Today in Mississippi July 2020 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

FOR MEMBERS OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI

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CENTRAL ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION A tradition of dependable, hometown service since 1937.

107 E. Main Street Carthage, MS 39051

Carthage: 601-267-5671 • Philadelphia: 601-656-2601 Rankin: 601-829-1201 • Sebastopol: 601-625-7422

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When it comes to cleaning, not all jobs are created equal. When you’ve got a big mess in the kitchen — do you clean, disinfect or sanitize? These terms are often used interchangeably, but believe it or not, each are different. Cleaning dirt or food from a surface, for example, doesn’t necessarily kill germs and bacteria that can cause us to become sick. That’s why it’s important to know the difference between disinfecting and sanitizing. The CDC offers the following guidance. Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces or objects. Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection. Hospitals, for example, disinfect areas that have come into contact with

bodily fluids, and parents typically disinfect areas where a baby’s diaper is changed. Sanitizing lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe level, as judged by public health standards or requirements. This process works by either cleaning or disinfecting surfaces or objects to lower the risk of spreading infection. Most people sanitize kitchen surfaces that come into contact with food. Pay close attention to hazard warnings and directions on product labels. Cleaning products and disinfectants often call for the use of gloves or eye protection. For example, gloves should always be worn to protect your hands when working with bleach solutions. Visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus for more information on how to protect yourself and your family.

NEW! JUST FOR YOU.

CEPA’s NEW MOBILE APP

Monitor your energy use • Make fast, secure payments Receive important alerts and reminders

Iphone IOS

Google Play

Scan with your smart phone to get started. 12 TODAY | JULY 2020

ENERGY Higher temperatures this summer will mean higher utility bills for many Mississippians. But there are ways to control your costs and still survive the heat. About half of your energy use goes to cooling your home in the summer and heating it in the winter. Children who are out of school and staying at home can also boost your energy use because televisions are on longer, video games are being

• Replace any light bulb that burns more than one hour per day with its equivalent LED bulb. • Turn off lights when you leave a room. • Computers and monitors should be turned off when not in use. • TVs, stereos and radios should be turned off when no one is watching or listening to them. • Unplug chargers for phone and laptop batteries when not in use. • Unplug unused refrigerators or freezers. • Use the microwave for cooking when possible.

played or computers are being used more. Also, with more people going into and out of the home, cool air is lost, and the air conditioner must work harder to keep the temperature at a comfortable level. You can spend a lot of money making your home more energy efficient by adding insulation, replacing windows and installing EnergyStar appliances. However, there are also some easy, inexpensive steps you can take to control your energy use. Here are a few:

• Use a slow cooker instead of simmering foods on the stove. • Only run the dishwasher when it’s fully loaded and use the air-dry cycle. • Set the thermostat to 78 degrees or as close to that temperature that you can and still feel comfortable. Every degree higher saves energy and money. • Lock your windows to get a better seal so you won’t lose cool air. • Change your air filter regularly so your air conditioner won’t have to work so hard.

Visit our website, www.centralepa.com, for more energy-efficiency tips that can help you keep your utility bills lower this summer.

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HAPPY SUMMER! P.O. BOX 188 340 HOPSON STREET • LYON, MS 38645

662-624-8321 FAX: 662-624-8327

www.coahomaepa.com cepa@coahomaepa.com

for responding to the 2020 Census It’s now time to respond to the 2020 Census! The U.S. Census Bureau has been preparing for this once-a-decade population count for years. The question is: Are you ready?

4. Determine how you will respond: online, by phone, or by mail. If you want to answer on paper, you can. Paper questionnaires are arriving by mail to households that haven’t yet responded.

Here are 10 quick tips to help you to respond and it should take just a few minutes:

5. Responding online is easy. Your invitation includes a Census ID number. But if you lose it, you can use your address. You can go online on any device including a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Remember: If you respond online, you must complete the census in one sitting. You will not have the ability to save your progress and come back to finish.

1. If you don’t regularly check the mail, please do so now. By now, most households have received at least one invite to respond to the 2020 Census, which includes instructions for how to respond online, by phone, or by mail. 2. Even if you don’t get an invitation in the mail, you can go online at 2020census.gov and respond now. You don’t have to wait for the paper questionnaire to arrive either. 3. Your name isn’t on it. The invitation will be addressed to “Resident” — that’s you (and everyone in your household). Don’t throw it out just because your name isn’t on it. But do be aware of scam and fraud mail.

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6. You can respond in English and 12 different languages online and by phone. There will be a drop-down menu online, or a special phone number on your invitation. Other languages are: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Russian, Arabic, Tagalog, Polish, French, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, and Japanese. The Census Bureau also offers webpages and guides in 59 non-English languages, including American Sign Language, and guides in Braille and large print.

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7. On the paper questionnaire use blue or black ink — no pencils! You can write in the margins, though, if you need space. Be sure to return the questionnaire in the envelope provided. If you lost it, return it to: U.S. Census Bureau, National Processing Center, 1201 E 10th Street, Jeffersonville, IN 47132. 8. Figure out who is “Person 1/Head of House hold.” If you’re the only person in your home, then you are Person 1. If more than one person lives in your home, Person 1 is generally someone whose name is on the mortgage or rental agreement and who is over age 15.

9. Count everyone who lives in your home — including children. Count everyone who lives and sleeps in your home most of the time, including relatives, friends and others. Learn more about who to count and special circumstances for specific groups of people such as military. If more than 10 people live in your home, respond online at 2020census.gov where there is plenty of space. 10. Respond as soon as you can. Respond on your own now to avoid a visit from a census taker later this year.

LEARN MORE AT 2020CENSUS.GOV.

Powering Up After an Outage Powering Up After an Outage When the power goes out, we expect it to be restored within a few hours. But when a major storm or natural disaster causes widespread damage, extended outages may result. Our line crews work long, hard hours to restore service safely to the greatest number of members in the shortest time possible. Here’s how we get to work when you find yourself in the dark:

1. High-Voltage Transmission Lines:

Transmission towers and cables supply power to transmission substations (and thousands of members), and they rarely fail. But when damaged, these facilities must be repaired before other parts of the system can operate.

2. Distribution Substation:

A substation can serve hundreds or thousands of members. When a major outage occurs, our line crews inspect substations to determine if problems stem from transmission lines feeding into the substation, the substation itself or if problems exist further down the line.

3. Main Distribution Lines:

If the problem cannot be isolated at a distribution substation, distribution lines are checked. These lines carry power to large groups of members in our local communities.

4. Tap Lines:

If local outages persist, supply lines (also known as tap lines) are inspected. These lines deliver power to transformers, either mounted on poles or placed on pads for underground service, outside businesses, schools and homes.

5. Service Lines:

If your home remains without power, the service line between a transformer and your residence may need to be repaired. If you experience an outage, please give us a call so we can isolate the issue.

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Where our members have the power Communicators: April Lollar & Merilee Sands For Today in Mississippi information, call 877-7MY-CEPA (1-877-769-2372) www.coastepa.com

A message from your CEO The democratic process is something that is of great importance to American citizens and one of the things we celebrate on Independence Day. It’s important to you as a cooperative member, too. Coast Electric is a democratic organization, controlled by our members. Not only do we ask our members each year to elect their fellow members to serve on our board, from time to time, we come to you with issues that impact your cooperative. As you know, 2020 has been a year of change and adapting to our circumstances. Part of those changes means a special Annual Meeting this year that will be held in August instead of November. In addition to electing your board representatives, we are also asking you to cast your vote to amend our Certificate of Consolidation to allow us to offer broadband, should we find it is in the best interest of our members and community. You can find more details on www.coastepa.com where you can cast your broadband vote and register for the meeting. We will also mail proxy registration cards and broadband ballots to your home later this month or you may vote and register at any of our offices. We appreciate you adapting to these changes and we look forward to returning to our normal meeting in 2021.

Those who wish to attend the meeting in person should be aware that this year’s meeting will look a little different to meet CDC recommended guidelines, including wearing a mask. The meeting will be back at our Kiln Headquarters and we will not have refreshments, giveaways or cash prizes. We will be offering electricity credits to all members who vote on broadband and register their proxy. Due to COVID-19, every registration received will be entered for electricity credits. You do not have to be present to win. We appreciate you adapting with us this year so that we may get your feedback on offering broadband services.

We need your vote on broadband!

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If you would like for your cooperative to consider broadband service, our Certificate of Consolidation must be changed.

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HOW CAN YOU VOTE? We will mail a ballot along with our Annual Meeting proxy registration card to your home. You can fill out that card and mail it in. • You can vote on coastepa.com. • You can vote in any office. • You can cast your ballot at our Annual Meeting on August 25 at 2 p.m. (Please note the changes to this year’s meeting to meet CDC guidelines.)

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Lobbies open

4/28/20 2:46 PM

Coast Electric lobbies are open to members. We are happy to welcome you again and hope you will consider the health and safety of our employees and your fellow members when you visit us.

Valued employee retires After more than 41 years of service to Coast Electric and our members, Debbie McCardle retired this spring. Coast Electric employees honored Debbie with a parade to show their appreciation to her dedication and hard work on behalf of our members.

CFO John Holston pictured with Debbie McCardle

ENERGY ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE THROUGH SHARE YOUR BLESSINGS

We all need a little help from our neighbors from time to time, and high bills can put a strain on families’ financial plans. Do you in need energy Coast SharetoYour Blessings managed by friends need, Coastassistance? Electric offers a Electric’s secure way assist thosefund, in our community. Share Your Blessings is an energy Catholic Charities of South Mississippi, was created to give those in need a helping hand. While program thatagencies allows that Coast Electric help members inElectric need of assistance paying their power bill. there are other offer energymembers assistance intoour area,fellow we encourage Coast members to contact Catholic Charities. Energy assistance is available at Catholic Charities through Coast Electric’s Share Your Blessings program, funded by Operation Round Up and Q. Whereofdoes the money come from? the generosity our members.

A: Through our Operation Round Up program, the monthly bills of Q: Why Catholic Charities? participating members are rounded up to the nearest dollar and Coast Electric and Catholic Charities are long-standing community partners. theCharities amounthas collected is put intotothe Coast Electric Community Catholic procedures in place ensure the donations they receive are used wisely and help those who need it. There is also a steady source Trust. Twenty-five percent of annual Operation Round Upof funding for the program from Coast Electric members who participate in collections will be donated to Share Your Blessings. Operation Round Up. Q: Do you have to be the Catholic to receive Q. Where does money go?funds from Catholic

Charities? A: The Share Your Blessings funds collected through Operation A: No. Any Coast Electric member meeting the criteria for the program can Round be distributed receive funds Up fromwill Catholic Charities. to the United Way of South Mississippi. United Way will send the funds to Catholic Charities Q: How can I apply for funds? to determine which members receive assistance. The funds will A: Contact Catholic Charities of South Mississippi at 855-847-0555 to need,Charities not religious affiliation. beginbe thedistributed qualification based process.on Catholic is only conducting phone interviews at this time for the health and safety of its clients.

Q. Do I qualify for assistance?

A: Members in need of energy assistance should contact Catholic Charities at 855-847-0555 to see if they qualify. All recipients are screened to ensure there is a verified need and 100 percent of

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

Notice of Annual Meeting The annual meeting of the members of Coast Electric Power Association will be held on August 25, 2020. The following information is provided in accordance with association bylaws.

COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS; CREDENTIALS AND ELECTIONS It shall be the duty of the board to appoint no less than 40 days nor more than 120 days before the date of the meeting of the members at which directors are to be elected, a committee on nominations consisting of not less than five nor more than 11 members who shall be selected from different sections so as to insure equitable geographic representation. The committee shall receive and consider any suggestions as to nominees submitted by members of the association. The committee shall prepare and post at the principle office of the association at least 30 days before the meeting a list of nominations for board members. The secretary must mail with the notice of the meeting or separately a statement of the number of board members to be elected and the names and addresses of the candidates nominated by the Committee of Nominations. Any 25 members acting together may make other nominations by

petition and the secretary shall post such nominations at the same place where the list of nominations by the committee is posted provided same is filed with and approved by the Committee on Nominations at least 30 days prior to the Annual Meeting. Any petition for nominations 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. No nomination by petition will be accepted by the Committee on Nominations which are not filed with such committee at least 24 hours prior to the meeting date and time, if such a petition is timely filed, such person shall be a write-in candidate. A complete copy of the association bylaws is available upon request at all offices of Coast Electric Power Association or on www.coastepa.com.

Notice of member vote to ratify changes How do I vote? As part of the written notice to Coast Electric’s members to the Certificate of Consolidation of the Annual Meeting to be held August 25, 2020, each The board of directors of Coast Electric Power Association has voted to change the cooperative’s Certificate of Consolidation. Coast Electric members now must ratify the certificate for those changes to go into effect. Following the Mississippi Legislature removing the prohibition for electric cooperatives in Mississippi to offer broadband through an affiliate or unaffiliated broadband provider, the board of directors is asking the membership to ratify the addition of the following provision to its Certificate of Consolidation: The board of directors is recommending that this provision be added so that Coast Electric has the option, if determined by the board to be needed and financially prudent, to take steps on its own, or with a partner already in the broadband service industry, to provide broadband services. The board has not made a final decision to offer broadband, as extensive study and planning are required to determine financial prudence, but the board is of the opinion that it should, at this time, ask the membership to ratify broadband as a potential option for Coast Electric through this amendment to the Certificate of Consolidation.

member will receive a proxy form this month. That proxy form will include the following voting option: Do you approve the Board’s proposed amendment to Coast Electric’s Certificate of Consolidation to allow for high speed internet as set forth in the written notice of Coast Electric’s August 25, 2020, meeting? Yes_ No_ (This is not an official ballot.) Instructions for executing the proxy form and returning it to Coast Electric are included.

What is broadband service, and what is required for Coast Electric to offer it? Broadband provides consumers with linkage to the internet, including voice, data, video and email services. The connection Coast Electric is considering would be through a fiber optic connection, which many believe provides the fastest and most reliable broadband service to the consumer. Coast Electric would need to extend fiber across areas of its system, mostly on its own poles, to provide that fiber access to consumers.

Are there benefits from a fiber network to Coast Electric as an electric utility? Yes. Coast Electric is a modern utility. It has multiple forms of communications systems linking its offices, substations and other equipment to remotely gather information on use and abnormal conditions and enables Coast Electric to more effectively manage its electric system. Adding additional fiber to its system would improve this communications process, leading to what is called a “smart grid.” This smart grid would materially improve efficiency and outage response in areas where fiber is deployed. 14 TODAY | JULY 2020

What would be the process going forward for Coast to offer broadband? The board of directors decided that after the legislation passed allowing broadband to be a permitted business of the cooperative, it was important for them to evaluate the need and prudence of entering into the broadband communications area. As part of that study and evaluation, it was determined that without member approval of a change in its Certificate of Consolidation, Coast Electric would not have the full corporate authority needed to offer broadband. The required next step to a full evaluation of broadband is to seek member approval. If the proposed amendment to Coast Electric’s Certificate of Consoli-

dation is not approved by the membership, the board’s consideration of broadband would stop. However, if the amendment is ratified by members, the board would develop a full economic and service plan that meets the requirements set forth by the Mississippi legislature. As part of this process, the board would determine if broadband service is likely to meet a compelling need of its membership, if the investment required could be appropriately financed, and if the business plan would adequately protect Coast Electric from adverse financial impacts to Coast Electric as an electric service provider.

When will a member know when they will get broadband service?

Why is the board requesting that the membership vote now?

Following member approval of the amendment to Coast Electric’s certificate, a service and financial plan will be developed for the areas in which fiber will be installed, and the sequence. If Coast Electric receives either or both federal and state funding assistance for rural broadband, those areas would need to have fiber installed within the time limits set in the funding. Other areas would be determined based on the current level of service and a cost/benefit analysis. Before the board considers authorizing this project to proceed, the full plan will have to be developed. If the board does then vote to proceed, the members will be provided information on the plan, the sequence of areas and an expected date of service to each area. All should be advised that installing fiber for broadband is a lengthy process, and it would be years before all members would have access to some form of broadband. The Coast Electric board is aware that modern internet service has become a basic need for rural areas.

Congress has allocated funds to support broadband in rural areas that currently have no internet access. The process to award these funds is in 2020, and the board of directors may want to apply for these funds as they would enable service to rural areas in and near Coast Electric’s service area that otherwise would never economically justify the investment for fiber installation. Also, the Mississippi legislature is considering making funds available to assist electric cooperatives extend broadband service to rural areas. This is being driven by the difficulties recently encountered during the COVID-19 crisis in distance learning and telemedicine in rural areas without internet access. If the amendment to Coast Electric’s articles is ratified by the membership, Coast Electric would be in a position to apply for any state funds for broadband that may be made available as well.

JULY 2020 | TODAY 15

Summer/water safety

Summer is here and it’s time to hit e water! While you are having fun in e sun,remember ese safety tips to k p your summer carefr . BOATING

• Avoid contact with overhead power lines. Check • • • • • •

clearance before raising or lowering your mast or spar. When determining overhead clearances, be sure to take the tide into consideration. Clearances may be adequate for your boat at low tide, but not at high tide. Make sure to keep all drying sails and sheet lines from blowing into power lines. Don’t haul, store or sail your boat unless you have at least 10 feet of clearance between the highest point of your boat and the lowest point of all power lines. When fishing onboard, make sure to check for overhead power lines before casting your line. As you boat, be aware of signs indicating underwater gas and electric utility lines. Do not anchor your boat near underwater cables or pipelines. Minimize electrocution from the onboard AC electrical system by ensuring the boat is properly wired by a professional marine electrician and is inspected periodically for damage or deterioration.

Cristobal The Mississippi coast experienced the first named storm of the season in June with Tropical Storm Cristobal flooding the coastline and drenching the area. Coast Electric crews worked throughout the storm to restore service to members and were able to restore service to everyone — except a handful of members on a flooded street — by late evening the day the storm hit. We appreciate our crews and dispatchers for their hard work and our members for their patience.

#ThankALineman

SWIMMING POOLS

• All outdoor receptacles should be covered to keep them • • • • • • •

dry. This is especially important around pools, spas and other summer water activities. Make sure all electrical equipment used for swimming pools (even the cleaning equipment) is grounded. Electrical devices and cords should be at least 10 feet away from pools. When possible, use battery-operated electrical devices outside. Never handle electrical devices when you are wet — either from water activities or from perspiration. Make sure there are no power lines over a swimming pool. Do not swim during a thunderstorm. To avoid electric shock drowning, have an electrician inspect and upgrade your pool, spa or hot tub in accordance with applicable local codes and the National Electrical Code® (NEC).

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in season ahead by Derrill Holly Government meteorologists say atmospheric conditions are ripe for an above-normal season of storm activity in the Atlantic Basin and predict 13 to 19 named storms with sustained winds exceeding 39 mph. Six to 10 of those storms could reach hurricane strength of at least 74 mph, and three to six could pack sustained winds of 111 mph, achieving major hurricane status. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released its annual forecast May 21. Co-op mutual aid coordinators meet each year in Biloxi to discuss last year’s storm season and how responses can be improved, said Gerald Gordon, vice president of safety and loss control for the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi. “These individuals represent 25-35 states and thousands of cooperative employees that are ready to respond to the call for assistance,” Gordon said. “He added that each request for help goes to statewide organizations and is then fulfilled by assisting states. “Now is the time to get prepared,” warned Gerry Bell, lead hurricane season forecaster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. NOAA and the Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies released a report this spring linking warming earth surface temperatures to increasing tropical storm intensity. The study, covering a 39-year period ending in 2017, suggested a worldwide shift toward more tropical weather systems that achieve major hurricane intensity.

While the global rate of storm severity increase was about 8% per decade, “the greatest changes are found in the North Atlantic, where the probability of major hurricane exceedance increases by 49% per decade,” the report states. NOAA forecast greater potential of hurricanerelated havoc to occur well inland from where a system makes landfall, even as storms are downgraded below hurricane strength and winds subside. “A slow-moving tropical storm can produce 9 to 15 inches of rain over a large area,” said Bell. Federal Emergency Management Agency officials are encouraging coastal residents to act now to prepare for potential hurricane evacuations because of concerns stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. “There’s always a challenge meeting shelter needs during and after a major hurricane,” said Carlos Castillo, FEMA acting deputy administrator for resilience. “Social distancing and other CDC guidance to keep you safe from COVID-19 may impact the disaster preparedness plan you had in place, including what is in your go-kit, evacuation routes, shelters and more.” In April, meteorologists from Colorado State University’s Tropical Meteorology Project predicted above-normal storm activity as well for 2020. The preseason CSU forecast of 16 named storms included eight reaching hurricane strength and four expected to achieve major hurricane status. Derrill Holly is a staff writer for NRECA. JULY 2020 | 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

Delta Electric is pleased to announce that it has partnered with Cooperative Energy to complete its first ever electric vehicle charging station pilot project through its GoEV! program. Cooperative Energy is Delta Electric’s generation and transmission cooperative headquartered in Hattiesburg. Robinson Electric Company headquartered in Cleveland handled the installation of the charger station. Jeff Cantin with the Gulf States Renewable Energy Industry Association served as our outside consultant on the installation. Cooperative Energy developed the GoEV! program with a goal to make cross-state travel in an electric vehicle possible by installing charging stations within the service territories of Delta Electric and 10 other electric cooperatives across the state. Electric vehicles today are gaining momentum with more models available and at better prices than ever before. In addition to their performance and upscale amenities, EVs are true to their core mission. EVs are environmentallyfriendly — all-electric vehicles produce zero emissions — and have lower operational costs than a conventional automobile (EVs require no oil changes and electricity is a cheaper commodity than gasoline). The GoEV! program will enable Mississippi to become an EV-friendly state. The electric vehicle charging station is located in the rear parking lot of the Winona McDonalds at the intersection of US Highway 82 and Interstate 55.

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“We greatly appreciate McDonalds and the Retzer family agreeing to host this electric vehicle charging station at their Winona location,” said David O’Bryan, Delta Electric’s general manager. “Over time, this McDonalds location and the city of Winona will benefit from increased business from electric vehicle owners,” he said. The charger station includes two different type chargers. There is a dual port Level 2 charger that allows for charging an electric vehicle 5 to 7 times faster than a standard home wall outlet charger and 3 times faster for a plug-in hybrid. But, the impressive part of this station is the 50 kw, ultra-fast charger that will provide a very fast, 30 to 45-minute charge for electric vehicles. The fast charger has cables for both Chademo and CCS electric vehicle connections, with the CCS connector being the standard for newer electric vehicles. The electric chargers will be a part of the Greenlots electric vehicle charger network and show up on a digital map used by electric vehicle owners to locate and optimize the use of electric charger stations. Greenlots also has a mobile app to support the location and use of charging stations in its network. “Electric vehicle owners plan their trips around the location of charging stations so we think McDonalds and the City of Winona will greatly benefit from the strategic location of this station right off Interstate 55 and US Highway 82,” said O’Bryan. The charging station will also be listed on the Plugshare charging station digital map.

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Delta Electric employees Brent Mulvihill and Nathan Harris prepare to unload the electric vehicle fast charger.

Cooperative Energy project engineer, David Blackledge, discusses the electrical panel setup for the electric vehicle chargers with Delta Electric General Manager David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bryan.

Technicians with Robinson Electric work on installation of the electric chargers.

Jeff Cantin conducts a test charge of his Tesla electric vehicle using the fast charger.

After installation, the Level 2 charger is on the left and fast charger is on the right.

Winona McDonalds electric vehicle chargers ready to be activated.

6 Delta Electric General Manager David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bryan is pictured with Sara Peterson, Corporate Communications Manager, who coordinates the GoEV! pilot program for Cooperative Energy.

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

CONTACT INFORMATION 601-425-2535 • www.dixieepa.com @DixieElectricMS

@DixieEPA

@dixie_electric

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

Times are different; preparations are the same The past several months have been different in so many ways. Personally, we have learned about social distancing and protecting the health of our families. Professionally, we have learned to work from home or social distance while continuing to work. Many things in our lives remain the same and are challenges that we still have to plan for and manage, like hurricane season. Unfortunately, the season started early this year with a named storm in the Atlantic Ocean in May before the official start of the season on June 1. COVID-19 just adds to the concern of a hurricane this summer and the damage it can cause. In April, we learned some key social distancing lessons after we repaired our system in the aftermath of four devastating tornadoes. Those lessons include how to assign our line crews, so they are working in specific zones, limiting their interactions with one another. We also provided meals on their job sites instead of offering them at our offices, further maintaining social distancing. If we have a major hurricane, there will be challenges. As always, we encourage you to prepare for hurricane season by making a

supply kit and a family action plan. Power outages can last several days after a hurricane. We’ve shared information on preparing for hurricane season on our social media sites and have detailed information on our prepared.dixieepa.com website. We also have brochures available; contact us and will be happy to send those to you. Preparing for hurricane season is important every year. It is especially critical this year while social distancing remains a best practice, so individuals can avoid long lines to get supplies. As always, we are making our preparations here at Dixie Electric and will be ready to respond.

Notice of Dixie Electric’s Director Qualification Period Candidates seeking election to represent Districts 2 or 7 on the board of directors for Dixie Electric must visit Dixie Electric’s headquarters office at 1863 Highway 184, Laurel, Miss., and obtain a Director Qualification Packet during business hours between June 1 and July 31. Please contact Melinda Padgett at 601-425-2535 or dixieelectric@dixieepa.com to set up a time. The forms and petitions in the packet must be completed and returned by close of business on

July 31, 2020. 12 TODAY | JULY 2020

by Randy Smith General Manager

There’s so many easy payment options.

It’s easy as: 1

Pay online at dixieepa.com.

Use the SmartHub app.

Visit the Payment Kiosk at our local offices 24/7. Flip over your bill stub and use the bar code at the kiosk for quick and easy service.

Heating and cooling an uninsulated shed, garage or workspace can increase energy bills.

by Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Energy and heated/cooled efficiently, perhaps with a ductless miniYou are certainly not alone in these trying times as you split system. search for ways to cut costs, and your energy use might 3. Hot Tub provide some potential opportunities for savings. Here are The average operating cost of a hot tub is $250 per year. four energy hogs that may be increasing your energy use: But that amount may be higher if your hot tub is an older, less 1. Old fridge or freezer in the garage efficient model, or if you live in a colder That second fridge or freezer may climate. A smaller hot tub with better be costing more than you think. If insulation, a cover and a pump that the model was produced prior to runs on a lower voltage will use less 1990, it’s likely using twice as much energy than other models. In the end, energy than a newer ENERGYSTAR®getting a ‘good deal’ on a used hot rated model. If it’s located in the tub may cost more in energy bills in garage, it may run constantly in the the long run. summer, which could lead to higher 4. Swimming Pool electric bills. If you have a swimming pool, 2. Cooling or heating an consider installing a smaller, more uninsulated area efficient pump and reducing how often Before buying a hot tub, make sure you’re ready to Cooling or heating an uninsulated it runs. You can also look at installing pay to operate it. The average annual energy cost for workshop or garage can be a larger filter and maximizing the flow a hot tub is $250 a year. expensive. Pet owners have been of water through the pipes by making known to heat and cool an uninsulated garage to keep pets them larger and reducing how sharply the corners turn. These comfortable, not realizing that this might be costing more measures could cut your electric use for the pool pump by as than heating their actual home. If you really want to heat or much as 75%. Consult with a pool installation specialist to find cool these types of spaces, they need to be well insulated the most efficient setup that will keep your pool clean.

Maintaining reliable service Right-of-way clearing projects underway Dixie Electric Power Association clears trees, limbs and underbrush from the area around and below the power lines, called the right-of-way. Right-of-way clearing decreases the number of outages and reduces the risk of someone coming in contact with the power lines. 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.

West Waynesboro substation: Waynesboro, Big Creek, Dyess Bridge, Clara and Shubuta

Buckatunna substation: Winchester, Buckatunna, Progress, Chicora and Denham

Burr Creek substation: Moselle, Union and Ellisville

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

For After-Hours Outages, Call 601-581-8600 DeKalb 601-743-2641

Louisville 662-773-5741

Quitman 601-776-6271

Member owned. Locally operated. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the cooperative difference.

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

Looking forward Each year about this time we begin watching the tropics and hoping hurricanes do not form. As I write this article today, we are watching a storm form in the Gulf. While the waters have not warmed to the point that we fear a Katrina event, it reminds us to be prepared. East Mississippi Electric Power Association has always prided itself on maintaining well trained and service focused employees. How many other organizations outside of the utility business do you see wading hip-deep water through the mud and muck to restore service? These employees get up in the middle of the night when storms cause power interruptions on our EMEPA system. They work diligently to restore normalcy to life. Our employees who answer the phone, assist members in the office, speak to students at local schools, design and build needed lines and work to bring new industry to our area all have this same dedication. We want to see our communities be the place others want to live, work and raise families. By remaining committed to the cooperative principles, we remain relevant. We also work hard to maintain our costs at an affordable value. Look at your monthly bill sometime and compare the daily price of having electric service at your fingertips to other things in your life. For less than the cost of lunch each day, you have access to hot water, clean clothes, refrigerated food and drink, entertainment on your TV and of course, a charged cell phone. Many of you are asking where we are on the broadband project. The work of preparing to participate in the Rural Development Opportunity Fund (RDOF) auction continues to progress at a rapid pace. We now know the areas being funded and the initial dollars available for bidding. Our state senators and representatives continue to be key allies in contacting national legislators about the RDOF funding. Our legislative leaders in Washington are carrying the message to all that will listen in the Federal Communication Commission 12 TODAY | JULY 2020

and pushing for earlier awards of the funding. We know we will need to construct 3,867 miles of fiber to 13,308 homes and businesses to serve our entire service territory. We know this will take six years if we build 54 miles of mainline fiber and 185 services each month. We know we will continue to need your patience. We know it is wanted and needed given the response we have gotten from you, our members. THANK YOU for the 1,433 emails you sent. I have enjoyed reading the notes from old friends and getting to know new acquaintances. I appreciate hearing the reasons you need the service and relay those to everyone that will listen. Your need for telemedicine, school assignments, Zoom meetings, checking on family and attending church remotely have been amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic. EMEPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Board of Directors voted in their June meeting to approve a pilot project. This initial pilot will target an area identified by our consultants that offers the most successful take-off point due to fiber proximity and member density. Yes, I know everyone wants to be first just as when we are restoring power during an outage, but it is crucial that we strategically build out in a way that ensures all members ultimately have access to this needed service. As we continue to develop our plans for a fiber-to-the-home broadband network, let me assure you the same values and dedication to quality of service and affordable price you have witnessed in the delivery of life-changing electricity will also be the foundation of fiber service to you.

by Randy Carroll CEO â&#x20AC;&#x201D; East Mississippi Electric Power Association

Heating and cooling an uninsulated shed, garage or workspace can increase energy bills.

cover and a pump that runs on a lower voltage will Has your family been trying to reduce your monthly use less energy than other models. In the end, getting expenses? Many people are surprised to find out that a ‘good deal’ on a used hot tub may cost more their energy costs are significantly lower than others, in energy bills in the long run. even though your homes may be similar in size and built around the same time. What could be causing 4. Swimming pool your bill to be so much higher than your friends and If you have a swimming pool, consider installing neighbors? a smaller, more efficient pump and You are certainly not alone in reducing how often it runs. You can these trying times as you search also look at installing a larger filter and for ways to cut costs, and your maximizing the flow of water through energy use might provide some the pipes by making them larger and potential opportunities for savreducing how sharply the corners ings. Even though you may have turn. These measures could cut your noted the similarities between electric use for the pool pump by your home and someone else’s as much as 75%. Consult with a pool home, you may have a hidden installation specialist to find the most energy hog causing your bills to Before buying a hot tub, make sure you’re ready efficient setup that will still keep your to pay to operate it. The average annual energy be higher. Here are five energy pool clean. hogs that may be increasing your cost for a hot tub is $250 a year. 5. Pumps energy use. If you live on acreage or on a farm, you probably 1. Old fridge or freezer in the garage have several pumps, including irrigation, well, septic That second fridge or freezer may be costing more and sump. If you’re like most of us, you use those than you think. If the model was produced prior to pumps until they break down. Consider replacing the 1990, it’s likely using twice as much energy (or more!) oldest and most-used pumps over time with new, than a newer ENERGYSTAR®-rated model. If it’s locatmore efficient ones that are sized correctly for their ed in the garage, it may run constantly in the summer, task. Also, make sure you’re eliminating leaks in the which could lead to higher electric bills. water lines, which make your pumps work harder and longer. 2. Cooling or heating an uninsulated area If one of these five energy hogs doesn’t explain Cooling or heating an uninsulated workshop or the difference in energy use between your home and garage can be expensive. Pet owners have been someone else’s home, there are many other possibiliknown to heat and cool an uninsulated garage to ties. A home energy audit could give you the answers keep pets comfortable, not realizing that this might you seek. be costing more than heating their actual home. If you really want to heat or cool these types of spaces, they need to be well insulated and heated/cooled efficiently, perhaps with a ductless mini-split system. 3. Hot tub The average operating cost of a hot tub is $250 per year. But that amount may be higher if your hot tub is an older, less efficient model, or if you live in a colder climate. A smaller hot tub with better insulation, a

Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency Visit www.collaborativeefficiency. com/energytips for more energy efficient tips.

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

encourages alternative ways to stay connected As our communities begin to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to serve you and encourage alternative payment options such as those detailed below. Pay by Text Text PAY to 352667 (after setting up a payment profile and opting into text alerts at EMEPA.com).

Pay by Kiosk Make payments 24/7 at the payment kiosks located at each of EMEPA’s four office locations.

Pay by App Make payments 24/7 from your mobile device with EMEPA’s free app.

Pay by Mail Mail a check or money order along with your bill payment stub.

Pay Online Make payments online 24/7 at EMEPA.com

Pay by Phone Call 601-581-8600 for 24/7 secure credit card or e-check payments. Pay by Draft Sign up for automated draft using either a checking or credit card account.

Please visit EMEPA.com or call 601-581-8600 for additional information on each available payment option.

Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Foundation scholarships awarded The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Foundation provides scholarships to the children of Mississippi cooperative employees that are qualifying high school seniors enrolled full time at accredited institutions for the following fall semester.

The 2020 recipients are:

Kamryn Brown

Son of Kendrick and Bertha Brown

Trever Smith

Son of Brian and Angie Smith

Luke Hedgpeth

Son of Kevin and Suzanne Hedgpeth

Jeremy Pippin Son of Ernie and Lori Pippin

Kaitlin Drake

Son of Detrick and Hynesia Drake

EMEPA 82nd Annual Meeting Join us Saturday, Oct. 3 for East Mississippi Electric Power Association’s 82nd Annual Meeting at 10 a.m. at EMEPA’s Meridian Auditorium. Stay tuned for details on both in-person and virtual meeting options available. 14 TODAY | JULY 2020

Our entire shipbuilding team has worked tirelessly to ensure that all of our efforts have been aligned to implement all Flight III changes successfully on this ship. With this lift, we are one step closer to delivering the U.S. Navy the most technologically advanced destroyer in the ﬂeet.

Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Ingalls Shipbuilding division achieved a substantial milestone recently with the successful lift of the aft deckhouse onto guided missile destroyer Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125). The 320-ton aft deckhouse includes radar equipment rooms, main engine intake and exhaust compartments, electric shop, and staterooms, according to an Ingalls news release. “Our team has kept this first Flight III ship ahead of schedule by working collaboratively and using lessons learned from our long history of building destroyers,” Ben Barnett, Ingalls DDG 125 program manager, said in the release. “Our entire shipbuilding team has worked tirelessly to ensure that all of our efforts have been aligned to implement all Flight III changes successfully on this ship. With this lift, we are one step closer to delivering the U.S. Navy the most technologically advanced destroyer in the fleet.” DDG 125 is the fifth of five Arleigh Burke-class destroyers HII was awarded in June 2013 and is the first Flight III ship, which adds enhanced radar capability and other technological

upgrades. The five-ship contract, part of a multi-year procurement in the DDG 51 program, allows Ingalls to build ships more efficiently by buying bulk material and moving the skilled workforce from ship-to-ship. The ship is named for Jack. H Lucas, a longtime resident of Hattiesburg, who was the youngest Marine and the youngest service member in World War II to receive the Medal of Honor. DDG 125 is co-sponsored by Ruby Lucas, widow of the ship’s namesake. Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are highly capable, multi-mission ships and can conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection, all in support of the United States’ military strategy. The guided missile destroyers are capable of simultaneously fighting air, surface and subsurface battles. The ship contains myriad offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime defense needs well into the 21st century. JULY 2020 | TODAY 15

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

We’re here to help you save 4-County Electric Power Association is here for you, and given the challenging times we’ve all experienced the last few months, I’d like to share some information and ideas to help you save energy and money. Summer is a great time to conduct an energy audit of your home and identify ways to boost energy efficiency. An energy audit is one of the best ways to determine how energy efficient your home is — an audit can also identify areas for potential energy savings. Energy audit professionals at 4-County Electric can conduct an energy audit in your home, identifying key areas for efficiency improvements. Just give us a call to see if you qualify, 1-800431-1544 (ask for the marketing department). If you’d prefer to do an energy audit yourself, try 4-County’s online energy savings tools. Visit www.4county.org to get started. But keep in mind, an online audit won’t be as thorough as an in-home audit. Shifting to off-peak periods Electric rates based on time of use offer co-op members the ability to lower their electricity costs without reducing the amount of electricity used. By performing some of your daily chores such as running the dishwasher or doing laundry during off-peak hours (when people are using less electricity), you can see meaningful savings on your energy bills. 12 TODAY | JULY 2020

For example, use a programmable thermostat to adjust the settings so that your heating and air conditioning systems sync with the off-peak rate periods. Use automatic timers to run hot tubs, pool pumps, water heaters and other appliances in the same way. Putting power in your hands 4-County’s PrePay program is intended to aide in budgeting your monthly energy costs. 4-County members can pay for electricity before it is used, then use the electricity until the credit expires. During the time period you’ve paid for, you will receive regular feedback on your balance. For more information on PrePay or energy efficiency programs, contact 4-County at 1-800431-1544 or go to www.4county.org. Industry studies show that consumers who participate in prepaid metering plans use up to 10 percent less electricity. As your trusted energy advisor, we’re here to help. If you have questions about your bill or additional ways to save energy, please let us know. We’re only one click or phone call away.

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

HERE’S AN IDEA Stealing electricity is illegal and dangerous In these current times of economic difficulties, many customers are concerned with their electric bills. While there are numerous ways to cut down on the amount of electricity used in a home, in some cases customers resort to trying to steal electricity. Tampering with an electric meter is both illegal and dangerous. Under Mississippi law, anyone who intentionally tampers with a meter is guilty of a misdemeanor which is punishable by a fine and imprisonment. “Those who tamper with their electric meters in an effort to reduce their power costs are stealing from their energy providers and their fellow cooperative members,” said Jimmie Daniels, manager of 4-County’s system security. “Like any other business that is required to cover the costs of theft by increasing its prices, member-owned electric cooperatives must cover the costs of meter tampering in their rates.” Electric meters are designed to accurately record the electricity used each month and are routinely tested. Meters are sealed for the protection of the homeowner and the energy provider. Members who break a meter seal are exposing themselves and their home to the risk of electrocution and fire. Once a meter has been tampered with, it becomes both unsafe and unstable. Interrupting the flow of electricity through a line also poses serious risk to linemen working nearby. Your cooperative is dedicated to providing safe and reliable electric energy. Meters owned by 4-County are regularly inspected for signs of wear and damage. As members of an electric power association, you can assist in cracking down on energy thieves. If you are aware of or suspect that someone is tampering with a meter, please let us know. “If members are having trouble with their bills, they should not hesitate to contact us,” Daniels said. “We’re happy to help suggest energy efficient options and other ways they can reduce their usage. Tampering with meters should never be an option.”

Lake Little Scholarship awarded

4-County Electric Power Association officials awarded the first Lake Little Leadership Scholarship recently to a graduating Starkville High School senior. Makayla Smith received the prestigious award. “As a winner of the award, Makayla strongly represents qualities of community service and concern for others while maintaining a high level of leadership — all qualities displayed by Lake Little,” 4-County Communications Coordinator Brad Barr told an audience during

Update 4-County Electric Power Association members may receive a phone call in the coming weeks aimed at collecting information about broadband service. In recent months, co-op officials have polled members regarding whether to offer broadband service or not. The rural electric utility gathered some 5,600 responses from mail-in surveys, with about 3,600 of those supporting leveraging the Association’s assets to fund the project. But 4-County officials want more input. The cooperative has enlisted the services of the Social Science Research Center (SSRC) at Mississippi State University. The research center will conduct random polling via telephone calls. Members may receive a call from a 325 prefix. 4-County officials are encouraging members to participate in the random survey, if contacted. “We will continue to work with the SSRC to collect more data and we will provide an update when that project is complete,” said 4-County Manager of Marketing and Public Relations Jon Turner. 4-County officials hope to have a decision on the matter before the end of the year. For more information, members can contact the utility at broadband@4county.org, or call 1-800-431-1544.

a ceremony at the co-op’s Starkville office. The $1,000 scholarship is in honor of the life of Lake Little, a 2018 4-County Youth Leadership delegate who passed away unexpectedly in 2019. Lake’s parents, David and Pattie Little were on hand and lauded Smith as a worthy recipient of the award. Smith’s plans include attending college, possibly studying political science. She is the daughter of Carol Smith.

COVID-19 update 4-County Electric Power Association continues to provide services to its members. Office lobbies, however, remain closed for business in observance of COVID-19 recommendations and precautions. Office drive-through services remain open. Members can also find out more about services by calling 1-800-431-1544 or checking out the 4-County website, www.4county.org, or using the 4-County app. Line crews continue to work. Co-op officials are continuing to do everything they can to ensure safe, reliable and efficient electricity to its members. That will not change. 4-County leadership continues to monitor the latest information on COVID-19. Please call 1-800-431-1544 with questions. JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

4-County

Online Annual Meeting held June 4

Members of 4-County Electric Power Association viewed the co-op’s 2020 Annual Meeting from the comfort of their own homes. In following with COVID-19 guidelines and recommendations, 4-County officials made the decision to have the meeting online. Members tuned in June 4 by accessing the 4-County YouTube channel, Facebook page, or by dialing in. “Even though this isn’t our normal meeting format, we’re thankful to interact with our members. We look forward to having a more traditional format, hopefully, next year,” 4-County CEO Brian Clark said at the beginning of the meeting. Two incumbent directors were re-elected, Mike Banks (representing District 4, Noxubee County) and Bill Bell 14 TODAY | JULY 2020

(representing District 7, At-Large). They will serve three-year terms. Members viewing the meeting also heard business and financial reports from co-op officials. Clark said the coop is beginning its fiscal year without a rate increase. He also lauded the cooperative for its response to COVID-19 challenges and to recent storms (in particular, those in April that left 70 broken poles in their wake). Clark applauded the 4-County Foundation, which recently surpassed the $1 million mark in giving. The Foundation also awarded $24,000 (assisted by a TVA match) to its service area to assist in COVID-19 relief efforts (particularly to assist food pantries). The 4-County CEO emphasized the co-op’s dedication to community through its programs and employee volunteer efforts.

He also provided 4-County members with an update on the co-op’s research on broadband. The Association was hoping to announce the results of a recent member survey about the issue, but that process has been delayed. “As our members know, we recently conducted a survey of our membership on our potential broadband project. We were working with the Mississippi State University Social Science Research Center (SSRC) to collect the results and collate and interpret the data for us. Unfortunately, at the time we began the survey, the country began to suffer the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the SSRC was unable to participate in collection and were forced to delay the reporting of the survey data. We had hoped to have a full report ready for release today, but we won’t have deep data for a few more weeks. We are continuing to work with the SSRC and we may even do more polling to make sure we understand what our members think. Right now, our raw data shows that about 5,500 members responded. We want to thank those members who participated and let everyone know that the results will be delayed and we’ll keep everyone updated as we move forward,” Clark said. The co-op plans to have a decision this fall on whether or not to offer broadband service. Board President Jay Gilliland said, since its inception 81 years ago, the co-op has continued to provide reliable, affordable power to its members. “We hope to do so for another 81 years,” Gilliland told those watching and listening. Clark said the co-op remains focused on safety. “We have achieved over 1 million hours without a lost time accident, for the second time in 4-County’s history. We are actually right at 1.2 million hours without a lost time accident. Let’s keep it up!” Annual meeting prizes and broadband survey participation prizes, including two retired 4-County fleet trucks, were awarded during the meeting, Truck winners were Joyce Allen and Thomas Breland.

ANNUAL MEETING PRIZES: Retired 4-County fleet truck • Joyce Allen, Oktibbeha County

$1,000 Credit • Jeff Peeples, Clay County • Laquinta Jones, Lowndes County • Brittney Jeffcoats, Oktibbeha County

$100 Credit • Maggie Turner, Noxubee County • Merle Gammill, Choctaw County • Larry Ballard, Lowndes County • Martina Wilson, Lowndes County • Harold George, Oktibbeha County • Beverly Willhite, Webster County • Gregory Stewart, Lowndes County • Cindy Lockhart, Oktibbeha County • Damon Snead, Lowndes County • Kent Morris, Oktibbeha County

Broadband Survey Grand Prizes, Retired 4-County fleet truck • Tom Breland, Oktibbeha County Electric Yard Tools • David Cotton, Noxubee County $500 Credit • Kandy Hines, Monroe County JULY 2020 | TODAY 15

E S

Finance home energy upgrades with 4-County On-bill financing for home energy upgrades — including heating and air — is now available for qualified 4-County Electric Power Association members. 4-County is now offering a convenient way to pay for energy efficiency improvements in your home, to include HVAC, insulation, weatherization and more through the co-op’s eScore program. 4-County members who qualify can finance up to $15,000 for 10 years and pay it off monthly incorporated into their power bills. Currently the loans have a 6% interest rate, at least through Sep. 31 and members must own the home, have lived there for at least 12 months, have a 625 or higher Beacon Score and have a favorable payment history with 4-County. To find out more, go online to www.2escore.com and sign up, or give us a call at 1-800-431-1544. Making your home more energy efficient doesn’t have to be rocket science. That’s why 4-County Electric Power Association has teamed up with the Tennessee Valley Authority on our eScore program. eScore is a residential energy efficiency program that provides homeowners with guidance and incentives that upgrade their homes to their most energy efficient levels. A 4-County energy advisor will come to member homes and give them eScores — from 1 to 10 — letting members know how energy efficient their homes are. They’ll also get a list of recommendations on how they can get their eScore to a 10 (the highest score) by taking steps such as adding insulation, window

16 TODAY | JULY 2020

replacements, an HVAC upgrade, and more. Members will use one of 4-County’s quality contractors to do the work. And, even better, members get cash incentives when the work is complete. You can continue to do improvements over time, get incentives and work towards a 10 score — all at your own pace. The incentives are available to single-family homeowners. Qualified members can take advantage of financing, but any 4-County residential member can call for an inspection and an eScore to find out how energy efficient their home is and what steps can be taken to achieve their home’s best possible energy performance. For more information, visit 4-County’s website at www.4county.org and look for the eScore link, or call us at 1-800-431-1544.

4-County offices will be closed Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day. A dispatcher will be on hand at 1-800-431-1544 to handle member inquiries.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

A little hard work never hurt anybody An honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay. That pretty much sums it up for 4-County Electric Power Association’s Tre Samuel. Each morning, as he straps his boots up tight, the Apprentice Lineman III hits the floor looking to give it his all to keep the lights burning bright. Trevan “Tre” Samuel of Starkville serves as an Apprentice Lineman III on the Corporate Center crew of Wyatt Pumphrey. Tre studied at East Central Community College (ECCC). He is a graduate of East Mississippi Community College’s Lineman Program. When did his interest in line work begin? “I have always enjoyed working outside in a job where I know I accomplish something. You put the work into it and the job gets done. As a lineman, I can do that,” Tre explained. Prior to 4-County, Tre worked for the City of Starkville’s Water Department. Growing up, Tre learned the ins and outs of hard work by help-

ing his grandfather on the family farm. “I still enjoy working with him. He’s probably out there right now,” he said. Tre graduated from New Hope High School in Columbus, earning accolades for his football prowess. Following an appearance in the Mississippi High School All-Star Football Game, Tre played defensive end at ECCC in Decatur. The camaraderie, family atmosphere and the contact were key reasons he enjoyed football. He also enjoys watching Mississippi State University football and the San Francisco 49ers. Tre enjoys exercise, especially lifting weights. He attends St. Robertson Church in Clay County. He is an avid deer hunter. “It’s just fun being outside in nature. I enjoy getting on my four-wheeler and going.” What does he enjoy about being a lineman? “The experience,” he answered. New challenges every day “help you grow and mature,” Tre added. The young lineman said he watches and learns from his veteran counterparts. “I observe and listen to the older linemen,” Tre said. “That’s the way to learn.” Tre describes 4-County as a home away from home. “Everybody sticks together, especially the guys on the line crews. We have to do that.” He began his 4-County career in August 2018 and hopes it ends many years down the road. “It’s been everything I imagined.”

New employees join co-op team Two new employees have joined the 4-County Electric Power Association team. Brandon Worrell of Starkville is serving as an Apprentice Lineman IV on Tim Adkins’ Corporate Center crew. His first day was in April, in the midst of a string of power restoration efforts. He has an associate’s degree in forestry technology from East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), and is a graduate of EMCC’s Utility Lineworker Technology program. Prior to 4-County, he worked for Narkeeta Forest Services. In his spare time, Brandon enjoys hunting and fishing. Isaac Carroll of Macon is serving as an Apprentice Lineman IV on Eric Yarbrough’s Corporate Center crew. He is studying business and marketing classes at EMCC, and is a graduate of EMCC’s Utility Lineworker Technology program. Prior to 4-County, Isaac worked for Double D Carriers. Isaac said he enjoys sharing his Christian faith. He is a ham radio operator.

Isaac Carroll

e m o c l e W

Brandon Worrell

to the 4-County team, guys! JULY 2020 | TODAY 17

MEP Contact Information: P: 3027 Highway 98 West • Summit, MS 39666 M: P.O. Box 747 • McComb, MS 39649

TO REPORT OUTAGES:

601-684-4011 Visit us online at www.MEPCoop.com Follow us on FaceBook and Twitter

Pay by Phone: 1-877-779-7740

Know the difference between

disinfect areas that have come into contact with bodily fluids, and parents typically disinfect areas where a baby’s diaper is changed. Sanitizing lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe level, as judged by public health standards or requirements. This process works by either cleaning or disinfecting surfaces or objects to lower the risk of spreading infection. Most people sanitize kitchen surfaces that come into contact with food. Pay close attention to hazard warnings and directions on product labels. Cleaning products and disinfectants often call for the use of gloves or eye protection. For example, gloves should always be worn to protect your hands when working with bleach solutions. Visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus for more information on how to protect yourself and your family.

Spending more time at home? Try an online energy audit to assess the overall efficiency of your home. Visit www.energystar.gov, then enter “home energy yardstick” in the search box to get started. 12 TODAY | JULY 2020

Heating and cooling an uninsulated shed, garage or workspace can increase energy bills.

Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency Visit www.collaborativeefficiency. com/energytips for more energy efficient tips.

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

INDEPENDENCE DAY

SATURDAY, JULY 4 AMORY – P.O. BOX 300 • 50408 GREENBRIAR ROAD • AMORY, MS CALEDONIA – 746 MAIN STREET • CALEDONIA, MS

662-256-2962 662-356-4100

Know the difference between

12 TODAY | JULY 2020

Heating and cooling an uninsulated shed, garage or workspace can increase energy bills.

Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency Visit www.collaborativeefficiency. com/energytips for more energy efficient tips.

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

INNOVATION

Strength IN

Keith Hayward talks leadership, community and advancements in technology by Elissa Fulton Since 1938, North East Mississippi Electric Power Association (NEMEPA) has operated as a member-owned electric cooperative and is guided by Seven Cooperative Principles. General Manager and CEO Keith Hayward takes these principles to heart and prides himself on being a community man. After all, one of those key principles is Concern for Community. Hayward grew up in Oxford and attended Oxford High School. His mother owned a clothing store on the Oxford Square and his father was a civil engineer and local farmer. As a lady of the community, his mother obliged him to assist with activities related to the Garden Club. He modestly puns that he can “wrap a mean Christmas gift, or work on a combine. Whatever is needed.” Hayward is no stranger to hard work. Although he was often rewarded during his school years by skipping end of the year exams due to his perfect attendance record, he never received recognition for

his ‘perfect attendance’ as he was regularly needed on the farm to plant soybeans during those final days of school. After high school, Hayward remained in Oxford and attended The University of Mississippi. “I had received a small scholarship for the chemical engineering program at Ole Miss,” said Hayward. “I was good at chemistry in high school, but I didn’t like it in college. A friend of the family talked me into going to the electrical engineering school.” While at Ole Miss, Hayward served as the educational director for new members at his Alpha Tau Omega fraternity house. This was just the beginning of his community service. After college, Hayward accepted a job in Tupelo and was enjoying his new career when he was approached by, then manager, Bill Lovelady to come back to Oxford and work at NEMEPA. Out of respect for the family friend, he met with Mr. Lovelady to discuss a future with the

electric cooperative. Not really knowing much about the electric power industry, and dedicated to his new career in Tupelo, he didn’t have any expectations about returning to Oxford. However, the prospect seemed like something he would enjoy, and it would give him the opportunity to resume working on the farm with his father. In 1988, Hayward returned to his hometown. After Mr. Lovelady retired, Bob Collier became the general manager and gave Hayward the opportunity to oversee the field crews. As a 27-year-old college grad, he was thrust into a world of experienced line workers that were expected to follow his lead. “You’ve got to be pretty tough to make that work,” he said. “But through the years, I took pride in making their world a little better. I didn’t try to tell them how to do their jobs and I expected them to be honest with me about what they needed to do their jobs well. I believe that the employees are the crutch of any organization. That was true then, and it’s certainly true today.” The 1994 Ice Storm was a huge challenge for Hayward. He had just taken over the role of construction supervisor when the biggest disaster to hit NEMEPA happened. He went from supervising a normal staff to supervising more than 300 employees and contractors. “It was really bad,” he said. “We lost 100% of our system and worked 36-hour shifts just to get a little power back on, only to lose it again. It took 23 days to get everyone’s power back on.” Hayward learned a lot about the importance of maintaining rights-of-way during that time. The northeast region of

Mississippi is very hilly with an abundance of trees and it makes maintaining the power lines very difficult. In fact, approximately $2 million is budgeted each year to maintain clear rights-of-way. “We’ve had issues with rights-of-way in the past,” Hayward said. “It seems year-after-year the climate is changing — the weather is getting wetter, trees are growing faster and members don’t want their trees cut. But we’ve been really aggressive with our rights-of-way in the last few years. Our job is to maintain the power lines and rights-of-way maintenance is essential.”

CEO Keith Hayward and Marketing/Communications Specialist Tracie Russell talk with an attendee at the Ole Miss Green Week.

BROADBAND

In 1936, members began meeting about forming the electric cooperative. By 1938, power was flowing through the lines and North East Power became one of the pioneer cooperatives in the country. Although today, there are more than 900 electric cooperatives that stretch from coast-to-coast, the first electric cooperatives in the country were formed right here in Mississippi in Alcorn, Pontotoc and Monroe counties. Mississippians have always been pioneers in innovation and the new broadband initiatives are no exception. In early 2019, the Mississippi Legislature passed the Broadband Enabling Act that would allow the 25 electric cooperatives in Mississippi to provide high-speed internet service through affiliate companies. As Mississippi lags near the bottom of states with reliable internet service, Hayward was part of a group that lobbied to provide this vital and much needed service. “We were hearing horror stories from our membership about outrageous data plans through cellular providers just to receive some type of internet service. We have a major university in Oxford and there was a thirst for reliable service. People were asking us to get involved but we couldn’t because of the prior law. Once the law was changed, we immediately began the exploration of it. We began grant applications early on for government subsidies.” As a progressive leader, Hayward has served on many boards and committees in the electric industry. One such committee is the Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) committee through the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). This committee is made up of interested parties across the region and the valley who try and assist TVA in determining future generation needs. Hayward has served on two of those committees and he quickly realized, that if done correctly, he could save his members more Continued on next page

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

money on broadband than he ever could through electric rates. With a reliable fiber-to-the-home network, members would no longer need satellite and cable packages and could easily save $50-150 per month on entertainment packages alone through streaming services. The fiber-to-the-home would also increase home values and increase productivity for teleworkers and online students. As phone providers continue to abandon poles and wired connections for voice over air such as the 5G network, electric cooperative managers and CEOs are starting to realize

that maintaining poles and wire really fit the cooperative business model. “Back in the 1930s, when we were running electricity to the homes, a lot of people said they didn’t need it and didn’t want it,” said Hayward. “But today electricity is not a luxury but a necessity. I think fiber-to-the-home is the same thing today. I think that over the next five years things are really going to change; it will become another utility and we are best suited to provide it.”

CONCERN FOR COMMUNITY

Hayward is constantly working on behalf of the NEMEPA members and for rural disadvantages. In November 2019, Hayward testified before Congress with U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith on behalf of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) about the 2018 Farm Bill and the need to connect rural America to modern technology. He is also very supportive of community service. “I’m very big on having our employees go out and be involved in the community,” he said. “Our board has complimented us about our membership holding us in a much higher regard than they did just 10 years ago. We’ve increased our exposure and we’ve increased our presence by keeping them informed and providing them with technology, assistance with outages and various programs. We are not an electric company; we are a service company. We provide a means for our members to buy electricity through a generation facility, TVA. We don’t make the commodity; we just transfer it.” Although NEMEPA is not in a position to give grand monetary donations, they support the local community by volunteerism. “I have a great staff here,” said Hayward. “I get compliment after compliment on the professionalism and the courtesy that they show from the front office, to the linemen, and anyone that goes onto someone’s property.” During the COVID-19 crisis and economic shut down, NEMEPA and other utilities ceased cut-offs for those experiencing economic hardship. Although the bills are now being collected, the cooperative is working with its members who have fallen on hard times. “Although the bills have to be paid, if our members are struggling, we will work with them,” said Hayward. “We also have local charities that we are working with to aid those who have fallen victim to the economic crisis. Our members want to pay, some of them are just having a really hard time right now.” Hayward has made a lot of strides for the cooperative during his leadership. Through late nights, frequent travel and serving on various committees, these are just a few of the ways he is dedicated to the employees and members and works hard to make life better for them. “I could have gone off and done anything,” said Hayward. “I always said I wasn’t going to stay around here, but I realized that I was born and raised in this town and in this community. It is just woven into my being, and hope that my legacy will be that I left it better than it was when I got here. As a hometown guy, my hope is that I have provided something with my knowledge and my drive and given back to my community. That’s all I could ever ask for.”

Strength IN Employees from North East Mississippi Electic Power Association tour the St. Jude Hospital.

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INNOVATION

Congratulations!!! NE SPARC CONNECTS FIRST CUSTOMER!

June 9, 2020 was a very important day for NE SPARC and North East Power. The wonderful folks at Calvary Baptist Church now have a super affordable, super reliable, 100 mbps connection to the internet. Our NE SPARC team is excited that months of hard work are finally paying off. Our first zone, Brittany Woods B214, is now up and running. We are actively running services to homes and will begin scheduling home installs over the next several weeks. NE SPARC will be front and center in bridging the digital divide in our area. The ability for all of our members, regardless of location, to have access to high speed broadband is so important today. Our team will not stop until all of our members are able to take service if they so choose. Additional fiber zones will be opening soon for members to sign up and select a package.

NE Sparc Update Now installing NE SPARC service in Brittany Woods B214 Fiber Zone, as Lafayette Springs 224 nears completion. Here are the directions for acquiring broadband service: Step 1: Pre-register for service All zones within North East’s service territory are currently in pre-registration. Visit nesparc.com and input your name, email and service address for us to contact you. Step 2: Register for service Once fiber construction for your zone nears completion, we will contact you through the email information you entered in Step 1. At this time, you will be instructed to register for service. Members within your zone will have the ability to choose the internet and voice package of your choice. Step 3: Accounts set up After you register for service, a NE Sparc member service

representative will contact you to set up account information. Step 4: Scheduling of installation After your account set-up is complete, our fiber installation partner will contact you to schedule your service drop and inhome installation. Step 5: Installation Our fiber partner, National-On-Demand, will send a crew to your house to install the fiber from our fiber enclosure to a location near the meter base on the side of your house. Once this is complete, a home installer will visit your home to install the remaining fiber and start up and test the Wi-Fi equipment in your home.

What’s a Fiber Zone? A Fiber Zone is a geographic region or footprint that generally follows North East power lines. Our fiber system is being designed and built according to zones. We use zones in order to design a system that is robust and that can effectively serve the members within each fiber zone’s boundary. North East, along with all of its fiber partners, are in the process of designing and constructing several zones as part of Phase I of the total project. We are working very hard to get fiber installed as quickly as possible for each zone in Phase I.

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 want my Northcentral Connect! My friends and I would huddle around the television at my house in the early 1980’s waiting for the Police front man, Sting to shout, “I want my MTV!” Cable TV had arrived in north Mississippi, and along with it the notion that we were finally connected to the entire world through news, sports and, of course, 24-hour music videos. Those homes with cable TV quickly became accustomed to having frequent visitors, and those without anxiously awaited the arrival of Branch Cable for their installation. As our cooperative began installing fiber for a variety of potential smart grid technologies, we began to field numerous requests for us to form an affiliate organization that could provide high-speed internet to homes and businesses in our communities. In late February, the formation of that affiliate, Northcentral Connect, was announced. The thought of 24-hour high speed connectivity has had our community shouting for this service much like Sting did in the early 1980s. We are planning on this taking place, but the process is not a fast one. Once a route is determined, all poles must be inventoried and evaluated to see if there is enough space for the fiber. In anything we do, safety will always be a primary factor, and we’ll not risk the safety of anyone by having them work in a congested space occupied by high voltage lines. Any tree trimming required will also have to take place at this time. After that, the necessary “make ready” changes are noted, engineered and implemented. Upon completion, the fiber engineering work must be performed for the installation. This will originate from the several fiber “huts” being placed on our system. Once complete, necessary fiber and related materials will be bid out, ordered and received. After we have warehoused several hundred miles of fiber optic cable, construction will begin. We anticipate Northcentral Electric Cooperative being significantly into the construction process by late September with the hope of Northcentral Connect offering a high-speed

12 TODAY | JULY 2020

internet service to those along our initial routes by early October. I’m sure that a good number of you have hosted family and friends at your homes enjoying access to the many benefits of high-speed internet, but we feel that it should be available and affordable to all. We realize the need in our communities for smart grid technology, entertainment, distance learning, remote careers, telemedicine and the many other offerings we anticipate.

“I want my Northcentral Connect!!!” We’ll have it to you soon. by Kevin Doddridge General Manager/CEO

Northcentral Director earns Gold Credentials

General Manager/CEO Kevin Doddridge with District 4 Board Member Tony Taylor. Taylor recently earned his Director Gold Credential through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

Another of Northcentral’s nine-member board of directors has advanced in their certification with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Director Certificate Program. Recently, Tony Taylor was presented with the Director Gold Credential. This certification was created to recognize directors committed to continuing their education beyond the Credentialed Cooperative Director and Board Leadership Levels. As the name would suggest, “going for the gold” is the pinnacle of board leadership. Taylor joins board members Morris Thompson, Ricky Jones and Board President Pat Woods in receiving gold credentials. “Northcentral is fortunate to have an engaged board and fully supports an ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duties,” said CEO Kevin Doddridge. “We appreciate Tony’s desire to become a bigger part of what we do.” Taylor has represented District 4 since 2016. He is a local logistics owner and operator, as well as an ordained minister at New Mount Gillian Missionary Baptist Church. Tony is married to Shenika Taylor, and they reside in Olive Branch with their two children Torrean and Nikesia.

Northcentral announces date for 2020 Annual Meeting Pursuant to Section 3.01 of our bylaws, Northcentral Electric Cooperative’s Annual Meeting of the Members will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2020, in their auditorium located at 4600 Northcentral Way in Olive Branch. In addition to a review of the cooperative’s performance over the previous fiscal year, a major component of the Annual Meeting is the election of three members of the Board of Directors. This year, board members are to be elected from Districts 1,

4 and 8 of our system area. Current board members representing these districts are Pat Woods of District 1, Tony Taylor of District 4, and Ricky Jones of District 8. A general description of the areas served in those districts, as well as board qualifications and nomination procedures can be found in Article IV of Northcentral’s bylaws, which are posted to our website at northcentralelectric.com or can be viewed in person at the Northcentral office.

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

Tools to help you understand your energy use Northcentral Electric Cooperative offers a variety of options for you to understand your electric use. Over the years, we have published a wide variety of brochures and booklets that offer energy savings tips that are available in our office. There is also a handy tool to analyze your bill and home energy use on our website at northcentralelectric.com. Some of the most useful information available is the ability to view your home’s daily and hourly electrical use at any time. This information is available on our website and through our app. Members can access this information by clicking the “Pay Bill” or “My Account” tabs and following the steps at the member portal. Members can also access this information by downloading our app in their app store. Simply search for “Northcentral” and follow the steps.

Through the member portal online or through our app, members can view the amount of kilowatt hours recorded by their meter for any period of time, so they can compare one month with another. There is also a feature that adds the daily temperatures to each chart, so members can see the weather factors that impact their electric use. “Information is the key to understanding your monthly bill,” said Michael Bellipanni, director of marketing and business development. “When someone receives their bill and they think it is too high, they may have forgotten about a stretch of hot days in the billing period, or that they had a house full of visitors. When we show them how they used electricity throughout the month, they are able to think back and understand how their daily patterns of electricity use affect their bill,” Bellipanni said.

Higher temperatures this summer will mean higher utility bills for many Mississippians. But there are ways to control your costs and still survive the heat. About half of your energy use goes to cooling your home in the summer and heating it in the winter. Children who are out of school and staying at home can also boost your energy use because televisions are on longer, video games are being played or computers are being used more. Also,

with more people going into and out of the home, cool air is lost, and the air conditioner must work harder to keep the temperature at a comfortable level. You can spend a lot of money making your home more energy efficient by adding insulation, replacing windows and installing EnergyStar appliances. However, there are also some easy, inexpensive steps you can take to control your energy use. Here are a few:

• Use a slow cooker instead of simmering foods on the stove. • Only run the dishwasher when it’s fully loaded and use the air-dry cycle. • Set the thermostat to 78 degrees or as close to that temperature that you can and still feel comfortable. Every degree higher saves about 12%. • Lock your windows to get a better seal so you won’t lose cool air. • Change your air filter regularly so your air conditioner won’t have to work so hard.

• Use the microwave for cooking when possible. Visit our website, www.northcentralelectric.com, for more energy-efficiency tips that can help you keep your utility bills lower this summer.

14 TODAY | JULY 2020

Know the difference between

When it comes to cleaning, not all jobs are created equal. When you have a big mess in the kitchen — do you clean, disinfect or sanitize? These terms are often used interchangeably, but believe it or not, each are different. Cleaning dirt or food from a surface, for example, doesn’t necessarily kill germs and bacteria that can cause us to become sick. That’s why it’s important to know the difference between disinfecting and sanitizing. The CDC offers the following guidance. Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces or objects. Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning,

it can further lower the risk of spreading infection. Hospitals, for example, disinfect areas that have come into contact with bodily fluids, and parents typically disinfect areas where a baby’s diaper is changed. Sanitizing lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe level, as judged by public health standards or requirements. This process works by either cleaning or disinfecting surfaces or objects to lower the risk of spreading infection. Most people sanitize kitchen surfaces that come into contact with food. Pay close attention to hazard warnings and directions on product labels. Cleaning products and disinfectants often call for the use of gloves or eye protection. For example, gloves should always be worn to protect your hands when working with bleach solutions.

JULY 2020 | TODAY 15

Columbia: 601-736-2666 Hattiesburg: 601-264-2458

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

To pay bills or report outages:

855-2PRVEPA (855-277-8372) Visit us online at www.PRVEPA.com Member owned. Locally operated. That’s the cooperative difference.

Comfort Advantage

can help you save money One of our goals at Pearl River Valley Electric is to provide members with information about using energy wisely. When building or remodeling a home, energy efficiency should be a high priority. For more than 20 years our Comfort Advantage new home program has helped members save money on their monthly bills and increase the resale values of their homes. Comfort Advantage energy-efficiency standards are based on years of experience, and they are continually being updated.

In addition, upgrading from an existing electric furnace or conventional air conditioner to a 15 SEER or higher heat pump qualifies for a rebate of $400. The Comfort Advantage program can help make your energy decisions a breeze. We also offer free building consultations and HVAC load calculations. For more information, contact Scott Arinder, member services representative, at 601-731-7809.

The program now offers the following benefits for new homes:

Key requirements of the Comfort Advantage Program:

• Comfort Advantage homes qualify for up to 150 feet of free underground service.

1. Flex duct work will be limited to runs of 8 feet or less. 2. Ducts in unconditioned space must be wrapped with R-6 or higher insulation. 3. Wall insulation must have an R-value of 13 or greater. 4. Attic insulation must have an R-value of 38 or greater. 5. A Comfort Advantage home must have double pane insulated windows with a U-value and an SHGC-value of .60 or less. 6. A Comfort Advantage Plus home must have double pane insulated windows with a U-value and an SHGC-value of .40 or less. 7. Comfort Advantage homes must have a heat pump of 14 SEER or better. 8. Comfort Advantage Plus home must have a heat pump of 15 SEER or better. (Homes with geothermal heat pumps automatically qualify for the program.)

• Comfort Advantage Plus homes qualify for up to 150 feet of free underground service and a rebate of $500. • Geothermal heat pump installations qualify for an additional $500 rebate. • Natural gas instantaneous water heaters may now be used in Comfort Advantage homes (electric instantaneous water heaters do not qualify).

Note: Electric instantaneous water heaters will not qualify for either program.

12 TODAY | JULY 2020

Tools to help you understand your energy use Pearl River Valley Electric offers a variety of options for you to understand your electric use. Over the years, we have published a wide variety of brochures and booklets that offer energy savings tips that are available in our offices and online on our website, www.PRVEPA.com. Some of the most useful information available is the ability to view your home’s daily and hourly electrical use at any time. This information is available on our website and through our app. Members can access this information by clicking the “Pay My Bill” or “Manage My Account” tabs and following the steps at the member portal. Members can also access this information by downloading our app in their app store. Simply search for “PRVEPA” and follow the steps. Through the member portal online or through our app,

members can view the amount of kilowatt hours recorded by their meter for any period of time, so they can compare one month with another. There is also a feature that adds the daily temperatures to each chart, so members can see the weather factors that impact their electric use. “Information is the key to understanding your monthly bill,” said Scott Arinder, member services representative. “When someone receives their bill and they think it is too high, they may have forgotten about a stretch of hot days in the billing period, or that they had a house full of visitors. When we show them how they used electricity throughout the month, they are able to think back and understand how their daily patterns of electricity use affect their bill,” Arinder said.

• Unplug chargers for phone and laptop batteries when not in use.

• Lock your windows to get a better seal so you won’t lose cool air.

• Unplug unused refrigerators or freezers.

• Change your air filter regularly so your air conditioner won’t have to work so hard.

• Use the microwave for cooking when possible.

Visit our website, www.PRVEPA.com, for more energy-efficiency tips that can help you keep your utility bills lower this summer.

All Pearl River Valley Electric Offices will be closed in observance of Independence Day on Friday, July 3. Dispatchers will be available, and crews will be on call. Report outages by calling 855-2PRVEPA. JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

CONTACT INFORMATION: PONTOTOC P.O. Drawer 718 • 12 South Main Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863

662-489-3211 • Fax: 662-489-5156 BRUCE P.O. Box 415 • 129 South Newberger Street, Bruce, MS 38915

662-983-2727 • Fax: 662-983-1335

Pontotoc Electric offers sanitized facilities, additional payment and service options for your health and safety As of press time, the lobbies and offices of Pontotoc Electric were open for serving customers. Your health and safety are important to us, so we’ve implemented some measures to help you feel more at ease when you come to our locations to transact business: • Hand sanitizing stations are located in our lobbies • We are sanitizing our lobbies and office areas multiple times daily • Our lobbies now have floor signage indicating social distancing • We ask that no more than six customers conduct business in our lobbies at the same time • Customers who visit the office to set up service are asked to limit the number of people in their group who enter the building to one or two only We know some of our customers may prefer to conduct their business using alternate methods. Take a look at these options: • Online payments at pepa.com (a small fee applies) • Pay-by-phone at 1-866-865-4137 (a small fee applies)

• Walk-up window at the Pontotoc office • Drive-thru window at the Bruce office • Automatic bank draft (call us to get more information on set up) • Night deposit (checked Pontotoc Electric Receptionist Teresa throughout the day) Petty and the rest of our team welcomed • Mail payment to customers back into the lobbies on Monday, June 8, 2020. P. O. Box 718 Pontotoc, MS 38863 • Mail payment to P. O. Box 415, Bruce, MS 38915 • Curbside assistance for service changes and requests (call ahead for completion of paperwork, and our service clerks will bring them out for your signature) We’re here to serve our customers! Please give us a call if you have any questions at 662-489-3211 (Pontotoc) or 662-983-2727 (Bruce).

Easy BLT Dip

Caesar Salad Dressing

Mary Williamson,

JoAnne R. Bradley,

PEPA Collections Manager

PEPA Retiree

8 oz. cream cheese 1/2 cup shredded lettuce 1 can diced tomatoes, drained 1/2 cup real bacon bits

2 cloves garlic 3 tablespoons lemon juice 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 3 teaspoons Worcestershire 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup olive oil

Place cream cheese on microwaveable plate. Microwave on high 45 seconds to 1 minute, or until warmed. Top with remaining ingredients. Serve warm with crackers and fresh cutTODAY up vegetables. 12 | JULY 2020

Blend slowly, pouring 1/2 cup good olive oil as ingredients are mixing.

Retirement Letter from

Chuck Howell It has been over 43 years ago, but I still vividly remember when my wife Ensley and I drove from Starkville to Pontotoc for me to interview for an engineering position with Pontotoc Electric Power Association in February 1977. I had spoken with then Assistant General Manager Bill Jackson about the job opening, sent him my resume, and set up the time to visit Pontotoc Electric for the job interview. Growing up in Fayette, Alabama, I had heard my parents and relatives talk about Pontotoc, Mississippi all my life; however, the only times I had ever been to Pontotoc was when traveling from Starkville to Oxford, and then only passing through on Highway 15 Bypass without ever stopping. On my initial visit, I was very pleased with the friendliness of Assistant Manager Bill Jackson, General Manager Cy Sneed, and all the employees I met that day. It seemed to Ensley and me that The Lord had opened this door. Pontotoc was located 88 miles from my hometown and 51 miles from Ensley’s hometown of West Point. At that point both of our parents were still living, so it was plenty close enough for visiting. I was also impressed with everything I saw about Pontotoc Electric, which appeared to be a very well managed and financially stable electric distribution system. Mr. Sneed and Mr. Jackson were very proud of the fact that Pontotoc Electric was out of debt, which is not the normal for a rural electric cooperative. (I am also proud the Association is also presently out of debt at the time of my retirement). They also spent time showing us the large number of industries that had located within Pontotoc Electric’s service area, which was remarkable considering the relatively small-town demographics of the area. I feel very fortunate to have been raised by Christian parents who taught us to love and respect God, attend church

regularly, be patriotic to our country, and love our family and our neighbors. They also taught us the value of hard work and wise management of our resources. My ambition as far back as nine years old was to become an electrical engineer and work for a power company. My ambition was further stimulated by the experiences I obtained through the 4-H Club program while growing up. Having the opportunity to compete in 4-H Club contests at the county level, the district level at Alabama Power Company’s headquarters in Birmingham, and the state level at Auburn University was challenging and rewarding. I once attended the 50th Annual National 4-H Club Continued on next page

30th Anniversary Bruce Sawmill Festival Coming July 10 and 11! Friday, July 10

beginning at 6:00 p.m. • Arts/crafts vendors

Bruce Sawmill Festival 2020

• Food vendors

• Live music

Saturday, July 11

beginning at 7:30 a.m. • 5K run • Car show (judging from 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m.) • Arts/crafts vendors • Food vendors • Live music begins at 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. The festival will be located on the Bruce Town Square. For more information, please contact the Bruce Chamber of Commerce at 662-983-2222. JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

Congress at the Conrad Hilton Hotel in Chicago in November 1971 where then President Richard Nixon gave a live address, which was the first time I had ever been in the same room with a President of the United States. I am also grateful for the opportunity to learn about electronics from the late Hubert Anthony, who owned a local television and radio repair shop in my childhood neighborhood and was also an amateur radio operator. I am also thankful to have had summer jobs working as an electrician’s helper at a Georgia Pacific sawmill in Belk, Alabama, and the opportunity to work part-time during the school semesters as a meter reader and electrician for the Mississippi State University Physical Plant while attending college there. All these experiences and jobs gave me a ‘nuts and bolts’ background for my future employment at Pontotoc Electric. I graduated from Mississippi State University on Sunday, May 15, 1977, and began work with Pontotoc Electric on Monday, May 16, 1977. I began work as a staff-level engineer and safety coordinator. Through the years I have progressed to Director of Engineering, Operations, Purchasing and Safety, and later to Assistant Manager. Following the retirement of Bill Jackson on June 30, 1998, I was promoted to General Manager on July 1, 1998, where I have served for the last 22 years. Having worked for Pontotoc Electric Power Association for the past 43 years has allowed me to fulfill my childhood vocational ambition, and provide a service that touches the lives of almost everyone in the area we serve. As someone who has loved gospel singing from a child, Ensley and I began to learn the dates that the area churches would have hymn book and convention-style singings soon after moving to Pontotoc. Back then many churches had a regular monthly singing on a certain Saturday or Sunday night each month. We started visiting several church singings and were blessed at the friendliness of the congregations. Often times we would be invited by these church members to go to their home after these singings for cake and ice cream. Sometimes when we would attend a revival service, someone might tell us if we would come back the next night, they would invite us over for supper before the revival service. These kind people did not know us and we did not know them, but most of the time we accepted their invitation, and made many friends by doing so. It did not take us long to learn that Pontotoc County was a great place to live. Some of the challenging periods were the Pontotoc Tornado of May 1978, the Ice Storm of February 9, 1994, the Christmas Ice Storm of December 23, 1998, the Pontotoc Tornado of February 24, 2001, the straight-line wind storm on the third Sunday of May 2001, Hurricane Katrina of August 29, 2005, the snowstorm of February 25, 2015, the straight-line wind storm of the third Sunday in May 2017, and the remnants of Tropical Storm Olga on October 26, 2019. The Christmas Ice Storm of 1998 was the first extended outage after I became General Manager. At that time, Pontotoc Electric served approximately 15,500 meters. Due to enhanced efforts in right-of-way trimming following the Ice Storm of 1994, only 5,080 meters were without power at the peak of the outage on Wednesday 14 TODAY | JULY 2020

evening, December 23, 1998. By noon Thursday, there were 2,800 meters still out of power. By noon Friday, Christmas Day, there were 1,080 meters out of power. By noon Saturday, there were 103 meters out of power. During this Christmas holiday period, I was extremely pleased and humbled at the dedication of our employees to continue their work to restore power. I did not have a single employee request to be off for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day because of holiday plans. I did have several employees to tell me they would receive more satisfaction in working to restore power so that many families could enjoy having their Christmas gatherings, and the employee could have their individual family Christmas event at a later date. This willingness to put others’ needs before individual plans showed me the tremendous attitude of sacrifice of all our employees, and I have seen this tenet demonstrated many times since then. There has been a lot of changes in technology during the years. Most of the electrical calculations in the late 1970s were performed by long-hand methods with handheld calculators. The office computer system consisted of what was known as ‘dumb terminals’ which were tied by dedicated telephone lines to a main-frame computer at Central Service Association in Tupelo. Documents were typed on both manual and electric typewriters. System maps and switching diagrams were drawn and updated by hand on drafting tables. In 1986, Pontotoc Electric purchased its first microprocessor-based desktop computer. Today, practically every desk has a desktop computer. The mapping system is computer based and available on desktop computers, iPads and iPhones. The system operation map can be accessed from an iPad or iPhone during storm trouble and outages, as well as for daily operations. Underground utility 811 locate requests at first were called in by telephone, then later sent by facsimile, with the location identified by quarter-section, section, township and range. Now they can be placed from the field on-site by use of iPads and iPhones using street addresses or GPS coordinates. Several years ago, radio alarm systems were installed at all substations to alert personnel of momentary and sustained outages on distribution feeders. Following the Ice Storm of 1994, our two-way radio system license was upgraded to allow a radio repeater system to be installed, plus an additional repeater frequency pair for office communications, and a repeater frequency pair for the Bruce District Office. After-hours standby duty notification has gone from a home telephone to truck radios to scanners to pagers to walkie-talkies to cell phones to smart phones. Electric system reliability and resiliency has become more important through the years, and so has the need to respond promptly to outages. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with several trade, economic development organizations, and educational support organizations, and develop lasting friendships with people associated with these organizations. Some of these organizations include, but are not limited to the Bruce Chamber of Commerce, Calhoun Economic Development Association, Pontotoc County Chamber of Commerce, Union County Development Association, Northeast Mississippi Community Relations Association, Mississippi Cooperative

Electric has chosen Frankie Moorman as the new General Extension Service, United Way of Northeast Mississippi, Central Service Association, North Mississippi Public Power Association, Manager. More than that, I believe it was by Divine Guidance that Frankie was led to be selected to this position. Frankie has North Mississippi Industrial Development Association, Electric worked his way up from groundman to apprentice lineman to Cooperatives of Mississippi, Tennessee Valley Public Power journeyman lineman to assistant foreman to general foreman Association, Tennessee Valley Authority, Three Rivers Planning during his 25 years with Pontotoc Electric. He knows the power and Development District, and Itawamba Community College system very well and has worked numerous storm and other Foundation and Alumni Association. It has also been great to outages during his career. Frankie knows how to transfer loads work with all the other electric power associations and to alternate feeds for both outage and system repair work in municipal electric systems in Mississippi, and especially to order to eliminate or reduce the outages to customers. The receive mutual aid support in times of storm damage from safety of our employees and the public is paramount to him. these fine organizations. Frankie is very familiar with the operation, maintenance There have also been those times of sadness with the and repairs of heavy loss of co-workers, retired equipment, and has led our employees, current and efforts in the establishment former directors, and those of a structured apprentice who were killed in the lineman training and line of duty. Mr. Gladys certification program. In Williams of Bruce and Mr. addition to these attributes, Ike Weatherly of Pontotoc Frankie is a good people were both tragically killed person, both with in work-related accidents a employees, the general long time before I came to public, other general work at Pontotoc Electric. managers, government However, Carroll Ray Mapp officials, and community and Robert Ingram were leaders. He has learned both electrocuted in 1985, much of administrative and Mike Huffstatler died in matters and working with 2003 after having been boards during his four seriously injured in a traffic years of service on the accident in 1996. People you Pontotoc Electric General Manager Chuck Howell and his wife Ensley and Pontotoc Pontotoc City School work with daily and their Electric Assistant General Manager Frankie Moorman (far right) and his wife Angie. families become part of our Howell celebrated his upcoming retirement and the welcoming of Moorman as the Board. The Pontotoc Electric Board elevated extended cooperative family, incoming general manager. Frankie to Assistant and their passing leaves General Manager in January 2019, so he has had eighteen sorrow in our hearts. months to learn more of the management aspects of Pontotoc I also feel indebted to our friend, Dr. Randall Dupont, Chair Electric, in addition to serving at a staff-level position as and Professor of Management at the Alexandria Campus of General Foreman since August 2018. Louisiana State University, for enlightening me on Pontotoc Again, I feel very grateful for the privilege to have worked Electric’s place in history as the second rural electric for Pontotoc Electric for the past 43 years. Leaving a job cooperative in the United States. On March 1, 2020, Dr. Dupont that I have loved for practically all my adult working life will was the featured speaker at Pontotoc Electric’s ‘Three-fold not be easy. However, knowing the Association will be under Event’ consisting of Pontotoc Electric’s 85th Anniversary, my the caring leadership of the Board of Directors and senior retirement, and Frankie Moorman’s welcoming as the new management, and faithful and dedicated employees, makes my General Manager. Dr. Dupont’s knowledge of the history of leaving for retirement a lot easier. In addition, I want to thank rural electrification in the United States allowed him to share my wife and family for their support all through these years. with me on the evening of December 1, 1999, the significance of There have been many hours I have spent away from home Pontotoc Electric as a pioneer in America’s rural electrification on storm trouble, or either just catching up on work where I efforts. Today there are approximately 935 rural electric was behind, for which I appreciate their understanding. And cooperatives nationwide. Our place as the second rural electric finally, I want to thank God for providing me this opportunity cooperative stimulated my interest in pursuing the history of Pontotoc Electric. Dr. Dupont’s revelation of Pontotoc Electric’s to work with such a great organization and to live in such a fine community. My best wishes for every director, employee, place in history led to Pontotoc Electric’s motto of “Pioneers retired employee, member, and friend of Pontotoc Electric in America’s Rural Electrification,” historical anniversary Power Association. We plan to continue to live in Pontotoc and celebrations on five-year intervals, the Pontotoc Electric spend more time with our children and grandchildren. I hope to Historical Museum, and the historical marker. see each of you often in the days to come. I am very pleased our Board of Directors at Pontotoc JULY 2020 | TODAY 15

BRIAN HUGHEY

General Manager & CEO

Energy Tips

LORRI FREEMAN, APR Manager of Public Relations AMANDA PARKER Public Relations Specialist

Bringing power and energy services to local communities

For more information, call 601-947-4211, 228-497-1313 or visit singingriver.com. @singingriverelectric @SRECooperative SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

Preparing for storm season Singing River Electric is prepared and ready to respond and restore service to our members as quickly and safely as possible. As we move closer to the most active part of hurricane season, we encourage you to Brian Hughey finalize your storm General Manager & CEO preparations. This year will be different as we consider COVID-19 safety recommendations along with our emergency response. It is also expected to be a very active hurricane season with 12 to 19 named storms, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Take time now to refresh storm supplies including water, non-perishable food, fuel, batteries and more. Discuss your storm evacuation plan with immediate family members, especially if anyone is dependent on electrical medical equipment. No utility can guarantee uninterrupted power during a storm. Singing River Electric maintains a storm preparedness plan and recently conducted its

12 TODAY | JULY 2020

annual review. This plan was recently activated prior to the arrival of Tropical Storm Cristobal. As a hurricane or tropical storm nears the Gulf of Mexico, we activate our plan which has specific steps and actions detailed by department to ensure readiness. Employees are pre-assigned tasks such as preparing food, securing supplies/fuel and servicing vehicles. Line crews, service personnel and supervisors are assigned areas of our system to safely and efficiently begin work once the storm has passed. As a member-owned electric cooperative, we are also responsible for being financially prepared to handle costs associated with restoring power during and following major events such as a hurricane. Being a part of the network of electric cooperatives provides Singing River Electric access to cooperative line personnel from within the state and nation who will assist us in restoring electric service following a disaster. This is an immeasurable asset allowing us to speed restoration and help our communities. For more information, visit our Storm and Outage Center located at singingriver.com.

Jeff Gray Energy Services Representative gray@singingriver.com

Check your ACâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s condensing unit Several things can reduce the efficiency of your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s air conditioning (AC) system, which includes the inside blower unit and outside condensing unit. When efficiency is lost, it can cause your unit to run longer and use more energy. Air conditioning makes up the most of your energy costs during the summer. Check the air flow on your outside condensing unit weekly. Place your hand above the unit while it is running. You should feel warm to hot air blowing straight up if the unit is operating correctly. If air is flowing out of the sides while running, the fan capacitor may have burned out causing the fan to operate in reverse. If you are unsure of the air flow, drop a tree leaf or small piece of paper above the unit. If the unit is running in reverse, it will suck the object down to the top of the unit. If you notice the unit running in reverse, call a repair service. Having a burned-out capacitor is common at the beginning of summer because during the winter the fan is not used on conventional models. For more tips, see singingriver.com/ways-tosave.

2020 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING NOTICE

JOIN US AT THIS YEAR’S MEMBERSHIP MEETING! Singing River Electric is member-driven and built by the communities we serve.

PRESORT FIRST CLASS U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT 268 GULFPORT, MS

P.O. Box 767, Lucedale, Mississippi, 39452

IMPORTANT: OPEN IMMEDIATELY AND RETURN Vote or return your proxy for a chance to win...

500 CASH!

FOR LOOK ETTER L PROXY E MAIL! IN TH

SRE Me

Five-Hundr mber ed & 0100

June 27 25 500 .00

2020 Annual Membership Meeting

3 2 y l u J , y a d s Thur edale

uth, Luc o S 3 6 ld O . 11187 at 5:00 p.m begins Registration ds at 5:45 p.m. and en . s at 6:00 p.m in g e b g in t Mee

Participate by voting online or returning your proxy. Co-op bylaws require a 10 percent quorum of the membership in order to conduct business. Your participation is crucial to our success, and with it you will be eligible to win prizes including $500 in cash!

THERE ARE THREE WAYS TO PARTICIPATE:

IN PERSON, BY PROXY AND ONLINE Voting in person can be done the night of the membership meeting on Thursday, July 23, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held at the SRE Lucedale office at 11187 Old 63 South and will

likely be held outdoors to comply with COVID-19 restrictions. To vote by proxy, simply complete the proxy in this notice and return it using the enclosed selfaddressed, postage-paid envelope by Tuesday, July 14. You may still attend the meeting; your presence will rescind the proxy and allow you to vote in person. Voting online is easy! Members can vote online beginning Tuesday, June 9, through Tuesday, July 14. Simply click on the “Vote Here” icon on either the SmartHub app or website at singingriver.com. By entering your membership ID and zip code, you can view candidate biographies and cast your vote.

Eight members who vote online or return their proxies by the July 14 deadline will be selected to receive a $250 CASH prize. One member who votes online or returns the proxy by the deadline will receive a special grand prize of $500 CASH!

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

Get Prepared.

Stay Ready.

Download our newest storm preparedness document or pick up a copy at any SRE office, and stay ready for severe weather.

Staying Connected www.singingriver.com Mobile App: SmartHub @singingriverelectric on Instagram www.twitter.com/SRECooperative www.facebook.com/SingingRiverElectric

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. • Leakesville Substation – Knobtown Road, Highway 63, Highway 57, Hillman Crossing and surrounding areas. • Joe Batt Substation – Jim Ramsey Road, Old Biloxi Road, Joe Batt Road and surrounding areas. • Harleston Substation – Highway 613, Hurley-Wade Road, Highway 614 and surrounding areas. 14 TODAY | JULY 2020

Representatives from the George County Sheriff’s Department and the City of Lucedale’s Police and Fire Departments accept the Singing River Electric NHN Grant checks.

Supporting ﬁrst responders

SRE NHN Grants assist City of Lucedale Police/Fire and George County Sheriff’s Department 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, $297,836 has been awarded to local non-profits in local communities.

George County Sheriff’s Department and the City of Lucedale’s Police and Fire Departments received Singing River Electric Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Grants for a total of $2,500. The funds purchased personal protective equipment for first responders to assist with their COVID-19 protection needs. The dedication and commitment of these first responders serving their neighbors in south Mississippi is appreciated.

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 non-proﬁts in SRE’s service area three times a year in January, May and September.

Replenish your storm supplies Now is the time, on a pretty day, to replenish your storm supplies. Purchase fresh batteries, canned goods and water to keep in the event of a storm. Ready.gov and the Red Cross both are great resources for more information to build a basic disaster supply kit. • singingriver.com/storm-and-outage • ready.gov • redcross.org

Generator safety

Never connect portable generators directly into your home’s wiring unless through a transfer switch. Doing so can energize power lines, endangering line workers. Instead, connect appliances directly to the generator. Always operate a generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area. For more information, visit singingriver.com/storm-and-outage or beawareeverywhere.com. JULY 2020 | TODAY 15

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 .5240

THE POWER OF PATRIOTISM by Steve Bryant feel at times that Americans will never work our way July 4th is a time to celebrate the birth of our great through these situations, but rest assured, we can and nation. This year it is especially important that we apprewill. History shows us the American spirit will prevail! ciate all this nation has withstood and all the sacrifices America is a strong nation and even in the toughest made by many Americans to keep our country a free nation. The United States of America was founded on the times, the goodness and kindness of most Americans shines through. It is that goodness that will lead us to a principles that everyone has the right to life, liberty, and better version of ourselves. It is that the pursuit of happiness and that kindness that will allow all citizens to all men are created equal in God’s come together to face our challengeyes. We have fiercely defended the America is a strong nation es head on and find solutions. Our founding principles over our 244year history and will continue to do and even in the toughest empathy and compassion will help us listen to others as we work together so every day. times, the goodness to solve the issues at hand. Our grit Since our nation was founded, and and kindness of most and determination will shine light the Constitution of the United States was signed and ratified, America has Americans shines through. into the darkness and light the way for Americans all over this country to grown into the nation it is today. A nation of over 300 million citizens, all from different walks unite as “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” So, in July we truly celebrate all that of life, backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions trying to makes the United States of America the greatest nation live together in peace. It is a beautiful country filled with on earth and we ask that God Bless America. many inspiring Americans, so many beautiful places, and a rich history. It is not a perfect nation and history shows that America has had her share of battles, outside of America and here at home. Over the years, Americans have proven time and time again that we can weather any crisis and become even better than before by working together. Our rich history shows so many triumphs, successes, and achievements, but it also shows stains, blights, and failures. If we honestly look at our nation’s history, it is these failures from which we learned the most to help us grow into a better version of America. In 2020, it seems as if we once again face some tremendously tough situations — COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis it caused, racial injustice, protests, record unemployment, and a deep political divide. It can 12 TODAY | JULY 2020

G R

E4 Specialist Andrew Jacob Seal

Billy Harvey

John W. Sullivan

Jean Harrison

Heather, Jon, Ava, Andrew White

John Shivers

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

MEET YOUR:

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Billy Berry

Billy Parish

Charles Lowe

Charles Waldrup

David Tadlock

Richard Thoms

Fountaine McNair

Gregory Sullivan

Haskins Montgomery

Marcus Martin

Mims W. Berry

Jeffrey Sims

Simpson County

At Large

Jefferson Davis County

Covington County

Copiah County

Jasper County

Smith County

Rankin County

Scott County

Lawrence County

Newton County

Forrest County

YOUTH LEADERSHIP Southern Pine Electric proudly sponsors two high school juniors each year to attend the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Youth Leadership Conference in Jackson where they meet their legislators and tour the capitol. This is typically followed by the Youth Tour, held in Washington, D.C., where they are joined by students from across the country. This year, due to the pandemic, the tour has been postponed indefinitely. Bryce Dupree and Jered Smith were among 25 other students who attended Cooperative University held at Southern Pine Electricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s headquarters. These young men were selected through an application and interview process and they possess the qualities and characteristics to be future leaders of our membership area and our state. Bryce Dupree, son of Allison Lewis, lives in Bay Springs and will be a senior at Raleigh High School. He is a member of the Beta Club, History Club, Future Farmers of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Raleigh High School Mathletics, the tennis team and was president of the junior class. Bryce plans to study political science and eventually earn a law degree at Mississippi College or the University of Mississippi. Jered Smith, son of Jerry and Phyllis Smith, lives in Magee and will be a senior at Simpson County Academy. He is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, 14 TODAY | JULY 2020

Future Business Leaders of America, SCA Baseball team, and track team. He plans to attend The University of Southern Mississippi and major in business and finance. Congratulations, Bryce and Jered, and we look forward to seeing what you accomplish in the future.

From Left: Darnell Moffett of Southern Pine, Bryce Dupree of Raleigh High School, Jered Smith of Simpson County Academy and Gwen Creel of Southern Pine

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Walter Jones has been a dedicated member of the Southern Pine family for 41 years, and has always worked to support his Newton District team, his family and his community. Over the years, Walter has worked as a lineman, working foreman and most recently as a construction supervisor and has never had a lost-time accident. Forty-one years with no lost-time accidents is an amazing feat! Other than safety, what is Walter’s secret for a long and successful career? According to Jamie Baucum, Newton District Manager, the secret is a combination of talent and a great personality. “Walter is an excellent role model and mentor for those he supervises and encourages the upcoming generation of linemen to do the same. Walter is one of the most talented and knowledgeable individuals I know when it comes to linework. He is a great planner and can visualize how each job at hand should look when completed,” Baucum said. Over the years, Walter has seen many changes, but Baucum said that he always strives to adapt to those changes because he knows they are in the best interest of the members. “He has a great personality and will do anything asked of him,” he added.

WALTER JONES

“Walter is an excellent role model and mentor for those he supervises and encourages.” Denise Cleveland, a long-time coworker, said he can really assess people and the situation at hand and always knows the right way to react. “If he determines you want the truth, he will be honest with you, especially if you’ve earned his trust. If he determines you need to be encouraged, he will do that with a touch of his unique humor. If he determines it’s best to say nothing, he will say nothing and if he sees you need guidance or direction, he will share his experience with you if he feels you will listen,” Cleveland said. She adds that Walter is a trusted coworker and friend with valuable years of experience and wisdom. Walter has been married to his wife, Felishia, for 38 years and together they have four children and one grandchild. Residing in Pachuta, he is a member of Mt. Jordan United Methodist Church and enjoys woodworking and family time. Walter said he always tries to get along with everyone and he is most thankful for a loving family and a healthy life. “The Newton District is just like a second family or extended family. Everybody likes to have fun like a family and even though we have differences sometimes, we always seem to work them out,” Walter said. According to Walter, the best part of working at Southern Pine Electric is getting the opportunity to meet a lot of people he probably would’ve never known, both employees and members, and never getting bored because every day is different. JULY 2020 | TODAY 15

SOUTHERN PINE BYLAWS OUTLINE ANNUAL MEETING, ELECTION Article III: Meetings of Members Section 3.01: Annual Meeting For the purposes of electing directors, hearing and passing upon reports covering the previous fiscal year, and transacting such other business as may properly come before the meeting, the annual meeting of the members shall be held on the second Thursday of the month of November of each year, at such place in one of the counties of Mississippi within which the Cooperative serves., and beginning at such hour, as the Board of Directors shall from year to year fix; PROVIDED, that, for cause sufficient, the Board of Directors may fix a different date for such annual meeting not more than thirty (30) days prior or subsequent to the day other-wise established for such meeting in this Section. Failure to hold the annual meeting at the designated times and place shall not work a forfeiture or dis-solution of the Cooperative. It shall be the responsibility of the Board of Directors to make adequate plans and preparation for the annual meeting, and to encourage attendance by the membership at these meetings.

Article IV: Directors Section 4.03: Tenure and QualiďŹ cations (a) At each annual meeting of the members, directors shall be elected by ballot, by and from the membership of the Cooperative, one director to be elected from each of the counties of Copiah, Covington, Newton, Scott, Simpson, Forrest, Jasper, Jefferson Davis, Smith, Lawrence

16 TODAY | JULY 2020

and Rankin Counties, Mississippi, each director to be elected for a term of three (3) years, in accordance with the following formula, to-wit: (1) At the annual meeting of November 1984, and every three (3) years thereafter, one director shall be elected from each of the counties of Copiah, Covington and newton Counties, Mississippi, each of whom shall serve for a term of three (3) years from the date of election as provided by law. (2) At the annual meeting of November 1985, and every three (3) years thereafter, one director shall be elected from each of the counties of Scott, Simpson, Forrest and Jasper Counties, Mississippi, each of whom shall serve for a term of three (3) years from date of election as provided by law. (3) At the annual meeting of November 1986, and every three (3) years thereafter, one director shall be elected from each of the counties of Jefferson Davis, Smith, Lawrence and Rankin Counties, Mississippi, each of whom shall serve for a term of three (3) years from the date of election as provided by law. If the election of directors shall not be held at the annual meeting or if such annual meeting is not held, each director shall hold office until their successors shall have been elected and qualified. (b) At any meeting, the Credentials, and Election Committee shall determine the manner in which votes are to be cast and counted. At any meeting, ballots shall not be necessary in the event the number of persons nominated for directors does not exceed the number of directors to be elected, but in such case of there be no objections, the directors may be elected

in any other proper manner. Drawing by lot shall resolve, where necessary, any tie votes. If an election of directors shall not be held on the day designated for the annual meeting, a special meeting of the members may be held for the purpose of electing directors within a reasonable time thereafter.

permanent occupancy, direction or use of the premises served by the Cooperative, and (2) Is a permanent resident within the county where such member is served by the Cooperative; provided further, that no more than one (1) such person may serve on the Board of Directors a the same time.

(c) No person or non-natural person as described in subsection (e) of this section shall be eligible to become or remain a director or to hold any position of trust in the Cooperative who is not an active member in good standing of the Cooperative, has not been a bona fide resident of the county from which they are to be elected for six months immediately preceding the nomination to directorship, or who is in any way employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise.

(f) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a director of, or to hold any other position of trust in the Cooperative, unless such person has the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract.

(d) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a director who has been finally convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude. (e) In order to be eligible to become or remain a director of the Cooperative, a person must be a member of the Cooperative and receiving service therefrom, and not be a close relative as defined in Section 4.08 of an incumbent director, or the director being replaced. However, the operating or chief executive officer of any member which is not a natural person, such as a corporation, church, etc., or its designee, shall, notwithstanding that they do not receive service from the Cooperative, be eligible to become a director, from the county in which such member is located, if they be so designated. (1) Is in substantial

(g) No employee of the Cooperative shall be eligible to become or remain a director of the Cooperative. (h) Upon establishment of the fact that a nominee for director lacks eligibility under this Section or as may be provided elsewhere in these bylaws, it shall be the duty of the chair presiding at the meeting as which such nominee would be otherwise voted upon to disqualify such nominee. Upon the establishment of the fact that any person being considered for, or already holding, a directorship or other position of trust in the Cooperative lacks eligibility under this Section, it shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to withhold such position from such person, or to cause them to be removed therefrom, as the case may be. (i) Nothing in this section contained shall, or shall be construed to, affect in any manner whatsoever, the validity of any action taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors, unless such action is taken with respect to a matter which is affected

by the provisions of this section and in which one or more of the directors have an intent averse to that of the Cooperative. Section 4.04: Committee on Nominations, Credentials and Elections (a) Committee on Nominations. It shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to appoint, at its regular August meeting of each year, a committee on nominations consisting of not less than five (5) nor more than eleven (11) members who shall be selected so as to ensure equitable geographic representation.

No existing Cooperative employee, agent, officer, director or unknown candidate for director, may serve on such committee. The committee shall receive and consider nominees submitted by the members of the Cooperative. The submission should include the memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name, address, account number and contact information and be mailed to the Committee on Nominations, P.O. Box 60, Taylorsville, MS 39168. Nominations must be received by August 13, 2020. The committee shall meet at a time and place set by the Board of Directors. The committee shall prepare and

post at the principal office of the Cooperative within fifteen (15) days after the date of their appointment a list of nominations for directors. The Secretary shall mail with the notice of the membership meeting a statement of the number of directors to be elected and showing separately those candidates nominated by the Committee on Nominations and those candidates nominated by petitions, which have been received on, or prior to the second Thursday of September of the year of such meeting. Any fifty (50) members acting together may make nominations

by petition and the Secretary shall post such nominations at the same place where the list of nominations at the same place where the list of nominations by the committee is posted. Any petition or nomination shall be submitted on a form designated and provided by the Cooperative. Each member signing such petition shall place thereon the date of signing, address and account number of the member. At the membership meeting, the Chairman shall call for additional nominations from the floor. No member may nominate more than one candidate.

JULY 2020 | TODAY 17

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

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

southwestelectric.coop

Southwest Electric

SWElectricCoop

sw_electric_coop

Giving our residential Members power to choose

Member Choice Billing ■ Regular Billing Standard billing most familiar to our Members. Pay for use as metered on a monthly basis.

■ Alternate Payment Dates Choose to have payments due on the 15th or 27th of each month, allowing for flexibility with your budget and schedule.

■ Variable Monthly Payment Calculates and averages the last 11 months of use plus the current month’s use, providing a levelized current bill. Makes monthly budgeting easier.

■ EZ-Pay Only requires $105 to start service ($55 is a credit towards electricity use) and no deposit. Pay for use as you go. Available for new and existing Members.

■ Paperless Billing No more paper bills in your mailbox. Receive notification of your bill by text or email.

12 TODAY | JULY 2020

Payment Options SmartHub through the mobile app or online at southwestelectric.coop Credit/Debit Card Draft enroll through SmartHub online or the mobile app for monthly auto pay or one-time payment Bank Draft one-time eCheck payment through SmartHub or call us to enroll in auto monthly bank draft Pay by Phone 24/7 877-607-6973 — with credit/debit cards or by eCheck Pay Centers • Lorman — Southwest Electric office • Port Gibson — River Hills Bank and BankPlus (formerly State Bank & Trust) MoneyGram • Available at Walmart and CVS stores • $1.50 fee • Receive code 16381 U.S. Mail Mail your bill stub and check or money order to P.O. Box 5, Lorman, MS 39096

EMPLOYEE

Spotlight

Tena Anderson, Accounting Clerk Tena started her career at Southwest Electric in November 1998 as a Cashier. She was named Assistant Secretary in the Accounting Department in 2004 and was promoted to Accounting Clerk in 2009. She is responsible for processing Membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; payments and ensuring the accuracy of those payments. She and her husband, Johnny, have been married for 30 years and have one son, Jarmell.

Ernie Orcutt, Serviceman Ernie began working at Southwest Electric in the summer of 2000 while earning his degree in instrumentation and electronics at Copiah-Lincoln Community College. He was hired full-time in May 2001 to work on a construction line crew. In 2005, he moved to Natchez and became a Serviceman. Ernie serves Members in his assigned area with security lights, new service connections, outages and anything else they need. Ernie has one son, Colt.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars by Amanda Cranfield 1 box white cake mix 1 box of instant vanilla pudding 2 eggs 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup oil 1 cup chocolate chips Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients and spread into a greased 9x13 pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes.

Banana Nut Bread by Jimmy C. Smith 1 cup self-rising flour 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 2 ripe bananas, mashed 1/3 cup oil 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 cup chopped pecans (add last) Mix by hand until moistened. Pour into glass loaf pan. Bake in 350 degree oven 45 to 60 minutes.

Annual Meeting Announcement Wednesday, August 12 10:00 a.m. Lorman Office, 18671 Highway 61 Southwest Electricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bylaws can be found at southwestelectric.coop/what-is-a-cooperative. The Nondiscrimination Statement can be found at southwestelectric.coop/nondiscrimination-statement. You can also call our office to obtain copies.

Southwest Electric will be closed July 3 in observance of Independence Day.

Dispatchers will be on duty and crews will be on call throughout the holiday weekend. Use our SmartHub app or call 800-287-8564 in case of a power outage or emergency. JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

FOR AFTER-HOURS OUTAGES, CALL

866-897-7250 HOLLANDALE

BELZONI

(662) 827-2262

(662) 247-1909

GREENVILLE

ROLLING FORK (662) 873-4233

(662) 334-9543

SERVING MORE THAN 12,600 ELECTRIC METERS IN FIVE DELTA COUNTIES

“So please, oh please, we beg, we pray, go throw your TV set away, and in its place, you can install a lovely bookshelf on the wall.” – Roald Dahl, children’s author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, and many more…

Books, Books, Books 2020 will be known as the year for people embracing a simplier lifestyle — gardening, cycling, crafting and spending time with family. Many say that we’ve reverted back to a time when kids and families weren’t overloaded with scheduled activities. With so many summer activities canceled, it’s a perfect time to embrace summer reading! Reading allows a wonderful opportunity through books to travel to new lands or a different period of time or to learn about history, a different culture or your favorite animal. Reading provides a chance for children to use their imagination which seems to be replaced with screen time and video games these days. And, reading isn’t just for kids! Adults need to read with their child to model fluency and expression. Children and adults alike should read for enjoyment! If reading isn’t a priority in your household, here are some interesting facts that can help you decide that your family needs to put down the remote, tablet or phone and pick up a book. Did you know? • People who read are more likely to get ahead when it comes to their careers, and life in general. • People who read are two and a half times less likely to be

diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Syndrome later on in life. (Although this does not mean that reading will prevent the disease, it proves a slight relationship between reading and prevention.) • Reading frequently does actually make you smarter. Not only does it help you retain knowledge, but it helps you to remember that knowledge later on in life. • People who read are more likely to vote, exercise and be more cultural. • Reading can be therapeutic by helping with any stress or turmoil in your life. • Reading helps to boost your analytical thinking. Reading helps you to recognize various patterns that occur in writing. If you are looking for a law or medicine career, this is important! (Source: 10 Scientific Facts About Reading Books and How It Could Really Improve Your Life. https://unbelievable-facts. com/2013/09/10-scientific-facts-about-reading-books.html)

Children who DO NOT read in the summer can lose two to three months of reading skills, but children who DO read tend to gain a month of reading proficiency. (Source: Scholastic) 12 TODAY | JULY 2020

Summer reading programs are underway at these local libraries. Give them a call or following them on Facebook. Washington County Library System, Greenville, Leland, Arcola, Hollandale https://www.washington.lib.ms.us/ 662.335-2331 Online activities found on Facebook.

SAVE-THE-DATE

Twin County Annual Meeting set for September 22, 2020 Twin County Electric Power Association is making plans to hold its Annual Meeting of Members on Tuesday, ✪ September 22, 2020 at its main campus in Hollandale. At this time, the Executive Order signed by Governor TWIN COUNTY EPA Tate Reeves remains ✪ MAIN OFFICE in effect through BRANCH OFFICES SUBSTATIONS June 30, 2020, and limits gatherings. Due to the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic, the Board of Directors may be required to postpone Twin County’s 2020 Annual Meeting. If it is necessary to postpone the 2020 Annual Meeting, Twin County will notify the local news media and will post a notice on Twin County’s website and at all of its offices. More information regarding Twin County’s 2020 Annual Meeting will also appear in the August and September editions of Today in Mississippi. The primary purposes of the Annual Meeting are to elect three Directors, to hear and receive reports from Twin County’s Directors and Officers, and to transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting. Pursuant to Twin County’s By-Laws, any 15 Members in Good Standing as of the Record Date may nominate a Member in Good Standing to run for Twin County’s Board of Directors using a form provided by Twin County and filed at Twin County’s Hollandale Office not less than 45 days prior to date of the Annual Meeting. All persons nominated to run for Twin County’s Board of Directors are required to submit a questionnaire and consent to a criminal background check simultaneously with the filing of their petition. If Twin County is able to hold its Annual Meeting on September 22, 2020, it is anticipated that the Record Date for determining the Members in Good Standing eligible to be nominated to serve as Directors, to sign petitions and to vote at the Annual Meeting will be July 21, 2020, and the deadline for submitting Petitions will be August 10, 2020. Any Member of Twin County may obtain a complete copy of its By Laws at Twin County’s offices in Hollandale, Belzoni, Rolling Fork, or Greenville, or by visiting www.twincoepa.com. SUNFLOWER COUNTY

Sharkey-Issaquena County Library, Rolling Fork https://www.sicl.lib.ms.us/ 662.873.4076 Summer grab-n-go packets available. Humphreys County Library, Belzoni https://www.humphreys.lib.ms.us/ 662.247.3606 Summer grab-n-go packets available. In addition to your local library’s summer reading program, here are some summer reading programs that kids can earn free goodies while enjoying a good book from companies like Barnes & Noble and Chuck E. Cheese. Check it out at https://www. weareteachers.com/10-summer-reading-programs-for-kids/

“Books were my path to personal freedom. I learned to read at age 3 and soon discovered there was a whole world to conquer that went beyond our farm in Mississippi.” — Oprah Winfrey

Leland

LEFLORE COUNTY

Greenville

Inverness

Isola

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Belzoni

Hollandale

HUMPHREYS COUNTY

HOLMES COUNTY

Rollingfork

Louise

SHARKEY COUNTY

Mayersville

ISSAQUENA COUNTY

Cary

WARREN COUNTY

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

INDEPENDENCE DAY

SATURDAY, JULY 4 P.O. BOX 8 • 2255 GORDON ST. YAZOO, MS 39194 FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

662-746-4251 — OFFICE & REPORT OUTAGES 866-484-4277 — PAY BY PHONE VISIT US ONLINE @ WWW.YAZOOVALLEY.COM

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COM

ELECTRICITY BRINGS EVERYDAY VALUE by Dennis McFee Even though I work for the power company, like most people, I still don’t think much about the electricity I use. I expect the lights to turn on when I flip the switch and the coffeemaker to work each morning. Because electricity is so abundant, we don’t think much about it. Since many of us have been spending more time at home over the past few months, we have likely been using more energy. And yet, we still expect an endless supply of power with uninterrupted service 24/7. The only time we really think about electricity is when the power goes out or perhaps when the monthly bill arrives. Given how electricity powers our modern lifestyle every day, it’s a great value, especially when compared to other common services and expenses. For example, think back to the cost of a gallon of gasoline 20 years ago. Consider the cost of groceries or a cup of your favorite specialty coffee from a few years back.

In comparison, the cost of electricity has remained largely flat, unlike most other consumer goods. Like many of you, I have a cell phone to stay connected, and I subscribe to streaming services so I can enjoy more viewing options. Many of us consider these necessities for modern day life. We can see what we’re getting for our money, and we pay the price for those services. In contrast, when we use electricity, we don’t necessarily “see” all that we’re getting for our money. But considering what electricity does for us, it’s a tremendous value for our quality of life as well as our budgets. For comparison, consider that the average rent increase was nearly 4% (from 2014-2019) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index (CPI). The cost of medical care was increased 3% during this time, and education was not too far behind at 2.6%. So, where did electricity rank? According to the CPI, electricity increased by less than half a percentage point, 0.4%. Considering that electricity is something that we all use around the clock, We only experience a small percentage of power interruptions compared to the amount of available service use. At the same time, we are striving to increase our service reliability, reduce those brief interruptions and reduce costs. We are continually working to improve The cost of powering your home rises slowly when compared to other our operations to ensure a smarter grid common expenses. Looking at price oncreases over the last five years, it’s and exploring more renewable energy easy to see electricity remains a good value! options where possible. Yazoo Valley Electric Power Average Annual Price Increase 2014-2019 Association provides the reliable Percent service you expect and deserve as 4.0 valued members of the co-op. And as your trusted electricity provider, 3.5 we want to help you save you 3.0 energy and money. We recognize that the past few 2.5 months have been challenging for many of our members and 2.0 we’re here to help. If you have 1.5 questions about your account or are looking for ways to save 1.0 energy at home, please give us a call. Yazoo Valley is your electric co0.5 op and our sole purpose is to serve 0 you and the needs of our community. Rent Medical Care Education Electricity That’s everyday value.

ELECTRICITY REMAINS A GOOD VALUE

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

JULY 2020 | TODAY 13

Heating and cooling an uninsulated shed, garage or workspace can increase energy bills.

Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency Visit www.collaborativeefficiency. com/energytips for more energy efficient tips.