Today in Mississippi August 2019 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

News for members of Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

STUDENTS TOUR WASHINGTON, D.C. 5

Clean Kitchen

12 Digital Magic

19 Steps to Nowhere

10 I Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Left to right: Brooks McDill, Savanna Greer, James Carpenter, Kathryn Moss, John Carpenter, Callum Mann and Brack Rudolph Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. As this esteemed program is steeped in building lasting leadership abilities, its success and growth are continuously on the rise – with this year more than 1,800 of rural America’s best and brightest students, representing 43 states, participating. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this life-changing, allexpenses paid experience. Central Electric Power Association sponsored seven of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Central Electric, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives

of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, James and John Carpenter, Savanna Greer, Callum Mann, Brooks McDill, Kathyrn Moss and Brack Rudolph represented Central Electric. James and John, the sons of Tommie and Brian Carpenter of Carthage, will be a seniors at Leake Central High School. Savanna, the daughter of Amy and Phillip Greer, will be a senior at Leake Academy. Callum, the daughter of Tina and Rudy Mann of Carthage, will be a senior at Leake Central High School. Brooks, the son of Brenda and Ryan McDill of Walnut Grove, will be a senior at Leake Academy. Kathyrn, the daughter of Becky and Jeff Moss of Brandon, will be a senior at Hartfield Academy. And Brack, the son of Paige and Ben Rudolph of Carthage, will be a senior at Leake Academy. These students were chosen to participate through an application and interview process in October 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with likeminded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “Youth Tour has enabled me to experience some of the best memories,” said Callum. “Not only have I been exposed to the wonderful parts of our nation’s capital, but I’ve made lifelong friends. A huge thank you to all electric cooperatives.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memori-

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Brian Long

General Manager

“Central Electric is proud to participate in this outstanding program for high school juniors in our service area. These students work hard in their schools and communities as leaders and we feel it is important for them to see first-hand how great leaders can impact a nation. Above: As the 2019 National Spokesperson for NRECA, Wallace Bass, a representative for Central Electric, was invited back to Youth Tour to deliver his famous speech during Youth Day.

als, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War, FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a seven-floor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well. A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural Center located on the Potomac River.

Top, left to right: Brack, James, Kathryn, Savanna, John, Callum and Brooks stopped for a photo in front of the Jefferson Memorial. Above: The students also visited the National Cathedral.

After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S. A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. “My experience at Youth Tour was amazing,” said Kathryn. “I met so many new friends and saw so many beautiful memorials. It was such an amazing week and I am beyond thankful for the opportunity I was given.” The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. “Being able to experience Youth Tour was an incredible experience,” said Savanna.

“From the National Cathedral to the Smithsonians and everything in between, the amount of history learned about the foundings of our nation was phenomenal.” After the tour, the day was filled with Over the seven days special visits with our state’s leaders. James, of the Youth Tour in John, Savanna, Callum, Brooks and Brack Washington, D.C., each visited with Rep. Bennie Thompson’s staff in the Rayburn House Office Building, student and advisor took while Kathryn visited with Rep. Michael more than 100,000 Guest’s staff in the Cannon House Office steps, 65 flights of stairs Building. The students also had the opporand walked a total of tunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. 50 miles! Cindy Hyde-Smith. “The Youth Tour has been a dream come true,” said John. “Touring the Capitol with all of the amazing peo“Youth Tour has enabled ple that this program me to experience some of the has brought into my life has made it one best memories. Not only have I been that I’ll never forexposed to the wonderful parts of our get. I’m beyond thankful for this nation’s capital, but I’ve made lifelong opportunity and friends. A huge thank you to all the memories it has given me.” electric cooperatives.”

FUN FACT:

– Callum Mann

10 I Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Back to School Electric co-ops are continually learning to improve service for members. It’s a new school year and kids of all ages are getting ready for a fresh year of learning! From kindergarten through college, students attend school to gain knowledge about a broad variety of subjects and learn new skills that will prepare them for the future. In a similar vein, Coahoma Electric Power Association is continually learning in order to advance technology that improves electric service, reliability, safety and in turn, enhances quality of life for the members we serve in our local communities. Coahoma Electric Power Association keeps abreast of industry trends because the energy

sector is rapidly changing. Innovations in technology and energy types are fueling demand for more options. On the consumer front, people are looking for more ways to manage their energy use with smart technologies. Consumers expect more convenient payment methods – whether through automatic bill pay, pre-pay, online or in person. We’re working to help sift through the options for our members in ways that benefit the greater community. At the same time, we never lose sight of the top priority – providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity.

Students will be out and about. Please watch out for school buses and children at crosswalks. And observe school zones when school is in session.

THINK SAFETY!

Coming

COAHOMA ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 2 in observance of

LABOR DAY

NEXT MONTH... We are excited to announce that the September issue of Today in Mississippi will have a new look. The state’s most widely circulated publication will transition to a magazine format. The publication’s content will continue to reflect Coahoma Electric Power Association’s pride in the communities we serve and our beautiful home state. What will change? The new magazine format will reflect a high-quality, colorful and sophisticated design. By increasing to 32 pages, the additional space will allow us to deliver even more interesting and entertaining content along with dynamic photographs – and all in an easy-to-read layout. We look forward to sharing with you soon the fresh, new look of our publication and also a renewed commitment to delivering quality stories and family-friendly content celebrating life in Mississippi. And, it continues to be our privilege to be your source for valuable information about your cooperative, new recipes, travel, events, gardening, outdoor life and so much more.

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Four life hacks to beat the summer heat As summer temperatures continue to go up, there’s no need to let the heat get you down. There are several ways you can keep cool this summer –– without wreaking havoc on your home’s air conditioner! Use these four simple life hacks to beat the summer heat: 1. Make aloe vera cubes. Whether you’re nursing a sunburn or just wanting to cool off, aloe vera cubes will offer some relief. Simply fill an ice tray with aloe vera gel, freeze it, then place the cubes on your body’s pulse points, like the neck and wrists, for a quick cooling sensation. 2. Try a cooling pillow. If you’re willing to spend a little, a cooling pillow can help you feel more comfortable on those muggy summer nights. Prices range from $27 (like Plixio Pillows) to $180 (like the Technogel Pillow), so you can determine how much you’re willing to spend. 3. Just add mint. Menthol makes our bodies feel cool, so by adding spearmint essential oil to products like body wash and lotion, you can get an instant cooling effect. Essential oils can be purchased at most drugstores or online. 4. Spend a few bucks on a handheld fan mister. Sure, you may feel a little silly carrying around a tiny fan, but you’ll be more comfortable than everyone else –– and they’ll probably ask to borrow it. You can typically find these at big box stores like Wal-Mart or Target, or you can order one online. There are additional ways to keep you and your home cool this summer: • Close blinds and curtains during the day, and open them during the evening when the temperatures are cooler. • Use ceiling fans and portable fans to stay comfortable. But remember, fans cool people, not rooms. • Use appliances that put out heat, like clothes dryers and dishwashers, during the evening to minimize indoor heat during the day when temperatures are higher. Don’t let the heat get in the way of summer fun. Use these tips to keep your cool and enjoy the rest of the season!

Tip of the

Month

Routinely replace or clean your air conditioner’s filter. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter can reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5 to 15 percent. Source: energy.gov

HARVEST SAF FETY TIPS FOR

FARMW WORKERS • Maintain a 10-foo ot clearance around all utility equipme ent in all directions. • Use U a spott tter and d deplo d l yed d fl flags to t maintain safe distances from power lines and other equipment quipment when doing field work. • If your equipment makes contact with an energized d or downed power line, contact us im mmediately by phone and remain n inside the vehicle until the power lin ne is de-energized. In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jump mp out of the cab, without touching it at the same time, and hop away to saf s ety. • Consider equipment and cargo extensions of you ur vehicle. Lumbe er, h y, tree limbs, irrrigation pipe and ha even bulk materia als can conduct e electricity , so keep p them out of contact with electrical trical equipment. Source: Safe Electricity ctricity

10 I Toda day in Misissisissip ippi

July 2019

CEO’’ss message Our August issue of Toda To day in Mi Missssissssip ippi fe features our outstanding Youth Leadership stuYo dents who spent a week this summer in our nation’s capital on the trip of a life fetime. I am impressed each year by Ron Barnes r the caliber of students inn President and CEO our local schools. These students are taking on leadership roles in their schools, churches andd communities that are hav avingg a great impact on thoose around them. Taking on that kind of role isn’tt easy but these students step up to the plate to maake a diff fference. I am so proud of them fo for the workk they do and fo for showing us all what it’s like to livve our cooperative principle, “Concern fo for Comm munity.”

Besides these outstanding young leaders, Coast Electric is blessed to hav ave outstanding board leadership. These men and women represent your needs and serve as yo your voice in your cooperative. We We hope yo you will learn more about them in the fo following pages and that yo you will come meet them at our Annual Meeting this fa fall. They are always willing to listen to yo your thoughts about how we can better serve you. These fe features will be part of the last issue of the To Toda day in Mi Missisissip ippi publication as you know it. No, we aren’t going aw away ay, we are just getting a little fa facelift ft. Beginning in September, our newspaper will switch to a magazine fo format, allowing crisper, clearer images in a more durable publication. We We are excited to enhance this amazing product and hope yo you will tell us wha what at you think of the redesign!

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I Energy Fairs

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I Where are they now?

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tric ower r e in the communities we serve and eautiful home state. For more than 72 years, Todaay in Misssisssippi has the primary resource to keep our cooperative informed while also offfering a unique blend of fe feature u stories, stories co columns, olumns pphoto hoto contests, contests recipes recipes and more – all centered around life fe in Mississippi. What will change? The new magazine fo Wh format will refl flect a high-quality, a colorfu ful and sophisticated design. By increasing to 32 pages, the additional space

We will continue to work hard to ma nt you have placed in us. We look forward to sharing with you soon the fresh, new look of our publication and also a renewed commitment to delivering quality stories and familyfriendly content celebrating life in Mississippi. And, it continues it continues to to be be our our privi privilege lege to to be be your your source source fo for valuable info formation about your cooperative, new recipes, travel, events, gardening, outdoor life fe and so much more. Thanks fo for being a To Toda day in Mi Missis issip ippi reader.

I Reduce Your Use contest

PA P AGE

AAugust 2019

Today ay in in Misissisissipp ippi

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Reduce Your Use contest August Reduce Your Use priize announcement

energy Take a walk aro

Wi ners

June’s Reduce Your Use contest wiinner e ! Congratulations to our June Reduce

Har arrrrriisso on CCo ountty y Energgy y FFa airrss Join us Fridaayy, August 2 ffrrom 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. aatt our Gulffp port and Biloxi off ffiices ffo or our energgyy ffaairs! Our energgyy experts will be aavvailaab ble to tell you aab bout prograam ms that caan n improve energgyy efffiiciency in your home or business and help you saavve!

AT THE ENERG AT GY Y FAIR YOU W YO WIILL BE ABLE TO: • Learn abo out your energy use and how to reduce your use • Siggn up for programs like our Time of Use rate to save on your monthly bill • Check out an electric vehicle and see if it could be right ffo or you • Talk to ou ur experts about your energy needs

OFFICES CLOSED FOR LABOR DAY Coast Electric’s offffices will be closed Monday, Sept. 2, for Labor Day. Crews will remain on call and dispatchers will remain on duty throughout the holiday weekend. Call 877-769-2372 or use our free CE on the Go mobile app to report outages.

Hav ve e a saffe e and ha ap ppy we w eekend d!!

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Toda day in Misissisissip ippi

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Visit i to nati tion’s ’s ca capita ital in insp spir pires

Yo Y outh th To Tour ur Stud St udents ts YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Left to right: Mary Thames, Caleb Bergmann, Alaina Olsen and Jordan Calomese

Since the 19550s, high school students repressenting electric cooperattives fr from al all across the United States have participateed in the annual al Electric Cooperative Youth Tour eveent in Washington, D.C. As this Yo esteemed prograam is steeped in building lastingg leadership abilities, itss success and growth are continuously on the rise – with this year more than 1,800 of rural al America’s best and a brightest students, representing 43 states, participatting. They visited the nation’s cap apital al, tak aking in historiic sites and educational al opportunities made available to t them through this life fe-changing, all-expenses paidd experience. al Coast Electriic sponsored fo four of the 81 students representing Miississippi electric cooperatives. Wh While the tour is fifilledd with fu fun activities, its primary mission is to educate stuudents about our country’s legislative and political al proocess as well as the signifificance of rural al

electrifification. Th The students even met and visitted wi with manyy of Mississippi’s pp elected offfficial als to learn and a see fifirst-hand how the fe federal al government operates and how legislationn affffects every ry American. The Yo Youth Tour T is sponsored local ally by Coast Electric, organiized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and a national ally by the National al Ru Rural al Electric Coopeerative Association (NRECA). A This year, Cal aleb Bergmannn, Jordan Cal alomese, Alaina Olsen and Mary Thames represented Coast Electric. Cal aleb, the son off JJ’A Anna andd Cary C Bergmann B off Gulfp G lffport,t will ill be b a senior at Gul ulfp fport p High School. Jordan, the son of Shae and Patrick Caal alomese of Wav aveland, will be a senior at Bay High Schoool. Alaina, the daughter of Amy and John Olsen of Gulfp fport, will be a senior at St. Patrick Catholic Highh School. And Mary, the daughter of Katherin and Hardy Thames of Gulfp fport, will be a senior at Gul ulfp fport High School. These stuudents were chosen to pparticipate p through g an ap applicatioon and interview process in September 2018 duringg their junior year in high school. In February 20019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washinngton, D.C., trip are inval aluable experiences fo for the t students, the relationships they had the opporrtunity to make with like-minded peers from acrooss the state and the country will be one fr of the moost long-term and rewarding measures of the Youtth Tour. “This experiience shows the val alue that electric cooperatives accross the country hav ave fo for fu future leaders,” said Mary. During the seven-day ay Youth Tour, the students visited historicaal al and cultural sites, monuments and memorial als, succh as the World War II Memorial al, the Washington M Wa Monument, the Lincoln Memorial al, the Thomas Jeffffersson Memorial, The United States Marine Corps War Meemorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of o the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a seeven-flfloor, interactive museum dedicated to First Amenddment rights, journal alistic ethics and popular historic new ws events. Another fa favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums M of Air and Space, American History, Naturral al History and the National al Gal allery of Art. New addittions this year included the National al Portrait Galleryy and the National Museum of Afr frican

August 2019

Toda day in Misissisissip ippi

Ron Barnes

President and CEO

Top: Ca Caleb, b, Maary ry, Ala lain ina an and Jord rdan wa walk lked alon ong th the Vie Vietn tnam am Ve Vetera ran’s’s Mem emoririal and a saw Th The Th Threee Sold ldiieers rs sta tatue rep epre resen entiting th the maj ajor eth thnic group ups wh who fo foug ught in in th the wa war.r. Bottom om: Th The sstud udents e ts vi visited Rep ep. Steven Pa Pala lazzo in in hisis D.C. C. offffice ce.

American H History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. wh Many studeents elected to visit the Bible Museum ass well. A visit too National als Park was another highlight fo for o the participants, wh where they watched as the Maj ajor League Basebal all team the Washinngton National als took on the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watcheed a beautifu ful sunset fr from the roof of the Johnn F. Kennedy Center, the United States Natioonal al Cul ultural al Center located on the Potomaac River. Aftfter a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, al Av also known as Embassy Row, the students ennj njoyed a guided tour of the Washingtonn National al Cathedral, the second largest cathedral al in the U.S. A respectfu ful visit to Arlington Cemetery gav ave the stuudents the opportunity to reverently look on fo for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the grav avesites of several al of our nation’s prominenat fifigures, including John F. Kennedy and Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis, wh where the eternal al flflame burns. “The chance to get to meet and mak ake friends with other leaders going through thhe fr same struggles and hardships as yourself is unprecedented and a beautifu ful blessing,” said Jordan. “I appreciate a everyone wh who had a hand in getting me here this week.”

Top: A tour of th the Natio tional Ca Cath thedr dral wa was a high ighlilight of th the tour.r. Bottom: Th T he students e ts stopped fo for a photo in in fr front of th the Nort rth Lawn wn of th the Wh White Housse.

The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day ay spent on Cap apitool Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s Re M 3rd Congressional al District graciously g continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VI VIP tour of the Unitedd States Capitol a building that kicked offff with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. “The 2019 Yo Youth Toour was an eye-opening experience,” said Caal aleb. “Not only was I able to meet amazing peeople fr from across the U.S., but was also able to t improve my leadership skills. I am truly bleessed to have a co-op that supports u our local al community c and fu funds this amazing trip.” Aftfter the tour, the daay ay was fifilled with special al visits with our staate’s leaders. The students visited with Repp. Steven Pal alazzo’s

in his D.C. offffice. They al also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Ro Roger Wicker annd Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. “The 2019 Yo Youth Tour was my fa favorite a experience of high school,” said Alainna. “I grew so incredibly close to the other amazing leaders on this trip. The meal als were great g times to interact with others. The muuseums were so cool! I loved the opportunity to visit the Bible Museum, the flfloor of the House H of Re Representatives, and the Korean War W Memorial al. The time I spent on this trip t in student-led Bible studies and with myy new best fr friends made the trip so enjoyablle! I am so thankfu ful fo for this incredible time inn the capital a al city.”

I’’vve seen tthhe YYooutthh Leaderrsshiipp program cchhange lliivvees ffoor so mannyy parttiiciippanttss. TThheeyy are cchhallllenged to lead and encouraged to ddeevveeloopp tthhe skill kiillllss tthhat wil wiillll make tthhem lleeaddeerrss iinn tthheir ccoommunittiies. W Wee are proud of our reeppreessentattiiveess and are proud to be part of tthhiiss prroogram.”

FUN FACT: Ovveer tthhe seven day daayyss of tthhe YYooutthh TToour iinn Waasshiinngttoonn,, D.C..,, eacchh sttuuddeent and advi dvviissor ttoook more tthhaann 1000,,000 steps teeppss,, 65 fli flliigghttss of sttaairrss and w waalkkeed a ttoottaal of 50 mile ille les es!

““II aam m ttrrullyy bles leessssed to to havvee a ccoo-oopp tthhat sup uppporttss our llooccaal ccoommunittyy and fuunddss thi th hiss amazi azziinng tri trriipp.” – Caleb Bergmann

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August 2019

Eacch year, students fr from Coast Electric’s three-county ty serv rvice i area are selected to be part of the Elect ctric Cooperat atives of Mississippi Yo Youth Leadership proogr gram. The progr gram consists of two trrips, one to Jackson and one to Wa two Washingt gton, D.C. Both th trips are opportunities to learn aboutt the cooperat ative way ay, meet elected off fficial als wh who mak ake decisions d for Mississippi residents fo and meeet other young leaders fr from around the stat ate and nat atioon. Coaas ast Electric has a long history ry of outstanding student reppresentat atives wh who go on to become leaders in college c ge and beyond. This summer, one of those studentss, Amy my Keith th, wo worked as an intern the Coasst Electric communicat ations department. Amy, a graduat ate t of Hancock High gh Sch chool, in th attends thee University at ty of Kentuck cky wh where she is maj ajoring in heal althh, society ty an and populat ations. Amy reached ouut to other fo former Yo Youth th Leadership students to see wh what at they are up to.

Stephen Azar – 2018 Where he is now: I will be attending the University of South Alabama in the fall and studying biology. Goals: My goals are to enter into the medical field and raise a family. Youth Leadership Memories: My favorite memory from the Youth Tour was visiting the Newseum. What Youth Tour did for Stephen: Youth Tour gave me the opportunity to meet and befriend fantastic people who helped make the trip amazing.

Gag age McCl Clinton (f (far left ft) and Step ephen Azar (f (far rig right) t) on th the 20118 Youth Yo th To Tour in in Wa Washin ingtonn, n, D.C. C., wit with Coast Ele Electr tric’s’s delegatio ion, n, which wh ch als lso in inclcluded Co Connner Th Thurtellll and a Mariioon Pohl.l. Step ephan a an and Gag age wi will begin in collllege th this fa fallll.

Richard Springer – 2017 Where he is now: I am currently a student at the University of Mississippi majoring in mathematics. Goals: While I haven’t narrowed down a career yet, I’d say my goals are to positively change the world around me in whatever I do. I want to have a significant, positive impact on my community, and I am excited to explore the difffferent ways I can achieve that in the future. Youth Leadership Memories: My ffaavorite memory has got to be standing on the Speaker of the House’s balcony, looking over the beautiful buildings and parks of D.C., with the Washington Monument right in the center of view. There’s nothing quite like seeing the nation’s capital from up there, and it’s a moment I’ll never forget. What Youth Tour did for Richard: Youth Tour impacted my life in more ways than one, but the biggest things I took away were numerous friendships with people across Mississippi. There are so many people I know now at Ole Miss because of Youth Tour, and those friendships are some that I treasure greatly. We shared this common experience, and it’s given us the foundations for relationships that I may have never discovered otherwise. I am extremely grateful to Coast Electric and the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi ffoor seeing in me something I continue to strive to live up to – a leader who could one day make a big impact on the world.

Gage McClinton – 2018 Where he is now: Currently I work part time as a Junior Administrative Secretary at Seal Enterprisess Incorporated, a contractor in Carriere, Misss., specializing in undergroundd and aerial cable construction. construction I assist in tasks such as billing, database management and project coordination. I also recently finished my tenure as a member of the Pearl River County Schhool District Board of Education, representing the student body of the schoool district. Goals: My goal is to attend Louisiana Tech University this fall to pursue a degree in professional aviation to become a commercial airline pilot. Youth Leadership Memories: My favorite memory form the Youth Tour T was walking into the House of Representatives and sitting in that maggnificent chamber. I sat in awe as I stared around the room. It was amazingg to finallyy see the chamber I had seen and watched on the news and CSPAAN. What Youth Tour did for Gage: By having this opportunity, I was abble to meet with so many awesome people from across the state of Mississipppi and from across the United States. Not only was I able to make many long--lasting relationships with other students, I was able to meet several indiviiduals that volunteered to serve as chaperons on the trip. That experience has truly enriched my understanding and appreciation for the work that rural coooperatives do, especially my own, Coast Electric. Overall, I will never be able to thank CEPA and ECM enough for the opportunity to partake in such an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Allie Estorge – 2017 Where she is now: I am a now sophomore at Southern Miss majoring in political science and pre-law. Goals: I aspire to work in Health Care policy for either a congressional representative or a major healthcare system. Youth Leadership Memories: My ffaavorite memory was spending time with the others on the tour. We had such a great group. Everyone in that group was an incredible leader in their communities and it was so cool to learn what they were all doing to better the places they lived! What Youth Tour did for Allie: Youth Tour was an incredible experience that taught me an aspect of leadership that I had never experienced beffoore. It taught me that in a room full of leaders, sometimes it is crucial to not be the leader of all leaders. Sometimes the best roll in that situation is to take a step back, allow others to lead, and lead by example. Youth Tour was an incredible experience that I will never forget.

Jayde Toncrey – 2017 Where he is now: I am currently a student at the University of Mississippi seeking a degree in political science. Goals: My goal is to finish my undergrad within the next two years and then further my education at the university’s law school. After that I hope to be a practicing lawyer in the field of international trade. Youth Leadership Memories: The tour impacted me in such an amazing way with all of the connections and experiences I gained along the way. One such instance was the opportunity to have an all-access tour of the Capitol which really inspired me and others. It made me realize that there are difffferences to be made in our liffeetimes that are completely up to us. It sounds like a big task, but the future is in our hands. What Youth Tour did for Jayde: I have been able to reconnect with a few of the friends I made from Washington while at college. These people will be in my liffee in some of my most pivotal years which means they may be around for my liffeetime, which excites me so much! The Youth Tour experience was such an amazing opportunity. The real-liffee leaders we experienced both in Jackson and Washington gave me useful insight to the issues and resolutions being pursued by our nation’s best. Plus, as a huge history nerd, it was a truly amazing opportunity to be guided around the city by the incredible Mr. B with his knowledge of the city and its past! The Youth Tour was one of the best life experiences I’ll ever have, and I will always be grateful to those who saw my passion and wanted to choose me. I also very much love the connections and memories made with so many peers that year who have the same spark and passion for leadership. I will never forget that amazing experience!

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Tyler Necaise – 2016 Where he is now: I’m a junior at Mississippi State, majoring in environmental geoscience. Goals: I don’t have a specific career picked out but want to get involved with something that focuses on climate change and preserving our natural resources. Youth Leadership Memories: My favorite memory from that time was when we got to tour the Capitol and sit down as a group with Representative Steven Palazzo and voice our concerns and opinions to him. What Youth Tour did for Tyler: Youth Tour was so much more than a trip for me. I met some of the best people I’ve ever had the pleasure to come in contact with. It really was one off,, if not the best, experiences from my time in high school. I formed numerous lifelong friendships that stretch all across the state. I’d go back and do it all over again in a heartbeat if given the opportunity. It really made an impression on me and even led to an internship.

FFrrom lleefftt: Jay Jaayydde TTooncrey crreeyy,, Vi Viccttoria Feaazzelle lllee,, Allliie Estorrgge aannd Ricch char ardd SSppriinnger werree Coast EEllectri cttrric’’ss 2017 YYooutthh Leadershiipp reeppresenttaatives.

Tyylleer Neccaaiisse (fa Tyl (ffaarr lleeftt)) iiss a juun unior at Misss ssissiip ippi Sttaate aannd waant ntss a ccaarreeer tthhat ffoocuses on cli clliim mate cchhange aannd prreeserviinng naturra ral resourcess.. Tyl Tyyler w waas one of siixx YYooutthh Leaderrsshiipp studeennttss parttiiciippatiinng iinn 2016. Tyl Tyyler partici ticicippated wit with th Am myy KKeeitth th ((ssecond ffrrom riigghtt)), w whho iinnterrnned at CCooast EEllectri tric tthhis suum tr mmerr..

August 2019

Beth Shiyou – 2015 Where she is now: I am a full-time student at Mississippi State University majoring in biochemistry. During the summertime, I am employed at the University of Mississippi Medical Center participating in research under the Biomedical Materials Sciences department. Goals: I am in the process of applying to dental school in hopes of being accepted and becoming a practicing dentist in the future. Youth Tour Memories: My ffaavorite memory was getting to travel around to all of the historical places and monuments around our nation’s capital and our state’s capital and learning so much history that I did not previously know. What Youth Tour did for Beth: Youth Tour encouraged me to become abetter leader by pushing me out of my comfort zone, be open to new things and helped me be able to better communicate with people that I was not usually used to working with or being around. Youth Tour helped me network and I now have so many connections with peers and classmates all over the nation as well as the advisors and the people who make this program possible. I made longlasting friendships and learned so much about myself. I feel as though this program really showed me how many difffferent people there are in just the area around my hometown and how every one of those people have their own talents and interests. It’s amazing what can be accomplished when these unique talents and passions are combined, and you can see what your potential really can become. It inspired me to see how many amazing minds and hearts there are. We really can bring change and impact our state and country. Betthh SShhiiyyou ((bbacckk rroow w,, ceenterr)) one of CCooast Elleectrriic’’ss 2015 YYooutthh Leaderrsshiipp reeppresenttaattiivess,, is studdyyiinng biocchhemiisstrryy at Misss ssiisssiipppi Sttaate.

Today ay in in Misissisissip ippi

Part rt of co-op op members rship ip is is bein ing rep epre resented by by peop ople le in in your community ty on th the booard rd of di directors rs. We We encourage you to get to kn know th the pers rson wh who rep epres esents ts you and wh why th they ey ch choos ose to de dedi dicate th theirir titiim me to servi ving our coop operatitive. We We invi vite you to attend our Annual Meetiting and Member App ppreciciatition Nig ight and meet your ur reeppre ressentati sen tives es.

Pearl River County y Position 1 – Richard Dossett Elected to board in 1980; Cattle Farmer; Memberr of of Nicholson Nicholson Old Palestinee Baptist Church Position 2 – Frank McClintonn Elected to board in 2005; 5; Fo Former owner and manager of M&M M Industriries; Member of Serenity Baptist Church Ch Position 3 – Dou ouglas Mooney Elected to boa board in 1986; Retired partner in Sun Coast a Business and nd Industrial Supplies; Member of Salem Baptist st Church rch

Harrisson o Coun nty Pearl River Counttyy

Harrison Counttyy Hancock Counttyy

Position on 1 – Charlees Lopez Elected ed to board in 2002; Retired fire service battalion ta cchief; Member ber of Michael Memorial Baptist a Church P Position 2 – Teri Eaton Elected to board in 2015; State Farm m Insuranc nce Agent; Ag Member of Campground und Baptist Church Bap Position 3 – Gordon on Redd Elected to board in 2002; 00 Co-owner and president of Redd Pest P Solutions; Member of Orange Grove Church C of Christ

Hancock n Co ounty Position t 1 – Jaames Baldree Elected to boaard in 1998; Education Director or off Gulf Oaks Hospital; Member of Church r of JJesus Ch Christ of o Latter Day Saints Position o 2 – Gilil Arceneaux Elected to t board in 200 003; Retired ed Paint P Traddes Superintendent of Northrop Grumman; u ; Member of Union Baptist Church Ch Position 3 – James Ginn nn Elected to board b in 2002; Retired executitive vice-president of Hancock Bank; nk Member of Central Bible Church

Annual Meeting Registration begins in September In midd--Seepptember, er, you wi will be able to begiinn regiissterriing ffoor CCooaasst Elleectrriic’’ss Annual Meetiinng. ng Th The meetiting wi willll be helldd Nov. 7 at tthhe Hancocckk Perf P rform rmin ing Arttss CCeenter. If you cannot attend iinn perrssonn,, you wil wiillll be able bllee to regis ister by by: • Sending in the proxy card that will be mailed to t youur home nex ext month • Registering in any Coast Eleccttric offffice • Visiting www.coastepa.com to register er online Look for more information in next month’s magazine azi and on Coast st Electricc’’s social media pages at www.facebook.com/coastelectric ic and www.twitt tter.com/coastelectric.

New Annual Meeting Location Your fa fantastic response to our Annual nu Meetting andd Member Member Appreciation App i Night means that we need a little ittle more space! This year’s yea Annual Meeting M will be held Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Hancock Performing Arts ts Center at 7140 714 Stennis Airpoort Road in Kiln. This new location will allow us to more comfortably accom mmodate modat you. We hope to see you there! Neely ly Wa Waltlter (f (front row, w, rig right) t) wa was one o of six ix students e ts repre resen entiting n Coast Elect El ctric in in th the 2014 Yo Youth Leaders L rship ip pro rogra ram. Neely ly gra raduated in in May ay and has acc an ccep epted a positio ion as an a acc ccoun unta tant in in Atlanta ta.

Your Board Representatives

Neely Walker – 20014 Where she is now: I graduaated from the University of Mississippi in M May 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. a I am beginning my master’s in accountancy and data analytics in the thhe fall of 2019, 2019 also at the University of Misssissippi. After finishing school, having recently completed a Winter Internship inn 2019, I have accepted a full-time job offffer with Deloitte‘s Atlanta offffice to start a career in public accounting in the fall of 2020. Goals: One of my professional goals is to work in the accounting department of the Chick Fil A corporate offffice in Atlanta. Their mission is one that reesonates strongly with me, and I would be honored to serve in any way within thheir industry. Youth Leadership Memories: My favorite memory from the Youth Toour was the extensive tour of monuments we did. I was able to learn facts that were so memorable and impactful p and saw so much of what makes D.C. so spec p cial. This past Christmas on a trip to D.C. with my family, I was able to provide annd share insight into many of the monuments. What Youth Tour did for Neely: The Youth Tour impacted my life greeatly! The main thing that comes to mind is the friends that I made while in D.C. I was able to meet so many outstanding leaders from the state of Mississippi whose friendships would carry on through my college years. My freshman year room mmate at Ole Miss was my roommate at the Youth Tour and is one of my best frieends to this day. Had it not been for the Youth Tour, we would not have met! There have also been countless friendships that have continued throughout college. Whether through clubs, Greek life, or campus ministry, I have continuedd friendships with multiple friends I met during the Youth Tour.

Today in Mississippi

August 2019 USE IT ANY TIME

Delta Electric’s new IVR phone number is 662-743-4425.

24/7

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

Back to School Electric co-ops are continually learning to improve service for members. It’s a new school year and kids of all ages are getting ready for a fresh year of learning! From kindergarten through college, students attend school to gain knowledge about a broad variety of subjects and learn new skills that will prepare them for the future. In a similar vein, Delta Electirc is continually learning in order to advance technology that improves electric service, reliability, safety and in turn, enhances quality of life for the members we serve in our local communities. Delta Electric keeps abreast of industry trends because the energy sector is rapidly changing. Innovations in technology and

energy types are fueling demand for more options. On the consumer front, people are looking for more ways to manage their energy use with smart technologies. Consumers expect more convenient payment methods – whether through automatic bill pay, pre-pay, online or in person. We’re working to help sift through the options for our members in ways that benefit the greater community. At the same time, we never lose sight of the top priority – providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity.

Students will be out and about. Please watch out for school buses and children at crosswalks. And observe school zones when school is in session.

THINK SAFETY!

DELTA ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 2 in observance of

LABOR DAY

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Tip of the

Month

Routinely replace or clean your air conditioner’s filter. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter can reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5 to 15 percent. Source: energy.gov

HARVEST SAF FETY TIPS FOR

FARMW WORKERS • Maintain a 10-foo ot clearance around all utility equipme ent in all directions. • Use U a spott tter and d deplo d l yed d fl flags to t maintain safe distances from power lines and other equipment quipment when doing field work. • If your equipment makes contact with an energized d or downed power line, contact us im mmediately by phone and remain n inside the vehicle until the power lin ne is de-energized. In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jump mp out of the cab, without touching it at the same time, and hop away to ssafety. • Consider equipment and cargo extensions of you ur vehicle. Lumbe er, h y, tree limbs, irrrigation pipe and ha even bulk materia als can conduct e electricity , so keep p them out of contact with electrical trical equipment. Source: Safe Elecctricity

10 I Today in Mississippi I August 2019

Back to school

Dixie Electric is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

Electric co-ops are continually learning to improve service for members.

It’s a new school year and kids of all ages are getting ready for a fresh Randy Smith year of learning! Similarly, General Manager our employees are continually learning in order to advance technology that improves electric service, reliability, safety and in turn, enhances quality of life for the members we serve. Our managers and supervisors keep abreast of industry trends because the energy sector is rapidly changing. Members are looking for more ways to manage their energy use with smart technologies, and we are studying options too. Our members expect convenient payment methods – whether through automatic bill pay, pre-pay, online or in person. The easiest way to pay your bill, contact us or report an outage is through our SmartHub app. Visit dixieepa.com for instructions on downloading the app to your mobile device.

Technology improves operational efficiency. Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) is an integrated system of smart meters, communication networks and data management systems that enables two-way communication between utilities and electronic meters. In the event of an outage, AMI helps to distinguish between events that impact a single home or multiple locations. This is critical because resolving either issue is a very different process. The two-way communication is integral to AMI because it provides a means to verify that power has been restored after an outage. However, one of the biggest benefits from improved technologies, especially for outages caused by extreme weather is finding the outage location more quickly, which helps to reduce risk for crews out on the road during severe weather events. In addition to providing essential information during major outages, our billing department analyzes AMI data for anomalies, including damaged meters or

The Credentials and Elections Committee verifies candidate qualifications for Dixie Electric’s board of director elections and oversees the voting process. 2019 CREDENTIALS AND ELECTIONS COMMITTEE MEMBERS • Andy Dial • James Walley • F.M. Harrington • Ben Cole • Barbara McLaurin • Kevin Shows • Mark Waller

energy theft. Detecting these problems early helps our cooperative save money and improve reliability for the whole community. Over the past month, we have contacted many of you to gauge your thoughts and opinions on electric cooperatives in Mississippi, like Dixie Electric, offering broadband to our members. Your participation in answering phone calls or responding by email was excellent, and we appreciate your feedback. We are currently looking through the data that was collected. This is just one step in a detailed process of deciding on whether to offer high speed internet service to our members. At Dixie Electric, our “school year” is never over. We will continue to learn from our members about their priorities for the future, and we will continue to study and research the issues, so we can better serve you, now and in the future.

MAINTAINING RELIABLE SERVICE

Dixie Electric Power Association clears trees, limbs and underbrush from the area around and below the power lines, called the right-of-way. Right-of-way clearing decreases the number of outages and reduces the risk of someone coming in contact with the power lines. Clearing the rightof-way protects individuals from the hazards of electricity and makes power restoration quicker and safer for both Dixie Electric’s members and personnel.

Right-of-way clearing projects underway

CLEARING

SPRAYING

SHARON SUBSTATION: North Laurel, Sharon and Hoy

INDIAN SPRINGS SUBSTATION: Sunrise and Petal

CUTTING HEBRON SUBSTATION: Hebron, Big Creek, Gitano and Soso

GLADE SUBSTATION: Glade, Myrick and Tuckers Crossing SOUTH WAYNESBORO SUBSTATION: Waynesboro, Clara, Dyess Bridge, Winchester and Buckatunna

August 2019

Milton Gandy has Sweet Plans for Retirement

By Lydia Walters For 36 years, Meter Repairman Milton Gandy has been a reliable employee of Dixie Electric Power Association. On July 9, 2019, Milton retired to a second job, maintaining and expanding Gandy Brothers Honeybees. Working honeybees has been a second job of Gandy’s for some time, so he is excited to devote his full energy to this second career. During his long-term service to Dixie Electric, Milton has worked in the warehouse, on the line crew, helped with energy audits and worked in the meter room as the meter repairman. Throughout his career, more than 100,000 meters passed through his hands. As the meter repairman, Gandy tested and repaired meters, performed automated metering module changeouts, assisted the meter and substation technicians and maintained the heating and air conditioning unit for the office building in Laurel. “He’s willing to lend a helping hand anytime,” Meter and Substation Technician Matthew Nowell said. Gandy has seen numerous changes in his career at

Dixie Electric. The most significant change was from analogue meters to automated meters that are read electronically through the power lines. On July 9, the association employees and retirees celebrated Gandy’s retirement with a luncheon. He received numerous gifts and kind words from his coworkers. “It is very few times in your life that you meet a real man, and Milton was a real man,” Staking Technician Timmy Ewing said. He went on to say that Gandy could fix anything; he wasn’t scared to get his hands dirty or to help others. Gandy and his late wife, Belinda, were married for 32 years. They have a daughter, Jeanna Cox, a son, Jay, and four grandchildren. Before coming to Dixie Electric, Gandy served in the Air Force as a crew chief and jet mechanic. After serving in the military, he attended Jones College, completing the mechanic program. Gandy is a member of Soso Baptist Church. When not working with honeybees, Gandy plans to fish, hunt and camp in his spare time.

The engineering department wishes Milton a happy retirement. Those pictured are Drew Walters, Timmy Ewing, Patsy Thornton, Mitzi Walley, Gandy, Shannon Welch, Lisa Badley, Blake Remy, Andrew Jones and Bobby Shows.

Above: Milton Gandy retires after 36 years of service to Dixie Electric to begin a second career working honeybees. His daughter Jeanna assisted with opening gifts from employees wishing him well. Right: General Manager Randy Smith presents Milton Gandy with a plaque, honoring his 36 years of service.

Dixie Electric crews and supporting staff join Milton to wish him well.

Be a leader and win a trip to

Washington, D.C.! If you're an 11th grader served by Dixie Electric Power Association, make this year memorable by participating in the 2020 Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Miss., and tour of Washington, D.C. See your guidance counselor. Homeschooled students, call Dixie Electric for more information 601-425-2535.

Today in Mississippi

10a

10b

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Lorin Brown and Courtney Lee

Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

mary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Dixie Electric, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, Lorin Brown and Courtney Lee represented Dixie Electric. Lorin, the daughter of Charlotte and Kendrick Addison of Petal, will be a senior at Petal High School. And Courtney, the daughter of Jennifer Mozingo and Tim Lee, will be a senior at Northeast Jones High School in Laurel. These students were chosen to participate through an application and interview process in September 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with likeminded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “This year’s Youth Tour experience was phenomenal,” said Lorin. “Everything that happened on the Youth Tour had a powerful influence on me. I am ready to make a mark on the world, and I feel this experience has pushed me to do so.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War,

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

10c

Randy Smith General Manager

Top: Lorin and Courtney visited with Rep. Steven Palazzo in his D.C. office. Above: The Youth Tour group visited the Kennedy Center of Performing Arts to catch a beautiful sunset from the roof.

FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a seven-floor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well. A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched as the Major League Baseball team Washington Nationals took on the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural Center located on the Potomac River. After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the

“It is an honor for Dixie Electric to annually participate in the Washington, D.C. Youth Tour program. This educational program provides an opportunity for local students to learn about history and government while building their leadership skills. We are proud to make this investment in these young leaders.”

students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the Above: The girls visited the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial along the National second largest cathedral Mall’s Tidal Basin. in the U.S. with Rep. Steven Palazzo in his Rayburn A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery Over the seven days House Office Building. The students also gave the students the opportunity to reverhad the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger ently look on for the changing of the guard. of the Youth Tour in Here, they also visited the gravesites of sever- Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. Washington, D.C., each “This has been a fantastic experience,” al of our nation’s prominent figures, includstudent and advisor took said Courtney. “Everyone here has become ing John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline more than 100,000 like family, and I have made friendships that Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the steps, 65 flights of stairs will last a lifetime. God has blessed me eternal flame still burns. and walked a total of abundantly this week, and I am so thankful.” The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman 50 miles! Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the “Everything that tradition of guiding the happened on the Youth Tour students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol had a powerful influence on building that kicked-off me. I am ready to make a mark with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. on the world, and I feel this After the tour, the experience has pushed day was filled with special visits with our me to do so.” state’s leaders. Lorin and Courtney visited – Lorin Brown

FUN FACT:

Dixie Electric hosts Energy Fairs

10d I Today in Mississippi I August 2019

Living out the Cooperative Principle of Education, Training and Information

For several years, Dixie Electric has hosted Energy Fairs at local retail stores throughout its service area. In addition to these three Energy Fairs, Dixie Electric has expanded the fairs to local churches and community groups. This summer, Dixie Electric held an Energy Fair at the Lowe's in Petal and Laurel and at Gatlin's Building Supply in Waynesboro. In addition, the co-op shared the energy saving information with the congregation of Pineville Baptist Church in Wayne County on the morning of June 21 and with the Foster Grandparents in Laurel on July 26. "The retail stores have been great partners in

offering the energy fairs.” Community Relations Coordinator Pollyanna Magee said. "Our partnerships with them have allowed them to sell their products and allowed us the opportunity to educate the public. We are excited to expand our Energy Fairs to other groups as well." The goal of the Energy Fairs is to educate members and the general public on ways to save energy and tools available to them to improve their home's efficiency. Other information at the Energy Fairs included water heater tips, caulking, weather stripping, coil cleaner and awareness on the energy use of small appliances.

The lighting display is always a favorite among attendees. LED Lucy, Touchstone Energy's mascot of an LED bulb, made an appearance at the fairs, providing a fun photo opportunity and sharing the importance saving energy with LED light bulbs. Cooperative Energy is promoting electric vehicles, so representatives brought the vehicles to the Petal and Laurel Energy Fairs to show the public the benefits of electric vehicles for transportation. More than 200 people attended the fairs and received information on easy-to-do projects around the home and the online energy savings calculators, which are available at dixieepa.com.

Cooperative Energy, Dixie Electric’s wholesale provider, brought their electric vehicle to the Laurel and Petal events to explain the benefits and educate on the future of transportation.

(Above) Petal Staking Engineer Drew Walters, and (left) Waynesboro District Supervisor Dan Wooten explain the energy saving difference in using LED bulbs. Staking Engineer Bobby Shows shows the difference in air flow with properly sealed electrical outlets at the Laurel Lowe’s fair.

Frequently Asked Questions #

Children who visited our Kids Korner gave Touchstone Energy mascot, LED Lucy, a big hug.

Safety Manager Joe Donald explains the cost of running small space heaters.

3 5

August 2019 I Today in Mississippi

from the Energy Fairs

Are LED lights really worth the money?

Yes! LEDs last longer, use less energy and release less heat than both incandescent and compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs.

In a hot south Mississippi summer, what temperature should I set my thermostat on?

During the hot summer months, the Department of Energy recommends that your thermostat be set on 78 degrees, especially when you are not at home. If you need to cool your home after being gone, only move your thermostat down a degree or two to allow your unit to work properly. Cooling your home slowly will help save on your energy use.

What is an easy energy tip where I see the biggest bang for my buck? Installing a timer on your hot water heater is an easy way to save money. A timer allows you to only heat water for the few hours a day when you need it.

How often should I change my air filter?

You should change your filter in your heating/cooling system once a month. An easy way to remember to do this is to change your filter on the day that your monthly power bill arrives.

How do I know if my home is using the amount of energy that it should? Take advantage of Dixie Electricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home Energy Calculators on our website at dixieepa.com. The calculators are free and provide numerous ways to save energy in your home.

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

East Mississippi Electric Power Association Louisville 662.773.5741

Meridian 601.581.8600

Quitman 601.776.6271

DeKalb 601.743.2641

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

Thank you for your support The dog days of summer are the 40 days of hot, sultry summer days starting July 3 through August 11. They were historically the period following the heliacal rising of the star system Sirius CEO Randy Carroll (the dog star), which Greek and Roman astrology connected with heat, drought, sudden thunderstorms, lethargy, fever, mad dogs and bad luck. Most people now consider them to be the hottest, most uncomfortable days of summer. Well, if the dog days of summer starts a hotter and dryer period with more frequent sudden thunderstorms, than what we already experienced during April, May, June and July, then hold on to your air conditioning system and water hose. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be hot and dry for quite a while. East Mississippi saw hot weather beginning in May, and it has not let up through June or July. Along with the hot weather, we have experienced sudden thunderstorms, which included high winds and lightning. While Hurricane Barry did give us a scare, it did not impact us tremendously and brought some needed rain. Almost every evening and weekend, somewhere on

the 5,700 miles of distribution lines we maintain, our personnel have responded to a lightning strike that blew a fuse, a tree limb that fell on the lines, a tree that fell through the lines and tore them down and in some instances, broken poles. The 5,712 miles of power lines our employees maintain day in and day out would reach from Meridian to San Francisco to Washington D.C. and back to Meridian. Think about driving that far! When these storms roll through the system and cause outages, our automated meter reading system sends me an email detailing the number of meters reporting power interruption. I immediately open my app showing which areas have been affected. I anxiously watch the trucks begin to roll in that direction and hope and pray that our folks are kept safe as they work to restore the power. As we dispatch personnel and determine the cause of the outage, we post updates on our social media sites and outage map to help keep you informed. I know you check these sites because I enjoy reading the comments you leave for us. Almost daily I receive positive comments and feedback while at church, community meetings and standing in line at stores about our folks and how much

EAST MISSISSIPPI ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 2

LABOR DAY in observance of

you appreciate their efforts. Many of you know the hours they work and the weather conditions they endure to keep you comfortable in your homes, but what you may not fully realize is the years of training it takes for these employees to grow into such dedicated professionals. In addition to the physical requirements of their jobs and the weather conditions they endure, these employees study and pass courses to ensure they know how to build and maintain a distribution system capable of standing up to the stress and challenges of mother nature and meets the energy needs of our members. They also must learn to quickly diagnose the cause of these interruptions when they occur, locate the source causing the outage, repair the system and ensure safety around the power lines. Life in the EMEPA family is not a short-term job. It is a long-term commitment by these employees to serve our communities. Many of us have been serving you for most of our lives, and we look forward to serving you for many more years. It is a privilege to provide the energy needed to empower our fellow community members, and we do not take it lightly.

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

East Mississippi Electric 81st Annual Meeting

Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019 If you have any questions about the annual meeting or want to know more, please contact EMEPA at

ATTALA COUNTY

Louisville WINSTON COUNTY

NOXUBEE COUNTY

601.581.8624 or visit www.emepa.com.

Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019 at EMEPA’s Meridian Auditorium

East Mississippi Electric Power Association will conduct its 81st Annual Meeting of the membership Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019 at EMEPA’s Meridian Auditorium. Notices will be mailed later this summer to invite you and all EMEPA members to attend our Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting will inform our members of the actions taken during the past year in addition to conducting the Association’s business and the election of three directors. In accordance with the EMEPA bylaws, a quorum of the membership must be represented in person or by proxy in order to conduct the business meeting and hold the election of the directors. Any member of EMEPA may obtain a complete set of bylaws by contacting their district office in Louisville, DeKalb, Quitman or the main office in Meridian.

De Kalb

16 NESHOBA COUNTY

KEMPER COUNTY

LAUDERDALE COUNTY Meridian

I-20 NEWTON COUNTY

JASPER COUNTY

I-59 CLARKE COUNTY Quitman

WAYNE COUNTY

Be on the lookout for your chance to win a $500 electricity credit East Mississippi Electric Power Association’s 81st Annual Meeting notice and proxy cards will mail to members the week of August 5. If you are unable to attend the meeting on Saturday, Oct. 5, you may appoint the Board of Directors or any other member of the association as your proxy. Simply sign and date the proxy card and return it to EMEPA. The postage is paid. You will then be eligible to win a $500 electricity credit. Members attending the meeting will be eligible to win additional credits up to $500 by registering at the meeting.

What is an Annual Meeting and why does it matter? Co-ops like EMEPA were founded by and are led by men and women we serve. If you have an EMEPA account, then you are a member of the cooperative. That means our business runs a little differently. We don’t have shareholders, instead we have you – local people who have a vested interest in our organization. Since we don’t have shareholders who are making money on their investment, we can focus on you, our member-owners. It also means we operate on a not-for-profit basis and work to keep costs down for you. We need our members to operate effectively though. We need your participation in the organization. You can participate in many ways like giving us feedback about your service and attending our Annual Meeting on the first Saturday of October each year. We hope to see you this fall!

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10b I Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Left to right: Shelbie Reid, Khadijah Bell, Judson Moore, Daneel Konnar, and Maggie Phillips

Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. As this esteemed program is steeped in building lasting leadership abilities, its success and growth are continuously on the rise – with this year more than 1,800 of rural America’s best and brightest students, representing 43 states, participating. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this life-changing, all-expenses paid experience. East Mississippi Electric Power Association sponsored five of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects

every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by EMEPA, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, Khadijah Bell, Daneel Konnar, Judson Moore, Maggie Phillips and Shelbie Reid represented EMEPA. Khadijah, the daughter of Patricia Leggett and Sam Bell of Meridian, will be a senior at Lamar School. Daneel, the son of Heather and Rama Konnar of Meridian, will be a senior at Northeast High School. Judson, the son of Wendy and Mark Moore of Meridian, will be a senior at Russell Christian Academy. Maggie, the daughter of Karen and John Scott Phillips of Louisville, will be a senior at Grace Christian School. And Shelbie, the daughter of Dina and Dean Reid of Meridian, will be a senior at West Lauderdale High School. These students were chosen to participate through an application and interview process in October 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with likeminded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “This is a trip I wish everyone could take,” said Khadijah. “The experience was truly an honor. I’ve learned so much and I have met so many amazing people.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War, FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including

August 2019

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Randy Carroll CEO

“It is our great pleasure to participate in a program that provides such an exceptional learning environment and experience for these outstanding youth.”

Top: Judson walked along the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial where he read the names Top: The students spent the first morning of Youth Tour at the National Harbor listed on the wall. Above: The students also visited United States Marine Corps Memorial, where they saw The Awakening statue. Above: A tour of the National Cathedral also known as Iwo Jima. was a highlight of the tour.

the Newseum, a seven-floor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well. “This trip has been life-changing,” said Shelbie. “I would never have had some of these great opportunities that I was offered this week.” A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural Center located on the Potomac River After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S.

A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. “I started being excited for Youth Tour for months before and began to pray that God would take over and move,” said Judson. “The Youth Tour experience was absolutely wonderful. I was completely blown away with the Capitol and the detail that is in the architechture.” The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. “The friends I made and experiences I had during Youth Tour were something I will never forget,” said Maggie. “I am so grateful for this rare opportunity to see D.C., and meet such inspirational leaders in our country.” After the tour, the day was filled with special visits with our state’s leaders.

Maggie visited with Rep. Trent Kelly in the Longworth House Office Building, while Khadijah, Daneel, Judson and Shelbie visited with Rep. Michael Guest’s staff in the Cannon House Office Building. The students also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. “EMEPA and ECM have truly invested into the future of our Mississippi students,” said Daneel. “By bringing students to Washington, D.C., we are given the opportunity to make new connections and friendships. I am forever grateful.”

FUN FACT: Over the seven days of the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., each student and advisor took more than 100,000 steps, 65 flights of stairs and walked a total of 50 miles!

“The experience was truly an honor. I’ve learned so much and I have met so many amazing people.” – Khadijah Bell

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August 2019

Back to School Electric co-ops are continually learning to improve service for members.

It’s a new school year and kids of all ages are getting ready for a fresh year of learning! From kindergarten through college, students attend school to gain knowledge about a broad variety of subjects and learn new skills that will prepare them for the future. In a similar vein, East Mississippi Electric Power Association is continually learning in order to advance technology that improves electric service, reliability, safety and in turn, enhances quality of life for the members we serve in our local communities. EMEPA keeps abreast of industry trends because the energy sector is rapidly changing. Innovations in technology and energy types are fueling demand for more options. On the consumer front, people are looking for more ways to manage their energy use with smart technologies. Members expect more convenient payment methods – whether through automatic bill pay, pre-pay, online or in person. EMEPA provides a range of billing and payment options including pre-pay, levelized and time-of-use billing as well as bank draft, smartphone app and kiosk payments. We’re working to help sift through the options for our members in ways that benefit the greater community. At the same time, we never lose sight of the top priority––providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity.

outage. However, one of the biggest benefits from improved technologies, especially for outages caused by extreme weather is pinpointing the outage location, which helps to reduce risk for crews out on the road during severe weather events. In addition to providing essential information during major outages, EMEPA analyzes AMI data for anomalies including faults, damaged meters or energy theft. Detecting these problems early helps our cooper-

ative save money and improve reliability for the whole community. Whether it’s examining clean energy options or exploring how emerging technologies can better serve our members, for EMEPA, our “school year” is never over. We will continue to learn from our members about their priorities for the future, and we will continue to study and research the issues so that we can better serve you, now and in the future.

Students will be out and about. Please watch out for school buses and children at crosswalks. And observe school zones when school is in session.

Technology improves operational efficiency. For example, automated meter reading (AMR) is the technology of automatically collecting energy consumption data and transferring it from the electric meter to the co-op. Because this information can be collected remotely, it enhances our system’s efficiency, helps control costs and improves work processes. Similar to AMR, there is another technology called advanced metering infrastructure (AMI). This is an integrated system of smart meters, communications networks and data management systems that enables two-way communication between utilities and consumers. In the event of an outage, AMI helps to distinguish between events that impact a single home or multiple outages. This is critical because resolving either issue is a very different process. The two-way communication is integral to AMI because it provides a means to verify that power has been restored after an

THINK SAFETY!

August 2019 I Today in Mississippi

Coming

NEXT MONTH...

We are excited to announce that the September issue of Today in Mississippi will have a new look. The state’s most widely circulated publication will transition to a magazine format. The publication's content will continue to reflect EMEPA’s pride in the communities we serve and our beautiful home state. For more than 72 years, Today in Mississippi has been the primary resource to keep our cooperative members informed while also offering a unique blend of feature stories, columns, photo contests, recipes and more – all centered around life in Mississippi. What will change? The new magazine format will reflect a high-quality, colorful and sophisticated design. By increasing to 32 pages, the additional space will allow us to deliver even more interesting and entertaining content along with dynamic photographs – and all in an easy-to-read layout. As we transition

to the new format, we will also improve the online digital offerings of Today in Mississippi. What will not change? Our commitment to our loyal readers. Since our beginning in 1948, we have listened to you – through phone calls, letters, emails and surveys – and can proudly say that our publication has been designed and inspired by our readers. We will continue to work hard to maintain the trust you have placed in us. We look forward to sharing with you soon the fresh, new look of our publication and also a renewed commitment to delivering quality stories and family-friendly content celebrating life in Mississippi. And, it continues to be our privilege to be your source for valuable information about your cooperative, new recipes, travel, events, gardening, outdoor life and so much more. Thanks for being a Today in Mississippi reader.

GET T AN A+ IN BACK K TO SCH HOOL SA AVINGS V

The One Card That Doess It All.®

EMEPA.c A com

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

www.4county.org • 1-800-431-1544

Board of Directors John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr., President • Mike Banks, Secretary/Treasurer • Ernest H. “Bud” Tumlinson

Johnny Johnson, Vice President Bill Bell • Kenneth Seitz • Marty Crowder

YOUR COOPERATIVE By Brian Clark, CEO/General Manager

Back to School

Coming in

Electric co-ops are continually learning to improve service for members. It’s a new school year and kids of all ages are getting ready for a fresh year of learning! From kindergarten through college, students attend school to gain knowledge about a broad variety of subjects and learn new skills that will prepare them for the future. In a similar vein, 4-County Electric Power Association is continually learning in order to advance technology that improves electric service, reliability and safety – and in turn, enhances quality of life for the members we serve in our local communities. 4-County keeps abreast of industry trends because the Brian Clark energy sector is rapidly changing. Innovations in technology and energy types are fueling demand for more options. On the consumer front, people are looking for more ways to manage their energy use with smart technologies. Consumers expect more convenient payment methods – whether through automatic bill pay, pre-pay, online or in person. Take a look at these options for your convenience: • Apply online for membership and electric service – You can get your electric account established from the comfort of your own home. Go to www.4county.org, click on the “residential” tab, then the “apply for service” tab and follow the cues. • Online bill payment – Pay and manage your account online. • Bank draft – Probably the most popular of all the payment options. Your bank takes care of the transaction each month. Download the form from the website, print it and mail it in, or sign up online.

• Credit card draft – Works like bank draft. Credit and/or debit cards will be drafted each month for amount due. Sign up online. • Kiosks – About 20 payment kiosks are located in convenient locations throughout the 4-County service area. The kiosks accept personal checks, credit/debit cards and cash payments. • Payment by phone – Pay your bill by phone using 4-County’s automated phone system. Call 1-800-431-1544 to make a payment. • Payment by mail – Pay the traditional way through the mail. • Prepay – One of our newest options. Pay what you want, when you want. No security deposit, late fees or disconnect fees. Call 1-800-431-1544 to get started. • Levelized billing – Uses a rolling average of your last 12 months of bills to keep your monthly bill at a near-level amount – allowing you to budget better and avoid drastic changes during extreme hot or cold months. • Phone app – You can even use your phone to make a payment. Download the app today. • Invoice billing – Good for members who have multiple accounts. One invoice can cover it all. For more information on any of these convenient options, call us at 1-800-431-1544. We’re working to help sift through the options for our members in ways that benefit the greater community. At the same time, we never lose sight of the top priority – providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity.

SEPTEMBER... We are excited to announce that the September issue of Today in Mississippi will have a new look. The state’s most widely circulated publication will transition to a magazine format. The publication's content will continue to reflect 4-County Electric Power Association’s pride in the communities we serve and our beautiful home state. For more than 72 years, Today in Mississippi has been the primary resource to keep our cooperative members informed while also offering a unique blend of feature stories, columns, photo contests, recipes and more – all centered around life in Mississippi. What will change? The new magazine format will reflect a highquality, colorful and sophisticated design. By increasing to 32 pages, the additional space will allow us to deliver even more interesting and entertaining content along with dynamic photographs – and all in an easy-toread layout. As we transition to the new

format, we will also improve the online digital offerings of Today in Mississippi. What will not change? Our commitment to our loyal readers. Since our beginning in 1948, we have listened to you – through phone calls, letters, emails and surveys – and can proudly say that our publication has been designed and inspired by our readers. We will continue to work hard to maintain the trust you have placed in us. We look forward to sharing with you soon the fresh, new look of our publication and also a renewed commitment to delivering quality stories and family-friendly content celebrating life in Mississippi. And, it continues to be our privilege to be your source for valuable information about your cooperative, new recipes, travel, events, gardening, outdoor life and so much more. Thanks for being a Today in Mississippi reader.

Co-op Connections Card saves Since the Co-op Connections Card was unveiled in September 2011, 4-County members have saved over $729,504 on prescription drugs through June. Look here each month to see the savings total!

August 2019

Today in Mississippi I 10a

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Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Left to right: Ben Brown, Ethan Sevier, Carrington Davis and Zachary Wilson.

Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by 4-County, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, Ben Brown, Carrington Davis, Ethan Sevier and Zachary Wilson represented 4-County. Ben, the son of Katherine and James Samuel Brown III of Starkville, will be a senior at Starkville Academy. Carrington, the daughter of Angela and Todd Davis of Columbus, will be a senior at New Hope High School. Ethan, the son of Vicki and Damon Sevier of Columbus, will be a senior at Columbus Christian Academy. And Zachary, the son of Michael and Rashun Wilson of Columbus, will be a senior at Columbus High School. These students were chosen to participate through an application and interview process in November 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with like-minded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “I loved the Jackson trip,” Ben said. “In a way, it broke the ice for the D.C. trip, paving the way for real and wholesome friendships.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a seven-floor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

10c

Brian Clark General Manager/CEO

Top: Carrington, Zachary and Ben visited the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and saw the Three Soldiers statue representing the major ethnic groups who fought in the war. Bottom: Carrington, Zachary and Ethan pose with Rep. Trent Kelly.

Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well. A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural Center located on the Potomac River. After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S. A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. “The amount of fun and new friends I made was unquantifiable,” Ethan said. “All the sightseeing and visiting the monuments was absolutely amazing and a once-

Top: A tour of the National Cathedral was a highlight of the tour. Bottom: The students stopped for a photo in front of the North Lawn of the White House.

in-a-lifetime opportunity. Arlington National Cemetery was by far my favorite, for it showed us the TRUE price of freedom and all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy the life we have today.” The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. “I couldn’t have asked for a better experience on Youth Tour,” Zachary said. “I was given the opportunity to make lifelong friends, participate in exclusive tours and experience our nation’s capital first hand. Thank you 4-County!”

After the tour, the day was filled with special visits with our state’s leaders. Carrington, Ethan and Zachary visited with Rep. Trent Kelly in the Longworth House Office Building, while Ben visited with Rep. Michael Guest’s staff in the Cannon House Office Building. The students also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. “This trip has truly been one of the most incredible experiences of my life,” Carrington said. “I have made memories that will last a lifetime and friendships I will cherish forever. It was so cool getting to meet people from my state, but also teenagers just like me from all over the country. I can never thank my cooperative enough for giving me this amazing opportunity.”

“Everyone associated with 4-County considers it an honor to take part in the Youth Leadership Program. This program continues to provide students each year with a unique experience to learn more about cooperatives and the ins and outs of government. This is a program that hones leadership skills and helps foster interest in civic duties. These young students will be the leaders of tomorrow, and we’re investing in them today.”

FUN FACT: Over the seven days of the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., each student and advisor took more than 100,000 steps, 65 flights of stairs and walked a total of 50 miles!

“This trip has truly been one of the most incredible experiences of my life.” – Carrington Davis

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Today in Mississippi

August 2019

4-County hosts 4-H A group of nearly 50 Mississippi 4-H leaders received a lesson in Cooperative 101 July 16 at the 4-County Electric Power Association Corporate Center. The cooperative hosted the group, comprised of first place winners in competitions at this year’s 4-H Congress, state awareness team members and state 4-H Council officers.

“This is an exemplary group of young people. Clearly, they are tomorrow’s leaders.” Young leaders got a first-hand look at cooperative hospitality as they were treated to breakfast at 4-County’s Corporate Center. The group also viewed a hot line safety demonstration provided by 4-County linemen and learned about the cooperative’s history. Kylie Headley of Oktibbeha County was visibly impressed. “I got the opportunity to learn about transformers,”

Headley explained. “It was definitely an education in electricity.” Madelynne Goodson, also of Oktibbeha County, agreed. “What we got to see was really shocking,” she said, adding that there was no pun intended. “I enjoyed the presentation and learned a lot.” Cobie Rutherford, extension instructor with 4-H Youth Development, said cooperatives like 4-County represent the power of communities. “As a group, these students have a chance to really initiate change when they work together. That’s how 4-County got started. They are a prime example of how a group of people can come together and make a difference – like bringing electricity to rural areas,” Rutherford stressed. “They’re getting some important leadership training while they’re here.” Officials at 4-County believe the relationship with 4-H is beneficial for both parties. “What a great way to kick off the day,” said 4-County CEO Brian Clark. “This is an exemplary group of young people. Clearly, they are tomorrow’s leaders,” he added. During the week, the group elected a board of directors and formed their own cooperative, which they operated during the tour. Thanks for visiting us, 4-H young leaders!

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

SATURDAY, AUG. 3 U.S. Women’s Amateur; Old Waverly Golf Club, One Magnolia Drive in West Point; continues through Sunday, Aug. 11; details, (662) 494-6463. Starkville Community Market; Fire Station Park, Lampkin at Russell Street.; 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.; details, (662) 323-3322. TUESDAY, AUG. 6 Beginning Oil Painting; Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main Street in Columbus; dinner, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.; details, (662) 328-2787. WEDNESDAY, AUG. 21 Gathering of Artists Meeting; Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main Street in Columbus; 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.; details, (662) 328-2787. FRIDAY, AUG. 30 Black Prairie Blues Festival; 278 Mary Holmes Drive in West Point; details, (662) 295-8361. SATURDAY, AUG. 31 Prairie Arts Festival; downtown West Point; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; details, (662) 494-5121.

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

FOUNDATION HANDS OUT BIG CHECKS Five area organizations received awards in July from the 4-County Electric Power Association Foundation. More than $27,500 was distributed at the Foundation’s July 15 meeting at 4-County’s Corporate Center. Since the Foundation’s inception in February 2015, more than $900,000 has been dispersed to organizations in 4-County’s service area. 4-County believes in helping the communities it serves. That’s why the

cooperative launched the 4-County Foundation, a community service program. Since February 2015, participating 4-County members’ utility bills have been rounded up to the nearest dollar; a $125.78 bill, for example, becomes $126. Now, that’s an average of only 49 cents per member, per month. That may not seem like much. But when you multiply those contributions by the thousands of member participants, that’s a lot of pennies!

These receiving Foundation awards at this latest meeting were:

Clay County Educational Foundation $8,763.50 for Chromebooks

Friends of Noxubee Refuge $7,000 for repairs to trails and boardwalk repair

Forge Foundation $6,000 for support of Trade Craft, OSHA Certification and non-traditional student investment

Sturgis Police Department $3,535 for computers

Starkville Lions Club

$2,335 to assist in the purchase of a mobile vision screener For more information on the 4-County Foundation, call 1-800-431-1544.

Clay County Educational Foundation

Starkville Lions Club

Sturgis Police Deptartment

Forge Foundation

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Left to right: Amia Miller, Abby Burris, Baleigh Brumfield and Carley Craig.

Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. As this esteemed program is steeped in building lasting leadership abilities, its success and growth are continuously on the rise – with this year more than 1,800 of rural America’s best and brightest students, representing 43 states, participating. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this life-changing, allexpenses paid experience. Magnolia Electric Power sponsored four of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and

see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Magnolia Electric Power, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, Baleigh Brumfield, Abby Burris, Carley Craig and Amia Miller represented Magnolia Electric. Baleigh, the daughter of Dawn and Mark Brumfield of Summit, will be a senior at North Pike High School. Abby, the daughter of Laura and Milt Burris of Smithdale will be a senior at Parklane Academy. Carley, the daughter of Celine and James Craig, will be a senior at Brookhaven High School. And Amia, the daughter of Shaylia Standberry and Patrick Miller of McComb, will be a senior at South Pike High School. These students were chosen to participate through an application and interview process in October 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with likeminded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “When we met in Jackson, we were strangers,” said Abby. “By the time we left Washington, D.C., we were family.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War, FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicat-

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Darrell Smith General Manager

Top: Amia, Baleigh, Carley and Abby visited Capital Hill during Youth Tour. Below: The girls also visited the National Cathedral.

ed to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a seven-floor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well. A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural Center located on the Potomac River. After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S. A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the

Top: The Einstein Memorial is situated near the National Academy of Science. Abby, Carley, Amia and Baleigh are photographed in front of the bronze figure that was unveiled in 1979 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Albert Einstein.

gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. “Youth Tour taught me that here is life outside of Mississippi,” said Amia. “The rest of the world has so much to offer, and as a Mississippi youth, I have so much to offer the world.” The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. “The friends I made here make it so hard to go home,” said Carley. “Youth Tour has provided so many opportunities for my future and given me an experi-

ence I will cherish forever.” After the tour, the day was filled with special visits with our state’s leaders. Baleigh, Abby, Carley and Amia visited with Rep. Michael Guest’s staff in the Cannon House Office Building. The students also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. “This Youth Tour has been an incredible experience,” said Baleigh. Individuals who attended in years past told me that it would be the best week of my life; they were definitely not wrong. I made the best of friends and so many memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I am so thankful for my cooperative, Magnolia Electric Power, for seeing my leadership qualities and sending me on this life-changing journey.”

“At Magnolia Electric Power, we are always glad to be a part of the Youth Leadership Program. This program gives students an opportunity to learn about the cooperative business model and our nation’s history. The program also instills leadership in the students and impresses upon them the importance of participating in their government.”

FUN FACT: Over the seven days of the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., each student and advisor took more than 100,000 steps, 65 flights of stairs and walked a total of 50 miles!

“When we met in Jackson, we were strangers. By the time we left Washington, D.C., we were family.” – Abby Burris

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Providing affordable, reliable electricity to our members since 1936.

MONROE COUNTY ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

Back to School Electric co-ops are continually learning to improve service for members. It’s a new school year and kids of all ages are getting ready for a fresh year of learning! From kindergarten through college, students attend school to gain knowledge about a broad variety of subjects and learn new skills that will prepare them for the future. In a similar vein, Monroe County Electric Power Association is continually learning in order to advance technology that improves electric service, reliability, safety and in turn, enhances quality of life for the members we serve in our local communities. Monroe County Electric Power Association keeps abreast of industry trends because the

energy sector is rapidly changing. Innovations in technology and energy types are fueling demand for more options. On the consumer front, people are looking for more ways to manage their energy use with smart technologies. Consumers expect more convenient payment methods – whether through automatic bill pay, pre-pay, online or in person. We’re working to help sift through the options for our members in ways that benefit the greater community. At the same time, we never lose sight of the top priority – providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity.

Students will be out and about. Please watch out for school buses and children at crosswalks. And observe school zones when school is in session.

THINK SAFETY!

MONROE COUNTY Electric Power Association

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 2 in observance of

LABOR DAY

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Tip of the

Month

Routinely replace or clean your air conditioner’s filter. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter can reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5 to 15 percent. Source: energy.gov

HARVEST SAF FETY TIPS FOR

FARMW WORKERS • Maintain a 10-foo ot clearance around all utility equipme ent in all directions. • Use U a spott tter and d deplo d l yed d fl flags to t maintain safe distances from power lines and other equipment quipment when doing field work. • If your equipment makes contact with an energized d or downed power line, contact us im mmediately by phone and remain n inside the vehicle until the power lin ne is de-energized. In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jump mp out of the cab, without touching it at the same time, and hop away to ssafety. • Consider equipment and cargo extensions of you ur vehicle. Lumbe er, h y, tree limbs, irrrigation pipe and ha even bulk materia als can conduct e electricity , so keep p them out of contact with electtrical equipment. Source: Safe Elecctricity

10 I Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Front row from left: Avery Hughes, Danielle Smith, Kennedi Evans, Madi Jones, Caroline McIntosh. Second row from left: Bobby Current, Dreanna Leake, Morgan Lee, Morgan Vanderburg, Katie Payne and Anna Ruth Doddridge. Back row from left: Kevin Rico, Xavier Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters Harrell, enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuSammy Lee, ments and museums surrounding the National Mall in AlexWashington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Sanderlin Memorial. and Grady Brooks

Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. As this esteemed program is steeped in building lasting leadership abilities, its success and growth are continuously on the rise – with this year more than 1,800 of rural America’s best and brightest students, representing 43 states, participating. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this life-changing, all-expenses paid experience. Northcentral Electric Power Association sponsored 16 of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Northcentral

Electric, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, the students selected are as follows: Grady Brooks, son of Mary and Gene Brooks, will be a senior at Marshall Academy. Bobby Current will be a senior at Lewisburg High School and is the son of Felicia and Bobby Current. Anna Ruth Doddridge will be a senior at Lewisburg High School. She is the daughter of Leigh Ellen and Kevin Doddridge. Kennedi Evans, daughter of Pamela and Edward Evans, will be a senior at Center Hill High School. Xavier Harrell will be a senior at DeSoto Central High School and is the son of Angelina Harrell. Avery Hughes, daughter of Melinda Harris and Tommy Hughes, will be a senior at Lewisburg High School. Madi Jones will be a senior at Olive Branch High School. She is the daughter of Jennifer and Robert Jones. Dreanna Leake, daughter of Tanya Wainwright and Larry Leake Jr., will be a senior at Byhalia High School. Morgan Lee represented DeSoto Career Technical Center. She will be a senior at Lewisburg High School and is the daughter of Susan and Sean Lee. Sammy Lee will be a senior at Northpoint Christian School. He is the son of Melissa and Jeffrey Lee. Caroline McIntosh will be a senior at Northpoint Christian School and is the daughter of Leah and Brad McIntosh. Katie Payne, daughter of Andrea and Raymond Payne, will be a senior at Lewisburg High School. Kevin Rico will be a senior at Olive Branch High School and is the son of Ramon Rico and Monica Solis. Alex Sanderlin will be a senior at Lewisburg High School. He is the son of Ashley and Jim Sanderlin. Danielle Smith, daughter of Crystal Langston and Brandon Smith will be a senior at Olive Branch High School. Morgan Vanderburg will be a senior at Lewisburg High School and is the daughter of Misty and

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Left: The students visited the National Cathedral.

The students visited with Rep. Trent Kelly in the Longworth House Office Building.

The White House North Lawn was a popular spot for photos.

Clay Vanderburg. These students were chosen to participate through an application and interview process in October 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with like-minded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War, FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, The United States Marine Corps War

Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a sevenfloor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well. A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball

game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural Center located on the Potomac River. After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S. A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the

day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. After the tour, the day was filled with special visits with our state’s leaders. The students were able to visit with Rep. Trent Kelly in a committee room of the Longworth House Office Building. The students also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy HydeSmith. Northcentral is proud to offer this program to deserving students in our service territory. We would like to extend a congratulations to all the students that attended Youth Tour and wish them well with their future endeavors.

CEO Message As Northcentral wraps up our Membership Appreciation Days, I’m thrilled to see the community come through our doors and be recognized for their value. I’m also encouraged by all the Youth Leadership participants who volunteered during this 3 day event. We all enjoy popcorn, drinks, and door prizes, but the value of your membership can’t be emphasized enough. Being owned and governed by your community is one of the core strengths of Northcentral. We are your electric cooperative and will strive to provide those services that enhance the quality of life for all in our community.

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

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

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

To pay bills or report outages:

855-2PRVEPA (855-277-8372) Member owned. Locally operated. That’s the cooperative difference.

Visit us online at www.PRVEPA.com

Members to again receive annual refunds Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association members will once again be receiving annual patronage capital refunds in August. Patronage capital, or capital credits, represents members’ investment in their not-for-profit electric cooperative. Each year, rates are set so that the Association has enough funding to operate throughout the year, and any year-end revenue above the cost of providing electric service is assigned to members as margins based on their share of electricity usage. A portion of those margins is then refunded to members each August. This year, PRVEPA’s board of directors has authorized $2.5 million be refunded. In addition, our wholesale power provider Cooperative Energy, which is

a cooperative owned by PRVEPA and 10 other electric power associations, also returns capital credits. Those credits, totaling $411,049, will be returned to applicable PRVEPA members, increasing the total amount returned for 2018 to $2,991,049. “This is one of the many benefits of being a member-owner of a not-for-profit electric provider,” said Randy Wallace, general manager. “Our members share in the cost of doing business as well as any returns. While investor-owned utilities return a portion of any profits back to their investors, electric cooperatives assign margins to member-consumers as capital credits and pay them when the co-op’s financial condition permits. “Pearl River Valley Electric remains

very sound 00 financially,” Wallace continued. “This is now the 56th year since 1963 S Asssoociaciiaiatiotiion BEElleecectR MearaErll RiM that we have ttrriicc Power As llleeyy tri lle a Va r er v ve P OF Pe OF returned a portion of our margins mailed in August. For inactive members back to members, totaling who qualify, checks will be mailed in nearly $51 million overall. That’s one September. of the best records of any rural electric In addition, PRVEPA also offers cooperative in the nation, and we’re discounted capital credit refunds to very proud of it.” the estates of deceased members and Members receive a share of the to former members. A total of more than patronage refunds based on their an $14.7 million has been distributed overannual lectric use. Each qualifying all through these programs, including active member will receive their refund more than $908,000 in 2018. as credit applied to their power bill .

2,991,049. e

Crews now inspecting PRVEPA’s power poles Utility poles form the backbone of Pearl River Valley Electric’s delivery system, and they reach into every corner of our 12-county service area. Poles must be sturdy and strong in order to support the weight of power, phone and cable lines, and they must be able to withstand the effects of extreme winds and weather. Over the years, however, power poles can become susceptible to decay and pests. Poles that slowly deteriorate can fall or snap during high winds, resulting in a power outage. In addition, decayed poles can pose a safety hazard for linemen and the general public when decay goes undetected. For these reasons, PRVEPA has developed a systematic inspection program so that every pole is inspected on a regular cycle. Poles that show signs of decay or aging are treated with environmentally safe preservatives to inhibit the decaying process and prevent further deterioration. Poles that are found to be unsafe are replaced. PRVEPA maintains more than 6,000 miles of line and more than 100,000 power poles. By addressing decay, PRVEPA can increase the average pole life to as much as 40 or more years, thus saving significant expense for the Association and our members.

OSMOSE crews are in the field To assist in its pole inspection and maintenance program, PRVEPA has contracted with OSMOSE Utilities

Services, Inc. A nationally recognized company, OSMOSE has been in the wood preserving business since the 1930s and has inspected and retreated poles for PRVEPA for more than 30 years. OSMOSE personnel will inspect and treat poles from August to December within the following areas:

Columbia: Arm, China Lee, Cedar Grove, Conerly Road, Cross Roads, Expose, Goss, Goss-Bunker Hill, Goss Reservoir Road, Highway 13N, Palestine, River Bend Road, Society Hill, Stuckey Road, Fortenberry Road, Hammond Road, Hathorn, Hepzibah, Highway 43, Jack Loftin Road, Mapp Turner Road, Oak Vale, Progress Road, Rose Hill, Saint Stevens Road, Silver Creek, Stumptown Road

Hattiesburg: Bent Creek, Backside of Lake Serene, Old Highway 24 East of Highway 589, Audubon Hills, Canebrake, Cole Road, Highway 98 East to Cole Road, Lake Serene, Old Highway 42, Serene Hills, The Trace, Woodstone, Gravel Pit Road, West Fourth Street, Hawthorne Drive, Highway 98 West, Lake Shore, MeritWesley Hospital Complex, Overlook Point, Summer Trace, Turtle Creek Mall, Wal-Mart, Weathersby Road, West Lake Manor, Max White Road, Old Highway 11 South of Power Plant Road, Pecan Place, Pine Ridge, Power Plant Road, Purvis-Oloh Road, Twelve Oaks, WPA Road, WindRidge, Old Highway 11, Whiddon

Road, Ray Boone Road, Highway 589, Haden Rd Purvis: Coaltown, Highway 11 South of Purvis, Pinecrest, Purvis, South Beaver Lake, Yawn School Road, Purvis-Baxterville Road, Little Black Creek Water Park, Tallowah, Little Black Creek Road, Oscar Bond Road, Alexander Road, Mitchell Road, Hendrix Road, Beach Road, Corinth Road, Elliott Subdivision Wiggins: County Farm Road, Highway 26W, Hurricane Creek, Magnolia Community, Lake Toc-OLeen, Magnolia Road, Murder Creek, Red Hill, Red Hill Church, Ridge Road, Silver Run Road, Smithtown Road, Stump Texas

Identifying OSMOSE Crews Pole inspection and treatment crews will have the OSMOSE logo on their clothing and vehicle doors, along with strobe lighting on top of their vehicles. Crew foremen will also have a letter of employment from PRVEPA if a member seeks more identification. In addition to inspecting poles at residences and along heavily traveled roads, OSMOSE employees are also out in the fields walking from pole to pole with their equipment. These inspections of our power poles will result in safer, more reliable electric service for all PRVEPA members. We appreciate your cooperation when OSMOSE personnel are working in your area.

August 2019 Today in Mississippi

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. This year, more than 1,800 of America’s best and brightest students, representing 43 states, participated. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this life-changing, memory-making experience. Pearl River Valley Electric sponsored two of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives – Hannah Phipps of Oak Grove High School and Eli Johnson of Columbia High School. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. Hannah, the daughter of Stephanie and Jamie Phipps of Oak Grove, and Eli, the son of Kristi and Mike Johnson of Columbia, were chosen to participate through an essay and interview process in November 2018. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, including Arlington Cemetery, the Washington National Cathedral, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the World War II Memorial, United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a seven-floor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of

Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the

“We are proud to take part in this program, which not only gives students an opportunity to learn about cooperatives and our nation’s history, but also helps to teach leadership and impresses upon them the importance of participating in their government.” – Randy Wallace, General Manager

Eli Johnson and Hannah Phipps during the 2019 Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.

United States Capitol building that kicked off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. After the tour, the day was filled with special visits with Mississippi’s Congressional delegation. Hannah and Eli visited with Rep. Steven Palazzo and the group also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. “Youth Tour has not only taught me how to get out of my comfort zone and see what the world has to offer, but it has made me so proud to be an American,” said Hannah. “I enjoyed being able to make new friends with people from all around the nation along with being able to spend time with my friends,” Eli noted. “I had a great time seeing our beautiful capital and learning about our history. I have made many close friends and made many memories.” High school juniors living in PRVEPA’s service area can apply to participate in next year’s program beginning in October. More information can be found at www.PRVEPA.com.

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

“Pioneers In America’s Rural Electrification”

PONTOTOC EMPLOYEES ON THE MOVE

Coming

NEXT MONTH... We are excited to announce that the September issue of Today in Mississippi will have a new look.

Lavonia Lackey was promoted from Head Cashier to Manager of Customer Accounts.

Cody Martin was promoted from Apprentice Lineman to Safety and Environmental Director.

Congratulations! PONTOTOC ELECTRIC Power Association

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 2

LABOR DAY in observance of

To report power outages or emergencies, please call 662-489-6711 (Pontotoc) or 662-983-2727 (Bruce). A Pontotoc Electric dispatcher is on duty 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

The state’s most widely circulated publication will transition to a magazine format. The publication’s content will continue to reflect Pontotoc Electric’s pride in the communities we serve and our beautiful home state. What will change? The new magazine format will reflect a high-quality, colorful and sophisticated design. By increasing to 32 pages, the additional space will allow us to deliver even more interesting and entertaining content along with dynamic photographs – and all in an easy-to-read layout. We look forward to sharing with you soon the fresh, new look of our publication and also a renewed commitment to delivering quality stories and family-friendly content celebrating life in Mississippi. And, it continues to be our privilege to be your source for valuable information about your cooperative, new recipes, travel, events, gardening, outdoor life and so much more.

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Watts Cooking? Chicken Dip Kathy Stark, Collections Assistant/Receptionist 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 can chicken 1 can cream of chicken soup tortilla chips

Pontotoc Electric General Manager Chuck Howell (near center) poses for a photograph with a group of students from the Mississippi 4-H Cooperative Leadership Conference on July 17. Howell is presently serving as president of the Mississippi Council of Cooperatives and was one of the speakers for the conference. Howell spoke to the 4-H’ers about electric cooperatives and the history and heritage that pioneering rural electric cooperatives in Northeast Mississippi along with the Tennessee Valley Authority led the nation in the mid-1930s in bringing electricity to rural America under the cooperative business model. Because of the influence of three pioneering rural electric cooperatives, namely Alcorn County, Pontotoc County, and Prentiss County Electric Power Associations, which were already operating under the Tennessee Valley Authority, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt created the Rural Electrification Administration, which led to the organization of approximately 935 electric cooperatives operating nationwide today.

Mix cream cheese and cream of chicken soup together. Add can of chicken. Mix well. Dip with tortilla chips.

Chicken Pot Pie Karen Laprade, Plant Accounting Clerk 2-1/2 cups cooked chicken 1 box refrigerated pie crusts 1/3 cup onion 1/2 tsp salt 1-3/4 cups chicken broth

Tip

1 bag mixed vegetables (2 c.) 1/3 cup butter 1/3 cup flour 1/4 tsp pepper 1/2 cup milk

of the

Month

Prepare bottom crust in 9” glass pie pan. In two-quart pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook two minutes or until tender. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until well blended. Gradually stir in broth and milk, cooking and stirring until bubbly and thickened. Stir in chicken and mixed vegetables. Remove from heat. Spoon chicken mixture into crust-lined pan. Top with second crust, seal edge, cut slits in top crust. Bake at 425 degrees for 30-40 minutes until crust is golden brown.

August 23rd & 24th

Routinely replace or clean your air conditioner’s filter. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter can reduce your airconditioner’s energy consumption by five to 15 percent. Source: energy.gov

• • • • • • •

Fireman’s Pancake Breakfast 6 a.m. Friday / Saturday Arts & Crafts set up 8 a.m. Friday / Saturday Flea Market set up 8 a.m. Friday / Saturday Food Vendors set up 8 a.m. Friday / Saturday Entertainment on Main Street Stage Friday 4 p.m. Saturday Cheer / Gymnastics Groups / Talent Show 1 p.m. Entertainment on Stage 3 Friday night – Leo Mask Band and Mississippi Queen Saturday night – Hannah & Karly with Jock Adams & Blues Child closing down the night • Antique Car Show Pontotoc Junior High parking lot – registration 7 a.m., Show 8 a.m. / Saturday • Bike Ride on the Tanglefoot Trail – registration 7 a.m. – Ride 8 a.m. / Saturday • 4-H Variety Show / Saturday afternoon • Art Guild’s Children’s Project / Renasant Pocket Park 10 a.m. / Saturday • Children’s Corner / Off the Square Market – Friday 5 p.m. / Saturday 10 a.m. • Hospitality Tent T-Shirt sales / corner of Main & Marion Streets • Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the sights and sounds of the festival!

10 I Today in Mississippi I August 2019 Pay Bill Report Outages

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

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View Outage Map

Energy Tips

CEO’s Message

Thank you to all who participated in our recent annual membership meeting Brian Hughey General Manager & CEO Singing River Electric

Member participation at our recent annual membership meeting was outstanding. Thank you to all members who voted online, on the SmartHub app, by proxy, or in person at Singing River Electric’s annual meeting. Your participation is vital to the success of the cooperative. One director in each of the three districts was elected to serve a three-year term. In addition to the director election, many topics were covered during the

meeting, including outage response due to weather events from the previous year, our wholesale power provider’s plans and challenges associated with solar power generation, various system upgrades, and broadband. But the primary topic of this year’s annual meeting was emphasizing how Singing River Electric has and will continue to support the communities we serve through programs that provide education, assistance and value to members.

Last year, Singing River Electric and its employees engaged with the communities we serve by awarding numerous Neighbors Helping Neighbors community grants, hosting energy fairs within all three districts, participating in river clean-up events, serving food at local charities, and remaining involved with our local schools. Our youth and their education are vital to the economic growth and well-being of the communities where we live and work.

Putting energgy where it matters mosst I get my power fr from my electric co-op, so I can putt my energy into my family. y. Wh Whether it’s pay aying the bill on the ggo, monitoring my monthly energy use or reporting a power outage o using the app, my co-op give ves me power to live m myy liffee. It s much more than a waayy to It’s t keep the lights on.

singingriver.com

Josh Havard Energy Services Representative joshhavard@singingriver.com

Install a smart thermostat Smart thermostats help you control your energy use and manage your bill. They use Wi-Fi service to allow you to adjust heating and cooling temperatures in your home using your smart phone. Smart thermostats also learn your temperature preferences and establish a schedule that automatically adjusts to energy-saving temperatures when you are asleep or away. Almost half of your energy use and costs comes from heating and cooling. Little changes in daily temperatures can make a big change in your electric bill.

Tips to consider when purchasing a smart thermostat: • Make sure the thermostat is compatible with your heating and cooling system. • If your smart thermostat uses Wi-Fi, make sure it’s reasonably close to the router, or install a Wi-Fi range extender to prevent periodic disconnections. • Each brand and model has slightly different features to help you save. Heat pump owners can take advantage of the thermostat’s smart balance feature, which allows the thermostat to consider weather forecasts, unit performance and comfort when determining the run time for your unit. Smart thermostats are available for purchase at local hardware stores and online. For more information on smart thermostats, visit singingriver.com and energystar.gov.

August 2019

2019 Annual Meeting held June 27 Singing River Electric held the 2019 Annual Membership Meeting on Thursday, June 28. As part of the meeting, the electric cooperative also held a FREE Energy Fair for participants and displayed Cooperative Energy’s all-electric and hybrid electric vehicles. During the meeting, General Manager and CEO Brian Hughey reviewed the highlights from 2018 and shared some of the cooperative’s plan for 2019. Three Singing River Electric members were elected to serve on the cooperative’s board as Post 1 candidates in all three geographic districts. • Ralph Hicks, District 1 • Ron Wilson, District 2 • Howard Davis, District 3

Singing River Electric members Milton Driskell, Marvin Blankinchip, Linda Eckford, Phillip Busby, Obie Wells and Richard Fleming served on the Credentials and Election Committee. This committee works to review board applicants prior to the election and monitors voting at theannual membership meeting. They see firsthand how Singing River Electric’s board election process is conducted and the efforts to be transparent when conducting the business of our cooperative. Singing River Electric consumer-members participated in the board elections online, by SmartHub app, by mailed proxy or inperson at the annual meeting.

Top Left: Project engineer Clark Rounsaville hands an attendance prize to a member. Top Right: Cooperative Energy corporate communications manager Sara Peterson shows SRE members an all-electric car. Left: Members cast their ballots for the board of directors at the Annual Meeting.

Today in Mississippi

2018 highlights discussed at the

membership meeting:

! Retirement of over $2.3 million in capital credits to members. This was a return of member investments in the cooperative. The credits were for the years 1987-88. ! Retirement of an additional $857,000 of capital credits for the year 1987. These credits were refunded to Singing River Electric members from Cooperative Energy, our power provider. ! Increase in the amount of solar energy included in Cooperative Energy’s generation resource mix. Specifically, the 100-megawatt solar facility to be constructed and completed in 2022 near Greenwood, Mississippi. ! Planning the conversion of Cooperative Energy’s R. D. Morrow coal-fired generating plant to become a more efficient natural gas plant. ! Sustained and record-setting cold was experienced with mixed precipitation in the winter. Singing River Electric also assisted Southern Pine Electric restore power during this icy weather. ! Electric power was restored to all Singing River Electric members who could receive power within 24-hours of Tropical Storm Gordon’s landfall. ! Assisted West Florida Electric Cooperative following Hurricane Michael. Nearly 30 SRE employees assisted over a three-week period. ! Brought energy fairs to four different local communities. The fairs were well attended and educated members on how to use energy wisely. ! Completed construction of the new Helena Industrial Park substation, and began planning a substation along Frank Snell Road in the Hurley community of Jackson County. ! Sponsored four local high school juniors to participate in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Youth Leadership Program and NRECA Youth Tour of Washington, D.C. ! Awarded more than $18,000 in Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Grants in 2018. The grants assisted in areas of education and community development. 2019 Annual Meeting Proxy/Online Ballot Prize winners included: Paul Havens of Moss Point, Cindy Hicks of Leakesville, James Dungan of Lucedale, Jill Allen of Lucedale, Paige Henderson of Richton, Joseph Forehand of Vancleave and Justin Rude of Ocean Springs.

10a

10b

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students

The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Singing River Electric, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, Sarah Hults, Carly Jones, Madisyn Peterson and Jeb Wells represented Singing River Electric. Sarah, the daughter of Amy Vuyovich and Chris Hults, will be a senior at Resurrection Catholic School. Carly, the daughter of Shanda Jones, will be a senior at East Central High School. Madisyn, the daughter of Melanie Tucker and Willie Peterson, will be a senior at St. Martin High School. And Jeb, the son of Forest Wells, will be a senior at Vancleave High School. “It is an honor for Singing River Electric to annually participate in the Washington D.C. Youth Tour program,” said SRE General Manager and CEO Brian Hughey. “This educational program provides an opportunity for local students to learn about history and government while building their leadership skills. We are proud to make this investment in these young leaders.” These students were chosen to participate through a one-day Cooperative University and interview process in November 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson.

YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Left to right: Madisyn Peterson of St. Martin High School, Sarah Hults of Resurrection Catholic School, Jeb Wells of Vancleave High School and Carly Jones of East Central High School Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Youth Tour has inspired me and many others, to take an active role in my community,” said Sarah Hults. “The most special part of Youth Tour is not the tour, but the youth.

Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. This year more than 1,800 of rural America’s best and brightest students, representing 42 states, participated. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this life-changing, all-expenses paid experience. Singing River Electric sponsored four of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification.

“

Though the workshop and the Washington D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with like-minded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments

If you know a high school ju Singing River Electric and h www.singingriver.com/myLeadership Program.

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

10c

Y O U T H TO U R S I T E S Lincoln Memorial #

Jefferson Memorial #

Martin Luther King. Jr. Memorial #

World War II Memorial #

Vietnam Veterans Memorial #

U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial #

Arlington National Cemetery #

This has been the trip of a lifetime,” said Carly Jones. “The people that I have met while on this trip are truly Mississippi’s future leaders. Going forth from this trip, I feel that I have a firmer grasp on how our nation’s capital works. I am so grateful to have been given this amazing opportunity. Mississippi’s cooperatives are awesome!

“

A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched

an exciting Major League Baseball game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center located on the Potomac River. Youth Tour has been the most amazing experience of my life,” said Jeb Wells. “It is a once in a lifetime trip, and I am so honored to have been given this great opportunity.

“

and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War, FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. They also toured museums, including the Newseum, the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art, the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Many students elected to visit the Museum of the Bible as well.

Top: The Jefferson Memorial was just one of the many stops on Youth Tour. Above: The students stopped for a photo in front of the North Lawn of the White House.

The students enjoyed a guided tour of Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S. A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on

unior who receives electricity at home from has strong grades and leadership skills, visit -community to view criteria for the 2020 Youth

Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. My experience visiting our nation’s capital was absolutely amazing,” said Madisyn Peterson. “I met some of the greatest friends that I hope to have for a lifetime while making memories that I will forever cherish. I am so thankful to be able to participate in such an astounding organization. Thank you so much Singing River Electric and ECM.

“

The Einstein Memorial is situated near the National Academy of Science. The bronze figure was unveiled in 1979 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Albert Einstein.

After the tour, the day was filled with special visits with our state’s leaders. Sarah, Carly, Madisyn and Jeb visited with Rep. Steven Palazzo in his D.C. office. The students also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy HydeSmith.

Newseum #

Washington National Cathedral #

U.S. Capitol #

Smithsonian Museums #

Nationals Park

FUN FACT: Over the seven days of the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., each student and advisor took more than 100,000 steps, 65 flights of stairs and walked a total of 50 miles!

10d I Today in Mississippi

August 2019

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 www.facebook.com/SingingRiverElectric www.twitter.com/SRECooperative @singingriverelectric on Instagram

singingriver.com

August 2019

Defining

Today in Mississippi

Degree days are tracked for a variety of reasons. Farmers can better plan the planting of crops and timing for pest control, and weather experts can better assess climate patterns. To view degree days for our area, visit www.energystar.gov and search “degree days calculator.” If charts and data aren’t your forte, no problem. Here are a few tips to help you save on energy bills this summer: • Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your cooling costs will be. The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 F when you’re home and a higher setting for when you’re away. • Turn off ceiling fans when you leave a room. • Close window coverings, like curtains and blinds, during the day to block sunlight. • Use caulk and weather stripping to seal air leaks around doors and windows. If you have questions about your energy use or to learn more ways to save, visit our website at singingriver.com, give us a call or stop by our office. Our energy professionals are here to help. Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape.

Singing River Electric held its George County Energy Fair on June 27 at the Lucedale office. The event featured stations on lighting, insulation, heating and cooling, online tools, and efficient building techniques. Members spoke to energy consultants and received custom advice for their efficiency questions.

Lighting

U.S. COOLING DEGREE DAYS Cooling degree days measure how hot the outdoor temperature was on a given day or during a period of days. The map below shows measurements of U.S. cooling degree days in 2018 by census region. Extreme outdoor temperatures bring a higher number of degree days, which results in higher energy use. West North Central: 1,132 CDD

East North Central: 974 CDD

WASH. MONT.

Middle Atlantic: 885 CDD

VT.

Heating/Cooling

New England: 651 CDD

MINN. WIS.

N.H. MASS. R.I. CONN.

N.Y.

S.D

IDAHO

MICH WYO. PA.

IOWA NEB.

ILL.

NEV. CALIF.

ME.

N.D.

ORE.

UTAH

COLO.

KAN.

IND.

OHIO

N.J.

MO.

WV. KY.

ARIZ.

Pacific: 1,004 CDD

OKLA.

ARK.

S.C. MISS.

Mountain: 1,584 CDD

*CDD represents s cooling degree days Source: Energy Information Administration

TEXAS

ALA.

GA.

L.A. FLA.

West South Central: 2,859 CDD

DEL. MD. VA. N.C.

TENN. N.M.

East South Central: 1,932 CDD

LUCEDALE

Degree Days By Abby Berry Weather can have a major impact on energy bills, and when the outdoor temperatures become extreme, your heating and cooling equipment works harder to keep your home comfortable. Did you know the energy experts at Singing River Electric use degree days to anticipate heating and cooling needs for you, our consumer-members? Never heard of a degree day. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Let’s take a look at what degree days are and why they’re important for electric utilities. Degree days measure how cold or warm a location is by comparing the average of the high and low (mean) of the outdoor temperatures recorded in that location to the standard U.S. temperature, which is 65 F. The assumption is that we don’t need heating or cooling to be comfortable when this is the outdoor temperature. So, the more extreme the outdoor temperatures, the higher the number of degree days. And the higher the number of degree days, the higher the amount of energy used for space heating and cooling. Summer is in full swing, so let’s look at cooling degree days. Cooling degree days are a measurement of how hot the temperature was on a given day or during a period of days. With summer temperatures rising, you’ll likely require more cooling for your home or business, which results in more cooling degree days. Variations in electric bills often follow closely with degree days, which is why electric utilities use this data to anticipate future energy demand.

South Atlantic: 2,411 CDD

Insulation

10 Today in Mississippi August 2019

How time flies… Time flies as we get older! I bet you’ve heard that before. Heck, I bet you can testify to it. While I never wanted to believe it, I eventually gave in to that parental wisdom shared by my mother all those years ago; and as I get older, time does seem to fly by. My wife and I were recently talking over a morning cup of coffee when she reminded me that it’s that time again — time to get ready for the little ones to start school. I had to take a deep breath. I’d been busy lately, focusing on accomplishing the day-to-day of my work life and my family life, but I hadn’t realized that a new year and a new chapter was just weeks away. We all fall victim to it. We fill our calendars day in and day out with work and other commitments, then we wonder where the time has gone. The same can be said for an organization; or in our case, an electric cooperative. As a rural distribution cooperative, Southern Pine faces numerous challenges throughout Jason S. Siegfried the year: maintaining our lines, being President/CEO prepared 24/7 for natural disasters, working with legislators to ensure we continue to grow with the times. There really is no downtime at our cooperative. Amidst the daily grind of getting our jobs done, we all too often lose focus on the big picture — our vision for growth and success. At Southern Pine, our motto is to “Bring the Power,” but it’s more than that. It represents our mission to enhance our community and our members’ quality of life by exceeding their expectations. To us, power is about more than keeping the lights on. It’s a desire to provide for the future of our families through creating a better, stronger rural Mississippi. With each new year, our vision of success changes. While our older members can appreciate days gone by and how life was made easier by electricity, our younger generations are looking to the future and the ways our power can evolve. Technology is constantly changing, and our new generations remind us that we must meet these changes with open arms in order to thrive as a cooperative and as a community. We were founded on an overwhelming desire to help our families, neighbors and friends; and through a lot of sweat, grit and determination, we have maintained success. Despite the challenges and joys of the present, we must remember how quickly time goes by and use our founding values to carve a better future. The folks at Southern Pine are ready and willing. Southern Pine was created to “Bring the Power” to rural Mississippians all those years ago, and we’re committed to continue this quest regardless of the obstacles to overcome. We have our work cut out for us, but luckily it’s work we love to do. Momma was right all along … time flies when you’re having fun!

Southern Pine has been busy this year engaging members through its Adopt-a-School program, Member Circle meetings, safety demonstrations and working with local law enforcement.

August 2019 Today in Mississippi

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. As this esteemed program is steeped in building lasting leadership abilities, its success and growth are continuously on the rise – with this year more than 1,800 of rural America’s best and brightest students, representing 43 states, participating. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this lifechanging, all-expenses paid experience. Southern Pine Electric sponsored two of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Southern Pine and is organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. This year, Hunter Lee from Taylorsville High School and Ethan McNair from Presbyterian Christian School were selected as participants from Southern Pine’s service area and were chosen through an application and interview process in November 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., Youth Tour are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with like-minded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the program. “This Youth Tour has showed me and fellow students how to bond with ‘strangers,’” said Hunter Lee. During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments, memorials and museums. They also enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S., and visited Nationals Park where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball game

“This week at Youth Tour has been an amazing experience that I will never forget.” – Ethan McNair

between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. A visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. The pinnacle of each Youth Tour, however, is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously led a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. After the tour, the day was filled with more special visits with our state’s leaders and the students also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. “This week at Youth Tour has been an amazing experience that I will never forget,” said Ethan McNair.

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Left to right: Carleigh Sproulls, Layna Myers, John Michael Chance III and Graci Malone

Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. As this esteemed program is steeped in building lasting leadership abilities, its success and growth are continuously on the rise – with this year more than 1,800 of rural America’s best and brightest students, representing 43 states, participating. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this life-changing, allexpenses paid experience. Southwest Electric sponsored four of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many

of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Southwest Electric, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, John Michael Chance III, Graci Malone, Layna Myers and Carleigh Sproulls represented Southwest Electric. John Michael, the son of Dixie and John Chance, will be a senior at Brookhaven High School. Graci, the daughter of Sandra Smith and Ronnie Malone Jr. of Brookhaven, will be a senior at Brookhaven Academy. Layna, the daughter of Paula and Ricky Myers of Brookhaven, will be a senior at Loyd Star. And Carleigh, the daughter of Toya Sproulls, will be a senior at Natchez High School. These students were chosen to participate in Cooperative University sponsored by Southwest Electric in November 2018 during their junior year in high school. During the annual event, the students were selected to represent the cooperative for the Youth Leadership Program. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with like-minded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “Not only were we granted the opportunity to see how our local government operates, but we were also able to observe and learn how our government operates on the national level,” said Carleigh. “I’ve made some of the

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Left: The Einstein Memorial is situated near the National Academy of Science. Layna, Graci, Carleigh and John Michael are photographed in front of the bronze figure that was unveiled in 1979 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Albert Einstein.

John Michael was able to remember a family member by etching a name at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

greatest friends who are leaders just like me.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War, FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, United States Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima) and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a sevenfloor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well.

A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural Center located on the Potomac River. After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S. A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently watch the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where

Layna Myers Loyd Star

Carleigh Sproulls Natchez High School

since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. “I was able to experience things that less than one percent of the U.S. population gets to experience,” said John Michael. The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the U.S. House Floor. “Youth Tour 2019 has been one of the most influential experiences of my life,” said Graci. “I will forever be grateful for the opportunities and the friendships this trip and Southwest Electric have given me.” After the tour, the day was filled with special visits with our state’s leaders. The students visited with Rep. Michael Guest’s staff in the Cannon House Office Building. They also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. “Youth Tour has been the biggest blessing,” said Layna. “The amount of love I have felt throughout this trip has been so overwhelming and I now have so many lifelong friends. Thank you so much Southwest Electric! I appreciate every moment of this journey.”

Kevin Bonds CEO

“Everyone associated with Southwest Electric considers it an honor to be a part of the Youth Leadership Program. This program continues to provide students each year with a unique experience to learn more about cooperatives and the ins and outs of government. This is a program that hones leadership skills and helps foster interest in civic duties. These young students will be the leaders of tomorrow, and we’re investing in them today.”

FUN FACT: Over the seven days of the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., each student and advisor took more than 100,000 steps, 65 flights of stairs and walked a total of 50 miles!

Are you a leader in your community? If you’re an 11th grader served by Southwest Electric, make this year memorable by participating in the 2020 Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Miss., and Tour of Washington, D.C.

John Michael Chance III Brookhaven High School

Graci Malone Brookhaven Academy

For more information, see your Guidance Counselor or call Southwest Electric at 601-437-3611.

10 I Today in Mississippi I August 2019

Tombigbee Electric Power Tupelo 662-842-7635 • Fulton 662-862-3146 • www.tombigbeeelectric.com

Guided by our membership and core principles

Annual Meeting August 10, 2019 This edition features Board Governance ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING We invite all members to attend our association’s annual meeting. Members will hear operational reports for the previous fiscal year and transact certain business defined by the bylaws and properly on the meeting agenda. The meeting is held the first Saturday after the first Monday in August at our headquarter facilities located at 1346 Auburn Road in Tupelo. The 2019 annual meeting will be held Saturday, August 10, at 10:00 a. m. The annual meeting starts the director election process. The annual meeting is held for the primary purpose of nominating directors who shall be elected by the members to serve for a three-year term.

A LONG AND SUCCESSFUL HISTORY WE ARE PROUD OF It is important to note and understand that electric power associations are member-owned, not-for-profit cooperatives and governed by a local board of directors made up of members elected by the membership. Our board is composed entirely of members who are themselves owners, which allows for continued local control of our electric power association. Because our directors are members themselves, they make decisions with the welfare of our local association’s membership foremost in mind. You and other members can participate in the director election process at

our annual membership meeting. The board of directors employs a general manager to supervise the association’s daily operations and to carry out the directives and policies established by the board. Because electric power associations are not beholden to investors or profit motives, they remain true to our founders’ vision of a memberfocused, service-oriented electric power association, which has been a successful and proven way to do business for more than 84 years. The following information will be helpful in understanding various aspects of electric power associations and how our association operates.

WHO IS A MEMBER OF TOMBIGBEE ELECTRIC ? As required by our bylaws, any living person, or existing firm, entity, association, corporation, or body politic or subdivision thereof will become a member of Tombigbee Electric Power Association upon receipt of electric service from the Cooperative, provided that he/she or it has first: a - Reached at least the age of majority and/or otherwise lawfully has the requisite power to enter into binding contracts in the State of Mississippi b - Made a written application for membership in the Cooperative c - Agreed to purchase from the Cooperative electric energy, or any other lawful products or services, as hereinafter specified or otherwise as may be allowed by law, upon the terms, conditions and rates as may be

set from time to time by the Cooperative d - Agreed to accept the responsibilities of membership and to participate in and benefit from the cooperative principles upon which the Cooperative is based e - Agreed to comply with and be bound by the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the Cooperative and any rules, policies, guidelines and regulations as may be adopted from time to time by the Board of Directors of the Cooperative f - Provided sufficient documentation necessary such that it might be determined to the satisfaction of the Cooperative that he/she or it has an interest in, rights to, or necessary permission relating to any real property, including without limitation any leasehold or other interests therein, for which electric service is being sought; and g - Paid the membership fee hereinafter specified. Tombigbee Electric members may attend monthly board meetings.

DIRECTORS ELECTED BY THE MEMBERSHIP In order to be eligible to become or remain a member of the Board of Directors of Tombigbee Electric Power Association. in general, a person: 1 - Must be of the age of majority, with the capacity to enter into legally binding contracts in the State of Mississippi

2 - Must be a duly qualified member of Tombigbee Electric Power Association 3 - Must be a bona fide resident in the area served or to be served by Tombigbee Electric Power Association 4 - Must neither themselves nor their spouse be presently or have been previously employed by Tombigbee Electric Power Association for a period of at least five (5) years prior to their nomination 5 - Must not be in any way employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise or business, which shall include any other utility or business selling or distributing any product or energy resource, or business which supplies TEPA with significant electrical energy supplies.

DIRECTOR TERMS Five directors are elected each year, three (3) members who shall reside in Lee, Union, Pontotoc, Chickasaw and that portion of Monroe County that is adjacent to Lee County, and two (2) members residing in Itawamba, Prentiss, Tishomingo, or that portion of Monroe County that is adjacent to Itawamba County. These directors will serve a three-year term.

August 2019 Today in Mississippi 10a

Association

Follow@TombigbeeEPA

A Mississippi Electric Cooperative

These 5 Directors up for re-election in August 2019

PRESIDENT

Jimmy Gray, 9, Fulton,

Malcolm Wesson, 3, East Tupelo,

John T. McFerrin, 6, Mantachie,

Julius K. (Buddy) Palmer, 15,

Joseph P. (Pat) Carr, 33, Saltillo,

Appliance Sales & Service

Retired Insurance Agent

MDWF Conservation Officer

Tupelo, Retired Merchant

Retired Justice Court Judge

Ballots will be mailed out each year to members to be voted according to instructions provided on the ballot

These 10 Directors completing 3-year terms

Guy T. Harris, 26, Saltillo,

Brenda Shumpert, 11, Richmond,

Jim Gray, 7, Fulton,

Steve Holland, 19, Plantersville,

Retired Law Enforcement & Salesman

Florist/Merchant

Appliance Sales & Service

Funeral Director State Representative

SECRETARY/TREASURER

Andy Spradling, 2, Mantachie,

Lynn Turner, 2, Eggville,

Cecil Weeks, 22, Auburn

Kelly W. (Chip) Prestage, 8, Fulton,

Don Knight, 19, Saltillo,

Retired ICC Campus Security

Construction Contractor

Retired Superintendent of Education/Education Consultant

Merchant

VICE PRESIDENT

F. G. Wiygul, Jr., 20, Fulton, Retired Superintendent of Education

Restaurant Owner/Operator

Ballot Production Process Ballots used for voting in Tombigbee Electric elections are printed by an outside vendor. Ballots will be mailed out each year to members to be voted according to instructions provided on the ballot. This year, watch for your ballot to be delivered in the U.S. mail after August 17.

10b

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Front row, left to right: Lakin Hamm, Tara Beth Buse and Sara Taylor Baker. Back row, left to right: Haley Dean, Chloe Evans, Cameron Mayes and Alisha Boren.

Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Since the 1950s, high school students representing electric cooperatives from all across the United States have participated in the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour event in Washington, D.C. As this esteemed program is steeped in building lasting leadership abilities, its success and growth are continuously on the rise – with this year more than 1,800 of rural America’s best and brightest students, representing 43 states, participating. They visited the nation’s capital, taking in historic sites and educational opportunities made available to them through this life-changing, all-expenses paid experience. Tombigbee Electric Power Association sponsored eight of the 81 students representing Mississippi electric cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the

significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Tombigbee EPA, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, Sara Taylor Baker, Alisha Boren, Tara Beth Buse, Courtney Cochran (attended the Leadership Workshop in February, but was unable to attend Youth Tour), Haley Dean, Chloe Evans, Lakin Hamm and Cameron Mayes represented Tombigbee. Sara Taylor, the daughter of Janis and Paul Baker of Tupelo, will be a senior at Mooreville High School. Alisha, the daughter of Candace and Jeff Boren of Baldwyn, will be a senior at Mantachie High School. Tara Beth, the daughter of Tawana and Travis Buse of Tupelo, will be a senior at Mooreville High School. Courtney, the daughter of Teresa and Scott Cochran of Tupelo, will be a senior at Tupelo Christian Preparatory. Haley, the daughter of Leslie and Gary Dean of Saltillo, will be a senior at Saltillo High School. Chloe, the daughter of Melissa and Brad Evans of Plantersville, will be a senior at Nettleton High School. Lakin, the daughter of Vicki and Gary Hamm of Fulton, will be a senior at Itawamba Agricultural High School. And Cameron, the son of Tracy Garmon and Christopher Mayes of Tupelo, will be a senior at Shannon High School. These students were chosen to participate through an application and interview process in November 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with like-minded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “Youth Tour is unlike any other leadership program, said Haley. “It is inspiring to be around such a great

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

The Tombigbee Electric student delegation visited the Jefferson Memorial (left), the United States Air Force Memorial (bottom left) and the Washington National Cathedral (below).

Bill Long General Manager

group of students from not only your state, but your nation. I will never forget this trip and these friendships that will last forever. We came here as strangers and now we are one big happy family. Youth Tour will always have a special place in my heart that I will treasure. I will forever be greatful for my amazing state and Tombigbee Electric for this life-changing experience.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War, FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a seven-floor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well. A visit to Nationals Park was another

highlight for the participants, where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural Center located on the Potomac River. After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S. A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. “This has been a trip like no other,” said Alisha. “My grandfather is a Vietnam War Veteran and he has never gotten the chance to see some of his ‘buddies’ whose names are on that wall. This trip gave him the chance to see all of this freedom that he fought for. He gets to see it through my eyes and me and him are forever grateful. The friends gained during this trip will never be forgotten.” The pinnacle of the annual Youth Tour

is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a rare opportunity to visit the floor of the U.S. House. “This has been the experience of a lifetime,”said Chloe. “Thanks to this program, I have many doors opened for me. It was my first Washington, D.C., visit and plane ride! I will remember the students and my Mississippi group forever.” After the tour, the day was filled with special congressional visits. The students visited and discussed current issues with Rep. Trent Kelly in the Longworth House Office Building. The students also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith.

“We are proud to be a part of a youth program focused on leadership development and encouraging our young leaders to make a difference in the lives of others. It is rewarding to know Tombigbee Electric is investing in young people and exposing them to why and how cooperatives operate, an upclose look at state and federal government and teambuilding exercises to help them learn the power of working together. We are extremely proud of our 2019 group of outstanding students.”

FUN FACT: Over the seven days of the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., each student and advisor took more than 100,000 steps, 65 flights of stairs and walked a total of 50 miles!

Chloe Evans selected for a $500 leadership scholarship Chloe Evans was selected as a scholarship recipient at the leadership workshop in February. She was interviewed for the Youth Leadership Council position along with nine of her peers. As the state runner-up she will receive a $500 scholarship upon graduating from Nettleton High School in May 2020. We congratulate Chloe!

10c

10d I Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Providing broadband has hurdles... On Jan. 30, 2019, Governor Phil Bryant signed a bill into law allowing Tombigbee Electric and the other electric cooperatives in the state to provide broadband or high-speed internet service. We have received a number of questions about this, so I wanted to bring you, our members, up-to-date on what this means and how it affects the electric cooperatives in the state, specifically Tombigbee Electric.

The potential is significant. According to some reports, Mississippi ranks No. 49 in the U.S. in broadband availability. By allowing electric cooperatives to provide the service, and other companies stepping up, Mississippi could begin to move up in the rankings. Education, Health Care, and Economic Development are areas that could benefit as Bill Long improved broadband is expandGeneral Manager ed throughout areas of the state. There are obstacles, namely cost. If it were easy and inexpensive to do, the telecommunications companies would have already provided broadband service to rural areas, and the electric cooperatives would not need to get involved. But it’s not easy, nor is it inexpensive. There are also questions. Are there enough households and businesses in our service area that would subscribe to the service to make the operation feasible? Will we need to hire additional employees and how many? Are there people available to hire with the necessary technical skills? These are just a few of the questions that will need to be addressed as we consider moving forward with broadband.

Yet electric cooperatives are uniquely

positioned in the state to take broadband further into the rural areas because we are already there. And our business model is different so we should be able to provide broadband service in a manner similar to how we provide electric service now. Further study by electric cooperatives around the state will continue to provide answers for these questions and others to determine if this is the right decision for the cooperative and its members. Every electric cooperative in the state may not be able to offer broadband. Some simply will not have enough households or businesses that will take the service for it to be feasible, as determined by each cooperative’s respective board of directors.

cooperative and its members. However, it can at the determination of its Board, make investments in or loans to its broadband subsidiary. The law also requires the cooperative, if it decides to provide broadband service, to develop a plan for making broadband available to all its members. Importantly, it does not require a cooperative to offer broadband and it prevents a cooperative from requiring a member to take the service.

What does this mean for Tombigbee Electric and its members? First, we think

improved broadband service to our members is a worthwhile endeavor and could have tremendous benefits for our community. However, it will be very expensive. We have obtained and are reviewing What exactly does the new law do? By law, several feasibility studies to ensure, to the greatest an interested electric cooperatives must do a extent possible, that providing the new service can feasibility study to determine if this can be stand on its own. Once the studies have done without putting the electric been completed, and sufficiently cooperative at significant risk. reviewed, our board of directors will Importantly, It allows the cooperative to consider the results and make the provide the service through decision whether Tombigbee it does not require a several options. proceeds with a broadband cooperative to offer Cooperatives may form subeffort or not at this time. If sidiaries, enter partnerships, approved by the board, staff broadband and it prevents or form other types of affiliwould begin developing busia cooperative from requiring a ness plans to determine the ates to provide broadband service. However, the law best method for deploying the member to take the prohibits an electric cooperaservice. service. tive from providing the service Finally, we will need patience through the cooperative itself. It from our members. The studies will must be done through a separate compatake time to review and verify. It will take ny, maintaining separate accounting. A cooperatime to develop business plans. And it will take tive cannot use electric revenue to provide broadyears to make it available to all our members if it is band service, again limiting the risk to the electric feasible and viable.

BROADBAND ENABLING ACT: ACTIVITY PROGRESSION 2019 House Bill 366 clears Public Utilities Committee JAN

TEPA broadband meeting with “education sector”

Gov. Phil Bryant signs the bill into law

FEB

Electric power Passed the Mississippi House of distributors Representatives broadband conference Passed the Mississippi Senate

MAR

TEPA studies possible use of USDA grant funds

APR

TEPA ‘SmartGrid’ committee conducts broadband field visit

MAY

Multiple feasibility studies presented to TEPA

JUN

TEPA studies the member survey process for member input

JUL

TEPA sponsors broadband meeting with ”economic sector”

August 2019

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Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Willette Kingdom and Ethan Blasingame

Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

cooperatives. While the tour is filled with fun activities, its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Twin County, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, Ethan Blasingame and Williette Kingdom represented Twin County. Ethan, the son of Amanda and Jeffery Blasingame of Avon, will be a senior at Riverside High School. And Williette, the daughter of Joyce and Kevin Kingdom of Greenville, will be a senior at Greenville Christian. These students were chosen to participate through an application and interview process in January 2019 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with like-minded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “The Youth Tour was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I’ll never forget,” said Ethan. “I’m thankful to have been chosen to get to be a part of this experience. I met so many great people and had a great time.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War,

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Tim Perkins General Manager

Top left: Williette and Ethan spent Saturday morning at the National Harbor where they saw The Awakening statue. Above: A tour of the National Cathedral was a highlight of the tour. Left: The Einstein Memorial is situated near the National Academy of Science. Ethan and Williette are photographed in front of the bronze figure that was unveiled in 1979 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Albert Einstein.

FDR, Lincoln, Air Force, Jefferson, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial and the memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. In addition, they also toured museums, including the Newseum, a seven-floor, interactive museum dedicated to first amendment rights, journalistic ethics and popular historic news events. Another favorite tour was the Smithsonian Museums of Air and Space, American History, Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. New additions this year included the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, both of which are a part of the Smithsonian Institute. Many students elected to visit the Bible Museum as well. A visit to Nationals Park was another highlight for the participants, where they watched an exciting Major League Baseball game between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Following the game, they watched a beautiful sunset from the roof of the John F. Kennedy Center, the United States National Cultural

Center located on the Potomac River. After a scenic drive down Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row, the students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the U.S. A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery gave the students the opportunity to reverently look on for the changing of the guard. Here, they also visited the gravesites of several of our nation’s prominent figures, including John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the eternal flame still burns. The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the United States Capitol building that kicked-off with a tour of the

U.S. House Floor. After the tour, the day was filled with special visits with our state’s leaders. The students visited with Rep. Michael Guest’s staff in the Cannon House Office Building. The students also had the opportunity to meet Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. “This was a trip that ensures the window of opportunities will not close,” said Williette. “Personally, I was terrified and scared to take this trip. People say there is light at the end of every tunnel. No one told me it would be this bright though. Thank you to Twin County for giving me this opportunity.”

“Everyone associated with Twin County considers it an honor to take part in the Youth Leadership Program. This program continues to provide students each year with a unique experience to learn more about cooperatives and the ins and outs of government. This is a program that hones leadership skills and helps foster interest in civic duties. These young students will be the leaders of tomorrow, and we’re investing in them today.”

FUN FACT: Over the seven days of the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., each student and advisor took more than 100,000 steps, 65 flights of stairs and walked a total of 50 miles!

“I’m thankful to have been chosen to get to be a part of this experience. I met so many great people and had a great time.” – Ethan Blasingame

Today in Mississippi

August 2019

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

The Yazoo Ministerial Association presents 2nd annual

Back to School Yazoo August 4 at Parkview Church of God By Elissa Fulton Since the opioid crisis has devastated our nation, communities all over the United States are grappling with how to control a new kind of drug crisis. Drugs and alcohol have long been an issue in society, but the Yazoo City Ministerial Association is doing all that it can to ensure that its youth know that there is a much better option. In 2018, the association held its first Back to School Yazoo event, hosted by Parkview Church in Yazoo City. Last year was a successful event with students from

Iron Bell will perform songs of hope and love through Jesus Christ.

each of the area high schools attending. There was an overwhelming number of community members that showed up in support of these students. The Lord was working in our young people. The event was so successful that on Aug. 4, the Yazoo City Ministerial Association will hold a second event at Parkview Church of God. This year, the association is reaching out to even more churches and schools in surrounding counties. Back to School Yazoo is intended to encourage all junior and senior high school students to choose Jesus Christ and a drug free lifestyle.

Steve Fitzhugh, a former football player with the Denver Broncos will share his story and encourage attendees to choose a life for Christ.

The keynote speaker will be Steve Fitzhugh. He is the spokesperson for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Steve will share with the congregation about life lessons he learned while playing in the NFL with the Denver Broncos. His experiences have led him to a life dedicated to helping people make positive life choices. The live entertainment will be provided by Iron Bell. Christian counselors will be available to all interested students following the keynote address. The message by last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s keynote speaker was so impactful that dozens of students dedicated, or rededicated their lives to the Lord. The Yazoo City Ministerial Association invites each community member to attend this event on Sunday, Aug. 4 at Parkview Church in Yazoo City. There will be food and fellowship in a loving, safe, Christian environment. A Love Offering will be taken up for the local ministry, My Brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Keeper. The ministry offers hope to substance abusers. For information about this event, call 662-746-4298.

August 2019 I Today in Mississippi

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A Mississippi Electric Cooperative

DID YOU KNOW? This event is an opportunity to face the epidemic that touches our families, friends and loved ones. Education. Training. Callaboration. Saving lives. These are the goals of Back to School Yazoo. • Mississippi is the leading prescriber of opioid painkillers with the equivalent of approximately 70 opioid pills for every man, woman and child. • The number of painkiller prescriptions in Mississippi makes us the fifth highest per capita in the nation, with 1.07 prescriptions per person. • In the state of Mississippi, there were 563 reported drug overdose deaths from 20132016. • Drug-related deaths in Mississippi are greater than we think because they are under reported by coroners. We must unite with a comprehensive plan involving all relevant parties!

AGENDA FREE FOOD 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. All attendees are invited to join us and enjoy complimentary food and drinks (while it lasts).

BACK TO SCHOOL YAZOO 7:00 p.m. Parkview Sanctuary This event features live music by Iron Bell. The keynote address will be made by Steve Fitzhugh. Christian counselors will be available to all interested parties following Steve’s address.

Parkview Church of God 1750 MS-16 • Yazoo City, MS 39194 662-746-4298 office@parkviewchurchyc.com

FLOOD WATER continues to present hardships in our communities

As summertime brings backyard barbecues, fishing adventures, cannonball dives into the lake and your favorite uncle’s famous story that he tells every year while sitting on the back porch over a mason jar of sweet tea; some residents of the Mississippi Delta have not had these luxuries. The unwavering river and backwater flooding has denied these residents the joy of their favorite summer pastimes. Since February, all six counties in Yazoo Valley’s service area have been impacted by flooding. Some of these counties have seen the worst the flooding has had to offer by being displaced from their homes and businesses. With no signs of relief in the near future, the people of the Delta have sent their outcries for assistance to our

nation’s capital. In addition to being displaced, locations where water hasn’t intruded yet have had to have electrical service disconnected due to serious safety hazards associated with flooding and operating high voltage powerlines. “During this long flooding event, Yazoo Valley has disconnected service to over 500 meters in six counties. Power has been disconnected for multiple reasons, but the most common reason being water in the structure itself or in the meter base outside. Some high voltage lines that no longer meet NESC safe clearance due to the elevated water levels have been de-energized as well.” said Michael Neely, manager of general services at Yazoo Valley.

The Yazoo Valley family has felt the effects of this historic flooding, having employees and members alike displaced and wanting their lives returned to normal. Be assured, when the water recedes and you are ready to receive power, Yazoo Valley will do everything we safely can to return electric service to your location to assist in getting your life back to normal. Members wanting to be reconnected must fill out a flood form which is available at our office at 2255 Gordon Avenue, Yazoo City, Miss., and on our website at www.yazoovalley.com. If you are a member who has been displaced or relocated by the flooding we want to hear from you. Please contact Dennis McFee, manager of member services at (662) 746-4251.

Art Contest Winner In the March 2019 issue of Today in Mississippi, Yazoo Valley Electric called for all local high school artists to participate in an electricity-themed art contest. Olivia Fulton painted a Delta sunrise inspired by a photo she snapped in Yazoo Valley Electric’s service area near Highway 3. Olivia’s artwork will hang in the office at Yazoo Valley Electric. Olivia won the $250 grand prize for her painting. She is the daughter of Elissa Fulton of Tinsley. She will be a junior at Manchester Academy.

Congratulations Olivia!

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Today in Mississippi

August 2019

Visit to nation’s capital inspires

Youth Tour Students YOUTH TOUR STUDENTS Peyton Jones and Hunter Barron

Lake Little, Haley Fye and Clay Walters enjoy a busy tour of memorials, monuments and museums surrounding the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Below, they visit the Marine Corps War Memorial.

its primary mission is to educate students about our country’s legislative and political process as well as the significance of rural electrification. The students even met and visited with many of Mississippi’s elected officials to learn and see first-hand how the federal government operates and how legislation affects every American. The Youth Tour is sponsored locally by Yazoo Valley Electric, organized statewide by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and nationally by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). This year, Hunter Barron and Peyton Jones represented Yazoo Valley Electric. Hunter, the son of Gigi and Ken Barron of Yazoo City, will be a senior at Yazoo County High School. And Peyton, the daughter of Stacey and Scottie Jones of Yazoo City, will be a senior at Manchester Academy. These students were chosen to participate through a oneday Cooperative University in October 2018 during their junior year in high school. In February 2019, they attended the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson. Though the workshop and the Washington, D.C., trip are invaluable experiences for the students, the relationships they had the opportunity to make with likeminded peers from across the state and the country will be one of the most long-term and rewarding measures of the Youth Tour. “Sometimes you have to stop and enjoy life in the moment, instead of being sad thinking about when that moment is going to end.” said Hunter. “Youth Tour was one of those moments. It was an incredible experience, but now I have friends to last a lifetime.” During the seven-day Youth Tour, the students visited historical and cultural sites, monuments and memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War,

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Ron White

General Manager

“It is an honor for Yazoo Valley to be represented by such outstanding students from our community. The Youth Tour provides an opportunity for these students to visit our nation's capital and learn about our history and government.”

Top: A group of Youth Tour students from Mississippi’s 2nd Congressional District visited with Rep. Bennie Thompson’s Chief of Staff Ty James. Above: Peyton and Hunter visited Rep. Thompson’s D.C. office in the Rayburn House Office Building.

students enjoyed a guided tour of the Washington National Cathedral, the The students visited the National Cathedral. second largest cathedral in the U.S. Thompson’s Chief of Staff Ty James in his A respectful visit to Arlington Cemetery Over the seven days Rayburn House Office Building. The stugave the students the opportunity to reverdents also had the opportunity to meet Sen. ently look on for the changing of the guard. of the Youth Tour in Roger Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith. Here, they also visited the gravesites of severWashington, D.C., each “Monument, Memorials and Memories! al of our nation’s prominent figures, includstudent and advisor took This Youth Tour is created for amazing ing John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline more than 100,000 adventures and lifelong friends,” said Peyton. Kennedy Onassis, where since 1963 the steps, 65 flights of stairs “Every student that experienced this trip has eternal flame still burns. and walked a total of the mind set of doing something amazing The pinnacle of each Youth Tour is the with their life thanks to our cooperatives. day spent on Capitol Hill. Freshman 50 miles! Thank you Yazoo Valley Electric.” Rep. Michael Guest of Mississippi’s 3rd Congressional District graciously continued the tradition of guiding the students on a VIP tour of the “Monument, Memorials United States Capitol building that kicked-off and Memories! with a tour of the U.S. This Youth Tour is created House Floor. After the tour, the for amazing adventures and day was filled with lifelong friends,” special visits with our state’s leaders. Hunter – Peyton Jones and Peyton visited with Rep. Bennie

FUN FACT:

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Today in Mississippi I August 2019

Back to School Electric co-ops are continually learning to improve service for members. It’s a new school year and kids of all ages are getting ready for a fresh year of learning! From kindergarten through college, students attend school to gain knowledge about a broad variety of subjects and learn new skills that will prepare them for the future. In a similar vein, Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association is continually learning in order to advance technology that improves electric service, reliability, safety and in turn, enhances quality of life for the members we serve in our local communities. Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association keeps abreast of industry trends because

the energy sector is rapidly changing. Innovations in technology and energy types are fueling demand for more options. On the consumer front, people are looking for more ways to manage their energy use with smart technologies. Consumers expect more convenient payment methods – whether through automatic bill pay, pre-pay, online or in person. We’re working to help sift through the options for our members in ways that benefit the greater community. At the same time, we never lose sight of the top priority providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity.

Students will be out and about. Please watch out for school buses and children at crosswalks. And observe school zones when school is in session.

THINK SAFETY!

Coming

YAZOO VALLEY ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 2 in observance of

LABOR DAY

NEXT MONTH... We are excited to announce that the September issue of Today in Mississippi will have a new look. The state’s most widely circulated publication will transition to a magazine format. The publication’s content will continue to reflect Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association’s pride in the communities we serve and our beautiful home state. What will change? The new magazine format will reflect a high-quality, colorful and sophisticated design. By increasing to 32 pages, the additional space will allow us to deliver even more interesting and entertaining content along with dynamic photographs – and all in an easy-to-read layout. We look forward to sharing with you soon the fresh, new look of our publication and also a renewed commitment to delivering quality stories and family-friendly content celebrating life in Mississippi. And, it continues to be our privilege to be your source for valuable information about your cooperative, new recipes, travel, events, gardening, outdoor life and so much more.

August 2019

Today in Mississippi

Tip of the

Month

Routinely replace or clean your air conditioner’s filter. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter can reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5 to 15 percent. Source: energy.gov

HARVEST SAF FETY TIPS FOR

FARMW WORKERS • Maintain a 10-foo ot clearance around all utility equipme ent in all directions. • Use U a spott tter and d deplo d l yed d flags fl t to maintain safe distances from power lines and other eq quipment when doing field work. • If your equipment makes contact with an energized d or downed power line, contact us im mmediately by phone and remain n inside the vehicle until the power lin ne is de-energized. In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jum mp out of the cab, without touching it at the same time, and hop away to ssafety. • Consider equipment and cargo extensions of you ur vehicle. Lumbe er, h y, tree limbs, irriga ha rigation pipe and even bulk materia als can conduct e electricity , so keep p them out of contact with electtrical equipment. Source: Safe Electricity ctricity