors. Gilliland, Seitz and Sanders — all current board members — were placed in nomination by the Association’s Nominating Committee at its March 18 meeting. In accordance with the Association’s bylaws, the candidates’ names were placed in nomination for election to three-year terms, beginning June 3 at the cooperative’s annual membership meeting. Plans for member participation in that meeting will be detailed in upcoming issues of Today in Mississippi.

Jay Gilliland — District 6, Webster and Chickasaw counties John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr. of Mathiston, co-owner and manager of Gilliland’s Piggly Wiggly and president of Gilliland’s of Mathiston Inc., has served on the 4-County Electric Power Association Board of Directors since 1988. The Webster County native is a Mathiston High School graduate and attended Wood Junior College. He is also owner/ manager of Gilliland Outdoors LLC. He is a Blue Lodge Mason/Shriner. He is a member of Mathiston First Baptist Church. Gilliland and his wife, Sandy, are the parents of two daughters and one son, and they have three grandchildren.

Kenneth Seitz — District 2, Oktibbeha County Kenneth Seitz of Starkville has served as a member of 4-County Electric Power Association’s Board of Directors since 1990. Seitz is a cattle farmer and has interests in row crops and forestry. He is a graduate of Starkville High School and of Mississippi State University where he received a degree in agricultural economics. Seitz, active in community affairs for a number of years, is currently a director for the Oktibbeha County Co-op and is a member of the Cattleman’s Association. He is a member of First United Methodist Church of Starkville. He and his wife, Mary Lynn, have two daughters and four grandchildren.

Bruff Sanders — District 3, Clay and Monroe Counties Larry Bruff Sanders of Clay County has served as a member of 4-County Electric Power Association’s Board of Directors since 2020, filling the unexpired term of retiring Director Bud Tumlinson. Sanders, a longtime banking professional in the Golden Triangle, is the executive vice president for Bank of Commerce in Columbus. Sanders is a graduate of Mississippi State University, with a bachelor’s degree in physics and chemistry and a master’s degree in physics. He is active in his community, serving as a GTR Link Executive Board member, as a Growth Alliance Board member, as an East Mississippi Community College Foundation Board member and is a director of the West Point Rotary Club. Sanders and his wife, Melanie, live in West Point 18 TODAY | APRIL 2021

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF 4-County’s Annual Meeting Pursuant to Article II, Sections 1 and 3 of the 4-County Electric Power Association Bylaws, notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of members of 4-County Electric Power Associationx will be held Thursday, June 3, at noon. In accordance with the laws of the state of Mississippi and the Bylaws of the Association, three directors will be elected for three-year terms, reports will be given on the operation of the Association for the past year and other matters of business will be addressed.

Marty Crowder

Secretary-Treasurer 4-County Electric Power Association Board of Directors

Nominations Nominating committee reports were posted March 19 at each 4-County office and online. The deadline for additional nominations for directors, by petition of at least 50 consumer-members, is April 2, no later than noon. At press time, none had been received. Ballot/ proxies will be mailed by May 4 to all 4-County members. The deadline for returning ballot/ proxies is May 28 by noon, six days prior to the annual membership meeting June 3. Members of the nominating committee present for the March 18 meeting included: Julius Beck, Tom Breland, Paul Crowley, Sammie Williams, Benny Graves, Gary Holtman, Frank Howell, Henri Sue Kennard, Donald Land, Grey Land III, Charles McMinn, John Partridge, Thomas Robinson, Odie Shaw and Belk Weems.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Old school isn’t old fashioned for Russell Some might call it old school or old fashioned, but Tracy Russell is learning her life lessons in a back to the basics classroom. “I am old school,” the 4-County Electric Power Association dispatcher admits. “That’s where it’s at,” she added with a laugh. Tracy enjoys a down-home, just-down-the-road way of life. She and her husband, Lee, live in Artesia with their daughter and three grandchildren. Their 18-acre farm is headquarters for Lee’s large equipment repair operation. It’s also an animal farm of sorts, full of goats, chickens, ducks, dogs and cats — a virtual playground for the Russell’s grandchildren. She also raises a variety of raised bed food crops, including okra, onions, squash, corn, cucumbers, watermelon and cantaloupe. Daylilies, roses and wildflowers also dot the landscape. “I like to see the new. You go from barren to full-grown. The kids are learning to pick and shell peas. They are walking in our footsteps. Literally, they’re learning to stop and smell the roses,” she said. Tracy blends her old school philosophies with new school technology when interacting with co-op members. “I like the pace. We’re moving fast with the technology, but we’re still maintaining the one-on-one relationships we need with our members.” The veteran co-op employee joined 4-County in May 2006, after working 15 years as a dispatcher for the Mississippi State University Police Department and the Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s

Department. She also worked at Coca-Cola for eight years. What does she like about her job? “Everything,” she said. “I really enjoy it when it’s fast-paced. I enjoy working with the members and making them happy. I like to talk them through their questions.” Effective communication with 4-County members is key. There must be a clear sender and receiver. Both are important. “You have to peel back the question, layer by layer, to get the final answer.” Tracy describes 4-County as “the best organization I’ve ever had the pleasure to work for.” She said the co-op is truly her home away from home. The Russell family lost their house to a fire in September 2019. Her 4-County family was quick to respond. “I feel so blessed to be working with the 4-County family. People showed up and showed out with their help and support. You never know what you’ve got until it’s gone. 4-County took care of us after the fire.”

NFL star on 4-County’s team Tennessee Titans star and Noxubee County native Jeffery Simmons recently delivered thanks in person to the 4-County Electric Power Association team for its work during the February ice storms. Simmons met with 4-County linemen and support personnel, took photos, signed t-shirts and provided a barbecue meal (catered by Mayberry Eatery) to the co-op employees. Simmons, who played football at Noxubee County High School and for the Mississippi State Bulldogs, was drafted in the first round of the 2019 National Football League Draft. He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week in 2020. Simmons said the decision to give back to those who helped his hometown was an easy one. “I saw the devastation that the ice storm caused for the people in this area, including Noxubee County. I care about the people here, and I appreciate the hard work that 4-County put in to restore power. This was just a small way that I could give back,” the NFL star said. 4-County Apprentice Lineman 4 Tanner Owen said it was hard to put into words what Simmons’ gesture meant to the storm workers. “It means a lot,” Owen said, “coming from someone like him. He didn’t have to do this. He did it because he appreciates his hometown and us. This is a great day. We’ve all really enjoyed everything.” About 75 people attended the festive event.

P: 3027 HIGHWAY 98 WEST, SUMMIT 39666 | M: P.O. BOX 747, McCOMB 39649

www.MEPCoop.com

| REPORT OUTAGES 601-684-4011 | PAY BY PHONE 1-877-779-7740

If you were asked to associate an image or a person with Magnolia Electric Power, we bet you would picture a lineman. Some of the most visible employees of the co-op, linemen work tirelessly to ensure our community receives uninterrupted power 24/7. “Lineman” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, linemen must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heaving equipment to get the job done. Being a lineman is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work around

the clock to keep the lights on. While linemen may be the most visible employees at Magnolia Electric Power, it’s important to note that there is a team of highly skilled professionals working behind the scenes. Engineers provide ongoing expertise and guidance on the operations side of the co-op. Member service representatives are always standing by to take your calls and questions. Our support staff are behind the scenes working in safety regulations, economic development, legislative, communications and administrative roles. And these are just a few of the folks who work together to ensure we can deliver the service and reliability you expect and deserve. Without them, our linemen wouldn’t be able to “bring the light” to our community. Our dedicated and beloved linemen are proud to represent Magnolia Electric Power, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 12, and any time you see a lineman, we hope you’ll join us in thanking them for their exceptional service. We also hope you’ll remember that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at the co-op whose commitment to service runs just as deep.

#thankalineman

14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

and Twitter

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

Some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140 degrees, but most households usually only require them to be set at 120 degrees.

Consider lowering your water heater’s temperature to save energy and slow mineral buildup in the heater and pipes.

Source: www.energy.gov

OUR LINEMEN

Build. Maintain. Repair. Repeat. That’s how linemen power our lives.

*Line crew photos taken during various storms.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

AMORY – P.O. BOX 300 - 50408 GREENBRIAR ROAD – 662-256-2962 • CALEDONIA – 746 MAIN STREET – 662-356-4100

If you were asked to associate an image or a person with Monroe County Electric Power Association, we bet you would picture a lineman. Some of the most visible employees of the co-op, linemen work tirelessly to ensure our community receives uninterrupted power 24/7. “Lineman” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, linemen must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heaving equipment to get the job done. Being a lineman is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work around

the clock to keep the lights on. While linemen may be the most visible employees at Monroe County Electric, it’s important to note that there is a team of highly skilled professionals working behind the scenes. Engineers provide ongoing expertise and guidance on the operations side of the co-op. Member service representatives are always standing by to take your calls and questions. Our support staff are behind the scenes working in safety regulations, economic development, legislative, communications and administrative roles. And these are just a few of the folks who work together to ensure we can deliver the service and reliability you expect and deserve. Without them, our linemen wouldn’t be able to “bring the light” to our community. Our dedicated and beloved linemen are proud to represent Monroe County Electric, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 12, and any time you see a lineman, we hope you’ll join us in thanking them for their exceptional service. We also hope you’ll remember that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at the co-op whose commitment to service runs just as deep.

#thankalineman

14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

Some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140 degrees, but most households usually only require them to be set at 120 degrees.

Consider lowering your water heater’s temperature to save energy and slow mineral buildup in the heater and pipes.

Source: www.energy.gov

OUR LINEMEN

Build. Maintain. Repair. Repeat. That’s how linemen power our lives.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

P.O. Box 609 • 555 East Madison St. • Houston, MS 38851

662-456-3037 • Fax: 662-456-2086 • www.ntepa.com

Congratulations to NT Spark’s first fiber customer online at a time, and that was still met with lagging speeds and When Natchez Trace Electric Power Association officials buffering. Now, the whole family can use it and we can do what received news that the co-op received a CARES Act grant in late July 2020, construction began almost immediately to meet we need to do at home.” Beck said that her husband the immediate deadlines for may have shed a tear when he the funding. We have been realized that he could play his eager to provide high-speed PlayStation 4. internet service to those in “My daughter can do her some of the most underschoolwork and access her served areas of our state. assignments,” she said. “We Fiber internet is the fastest have had so much frustration and most reliable internet technology in the world. This with our previous carrier. We affordable technology will know it wasn’t profitable to help to transform north Misthem to serve us, but we can’t sissippi by allowing improved wait to see what opportunities access to health care, educamay open to our areas now tion, information and enterthat our cooperative has made Pictured: Craig and Stephanie Beck and daughter Christy Beck tainment. It will enable our this service available. Maybe communities to keep pace in today’s high-tech world without families and companies haven’t wanted to move here because relying on outdated technology, slow speeds or poor reliability. of the communications problems in our area, but this service It will close the gap for our area businesses, giving them the is wonderful and we expect tools they need to compete and thrive in their markets. great things for our area. We are so excited!” Natchez Trace Electric CEO Shawn Edmondson said as NT NT Spark fiber internet is Spark grows, it will help the area reach its fullest potential. provided with free installaIn December, NT Spark connected its first customer, Stephanie Beck and her family. At the time when they were tion, no activation fees, no connected, NT Spark was not fully operational, but they contracts, no data caps and were still receiving faster connection speeds than they had no throttling. Visit ntspark. coop to learn more about experienced with their previous carrier. this project and its positive “This service is so amazing,” said Beck. “With our previous impact for our members. service, we were so limited. We could only have one device 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

NATCHEZ TRACE ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2020

ASSETS Utility Plant Original Cost Less Depreciation Net Plant Special Funds & Investments Current and Accrued Assets Cash-General Accounts Receivable Materials and Supplies Prepayments & Other Total Current & Accrued Assets Deferred Debits Total Assets

$101,850,779 $ 37,978,272 $ 63,872,507

$ 3,143,501 $ 2,976,061 $ 1,092,485 $ 7,221,148 $ 14,433,195 $ 1,183,037 $ 79,488,739

LIABILITIES Capital & Accumulated Earnings Memberships $ 26,711 Accumulated Earnings $ 54,770,587 Total Equity Long Term Debt Current and Accrued Liabilities Accounts Payable $ 4,908,241 Customer Deposits $ 1,977,391 Other Liabilities $ 452,753 Total Current & Accrued Liabilities RHIP Advances Deferred Credits Total Liabilities & Other Credits Equity as a Percent of Total Assets

$ 54,897,298 $ 12,823,093

$ 7,338,385 $ 62,948 $ 4,367,015 $ 79,488,739

69.1%

2020 OPERATING REVENUE & EXPENSES AND 2021 BUDGET Actual for Year Ending 12/31/2020 2021 Budget Totals Revenue: Electric (Sales) Miscellaneous & Other Interest Income NTSpark- Fiber Lease Total Revenue

$ 34,020,101 $ 996,412 $ 70,003 $ 0 $ 35,086,516

$36,054,506 $ 985,954 $ 79,483 $ 686,667 $ 37,806,610

$ 23,366,064

$ 24,679,288

$ $

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

3,261,827 976,541

$ 3,653,510 $ 1,115,544

$ 1,235,495 $ 2,309,989 $ 211,973 $ 432,364 $ 31,794,253

$ 1,211,916 $ 2,642,457 $ 221,918 $ 676,853 $ 34,201,486

System Margins

$ 3,292,263

$ 3,605,124

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 Electric publishes their names in the three principal newspapers 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; Billy Mac Gore of Vardaman; 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 Association’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 12, 2021. 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, Walthall, District Two and Jimmy Ball, Calhoun City, District Three.

BALLOT ATTACHED 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 (1,306) who voted their ballot last year. We need your ballot again this year in order to have a valid director’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.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

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 daft program.

BANK DRAFT AUTHORIZATION ________________________________, Miss. ________________________________, 2021 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. _______________________________________________

Eupora High School

Band

will bring musical entertainment to the annual meeting on

Monday, April 26, 2021 16 TODAY | APRIL 2021

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. Mrs. Wilson has received her certificate as a Credentialed Cooperative Director. She retired from MAP, Inc. where she worked with the McIntosh Headstart Earline Wilson Center for 46 years as a social worker. She is a member of the Second Baptist Church in Houston. 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 greatgrandchildren. 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, Joe Hays where he received a B.S. degree in 1976 and his masters degree in education in 1985. Hays worked in the Calhoun County and the Webster County school systems prior to his retirement and runs a cattle farm. Hays 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., and one granddaughter Karley James Hays. 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 February 2002. He has received his Credentialed Cooperative Director certification. Ball presently serves as vice-president of the board. Ball is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Ball of Calhoun City. Jimmy Ball He and his wife Mary Lynn live in Calhoun City. He has two sons, Trey (Allison) of Hernando and Wesley (Hillary) of Oxford; stepson 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 six grandchildren. Ball is a member of First Baptist Church in Calhoun City. 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, an Eagle Scout, vigil member of Order of the Arrow and the executive board.

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS will be held at the Eupora High School Auditorium in Eupora, Miss. Monday, April 26, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. 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 p.m. on Monday, April 26, 2021, 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 2 (Webster and Clay counties) Joe Hays 384 Carroll St., Walthall, MS 39771

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

Natchez Trace 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

GOODNeighbors Good Neighbors is a volunteer program designed to help (on a one-time basis) families who fall on hard times and need help paying their electric bill. NTEPA members 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.

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, AD-3027, 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.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 17

Gather around

the table

by Elissa Fulton Living in Chickasaw County, the job opportunities are usually concentrated on the sweet potato industry that has put the north Mississippi area on the map. After all, Zack Watkins’ grandfather was a sweet potato farmer, his father is a sweet potato broker and Watkins spent his youth driving forklifts and loading sweet potatoes on trucks that would take those potatoes all over the country. But he just knew there was a different calling for him. Watkins tried his hand at a few jobs, but that’s all they were — jobs. He used to watch do-it-yourself (DIY) television programs with his mother, Christi Watkins, and one day he figured he might could do some of the projects he saw on those television shows. “It started as a little hobby,” he said. “Someone gave me a little chop saw. At the time, the trending thing was these little snowmen people would put in their yards at Christmas time. They weren’t anything but two boards with a nail in the middle. It was simple. I started making those and it led to outdoor furniture.” Watkins admitted that the outdoor furniture was fun to make, but it was the finer furniture that he was interested in learning to make, though it proved to be far more difficult. Watkins is a mostly self-taught woodworker. He’s had a few mentors over the past few years since he started, but he likes to research and watch YouTube videos. “My granddaddy bought this property in 1956 and this shop was here then. It used to be a place to store sweet potatoes,” he said. Today, that same shop has tools and large machinery and smells of fresh cut wood. It’s where Watkins spends all of his days trying to perfect his trade. “Tools are expensive. So, I started out really small,” said 18 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Watkins. “In the beginning I was limited on what I could do because I just didn’t have the tools to do it, but I had a few projects that kept me busy enough to eventually afford the tools and machinery. I’ve had so much local support and good customers that helped me get started.” After his mom purchased a rather expensive table from a retailer, it wasn’t long before she started having trouble with the quality of the table. That’s when Watkins decided he could learn to make kitchen farmhouse tables. As a perfectionist, it wasn’t easy, and it took him a lot of persistence and studying to perfect it. Several years later, he has enough work to keep him busy for months into the future. “I just love doing this,” he said. “It doesn’t feel like work. I’ll stay out here for 16-18 hours a day. I may come in, look at Pinterest or YouTube and find another idea and go right back outside to the shop. So, this isn’t just a job. It’s fun!” Watkins uses wood that is locally sourced to make beautiful custom-made farmhouse tables and benches. While it may take him a few days to make one table, the quality is what makes his customers continue to recommend him to others. “I am consistently making about two tables a week and have a waiting list 12 weeks out,” he said. “I’m a one man show, but I’m determined to make quality furniture that anyone can afford.”

His mom Christi, and his new bride Gaby, are undeniably his biggest fans. Christi said, “With these two together, I just see unlimited potential. With her brains and his talent, they were made for each other.” When asked where he sees his business in five years, he said, “Booming!” Though he plans to keep the business a one-man operation, his main goal is delivering a quality product. He said he build each

Committed to the job. Committed to safety. Committed to you, our members. Lineworker Appreciation Day

April 12, 2021

Zack and Gaby Watkins and Christi Watkins

of his tables like he would build it for himself. Jacob Samuell, a Natchez Trace Electric employee and a customer of Hickory Ridge Farm Tables said, “Our family table that we eat on every night we bought about two years ago, and we love it. I’m just really put back at how much growth Zack has made even since then. His work is getting better and better. These are some of the prettiest tables I’ve ever laid eyes on.” For more information about Hickory Ridge Farm Tables visit facebook.com/farmtableman or call 662-542-8480.

For more information about Today in Mississippi, contact Michael Bellipanni at 662.895.2151. northcentralelectric.com

NorthcentralEC

@Northcentral_EC

A message from your CEO I truly enjoy the transition from winter to spring. You can hear the crack of the bat, the aroma of boiling crawfish and the vision of trees leaving out and flowers blooming. It’s hard to believe that just several weeks ago we had 10 inches of snow on the ground and temperatures that struggled to reach the mid-teens. The high bills we’ll be receiving are a not-so-pleasant reminder of that week, but the continuance of electric service is something I am particularly proud of. This was achieved through calculated planning, execution and a great partnership with our power supplier, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). A well-maintained fleet of diverse generation kept power flowing from TVA to its customers, local power companies like Northcentral. What few issues we had were handled quickly and safely — not an easy task with a driving snow and 15-degree temperatures. I look forward to acknowledging all of these skilled, hardworking linemen on National Lineman’s Appreciation Day on April 12.

As you can imagine, Northcentral Connect lost a little time with new installations, but we’ll try to catch up this spring. With approximately 300 customers and adding more each day; fast, reliable and affordable high speed internet service is being well received in our community. So, turn the ballgame on, load up on some crawfish and take time to smell the roses. We’ll continue to provide those essential services that add value and improve the quality of life to the members of our community.

by Kevin Doddridge General Manager/CEO

If you were asked to associate an image or a person with Northcentral Electric Cooperative, we bet you would picture a lineman. Some of the most visible employees of the co-op, linemen work tirelessly to ensure our communities receive uninterrupted power 24/7. “Lineman” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, linemen must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heavy equipment to get the job done. Being a lineman is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work around the clock to keep the lights on.

While linemen may be the most visible employees at Northcentral Electric Cooperative, it’s important to note that there is a team of highly skilled professionals working behind the scenes. Engineers provide ongoing expertise and guidance on the operations side of the co-op. Customer service representatives are always standing by to take your calls and questions. Our support staff are behind the scenes working in safety, economic development, legislative, communications and administrative roles. And these are just a few of the folks who work together to ensure we can deliver the service and reliability you expect and deserve. Without them, our linemen wouldn’t be able to “bring the light” to our community. Our dedicated and beloved linemen are proud to represent Northcentral Electric Cooperative, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 12, and any time you see a lineman, we hope you’ll join us in thanking them for their exceptional service. We also hope you’ll remember that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at the co-op whose commitment to service runs just as deep.

#thankalineman

Build. Maintain. Repair. Repeat. That’s how linemen power our lives.

WORKING from

HOME

Remote working opportunities

by Justin Jaggers The past year has brought a lot of changes. Some of us are working from home more, while some of us are home all the time. And, in the worst cases, some aren’t working at all. But there are lot of new opportunities to work from home and make the best of a very different situation. As we continue to explore the possibilities with high-speed internet, we wanted to highlight these opportunities. There are some great reasons to explore working from home: your office can be wherever you are; you can choose when and how you work; and you may be able to set your own schedule. You can also see just how productive you can be in the comfort of your own home.

According to harper.com, there are five main areas to consider when considering a career from home: • Sales: Outbound sales jobs have been around forever. In our new virtual world, there are now more opportunities than ever. Sales is a great career path for highly motivated self-starters, and it is incredibly flexible with the popularity of virtual meeting platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams. • Customer service: These jobs are perfect for problem solvers who enjoy customer-facing (or customer-listening) positions. Plus, they are super simple to set up from home. • Tutoring/teaching English as a secondary language (TESL): If you’re in the educational field, tutoring or TESL could be the perfect side-gig for you. TESL is a position that is always in demand. There are so many people — especially from Asia and the Middle East — who want to learn how to speak English and TESL opportunities are virtually endless. Typically, the only requirements are a post-secondary degree and having English as your native language!

16 TODAY | APRIL 2021

• Freelance writing: Whether you are ghostwriting creative prose or writing content for blogs, there is always someone looking for a wordsmith. Most writing job boards are freelance, but if you build the right connections, you might be able to score a position writing recurring content for one employer. • Web development/graphic design: If you know how to write code, build a website, develop software or create digital art, you’re pretty much golden. There’s never been a better time to put your tech skills to good use, and the money is pretty decent, too!

[Source: meetharper.com]

So, where can you find these jobs? We recommend visiting reputable job boards. There are plenty of ad services promising these jobs but will often lead to spam and hacking attempts. Before signing up for any job, be sure to do a little research and make sure that the opportunity is legitimate and a good match for you as the potential employee. There are also ways to turn hobbies into a money-making venture. If you’re a musician, graphic designer, photographer or

According to harper.com, the best sites for finding remote work: FLEXJOBS.COM

JUSTREMOTE.CO

VIRTUALVOCATIONS.COM

WORKINGNOMADS.COM

REMOTE.CO

WEWORKREMOTELY.COM

videographer, you can look into signing up for fiverr.com as a contributor. Fiverr allows individuals and companies to send out bids for creative projects, and you, as a contributor, can give a proposal and final budget for what that particular client is needing. If selected, you submit your work, get notes back from the client and finish the project. The client’s payment is then sent to you for your work. This provides great flexibility for the contributor. Other sites similar to Fiverr include Freelancer.com and Upwork.com. Be sure to read the terms of agreement to fully understand the responsibility of your role. Finally, I’m sure most Northcentral members have heard the word “Etsy.” Etsy is the online marketplace where anyone can set up a shop and sell literally anything they want. Do you knit or sew in your free time? You can sell handmade quilts and blankets at the price you decide. Make handmade jewelry? You can sell that too! Do you enjoy pickling vegetables? The going rate for pickled garlic is $10 to $20 a jar! If you can make it, you can sell it on Etsy. You are your own store. When you set up shop on Etsy, you are responsible for fulfilling any orders that come in. All you need to do is make it and ship it. For a small fee, Etsy can provide services that will allow you to manage your inventory and even market your product. The site even offers some training to get you started with your own money-making venture. Before you do any of these things, we highly recommend doing research about working from home. Make sure you’re safe online with secure, complex passwords and that you are using a reputable website. When it comes to dealing with your potential hard-earned income, online safety should be your top priority.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 17

The Miss Olive Branch OLIVE BRANCH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

AG prEiA l 2N9T, 2021 SCHOLARSHIP PA ve Branch Countr y Club APRIL 24,O8li2021, 7 P.M. a.m. & 1 p.m. Shotgun Start Lunch provided

Several scholarships available including $3000 to choice of colleges awarded to top five winners. This pageant is a positive youth development program that will reward and encourage the personal development and accomplishment of young women of Olive Branch and encourages these ladies to be ambassadors in the community.

The pageant will be held at Whispering Woods Hotel & Conference Center. It promises to be a fun-filled evening with lots of entertainment. Call the Olive Branch Chamber of Commerce for ticket information: 662.895.2600. For more information: olivebranchms.com or contact the Chamber Office 662.895.2600

The Miss Olive Branch OLIVE BRANCH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

April 29, 2021 SCHOLARSHIP PA GEANT

April

Olive Branch Countr y Club 284a, .2m0. 2&1 1 p7.m pm . Shotgun Start Lunch provided

Several scholarships available including $3000 to choice of colleges awarded to Top 5 Winners This pageant is a positive youth development program that will reward and encourage the personal development and accomplishment of young women of Olive Branch and encourages these ladies to be ambassadors in the community.

The Pageant will be held at Whispering Woods Hotel & Conference Center. It promises to be a full filled evening with lots of entertainment. Call the Olive Branch Chamber of Commerce for ticket information: 662.895.2600. For more information: olivebranchms.com or contact the Chamber Office 662.895.2600 18 TODAY | APRIL 2021

by Paul Wesslund Whenever a hurricane, wildfire or other natural disaster causes a widespread power outage, people tend to ask a logical question: why don’t they put the power lines underground? It’s one of those questions that seems to have an easy answer — until you start looking at the details. The debate over “undergrounding” power lines comes with lists of pros and cons on each side. But one of those cons tends to drown out the others — cost. When people hear that burying power lines could more than double their electric bill, well, that tends to end the discussion. When a major power outage occurs, studies are done to figure out ways to reduce the chances of another major outage. And the results of those studies are often the same, citing undergrounding lines as prohibitively expensive. But co-ops keep studying whether to bury power lines, and people keep asking about it because power outages are expensive too. In fact, they’re estimated to cost the U.S. $150 billion annually. Wouldn’t burying power lines save some of that money? It’s true that undergrounding lines would protect them from wind, fire, ice and tree branches. But there are more reasons. There wouldn’t be poles for cars to crash into or overhead lines for squirrels to chew up. It would also keep poles and wires from getting in the way of the natural scenery. But overhead lines have their own advantages. While underground lines are less prone to damage, when something goes wrong, finding and repairing a problem up in the air can be a lot easier (and faster) than locating and digging up the exact spot of an underground malfunction.

Also, underground power lines aren’t completely safe from natural disasters. They’ve been known to get overwhelmed with flooding and digging or other construction can slice into underground service. But again, it really all boils down to cost. A 2012 study by the Edison Electric Institute estimated that burying existing power lines would cost between $93,000 and $5 million per mile of line, depending on the type of service and the terrain. The study also included a survey that found 60% of respondents said they would be willing to pay up to 10% more on their energy bills to have their power lines buried. The actual cost, however, would be more than 100% higher, and with that information, more than 75% of the survey respondents said “no.” Converting to underground lines could also mean higher expense to homeowners who might have to install different electrical equipment to accommodate the new connections. Some people do have underground service. One estimate places that number at two out of every five utility customers. In some cases, utilities are placing new electric service underground, even though that cost is more expensive as well. It can cost three times as much to build new underground service compared with overhead lines. About 20% of the money spent on new electric service construction of distribution lines goes for underground projects. While underground service is often impractical, utilities are finding other ways to increase reliability, by using modern smart grid technology and drone patrols, as well as more old-fashioned tree trimming. Paul Wesslund writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

The Pros and Cons of OVERHEAD AND UNDERGROUND POWER LINES PROS: • Less expensive to build and repair • Easier to spot faults/damage • Can be built on any terrain CONS: • Susceptible to wind, ice and snow • More vulnerable to damage from trees and vegetation • More vulnerable to blinks caused by animals • Susceptible to damage from vehicle collisions

PROS: • Less susceptible to vehicle collisions • Not impacted by trees, wind, ice and snow • Less vulnerable to blinks caused by animals CONS: • More expensive to build and repair • Susceptible to flooding • Difficult to locate faults/damage • Vulnerable to damage from digging APRIL 2021 | TODAY 19

PAY BILLS or REPORT OUTAGES: 855-2PRVEPA (855-277-8372) COLUMBIA: 601-736-2666 | HATTIESBURG: 601-264-2458 | PURVIS: 601-794-8051 | WIGGINS: 601-928-7277 Member owned. Locally operated. That’s the cooperative difference. • Visit us online at www.PRVEPA.com

PRVEPA’s

have been working hard for our members The last 12 months have been a challenging time for all of us. First responders and health care workers have been pushed to the limit with the COVID-19 pandemic, while at Pearl River Valley Electric, our linemen and servicemen have worked tirelessly to keep the lights on through historic severe weather. Over the course of the last 12 months our linemen and servicemen have had everything thrown at them and have performed with tireless dedication. A year ago, we had some of the most destructive storms and tornadoes hit our service territory on Easter. It was immediately followed with another round of severe weather a week later. On Easter, one of the largest tornadoes in U.S. history made its way across our service territory. The destruction from the tornado was unimaginable and cut a visible path through multiple cooperative service areas. A week later, storms caused several tornadoes to form causing damage in multiple counties in our service area. In total, those storms produced more than 12,000 outages and crews worked to replace 385 broken poles. A busier than normal spring storm season was followed by the most active hurricane season in history. The Gulf Coast saw eight named storms, three of which affected parts of Pearl River Valley Electric’s service territory. While we received glancing blows from multiple tropical systems, the biggest hurricane that hit us was Hurricane Zeta. Zeta, a late season storm, hit Oct. 28 with wind speeds of 110 mph. It devastated the southern portion of our service territory and caused over 15,000 outages. Pearl River Valley Electric linemen, along with crews from Magnolia Electric, Central Electric, North East Mississippi EPA and Monroe Electric helped to restore power. In total, 230 broken poles were replaced during a massive multi-day restoration. The damage to our service territory around Wiggins had not been witnessed since Hurricane Katrina. To start off 2021, we experienced another natural disaster, an ice storm, followed by record breaking cold. On Feb. 15, linemen 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

braved icy roads, falling limbs and temperatures dipping into the single digits to restore more than 3,500 members. While we may be familiar with severe weather, we aren’t accustomed to extreme cold. Regardless, our linemen and servicemen became acclimated to the weather quickly and worked to restore members’ power as quick and safely as possible. In total, they replaced 17 poles and removed countless trees and limbs from powerlines in a three-day restoration. As if this wasn’t an already impressive list of accomplishments for our linemen and servicemen, it doesn’t end there. Throughout last year, we helped sister cooperatives in Mississippi and Alabama recover from severe weather. We assisted Southwest Electric in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura and traveled to Gulf Shores, Alabama to help Baldwin EMC in the wake of Hurricane Sally. We also aided Magnolia Electric after Hurricane Delta hit their service territory and then again for the February ice storms. In the days following the ice storm our linemen went to Southern Pine Electric and Central Electric to restore their members. Our linemen and servicemen have worked tirelessly over the last 12 months to keep the lights on, and I want to personally thank them for their dedication to our cooperative. April 12 is Linemen Appreciation Day, and the last 12 months have reminded us that there are a few special people who have what it takes to do this dangerous job. They leave their homes and loved ones at all hours of the night to restore power in the worst conditions. Now, more than ever, we should be thankful that we have some of the best working at Pearl River Valley Electric.

by Matthew Ware General Manager

Enter now through April 15 for your chance to win a Visa gift card! Three prizes will be awarded: $100 for first place, $75 for second place and $50 for third place. Winning photos will also be used on our new website, social media or other promotional materials!

Pearl River Valley Photo Contest Who: You! Any Pearl River Valley Electric member can submit. What: Your best original photo that represents our community or our state. When: Enter now through April 15, 2021. Where: Selected photos will be used on our soon-to-be-developed PearlComm Fiber website and social media. How: Email a high-resolution photo file (JPEG preferred) to photos@prvepa.com. Please include your name, account number and phone number in your email. *You must own the rights to the photo submitted and have permission of any individual featured, so it may be best to use photos without people in them. By submitting an entry, you are turning over ownership and rights of the photo to Pearl River Valley and PearlComm and consenting to tagging your social media accounts when posting the photo.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

Revisions Requested Approved Revisions Requested Approved

The world-class fiber-to-the-home network Pearl River Valley EPA is bringing to our community will belong to all our members, and we want to involve you in every step of the exciting journey forward. At the heart of our project is reflection of our community’s narrative, culture and heritage. Now we’re asking for your help. Our fiber subsidiary, PearlComm, invites you to submit photos that illustrate our unique story for use in upcoming media and promotions. The photo may be your sunrise shot of the Pearl River, or maybe the bottomland hardwood forests and cypress swamps, or any other scene that captures the distinctive look of south-central Mississippi in living color.

RON Date_____

Help Pearl River Valley illustrate our community’s narrative: Submit your best photo

STEVEN Date_____

Approved

Every picture tells a story

CHAD Date_____

usher in for the cooperative while holding true to our co-op’s legacy. The PearlComm Fiber logo centers on an iconic, streamlined “PC” with fiber cables coming from the “C”. Members will see several logo arrangements and color variations to meet the many applications of our fiber brand. “Our new logo is an exciting next step as we continue the journey to bring the life-changing power of fiber internet to the Pearl River Valley membership,” General Manager Matthew Ware said. “Seeing the PearlComm logo out in our neighborhoods, on trucks and yard signs, is a milestone we are looking forward to.”

VERSION #______________

Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association is as excited as you are that fiber internet is coming to our service territory! As the first phase of fiber construction begins, the team at PRVEPA has been working hard behind to scenes to launch blazing-fast fiber-to-thehome broadband. Our network will be operated by the co-op’s wholly owned fiber subsidiary, PearlComm Fiber. Now for the big reveal: the PearlComm Fiber logo is here! The logo is a collaborative effort with our PRVEPA management team and employees to reflect the modern vision that fiber broadband will

Revisions Requested

PearlComm Fiber logo makes its debut

Notice of the election of directors, and the qualifications of, and the manner of qualifying as, a candidate for the office of director of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association pursuant to Mississippi house bill 366 To: The Members of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association You are hereby notified of the following: Election of Directors for District 3, District 6, and District 8. If you desire to be a candidate for the office of Director in one of the above Districts and if you meet the qualifications of Director as set forth below, then you may obtain an application in the form of a Petition for the candidacy to the Board of Directors at the office of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association (hereinafter the “Association”), 1422 Highway 13 North, Columbia, Mississippi. You must obtain the signatures of at least fifty (50) members of the Association on the Petition for your nomination, and you must deliver the signed Petition to the office of the General Manager of the Association. The Association must receive the signed Petition no later than Friday, May 28, 2021. If your Petition is received by the Association by the above deadline then your Petition will be reviewed to determine compliance with this Notice and the applicable law and By-Laws of the Association. If the Petition is in such compliance, then your nomination will be placed before the members for a vote at the Annual Meeting of the Association to be held on the fourth Saturday in September 2021.

The District areas are indicated in the map below:

The qualifications for the office of Director of the Association are set out by Mississippi law and in the By-Laws of the Association and are as follows: • Must be 21 years of age and have no felony convictions. • Must be a member of the Association, receiving service therefrom at his or her primary residential abode and a resident of the district from which he or she is elected. • May not be employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise, or a business selling electric energy to the Association, or a business primarily engaged in selling electrical or plumbing appliances, fixtures or supplies to the members of the Association. • May not be the incumbent or a candidate for any elective county, city, ward, beat, district, or state public office. • May not be a close relative of a director or of an employee of the Association as defined in Section 4.14 of the By-Laws. The information contained in this Notice concerning the qualifications of a Director and the means and manner of being nominated by Petition for the office of Director is a general summary only. The complete policy for Director election is available in the Association By-Laws which may be found on the Association’s website at www.prvepa.com In the event of a conflict between the summary set out herein and the actual law and ByLaws, the provisions of the law and the By-Laws shall control.

Applications for Community College Scholars program due August 13, 2021 • Applications are available at PRVEPA offices and at www.prvepa.com. • Completed applications must be postmarked or emailed by August 13. • 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. 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.

More information is available at www.prvepa.com. 16 TODAY | APRIL 2021

PONTOTOC 662-489-3211 • Fax: 662-489-5156

BRUCE 662-983-2727 • Fax: 662-983-1335

P.O. Drawer 718 • 12 South Main Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863

P.O. Box 415 • 129 South Newberger Street, Bruce, MS 38915

Poteete paints encouraging picture with by Jennifer Johnson decided to carve his own niche in the “rock business.” He Brenda Poteete doesn’t claim to be an artist, but her life is creates arrowheads and has also gotten into making knives. filled with beauty, and her canvas is a unique one: rocks. Poteete routinely takes a bucket of “critters” to a local hotel Poteete, a Bruce resident, finds enjoyment in looking at a owner to give out to guests. One day a lady who lived near the rock and determining what it might be, then painting it in a hotel texted Poteete and asked if she could get a bucket of colorful scene or animal character. She calls them her “blessing the rocks to distribute on a trip to critter rocks.” Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Poteete’s But don’t let the simplicity of Podaughter-in-law, a nurse, enjoys teete’s hobby fool you. She’s making handing out rocks to her patients a larger impact with these small, when they’re in need of some painted objects than she ever thought inspiration or comfort. possible. Poteete includes the words She got started a few years ago “Smile, God loves you” on each when she and her husband and one of her creations, adding that another couple traveled to Mountain it’s her small way of sparking some View, Arkansas on vacation. While joy in the lives of total strangers. there, Poteete saw some children carShe never charges people anyrying around painted rocks and asked thing for her rocks, and she said about them. She was told people she considers the hobby more of a carry them home or they hide them mission. for others to find. Adding her phone number on Poteete was told about a creek the back is another personal touch. where she could find some rocks for She got a call from a man in the herself, and after digging for them, area who had just lost his job when she and her friend made a run to a lohe found one of Poteete’s rocks cal big-box store for paint and other at a nearby park. The man told supplies. She said they painted until Poteete sits at her kitchen counter armed with plenty of paints Poteete he really needed to see almost midnight right in the hotel and works on her next creation. that message of hope. Over the room. Nowadays, Poteete draws out her designs at night while watching television, and she even has past few years that she’s been painting, she has heard testimonies from others who may have just found out they have cancer a Facebook page where she shares her latest designs. or find themselves in other difficult situations. Poteete said that Since that first painting session, Poteete has continued to she likes to place her rocks in random locations because “God make her critters and they’ve become more sought out. “I get always knows where they need to be.” calls for them a lot. I had one person who wanted some to take The cheery creations have been seen frequently in the local on a mission trip. Another time, my cousin drove down here for area, but Poteete said she’s been pleasantly surprised by callers a funeral, and she got some. She said she had more fun placing saying they found one of her rocks in another state. “There was those rocks around as she returned home.” a young man in our church who was in the military. I gave him Husband Ronnie followed Poteete’s lead and recently 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Revisions Requested

CHAD Date_____

Approved

Revisions Requested

a bag of rocks, and he dropped some off in every state he went through as he drove to California. They’ve been found in New Mexico, and I even got a photo of someone holding up their rock that was found when they visited the Grand Canyon.” Not everyone leaves their rock for someone else to find. Poteete said some people prefer to keep them, and she says that’s fine with her because “if they have a bad day, they can always read the back.” Poteete said she keeps bags of rocks in her car at all times because she never knows when someone will ask for some of them or may need a little cheering up due to their circumstances. After recently retiring from work (she was employed by Haworth/United Chair for 23 years, and the past six years she worked as a caregiver), Poteete said she has no desire to stop making her unique creations and hopes to keep her ministry going “until the rocks run out.”

Approved

1. Bruce resident Brenda Poteete still has the first rock she ever painted.

STEVEN Date_____

2. Finished products that are ready to be distributed. 3. Ronnie Poteete enjoys making his own arrowheads.

Revisions Requested

1 2

Approved

RON Date_____

VERSION #______________

4. Buckets of rocks wait their turn to become dinosaurs, turtles, and other creatures that will be placed in various locations.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

NATIONAL LINEWORKER APPRECIATION DAY IS APRIL 18. We honor them on their special day and THANK them for all they do to “keep the lights burning!” Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. — Matthew 7: 7-8

Wishing you peace, the joys of Spring and all the season’s blessings!

Happy Easter from your friends at Pontotoc Electric Power Association!

Blanche’s Pineapple Cake

Tostada Supreme

Curtis (PEPA Retiree) and Seretha Gregory

Sue Cook (PEPA Retiree)

4 eggs 1/2 c. oil

1-1/2 lbs. ground beef 2 cans pinto beans, partially drained Picante or taco sauce Lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese

1 box yellow cake mix 1 c. milk

Add all ingredients. Stir. Cook until done at 350 degrees.

Icing: 2 c. sugar 1 stick oleo 1 can crushed pineapple

3 egg whites 2 tbsp. flour

Add all ingredients and cook on top of stove. Stir until oleo and sugar are melted. Once done, pour on top of cake.

16 TODAY | APRIL 2021

taco seasoning 16 oz. sour cream 2 bags of Doritos

Brown meat and drain. Add taco seasoning. Heat pinto beans and mash. Add 1/4 of sour cream. Prepare salad. Crush Doritos. Mix remainder of sour cream and picante sauce (enough sauce to make the dressing pink). Layer Doritos, pinto beans, ground beef, salad and top with sour cream mixture.

BRIAN HUGHEY

Bringing power and energy services to local communities

Public Relations Specialist

LORRI FREEMAN, APR

STEPHANIE CHISHOLM

For more information, call 601-947-4211 or 228-497-1313.

www.singingriver.com

@singingriverelectric

Manager of Public Relations

@singingriverelectric

Thank you doesn’t quite cover it.

14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Public Relations Assistant

SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

Line workers are highly skilled and encounter some of the most challenging work conditions. Safety must remain a lineman’s primary focus, as his life and Brian Hughey the lives of those General Manager who work with him & CEO depend on it. April is National Lineman Appreciation Month. Reflecting on our linemen’s efforts this past year has me grateful. Beginning in August 2020, Singing River Electric’s distribution system was grazed by Tropical Storm Cristobal, and our linemen worked quickly to restore service to 10,000 SRE members. Later that same month, we were spared the impact of Category 4 Hurricane Laura. However, more than 20 SRE linemen volunteered to help restore service to Beauregard Electric members in Deridder, La. In September 2020, Hurricane Sally appeared to be making a direct path for the Mississippi Gulf Coast when it wobbled east making landfall in Gulf Shores, Ala. Though we avoided a direct hit, our linemen faced outages for more than 9,500 SRE members. Power was restored to all that same day. Our luck dodging storms ran out late

AMANDA PARKER

General Manager & CEO

in the season with Hurricane Zeta. This storm caused more damage to our electric distribution system than any storm since Hurricane Katrina. Following Zeta, 82% (62,388) of Singing River Electric’s 75,798 meters were without electricity. With the assistance of 18 additional co-op crews, Singing River Electric linemen replaced more than 1,100 broken power poles, 320 damaged transformers and 21.61 miles of power lines. After working 10 consecutive 16-hour days, SRE crews were finally able to get back to their normal schedule. As we entered the new year, our country faced a series of ice storms. While Singing River Electric did not experience ice-related power outages, 26 SRE linemen and engineers responded to help both Magnolia Electric Power and Southwest Electric cooperatives over a two-week period. It’s been a busy six months from August 2020 through February 2021 and this year, more than any year, saying thank you doesn’t quite cover it. We honor Singing River Electric linemen and all linemen across our great nation for their strength of character and love of family, community and country. This April we are grateful for our linemen and all of our employees, as well as the families who support them.

@SRECooperative

Energy Tips

Jeff Gray Energy Services Representative gray@singingriver.com

HVAC Summer Service The summer heat is almost here. Now’s the time to ensure your air conditioner is operating at its highest efficiency. We recommend having a service contract with an air conditioning contractor to have your system checked at least once a year. Maintenance issues could include: low freon, dirt on outside or inside coils, an inaccurate thermostat, duct leaks and more. Any of these issues can cause your unit to operate longer cycles, using more energy and resulting in higher energy costs and decreased comfort.

If your unit needs repairs or added freon every year, it’s time to consider replacing it. Singing River Electric has a Comfort Advantage rebate program for replacing an electric furnace or gas furnace with a new electric heat pump. It is the most advanced and efficient heating and cooling system available today. Visit singingriver.com/myhome/heat-pumps for details.

Lineworkers brave ice, fire, floods and storms,

Keeping

Connected.

Thank you doesn’t quite cover it.

nationallineman appreciationmonth #ThankaLineman APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

Move over – for roadside crews. SRE fiber project Member update Singing River Electric is working closely with its consultant, Conexon, to move forward with the 400-mile fiber ring and fiber-to-the-home pilot projects.

April update

Moving over for police, firefighters, utility crews, road crews and other emergency personnel on the side of the road isn’t just polite – it’s a Mississippi law. It’s also a law in many surrounding states. Protecting line and construction crews is a top priority for all Mississippi electric cooperatives. According to Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Vice President of Government Relations Paul Purnell, Mississippi was the second state to add utility workers under the Move Over Law’s protection. Electric contract crews are protected by the same law. “Move Over is not only a good law, it’s also the courteous thing to do,” said Singing River Electric Safety Manager Jason Havard. “Our crews already perform dangerous work to keep the lights on every day. We work to ensure their work environments are as safe as possible, but here we need your help.”

If you’re traveling and see a crew up ahead and there is more than one lane on your side of the road, move over to the farthest lane from the working crew. Slow down as you go by the crew. Pay attention to road signs and driving conditions in order to keep control of your car as you pass the working crew. Eliminate all distractions as distracted driving can be deadly. “We want to make sure each and every crew member returns home to their family,” said Havard.

April 26-30, 2021, is National Work Zone Awareness Week! It’s a great time to discuss the Move Over law with teenage drivers and family members. Help us ensure our linemen return to their families as they work to keep your life bright. Remember to drive safe, work safe and save lives.

Upcoming right-of-way projects Singing River Electric clears trees, limbs and underbrush from the area around and below the power lines called the right-of-way. Right-of-way clearing helps decrease the number of outages and reduces the risk of someone coming in contact with the power lines. Here are the substations and surrounding areas that are either currently being cleared or where clearing will begin soon:

• Agricola Substation – Highway 613, Barton-Agricola Road, Highway 612 and surrounding areas.

• Aleco Substation – Wire Road, Highway 15, Highway 57, Old Biloxi and surrounding areas.

• Lucedale South Substation – Highway 26, Twin Creek Road, Highway 63 and surrounding areas.

• Harleston Substation – Highway 613, Hurley-Wade Road, Highway 614 and surrounding areas.

• Broadband project manager is onsite at the co-op. • Contract crews have been hired for make-ready engineering and construction. • The project manager continues to drive through some of SRE’s service area. Should you see his truck, this does not mean you will be getting fiber soon. • Constructing the fiber ring and pilot projects will take time. Fiber will need to be installed on power poles and within substation buildings or huts constructed in substations to support the project before service can be offered to members. • SRE is not yet ready to announce pilot project locations or begin pre-registering for fiber service.

We are committed to keeping SRE members informed of this project and managing expectations. Keep reading the Today in Mississippi monthly magazine, referring to the website at singingriver.com/broadband and joining conversations on social media to stay informed.

Geographic Districts Singing River Electric board members are elected for a threeyear term from three geographic districts. District 1 directors represent members in Greene, Perry and Wayne counties in Mississippi and Washington County in Alabama. Three District 2 directors represent members in George and Stone counties in Mississippi and Mobile County in Alabama. Four District 3 directors represent members in Jackson and Harrison counties in Mississippi. The number of board representatives is based on population in the area.

Singing River Electric board member Mark LaSalle (second from right) joins SRE employees to plant trees in Lucedale City Park as part of the co-op’s Mississippi Arbor Day events.

Credentials and Election Committee

Board Leadership

Five Singing River Electric members currently serve on the Credentials and Election Committee. These individuals serve the co-op by verifying board candidates prior to election. They also help oversee board elections, allowing for member oversight and ensuring transparency.

More than just attending meetings, today’s board values community and continued education.

hat does it take to be a leader? If you’re a member of an electric cooperative, you can lead by serving on the board of directors. Our 10-member board is made up of SRE members throughout the service area in three geographic districts. Today’s director is not only concerned with providing quality, reliable electric service, but also giving back to local communities, transparency through member communication and continued education. Directors must attend monthly meetings and take classes to stay up-to-date on everything from accounting issues, technology and innovation, renewable energy and more. For more information, visit our website at singingriver.com/my-coop.

Board Election

Singing River Electric board members (top) Cary Williams and Eddie Thornton, and (bottom) Mark LaSalle and Kristal Sisson.

Each year, Singing River Electric holds a board election for three to four posts in the three different geographic districts. Board candidates must submit a candidate packet within the deadline and be approved by the Credentials and Election Committee. Elections are held beginning in May and run through June, just prior to the annual membership meeting. Notice of the meeting is mailed to all members prior to the election period. Directors are elected by the membership by online ballot, mail-in proxy and in-person ballots.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 17

Supporting vocational education SRE NHN Grant beneﬁts Greene County High School Vo-Tech welding classes NHN Community Grants Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN) Community Grants help Singing River Electric merge efforts with the hard work of those within our communities. Since the program’s inception in 2001, $312,178.15 has been awarded to local non-profits in local communities.

Greene County Vo-Tech received a $2,371.56 Singing River Electric Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Grant. Funds purchased a large gas metal arc welding machine with accessories for the newly expanded and growing welding program. Students learn welding skills along with safety, communication and employability skills, blueprint reading and construction math. Welding students recently constructed stairs and guard rails for the McLain Attendance Center football field and have other school-related projects planned.

For more information on SRE NHN Community Grants and how to apply, visit singingriver.com/my-community. Grants for up to $2,500 are awarded to nonproﬁts in SRE’s service area three times a year in January, May and September. 18 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Earth Day April 22 is Earth Day. Singing River Electric recently participated in many conservation efforts including donating trees to the Nature Conservancy of George and Greene Counties, Pascagoula River Audubon Center and the cities of Gautier and Ocean Springs. Employees also helped plant trees at Lucedale City Park.

April is Safe Digging Month! Take time to call 811 and safely locate utility lines before digging. Always consider the mature height of any tree you plant. Look up and see if there are power lines or any obstructions for the tree in the future.

BRINGING THE POWER WWW.SOU THERN PIN E.COOP | P.O. BOX 60 | 1349 1 H WY. 28 | TAYLO R SVIL L E, MS 39 16 8 | 800.231 .524 0

BALANCING AFFORDABILITY AND RELIABILITY: COOPERATIVES WALK A FINE LINE At Southern Pine, our mission is to enhance the quality of life of our members and community by safely providing reliable electric energy at an affordable price. Balancing affordability and reliability has always been a fine line that Southern Pine and all cooperatives walk because we understand that electricity is one of the greatest contributors to our quality of life. Most of our members probably

do not realize this, but Southern Pine has adjusted residential rates only twice in the last 41 years. The last time being over a decade ago. That’s quite an amazing feat when compared to other industries. We can all relate to increasing costs at the gas pump and the grocery store, but the cost of powering your home and lives is still just dollars per day. You would be hard-pressed to find another industry that has adjusted pricing as infrequently as Southern Pine. Even more impressive, the value that electricity adds to our lives every day is immeasurable, but the cost to the members has remained relatively consistent over the last 41 years. For several years now, Southern Pine has needed to adjust the 14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

residential rate, but we have continued to postpone that adjustment year after year. Delaying this adjustment, coupled with the financial impact of tornadoes, hurricanes, and the pandemic experienced in 2020, has begun to impact the distribution system’s reliability. As our lives have become more dependent on technology and modern homes’ conveniences, so has our dependence on reliable electric service. Southern Pine understands that 2020 was difficult for many of our members. As the pandemic continues, 2021 has not been easy so far either. Winter storms in February brought extremely low temperatures, ice, and for many members, outages. Given this added strain on our members, rather than adjusting rates all at one time, Southern Pine is going to make small adjustments to the residential rate over the next three to five years. The first adjustment will become effective on May 1, 2021. The current residential service charge is $25 per month or 82 cents per day. This service charge will be adjusted to $1.00 per day. As you can see, this is a very small adjustment of just 18 cents per day, but it will have a substantial impact on improving the reliability and resiliency of the distribution system. Some of Southern Pine’s other fees have also been adjusted and are available for review on Southern Pine’s website at www.southernpine.coop. Thank you, members, for your patience, understanding and support as Southern Pine worked through numerous tornadoes, storms and hurricanes over the last year — all during a pandemic. As we continue working towards that critical balance of affordability and reliability that our members deserve and expect, we will always do our best to bring the power to you and your family every day.

by Chris K. Rhodes President / CEO Southern Pine Electric

G R 0

COST OF HOU S E H OLD I T E MS 20 10

2 0 2 1

$2.00

$3.57 G A L LO N O F M I L K

$100.00

$275.00 INSULIN

$ 3 .1 8/ l b

$ 4 .1 2 / l b GROUND BEEF

$2.03

$2.56

JAR OF PEANUT BUTTER

$1.99

$2.07 LOA F O F B R E A D

THE COST OF ELECTRICITY 20 10

$0.11/kWh

2 0 2 1

$0.11/kWh APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

THANK A LINEMAN IN APRIL

What’s the first image that comes to mind when you think of Southern Pine Electric? Chances are you would picture a lineman. Some of the most visible employees of the co-op, linemen work tirelessly to ensure our members have reliable power 24/7. Understandably, lineman is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. Their work is detailed, and requires a skilled hand near high-voltage power lines in some of the harshest conditions imaginable. Regardless of the time of day or weather, linemen go to work whenever they’re called. Being a lineman is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. Our dedicated linemen are proud to represent Southern Pine, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineman Appreciation Day. April 12 is Lineman Appreciation Day, so on this day, or any time you see a lineman, please thank them for bringing the power.

16 TODAY | APRIL 2021

MEET SOUTHERN PINE EMPLOYEE:

NATHAN HUDSON

“I wouldn’t be where I am today if I wasn’t surrounded by the people I work with.”

Construction Crew Supervisor Nathan Hudson has served the members of Southern Pine for 20 years. He worked as both apprentice and journeyman lineman before stepping into his current role, which he’s held for the past eight years. Nathan is a hard-working member of the Southern Pine family and loves his job and his work family. “Working here at Southern Pine has been a blessing to my family and me,” he said. “It can be challenging at times, and I think that’s what makes it such a blessing for me — knowing that it’s more than just doing a job; it’s helping people in their time of need.” Nathan said he owes a lot to his co-workers because he had some great supervisors and hard-working co-workers when he started out as a young lineman. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if I wasn’t surrounded by the people I work with,” he said. With so many great memories of Southern Pine, one of the memories that stands out the most happened when working an ice storm in Mayfield, Kentucky in 2009. “We had several cold days and had most of the power restored when we went to eat supper that night at a restaurant in town. When we walked in as a crew, everyone in that place stopped what they were doing and stood up and applauded for what we’d done,” Nathan said. “It was a very humbling experience, and I will never forget it.” This line of work gets in your blood, according to Nathan. His district manager, Mike Kennedy, can attest to that. “We do one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, and I can have peace of mind with guys like Nathan leading a crew in daily tasks or storm events. Nathan makes sure everyone’s keeping safety in mind and watching to make sure all goes as planned,” said Mike. “Nathan is very dedicated to serving our members to the best of his ability, and we can always count on him to do what needs to be done.” Mike adds that it’s been a pleasure working with Nathan over these years. He said Nathan is very professional, knowledgeable and has always pulled his share of the load in any situation that arises. While Nathan said it’s in his blood, his wife of 22 years, Jennifer has a different view. “God made him a lineman. It’s truly his calling, and he won’t rest until all have power. You’ll never hear him complain or even say he’s tired,” she said. Jennifer goes on to say that her husband is humble, dedicated, selfless and a servant. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for his family and he’s truly their hero. When Nathan is not working, he enjoys spending time boating with his family. Nathan and Jennifer have two children, Makenze, 18 and Brady, 14. He also likes hunting, fishing and working on building projects in his spare time. The Hudson family lives in Stringer and are members of Edon Baptist Church. Nathan is thankful for Southern Pine, but he said he is most grateful for his Savior Jesus Christ, wife, children and family. APRIL 2021 | TODAY 17

TAYLORSVILLE DISTRICT:

Taylorsville District Team

NOTHING COMES BEFORE SERVING OUR MEMBERS take care of our members.” The Taylorsville District is located on the beautiful Southern Pine Electric campus, next door to the Jordan Building, headquarters of Southern Pine. With ample parking and a drive-thru, our member service representatives welcome members with a smile. They are here to help with any needs. Lisa Boone, office supervisor, said, “We want our members to feel like family because our members are family. Most of us live in the Southern Pine territory, and we are members as well. Our goal at the Taylorsville District is to help our members with anything they need and let them know how important they are to us.” She adds that Southern Pine is a wonderful place to work, and everyone is like family. The Southern Pine team in Taylorsville proves every day that they genuinely care for their fellow employees. Working together, they join the rest of the Southern Pine Electric team in putting our members first in everything we do and Bringing the Power to you.

Taylorsville is the home of Southern Pine Electric’s headquarters, so it seems as if the Taylorsville District has been around just as long. Before 1989, all work orders originated from the Taylorsville location, so in a sense, it has. In 1989, when the districts were created to better serve our members in an expansive geographical area, the Taylorsville District was established to serve Covington, Jasper, Forrest, Jefferson Davis, Simpson and Smith counties. It also serves a small number of members in Clarke and Jones counties. With a large service area and over 3,498 miles of line, the Taylorsville District serves 28,308 members. The Taylorsville team’s dedication shines through every day as they bring the power to you no matter the weather or conditions. The 48 employees of the district have a combined 874 years of service to our members! Their work has not always been easy. Through storms, hurricanes, ice storms and tornadoes, the Taylorsville team is driven to bring safe, affordable and reliable power to Southern Pine members. “This is the best team I’ve ever worked with, and we’re like a family. We kid and joke, but when it’s time to serve our members, nothing comes before that,” said Mike Kennedy, district manager. “We’re all here for our families, our communities, and our members, and we know they depend on us every day. Our crews are some Taylorsville District Member Service Team of the best around, and we do everything we can to 18 TODAY | APRIL 2021

COOPERATIVE UNIVERSITY 2021 Southern Pine Electric held its annual Cooperative University on March 3, 2020. Twenty-six high school juniors from 17 schools participated in the event at Southern Pine headquarters in Taylorsville. Recommended by their counselors or principals, these students are among the best and brightest in the Southern Pine territory. The fun-filled day was also a crash course in cooperatives as students learned from Southern Pine employees as well as employees of other cooperatives. Participants had the opportunity to meet State Rep. Noah Sanford and ask questions about legislative issues.

Students participated in interactive leadership activities, a safety demonstration and open discussions about Southern Pine Electric and the cooperative difference. The group toured Southern Pine’s dispatch department to find out what happens behind the scenes to bring the power and got a demonstration from Cooperative Energy on electric cars. Each student participated in an interview and two will be selected to receive educational scholarships that will be awarded at Southern Pine Electric’s annual membership meeting in November.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 19

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

P.O. Box 5 • 18671 Highway 61 • Lorman, MS 39096 | 601-437-3611 | 800-287-8564 | Fax: 601-437-8736 | Email: info@swepa.coop southwestelectric.coop

Southwest Electric

SWElectricCoop

sw_electric_coop

Southwest Electric Celebrates Lineworker Appreciation Day When you think of Southwest Electric, you most likely picture an image of a lineman climbing a pole. Linemen work diligently to ensure that Members receive power to their homes 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Working near high voltage lines while performing daily tasks, their profession is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the United States. They often climb as high as 40 feet while carrying heavy equipment, regardless the time of day or the type of weather to get the job done. They are called from the comfort of their homes to tackle a challenging job during extreme conditions while most people are sheltering in theirs. It is not an easy job. It takes years of specialized training, commitment and ongoing education to be a lineman. We also have several other employees who wear hard hats and work with and support linemen. We call them all lineworkers. The right-of-way crews clear the lines of trees and limbs to increase reliability. The engineers ensure the voltages are steady and substations are working efficiently. The staking technicians design new lines safely maintaining a load balance on each phase. The meter technician verifies that the meters are reading correctly. The mechanics keep all of the trucks and equipment running properly. The warehouse material handler helps gather the materials needed to build and repair the lines, poles and substations. Our lineworkers’ dedication and service to our communities truly sets them apart. That’s why the second Monday in April is set aside to recognize these employees who work so hard to keep the lights on. Our loyal and beloved lineworkers are proud to represent Southwest Electric, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 12, and any time you see a lineworker, take a moment to thank them for their exceptional service.

Osmose Pole Inspection Osmose Utilities Services will begin inspecting poles in the blue area on the map in late April. If you live in this area, you may see their trucks and crews near our poles for the next six months. Inspecting, treating and replacing poles helps us stay ahead of issues and improve our system. If you have any questions, contact us at 800-287-8564.

Utica * Reedtown * Hinds County

* Willows

Utica * Institute

* Thompson

Copiah County

Jack * Carlisle *

Dentville *

Hermanville *

* Pattison 547

Smyrna *

Tillman *

Peyton * Barlow * 552

14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Carpenter *

McBride *

Winter Ice Storm by the numbers

• 150+ broken poles • 21,400 meters without power

O RATI N AM G

CO O

8 ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

P E R AT I V

Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas

289 personnel working to restore power 60 line crew bucket trucks 31 digger derricks 68 pickup trucks 16 service bucket trucks 5 right-of-way bucket trucks 5 track machines with digger derricks 3 track machines with buckets 7 bobcats/skid steers 6 semi-trucks with lowboy trailers 4 jarraffs 5 side-by-sides

5 CONTRACTORS • • • •

Delta Tree Services

•

Southern Tree Service

Killen Contractors Kinco MDR Powerline Construction

RIGHT-OF-WAY Port Gibson *

Right-of-way trimming has begun in the pink area indicated on the map. This long-term project may take several months to complete. Delta Tree Services Inc. has been contracted to complete most of this work. Southwest Electric crews will also be working in the area. In addition to normal tree trimming at least 15 feet on either side of the power lines, Southwest Electric will be removing trees that have grown into, or are leaning into, the right-of-way. This will help prevent damage, reduce the number of outages and improve reliability for our Members. If you have any questions about this project, please contact us at 800-287-8564.

Hermanville * 552

Westside * Jefferson County

* Alcorn

Claiborne County

* Pattison

* Russum

* Rodney

547

Tillman * Peyton *

Lorman * Red Lick

Claiborne County

552

553

McBride * Harriston * 553

* Church Hill

* Fayette

Cannonsburg * * Stanton

* Stampley

Union Church *

550

* McNair

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15 Franklin County

SERVING MORE THAN 12,600 ELECTRIC METERS IN SEVEN DELTA COUNTIES Hollandale - 662-827-2262 | Belzoni - 662-247-1909 | Greenville - 662-334-9543 | Rolling Fork - 662-873-4233 | REPORT OUTAGES 866-897-7250

Twin County takes great pride in celebrating our dedicated linemen. We are most appreciative of their dedication in ensuring Twin County Members are receiving power and restoration efforts during outages. We also want to give a shout-out to their families for their support and keeping things running smoothly at home so our team can take care of our Members.

Our linemen have over 360 years of combined experience with Twin County! PATRICK ALFORD OZELL BALDRIDGE BRIAN COCHRAN BUD ETHERIDGE JEREMY FULLER DANIEL HUMPHREY JACOB JOHNSON CODY LACK TRI LLOYD

Thank you, guys! We appreciate everything y’all Thank do youfor tous! all the

hard-working folks. Jason Cooper You are the best! Danny Chillers

14 TODAY | APRIL 2021

CHANDLER LUKE MIKE MANOR RANDELL MANSELL J R MILLER GENE NEWTON TOM PRICE PERRY RAMSEY JOEY RODGERS MARCUS ROSS

Prayers for the safety of each and every one of our linemen! Leslie Edwards

ANDREW SCREWS RUSS STEWART ALEX SWANAGAN, JR BRADLEY TAYLOR TYLER THARP ROGER VALDEZ ROBERT WILLIAMS

Thank you to all the hard-working folks. You are the best! k you, guys! Than Danny Chillers We appreciate everything y’all do for us! Jason Cooper

*Comments taken from Facebook after winter storms.

P s a o

Spring is here and humid days are just around the corner! Check your clothes dryer An improperly vented clothes dryer can dump some or all of that water from your wet clothes into the air. Check that your venting systems is sealed and working properly.

Vent your stove and bathroom fans outside All fans should be vented outside and not just into your attic. Check for leakage and seal any leaks.

Seal air leaks Find places where hot air is leaking in and air conditioning leaking out. Sealing those leaks to improve air comfort and cut energy costs. Check around windows and doors.

Insulate water pipes Condensation can occur when there is a difference between the temperature of your water pipes and the humid air in your home.

Monitor drainage around your home Rainwater and runoff from gutters and downspouts can easily flow toward your foundation and leak or leech into the structure. Directing water away and sealing your foundation can have a big impact on the humidity level in your home and your electric bill. We all know the saying, “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity.” Well, now you know a few ways to keep the air in your home a little drier, and hopefully a bit more comfortable. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/5-ways-keep-yourhome-comfortable-humid-climate

National Engineers Week was celebrated Feb. 21-27

Winter Storms Uri and Viola brought exceptionally cold

We have the best engineering department and want to recognize this team.

temperatures in the Delta from Feb. 12-20, 2021. Please check your READ date on your bill if you experience Prayers an forincrease the in bill amount. safety of each Although and every one of we are starting our linemen! to see spring-like weather, Leslie Edwards those winter

storms may

Thank you, guys! We appreciate everything y’all do for us! Jason Cooper

impact your bill. (L to R) Richard Winslow, Kenneth Knight, Richard Stallworth, Michael Lang, Ken Bagley, Penny Eaton and Kenneth Wolford. Not pictured, Randy Rainey.

APRIL 2021 | TODAY 15

TWITTER

662-746-4251 — OFFICE & REPORT OUTAGES • 866-484-4277 — PAY BY PHONE

VISIT US ONLINE @ WWW.YAZOOVALLEY.COM

Ron White Over the last few decades, the electric power industry has made leaps and bounds in the way we provide electricity to homes and businesses. After almost 50 years in the industry Ron White has had a front-row seat, and after April 1 (he has assured me it’s not an April’s fool joke) he will be hanging up his hardhat. I had the privilege to sit and talk with Ron as we reflected on his career. Like most of the adventure seekers who venture into the business, Ron started right out of high school. He went to work for his hometown utility, Arkansas Power and Light. After eight years of hard work and excitement, he left to pursue a college degree. Achieving that goal, completing college and grad school, Ron entered the ministry full-time for about four years. He said, “I later decided to re-evaluate my calling and occupation and decided to look for work in the electric power business once again.” A friend referred him to Charles Henry Shelton, General Manager of Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association, who was highly interested in his experience and qualifications and offered him the job of safety coordinator in 1993. In that role he developed a successful lineman training program for the association, and was then promoted to manager of member services, where he was charged with heading up Yazoo Valley’s first-ever retirement of capital credits. In 2007, the need for a new system engineer arose and once again, Ron’s knowledge and talent gave cause for him to assume the added responsibilities of system engineering. In 2013, following the sudden and untimely death of Shelton, the association’s beloved general manager, Ron was unanimously selected by the board of directors to serve as Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association’s General Manager. Since taking over in 2013, the industry has seen a lot of changes. “The biggest changes I have seen in the industry are in electric generation. The industry

has begun a shift to get away from fossil fuels, coal in particular. I believe renewable energy will supply a large amount of electric energy in the future, but it will be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to replace the existing generation fleet with only wind and solar. The recent events in Texas have proven both to be unreliable to the provision of baseload power. Replacing even our current generation capacity will be difficult and expensive as the prime areas for wind and solar are very far from the population centers of our country. Moreover, the auto industry shift toward electric vehicles will put even more demand on the electrical grid. Our energy policy needs to be driven by the realities of our economy and the well-being of our citizens, as well as the protection of the environment. I guarantee people will not like the outcomes if that balance is not maintained.”, said Ron. If you know Ron, you know of his commitment and love for Yazoo Valley. When I asked him what he will miss most about the job, his answer would come as no surprise. He said, “Without question, I will miss the board of directors and the employees of Yazoo Valley. They are like family to me.” I offered Ron the opportunity to brag about himself and the things he has done. He replied as I knew he would, with selflessness and humility when asked what stands out as his biggest accomplishment in his 27 years with Yazoo Valley? “My accomplishments have always been part of a team effort. Our team worked together over the years to return member-equity while maintaining the financial health of the association. In 2019, we had our largest ever retirement of member-equity when we returned over $9 million to our members. That stands out to me. However, I think the best moment for me personally came during the flood of 2011. The water rose so high in the lower Mississippi delta that all the transmission lines had to be de-energized. This meant that a very large number of our members who live and work in the areas around Vicksburg would have been without power for weeks. We searched for and located a site on high ground where the transmission lines and one of our distribution circuits intersected. After the site was identified that met the requirements, we were able

to arrange with the landowner (who lived in another state) to construct a temporary electrical substation to keep the power on for all our members in the area. There is much more to the story, but I believe that was one of our finest hours.” Further, with all the responsibilities and duties Ron has had over the years, I’m sure he’s had some difficult moments where his job got really tough. “The hardest part of the job for me has always been the hazards that our employees face each day. The electric power industry has many workplace hazards. We operate heavy equipment and aerial lift devices, climb poles, cut trees and work on energized high voltage lines and equipment. Seeing young men with young families leaving the yard each morning and knowing the hazards they face as part of their job has always been the most stressful and difficult part of my job. I will not have that sense of responsibility any longer, but I will always be concerned for the well-being of my friends and co-workers.” I asked, looking back at your career, knowing what you know now, is there anything that you would do differently? “I have thought about this subject quite a bit. One can always second guess their thoughts and actions. So yes, there are some things I would have done differently, but I do not believe the outcomes would have been different. I believe my motives were good. I have a good conscience about that. The outcomes would have been the same, but the execution could have been improved. It is hard to walk a long way without stumbling once or twice.” Ron also has some advice for the new CEO, Michael Neely. “Put the members first in every decision and do everything in your power to secure the health and safety of your employees. I have no doubt that he will do both!” Ron’s plans for retirement includes spending more time with his wife and children, and especially his grandchildren. “I also have many interests. I am a woodworker, woodturner and amateur luthier. I like to paint (canvasses, not houses). I like to garden and work in the yard. I also want to be more involved in the ministries of my church. I want to be useful to my family, my church and my community if God gives me the strength. My parents gave me a good work ethic. Retirement will only change where I report to work each day.”

by Dennis McFee Manager of Member Services

“Lineman” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, linemen must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heaving equipment to get the job done. We set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and

recognize the men and women who work around the clock to keep the lights on. On April 12, and any time you see a lineman, we hope you’ll join us in thanking them for their exceptional service.

#thankalineman

Henry Lewis

Don “Dog” McBride

Henry Lewis has always been a man of few words but his experience and dedication to Yazoo Valley speaks volumes. Henry began his career as a groundman in 1979. He later became an apprentice and made lineman in 2005. He obtained his journeyman lineman status in 2011. Henry has served the association and its members for over 40 years. There has never been a day where anyone has heard Henry complain. A retirement well-earned, Henry.

Don “Dog” McBride was hired as a lineman apprentice in 1990 and promoted to lineman in 1991. Don’s previous experience as a contractor instantly brought added skills and knowledge to the Yazoo Valley team. In 1996, Don achieved his journeyman status and was later promoted to line foreman in 2005. He served as the face of Yazoo Valley to the people of Coxburg, the community that Don calls home. Job well done, Don!

16 TODAY | APRIL 2021

Annually, the board reviews the cooperative’s financial strength and can declare a capital credit retirement that results in a check or credit to an account to each eligible active member or inactive member. Yazoo Valley utilizes a hybrid retirement method that allows a portion of the retirement to be paid to the members with capital credit balances in the most recently completed year and a portion to the members with capital credit balances in the oldest year or years still having balances. For instance, for 2021, a portion of 2020 operating capital credits will be retired along with a portion of 2000. This hybrid method allows 2020 members to participate in the retirement, as well as members from 2000. Operating capital credits retired in 2021 amount to $1,028,481.23. Also, Cooperative Energy, the cooperative’s power provider, retired capital credits in the amount of $322,662.74 in 2021. This amount will be retired to the Yazoo Valley members and is included in the 2021 capital credit retirement. This provides for a total capital credit retirement of $1,351,143.97.

What does

Yazoo Valley do with my capital credit allocation?

Yazoo Valley utilizes the non-retired capital credits in the ongoing operations of the cooperative. Capital credits are a significant source of equity for the cooperative. Equity is used to help finance assets of the cooperative, such as investment in poles, wire, transformers and substations. Capital credits help keep rates at an affordable level by reducing the amount of funds that must be borrowed to grow and maintain Yazoo Valley’s existing electric system.

What is

Yazoo Valley’s history on returning capital credits?

Since beginning capital credit retirements in 1993, Yazoo Valley has retired more than $27.7 million in capital credits. Yazoo Valley has made consistent annual retirements over the 28-year period, fully retiring operating margins for 1955-1999.

Active accounts with capital credit retirements less than $100 will see their return in the form of a convenient bill credit. This helps keeps rates low and saves you time and money. APRIL 2021 | TODAY 17

Revisions Requested Approved

CHAD Date_____ Revisions Requested

How

does Yazoo Valley calculate my retired credits?

Approved

Yazoo Valley’s board of directors annually reviews the cooperative’s financial position and can declare a capital credit retirement. Inactive members remain eligible for capital credit retirements after leaving the cooperative on condition that they have capital credit account balances. Accordingly, members leaving the system need to keep a current address on file with the cooperative.

STEVEN Date_____

Yazoo Valley retire my capital credits?

Revisions Requested

When will

Yazoo Valley is a member-owned electric cooperative owned by the individuals and businesses who receive electric service from Yazoo Valley. Electric cooperatives are not-for-profit companies and abide by the seven cooperative principles. One of these principles is members’ economic participation, which means members contribute equitably to and democratically control the capital of the cooperative. Each member earns capital credits from margin created when revenues exceed the total operating costs and expenses for the year. This margin is allocated to eachmember’s capital credit account based on the member’s patronage for that year. Capital credit retirements are a return of these allocations to the members.

Approved

What are... capital credit retirements

RON Date_____

ABOUT CAPITAL CREDITS

VERSION #______________

Things to know