Today in Mississippi September 2017 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

News for members of Electric Cooperatives in Mississippi

4 Sawing logs the old way 14 Cookbook benefits historical museum

16 LaPointe-Krebs:

Mississippiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest house

12 Today in Mississippi

September 2017

CENTRAL ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION A tradition of dependable, hometown service since 1937 Carthage 601-267-5671 Rankin 601-829-1201

Philadelphia 601-656-2601 Sebastopol 601-625-7422

www.centralepa.com

Efficient kitchen lighting Kitchen sizes, styles and configurations have changed dramatically through the years. As consumer lifestyles and tastes have changed, kitchen lighting has evolved to reflect these shifts. In the past, a simple florescent ring placed in the center of the ceiling operated by a single switch was the norm for a typical American kitchen. Now, the proliferation of TV networks and shows devoted to every aspect of home decorating, remodeling, building and sales reflect current consumers’ higher standards and expectations for a home’s appearance. Lighting, once considered an afterthought, is now an integral part of home décor and function – particularly in a focal area such as the kitchen.

Layering effect

The effect of a single overhead light source can be too much light in one area and not enough in others. Layering different types of light from different sources is not only a smart plan, but it makes good sense from an efficiency perspective. Task lighting, such as under-counter lighting illuminates a particular work surface without a shadowing effect. Energy efficient options typically feature LED-powered puck lights that can be placed precisely where they are most needed under the cabinets. Another option is the thindiameter fluorescent tube that use about 25 percent of the electricity of halogen or incandescent bulbs and have a much greater life span. Regardless of the type of light selected, when installing the lights, place them toward the front of the

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cabinet so they illuminate the whole countertop rather than the wall. Most types of under-counter lights can be plugged into a standard outlet. Overhead lights, whether from a central fixture, track lights or recessed, can offer indirect illumination and complement the task lights. Where possible, utilize ENERGY STAR and LED options.

Shining a light on flexibility

Efficient lighting in the kitchen does not necessarily mean more lights, but rather more versatile lighting. Dimmer switches create more flexible lighting options for existing lights. There are times when maximum illumination is required for tasks such as food preparation or clean-up. At other times, it makes more sense to turn down the lights to create a cozier ambiance. By placing different sets of lights on dimmer switches, you increase your options, minimize the energy used for lighting and thereby allow for greater energy efficiency. However, when installing dimmer switches, make sure they are compatible with LED lights. Lighting accounts for up to 15 percent of a home’s energy budget, and since the kitchen still remains the heart of the home and is a high traffic hub, it makes good sense to focus here. For basic energy efficiency in the kitchen and elsewhere, sometimes small adjustments can make a big impact. The simplest area to focus is on the light itself. LED lights use a small fraction of the energy of CFL, halogen or traditional incandescent bulbs and they are known for their longevity and efficiency. ENERGY STAR-rated LED bulbs typically are the most energy efficient. At its best, a good kitchen lighting plan is functional, attractive and energy efficient. Whether your kitchen is large or small, old or new, one reliable recipe for energy savings is utilizing more efficient lighting in the heart of the home.

Think Safety First !

The view from here can be deadly ...for YOU, not the deer. A utility pole may look like an ideal spot to place a deer stand, but think again. The overhead power line running to the pole is energized. Coming in contact with the line can result in serious injury to you, and even death. For your safety and others, don’t place deer stands on power poles.

Cooler temps will be here soon! No matter what kind of heating system you have in your home, you can save money and increase your comfort by properly maintaining and upgrading your equipment. Contact a licensed professional to inspect your system before the winter chill arrives. Source: U.S. Department of Energy

601-267-5671

September 2017 I Today in Mississippi

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2017-18

For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com.

NEW DEER ZONES

White-tailed Deer DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license. Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 14 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

Youth Gun (15 and under) Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Jan. 18 - 31 Archery/Primitive Weapon Feb. 1 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license. Legal Bucks only on private and open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Small Game

In all zones: For youth fifteen (15) years of age and younger hunting on private lands and authorized state and federal lands, all three (3) of their three (3) buck bag limit may be any antlered deer regardless of number of points, inside spread or beam length.

SEASON

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 23 - 30

BAG LIMITS:

Squirrel - Fall Season

Sept. 30 - Feb. 28

Antlered Buck Deer:

Squirrel - Spring Season

May 15 - June 1

SPECIES

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Rabbit

Oct. 14 - Feb. 28

The bag limit on antlered buck deer is one (1) buck per day, not to exceed three (3) per license year. Legal bucks must meet the antler criteria within the appropriate deer management zone. For youth fifteen (15) years of age and younger hunting on private lands and authorized state and federal lands, all three (3) of their three (3) buck bag limit may be any antlered deer regardless of number of points, inside spread or beam length.

Bobwhite Quail

Nov. 23 - Mar. 3

Frog

Mar. 31 - Sept. 30

25/NIght

Raccoon

July 1 - Sept. 29

1 per Party/Night

Opossum, Raccoon, and Bobcat

Sept. 30 - Oct. 31 (Food and sport) Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 (Food, sport, and pelt)

5/Day; 8/Party No Limit

Trapping

Nov. 1 - Mar. 15

No Limit

*On private lands and authorized state and federal lands only in those areas open for squirrel hunting.

Dove Wear Orange

â&#x20AC;˘ White-winged & Mourning Dove (North Zone) ** Sept. 2-Oct. 8; Oct. 21 Nov. 4; Dec. 9 - Jan. 15 (South Zone)*** Sept. 2-10; Oct. 7-Nov. 11; Dec. 2-Jan. 15 **(Dove North Zone) Areas north of U.S. Hwy 84 plus areas south of U.S. Hwy 84 and west of MS Hwy 35 ***(Dove South Zone) Areas south of U.S. Hwy 84 and east of MS Hwy 35.

Fall Turkey

Oct. 14 - Nov. 15 For legal restrictions and a list of areas open for fall turkey hunting, go to www.mdwfp.com.

Antlerless Deer: Private lands: The bag limit on Delta and Hill Zones antlerless deer is five (5) per annual season. The bag limit on Southeast Zone antlerless deer is one (1) per day, three (3) per annual season. U.S. Forest Service National Forests: The bag limit is one (1) per day, not to exceed three (3) per annual season.

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Guess where we

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

went last summer ! If you're an 11th grader served by Cenral Electric Power Association, make this year memorable by participating in the 2018 Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Miss., and Tour of Washington, D.C.

Gracey Wilcher Leake Academy

â&#x20AC;&#x153;2017 Youth Tour was an amazing opportunity for me. I made lifelong friends, and for that, I am grateful.â&#x20AC;?

Alexia Smith Leake County High School

Jayasri Mitch Choctaw Central High School

Gracey Wilcher, Carthage, Miss.

Washington National Cathedral, Jefferson, FDR, MLK Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery, Iwo Jima, World War II Memorial and the Vietnam Wall.

See your Guidance Counselor or call Central Electric Power for information at 601-267-5671.

September 2017 I Today in Mississippi

Youth Leadership Program: Apply now! Are you currently a high school junior and your parent(s) or legal guardian receives electric service from Central Electric Power Association? If so, you are eligible to apply to represent Central Electric Power Association in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Youth Leadership Workshop February 21-23, 2018 and the NRECA Washington, D.C., Youth Tour June 9-15, 2018.

GUIDELINES: 1. Applicant must be a high school junior (11th grade) whose parent(s) or legal guardian receives electric service from Central Electric Power Association. 2. The top fifteen (15) applicants will be selected by an independent panel of judges to participate in an interview process for the selection of two (2) winners who will represent Central Electric Power

Association in the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Miss. and the NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. 3. Winners will be notified by Friday, October 20, 2017. 4. If selected, student must commit to attend both the Leadership Workshop February 21-23, 2018 in Jackson, Miss. and the NRECA Youth Tour June 9-15, 2018 in Washington, D.C.

5. Application must be postmarked by Friday, September 22, 2017. Please mail to:

Youth Leadership Program Central Electric Power Association Attn: Jessica Patterson Post Office Box 477 Carthage, MS 39051

PLEASE COMPLETE THE APPLICATION BELOW AND RETURN TO CENTRAL ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION: STUDENT’S FULL NAME __________________________________________ NAME STUDENT GOES BY _________________________________________

PLEASE LIST ANY SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES/MEMBERSHIPS AND LEADERSHIP POSITIONS:

STUDENT’S MAILING ADDRESS ______________________________________ STUDENT’S 911 ADDRESS _________________________________________ PARENT(S) OR LEGAL GUARDIAN ____________________________________

PLEASE LIST ANY AWARDS OR SPECIAL RECOGNITION:

NAME CENTRAL EPA BILL IS LISTED IN _________________________________ ACCOUNT NUMBER ____________________________________________ DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER ________________________________________

WHAT ARE YOUR COLLEGE AND CAREER GOALS?

ALTERNATE NUMBER ___________________________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS ______________________________________________ SCHOOL __________________________________________ 11TH GRADE STUDENT’S SHIRT SIZE __________________________________________ STUDENT SIGNATURE ___________________________________________ PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN SIGNATURE _________________________________

WHAT ARE TWO CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD LEADER AND WHY?

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Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Congratulations!

Central Electric celebrates years of service.

Mary Lang 1970-2017

38 YEARS

YEARS

Debbie Sanderson 1979-2017

As one chapter ends another begins for you. Enjoy all the things you've been looking forward to.

Allen Ogletree 1977-2017

Peggy Renfroe 2003-2017

40 YEARS

YEARS

A very happy retirement to you!

September 2017 I Today in Mississippi

Workforce study to help identify job and economic growth opportunities A group of economic development organizations in Central Mississippi are combining forces to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the workforce and identify target business sectors. The KosciuskoAttala Partnership, the Leake County Economic Development Association, the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and the Winston County Economic Development District Partnership are collaborating to create this key economic development tool for the region. Central Electric Power Association and the Tennessee Valley Authority are providing assistance. Local residents and businesses are being called on to help. “This project will help position our region to compete in the global economy for the best economic development oppor-

tunities and jobs,” says Aaron Akers, Director of Economic & Community Development at Central Electric Power Association. “In the short term, this data will assist existing businesses in finding qualified available workers. It will also help workforce agencies match workers with jobs and training programs. Long term, this project will provide planning data to prepare the workforce for the new economy, which requires higher skills.” This study will include a labor supply survey to be conducted among working-age people via brief (approximately two minutes) personal interviews at numerous local retail sites. “To achieve the greatest level of success, we need the help of individuals in the community,” said Akers. “We ask everyone, regardless of your

employment status, between the ages of 18 and 65 to stop and talk to the survey team when they are in our area.” The survey of local residents will identify key workforce information including: • Occupation skills and education levels • Untapped labor resources (people ready to re-enter the workforce) • The extent of underemployment and part-time work in the workforce • Interest in training and preferred fields of training • Areas where the workforce out-performs other regions "Workforce skills and availability are the top factors for businesses selecting a location for a new facility or expansion. To create quality job opportunities and to meet the needs of industry, communities must under-

stand their workforce,” said Akers. Survey teams will be at multiple locations in the region, Thursday, Sept. 13 through Saturday Sept. 16, conducting brief in-person interviews with area residents. The survey takes only a couple of minutes to complete but gathers very important information about workers and job skills available in the region. Names are not collected and survey responses are completely anonymous. Younger Associates, based in Jackson and Memphis, Tenn., is the economic development research firm conducting the study. Younger Associates is nationally recognized for their high quality and effectiveness of the workforce and targeting initiatives they produce. For more information about either the survey or the study, contact Aaron Akers at 601-416-5192.

ALWAYS

CALL BEFORE YOU

DIG

Central Electric’s

business offices will be closed

Monday, Sept. 4

in observance of Labor Day. We wish you and your family a safe holiday.

One free, easy call gets your utility lines marked AND helps protect you from injury and expense. Safe Digging Digging Is Is No No Accident: Accident: Safe 811 Before Before You You Dig Always Call Call 811 Dig Always Know what’s below. Always call 811 before you dig. Visit call 811.com for more information. INSERT CALL CENTER LO OGO HERE

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Delta

Strong

promotes region’s assets to industrial prospects By Debbie Stringer Attracting new jobs to any community is a difficult process, but especially for a rural region like the Mississippi Delta. Yet the Delta has proven time and again to be a good fit for companies whose needs align with the region’s assets and resources. Identifying and recruiting more such companies, both domestic and foreign, are goals of Delta Council’s Delta Strong initiative. The program’s targeted – Mike Philpot marketing strategy centers on positioning the Mississippi Delta region as a “major player” in the attraction of manufacturing, distribution and warehousing operations, according to Delta businessman Tom Gresham, of Indianola, who chairs the Delta Council Development Department. Delta Strong enhances rather than replaces existing economic development efforts in Delta communities. “It is simply meant to add horsepower to local efforts by creating a smart, targeted regional effort. This is not something that any of our communities, individually, have the ability to do on their own,” Gresham said. “We’re trying to get [companies] to come to the Delta and give those local communities the opportunity to make their pitch. Delta Strong will be even more involved, as needed, to help those communities make those presentations,” said Michael “Mike” Philpot, Delta Council’s director of economic development. Coahoma Electric Power Association is a partner

“We’re looking to show why it would be to their advantage to be in the Delta.”

in the Delta Strong program. “We strongly support the Delta Strong initiative of Delta Council,” said Keith Hurt, Coahoma Electric General Manager. “Mike Philpot comes to the Delta with a tremendous amount of experience and expertise in economic development and will be a great asset to the initiative.” Philpot, a Certified Economic Developer, recently joined the Delta Council staff in Stoneville after serving as executive director of West Tennessee Industrial Association. “I was intrigued and then impr whole Delta Strong concept,” Phi decision to make the unplanned c his wife, Robin. “The excitement of the [Delta Council] leadership, ness acumen, really hooked me wh here. They’re so passionate and so was just drawn to it.” One of Philpot’s first priorities “getting communities up to speed to accomplish with Delta Strong, more economic development opp Delta,” he said. Delta Strong represents a hyper tive effort to match prospects (com to relocate or expand) with comm Mississippi Delta region. “We’re l why it would be to their advantag Delta,” Philpot said. One of the region’s selling poin

ressed by the ilpot said of his career move with and the structure , and their busihen I was visiting o committed that I

s in his new job is d on what we want which is bringing ortunities to the

r-focused, proacmpanies seeking munities in the looking to show ge to be in the

nts is the expan-

September 2017

Mike Philpot, pictured at Delta Council’s headquarters in Stoneville, leads the regional economic development activities of the new Delta Strong program.

sion of companies already doing business in or near the Delta. “There’s not a better validation in this business than being able to say, ‘This company expanded,’” Philpot said. One example he cited is the state’s growing automotive industry. The Delta region’s economic amenities include its multiple ports, workforce development efforts, proximity to major markets, and the availability of buildings, land and infrastructure. Delta Council’s economic development department maintains extensive data on buildings and land available for industrial development. Philpot’s job is to pull together all the information a prospect needs to make a decision and to present it accurately—and quickly. It’s not unusual for prospects to be weighing options in other states or foreign countries at the same time. “It’s a globally competitive stage,” Philpot said. It’s so competitive that losses usually outweigh

wins in the economic development business. And progress can be slow, sometimes taking years for a prospect to move from the initial contact with a community to the groundbreaking ceremony. Yet Philpot believes in staying optimistic. Keeping the lines of communication open with prospects, even if they choose another location, can pay off in the future. “This business is about relationships and making connections, whether it’s with a company, a company official or a site-search consultant. We’re just trying to interrupt their day for a nanosecond to make them think about Mississippi. And when they think about Mississippi, I want them thinking about Delta Strong,” Philpot said. Delta Council is an economic development organization representing 18 Delta and part-Delta counties in northwest Mississippi. Learn more at www.DeltaCouncil.org.

Today in Mississippi I 13

Coahoma Electric Power Association

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 4 in observance of

LABOR DAY

12 I Today in Mississippi

September 2017

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

Where our members have the power CEO’s message

We can do great things together Coast Electric is a member-owned, member-governed cooperative. When the co-op was founded in 1937, members of the community knew that we are a locally-owned Ron Barnes President and CEO business – likely because it played a part in founding our co-op. Over time as the novelty of receiving electricity waned, the founders passed on and new people moved into the community, many began to view the electric co-op like any other energy provider. But we are different and the key to that difference is you, the member-owner of our cooperative. Without your support and commitment, we would not exist. Research proves that when people own something they treat it differently, which is why we encourage Coast Electric members to act as an owner rather than a customer. As an owner, you play a critical role in our success. Each year, if our revenue exceeds our expenses (which is always our

goal), a certain percentage is allocated back to you – because you are a member of the co-op. With that ownership come certain rights like the opportunity to seek election to serve on the board of directors. We hope you will join us at our Annual Meeting in November so you can vote and see what your co-op is all about. We welcome your advice and counsel as we continually look for innovative ways to help you use energy efficiently and in a more costeffective manner. We use member feedback when developing programs like our Time of Use rate plan and our Cooperative Solar program. While electric power is the commodity that your co-op sells, the real power is that together, we empower this local community. When people feel empowered they accomplish great things. True, the world is different today than it was in 1937 when Coast Electric was founded but our mission of serving you and our community is constant. Working together with your active, inspired engagement, we can continue to accomplish great things.

Coast Electric’s

business offices will be closed

Monday, Sept. 4 in observance of 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. Have a safe and happy weekend!

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Watt’s up this month

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I Meet your board representatives I Annual Meeting is Nov. 2 – join us!

I Did you know about our environmental efforts? I Household Hazardous Waste Day is Sept. 30 in Kiln I Missisisppi hunting seasons Wear Orange

September 2017

Layering effect

TIP of the

Month

ing effect. Energy efficient options typically feature LED-powered puck lights that can be placed precisely where they are most needed under the cabinets. Another option is the thin-diameter fluorescent tube that use about 25 percent of the electricity of halogen or incandescent bulbs and have a much greater life span. Regardless of the type of light selected, when installing the lights, place them toward the front of the cabinet so they illuminate the whole countertop rather than the wall. Most types of under-counter lights can be plugged into a standard outlet. Overhead lights, whether from a central fixture, track lights or recessed, can offer indirect illumination and complement the task lights. Where possible, utilize ENERGY STAR and LED options.

Today in Mississippi

12a

Coast Electric donates to local community colleges and food pantry

Shining a light on flexibility

Coast Electric representatives Devin Swanier, Merilee Sands, Melissa Russo and April Lollar present a check to Jim Collins (center) of the Hancock County Food Pantry. The donation was made possible with donations from Coast Electric and CoBank.

One of Coast Electric’s operating principles is showing concern for the communities the cooperative serves. In partnership with CoBank, a national cooperative bank that serves utilities in rural America, Coast Electric was able to make donations to local organizations in the amount of $10,000. CoBank’s Sharing Success program allows their members like Coast Electric to apply for grants and receive matching funds from the bank. This year, CoBank agreed to award matching funds grants for three entities in the Coast Electric territory including Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Pearl River Community College and the Hancock County Food Pantry. The community colleges received a total of $4,000 and the food pantry was awarded a $2,000 grant. Each entity is able to spend the funds in any way they see fit to best serve the needs of those they serve. “We are grateful to partner with entities like CoBank who allow us to make a greater impact on our local communities,” said Coast Electric President and CEO Ron Barnes. “It is part of our company mission to serve our communities and improve the quality of life in the areas we serve. These funds are a great example of what we can do to fulfill that mission and have an impact for people in southern Mississippi.”

Cooler temps will be here soon!

No matter what kind of heating system you have in your home, you can save money and increase your comfort by properly maintaining and upgrading your equipment. Contact a licensed professional to inspect your system before the winter chill arrives. Source: U.S. Department of Energy

12b

Today in Mississippi I September 2017

Coast Electric values its Board of Directors Gil Arceneaux

Elected to board in 2003 Trades Superintendent o Grumman; Member of U (Hancock County Positio

Douglas Mooney Position 3

Frank McClinton Position 2

James Baldree

Elected to board in 1998 of Gulf Oaks Hospital; Me Jesus Christ of Latter Day (Hancock County Positio

Teri Eaton Position 2

Pearl River County

Charles Lopez Position 1

Richard Dossett

Elected to board in 1980 Member of Nicholson Ol Church (Pearl River County Posit

Gil Arceneaux Position 2

James Ginn

Elected to board in 2002 vice-president of Hancoc Central Bible Church, Ba (Hancock County Positio

Harrison County

Teri Eaton

Hancock County

Richard Dossett Position 1

Appointed to board in 20 term of retired board me Insurance Agent; Membe Baptist Church. (Harrison County Positio

James Ginn Position 3 James Baldree Position 1

Gordon Redd Position 3

Elected to board in 2002 battalion chief; Member Memorial Baptist Church (Harrison County Positio

Annual Meeting Notice The annual meeting of the members of Coast Electric Power Association will be held on Nov. 2, 2017. The following information is provided in accordance with association bylaws. Committee on Nominations; Credentials and Elections It shall be the duty of the board to appoint no less than 40 days nor more than 90 days before the date of the meeting of the members at which directors are to be elected, a committee on nominations consisting of not less than five nor more than 11 members who shall be selected from different selections so as to insure equitable geographic representation. The committee shall receive and consider any suggestions as to

nominees submitted by members of the association. The committee shall prepare and post at the principle office of the association at least 30 days before the meeting a list of nominations for board members. The secretary must mail with the notice of the meeting or separately a statement of the number of board members to be elected and the names and addresses of the candidates nominated by the Committee of Nominations. Any 25 members acting together may make other nominations by petition and the secretary shall post such nominations at the same place where the list of nominations by the committee is posted provided same is filed with and approved by the Committee on Nominations at least 40 days prior to the

Charles Lopez

Annual Meeting. Any petition for nominations shall be submitted on a form designated and provided by the association. Each member signing such petition shall place thereon the date of signing, address, account number and service location of the member. No nomination by petition will be accepted by the Committee on Nominations which are not filed with such committee at least 24 hours prior to the meeting date and time, if such a petition is timely filed, such person shall be a write-in candidate. A complete copy of the association bylaws is available upon request at all offices of Coast Electric Power Association.

Frank McClinton

Elected to board in 2005 manager of M&M Indust Serenity Baptist Church (Pearl River County Posit

Douglas Mooney

Elected to board in 1986 Sun Coast Business and I Member of Salem Baptis (Pearl River County Posit

Gordon Redd

Elected to board in 2002 president of Redd Pest S Orange Grove Church of (Harrison County Positio

3; Retired Paint of Northrop Union Baptist Church n 2)

8; Education Director ember of Church of y Saints n 1)

0; Cattle Farmer; d Palestine Baptist

tion 1)

2; Retired executive ck Bank; Member of y St. Louis n 3)

015 to fill unexpired ember; State Farm er of Campground

on 2)

2; Retired fire service r of Michael h on 1)

5; Former owner and tries; Member of

tion 2)

6; Retired partner in Industrial Supplies; st Church tion 3)

2; Co-owner and Solutions; Member of Christ on 3)

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

Your coop future Democratic member control is one of the seven cooperative principles that companies like Coast Electric use to guide our operations. As a member of an electric cooperative, you are an owner of Coast Electric and you have voting privileges. That means you can vote on the men and women who will represent you on the board of directors. As you may know, this is a time of transition for Coast Electric. Ron Barnes took over as President and CEO of the cooperative last April and one of his first major projects is working with his staff and board members to create a new strategic plan. The strategic plan is meant to ensure

Coast Electric employees are always working on new ways to serve its members and to carry out the cooperative’s vision of safely providing member-owners with superior service and dependable electricity at the lowest possible price and to improve the economy and quality of life in our community. Members will see the results of the strategic plan in various areas in the months and years to come. We would like for you to get to know the people who represent you on Coast Electric’s board and see what they have to say about Coast Electric’s bright future.

Gil Arceneaux: When Coast Electric employees work to create a strategic plan, they start by researching what our members’ needs are. Whether it is from our member satisfaction surveys or simply taking note of what members say when they call or visit our offices, Coast Electric employees use what they hear from members as the basis for new plans and projects. That is why it is imperative that our members are active and give us feedback. As board members, we are here to listen and we want your feedback. It makes your cooperative stronger.

you to look at each decision with those goals in mind. As a board member, it helps us guide this cooperative. We are able to examine if the things we do are helping us realize the vision of the company. A strategic plan is what lights our path and ensures our decisions are always member-focused.

James Baldree: Our Coast Electric Employees are awesome! They are dedicated, hardworking and forward thinking. They are not content to be one of the best electric cooperatives in the country; they are always seeking new ways to improve. It may be new technology to make the electrical system more reliable or a new program that gives members more options. Whatever the endeavor is, employees here always work to be progressive and provide the best for the people we serve. Richard Dossett: Creating a new strategic plan every few years makes all of us focus on what is important. Are the things we are doing helping us achieve this cooperative’s vision and mission for the people of our community? Are we all singing from the same sheet music? A strategic plan isn’t just paper, it’s a living document that gives employees guidance and focus. It will benefit the people who live and work in Coast Electric’s service area. Teri Eaton: At my business, I work on behalf of my customers every day and as a board member at Coast Electric, it is my job to work on behalf of this cooperative’s member-owners. I like building relationships with the people I serve and think it strengthens the cooperative when I understand the needs and wants of fellow members. During my time on the board here, it has been evident to me that Coast Electric employees are always looking out for the people they serve. It is my sincere hope that more members play active roles in their co-op and let us know how we can build a better future together. James Ginn: Having a strategic direction is important for any successful company. It impacts everything you do, every project you might want to implement. It allows

Charles Lopez: Strategic directions are born out of strategic planning sessions. Every aspect of the entire company is viewed through the lens of what is happening now? What will happen tomorrow? And more importantly, what will tomorrow look like five to 10 years down the road? The necessity of strategic planning can be found in another question, what was going on within the industry just five years ago? Where we are today as a company is a product of the forward thinking and actions born out of past strategic directions. Success is always proactive. Frank McClinton: The cooperative business model relies on its members to function properly. Members vote for other members to represent their needs and cooperative employees work to benefit the people they serve. It is a model that makes sure the people using the product are always the focus of the cooperative’s plans and actions. I encourage members who may not be involved to learn more about their co-op and how it works to benefit the homes and businesses in our communities. Doug Mooney: We welcome comments from our members because they are our owners. Their comments are a valuable help as we work on our strategic three- and five-year plan for the future. We want to be on the offensive rather than on the defensive on our plans. Gordon Redd: There are many descriptions to define the word ‘member’ – relationship, inclusion, partner, supporter. The parts of the body such as the arms, legs, hands and feet require every ‘member’ doing its part to function properly. In the same way, Coast Electric, as the provider of electrical power, depends on each and every ‘member/owner’ to be involved in voting on important matters, to help provide better communities and to strengthen the company to be the best provider of electrical power to the public. Members of Coast Electric are important in every area of the company.

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Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Did you know that at last year’s Household Hazardous Waste Day hosted by Coast Electric at their Kiln Headquarters saw more than 560 cars drop off 35,384 pounds of old electronics, 20 tons of scrap metal, 997 gallons of waste oil and much, much more? This five-hour event does so much to ensure that waste materials are safely disposed of and aren’t a hazard to our environment. We hope to see you on Sept. 30!

Each year, Coast Electric participates in various projects to sustain and improve the environment of south Mississippi. Being good environmental stewards is an important part of acting out Coast Electric’s mission to improve the quality of life in the communities it serves. From cleanups of our waterways and highways to hosting events such as Household Hazardous Waste Day, Coast Electric employees are working to sustain and protect the beauty of our land.

Household Hazardous Waste Day is back in Hancock County

SEPT. 30 Coast Electric, the Hancock County Board of Supervisors, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and Mississippi Power are once again sponsoring a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day. When: Saturday, Sept. 30 from 8 a.m.- 1 p.m. Where: Coast Electric’s Kiln Headquarters Facility at 18020 Highway 603. For more information call the Hancock County Road Maintenance Department at 228-255-3367 Collection stations include:

Scrap Metal and Car Batteries • Refrigerators, grills, lawn mowers, washers, dryers, metal fence material, bicycle parts, stoves, ranges

• Metal construction material, pipes, AC parts, etc. • Car batteries

Waste Oil

Cooking oil, motor oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid

Household Hazardous Waste • Paint, paint thinner, wood finish, varnish, turpentine, tub and tile cleaners, upholstery cleaners, oven cleaners, bleach, detergents, ammonia, drain openers, silver polish, etc. • Gasoline, lighter fluid, butane, propane • Insecticides, pesticides, rodent poisons, snail/slug killers • Fluorescent bulbs and household batteries

Waste Tires (25 tire limit)

Old Electronics • Computers, monitors, TVs, microwaves, computer mice, keyboards, etc.

Safe Transportation

• Leave products in their original containers and make sure the containers are properly sealed. • Transport the containers in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle away from passengers. • Do not transport more than five gallons or 50 pounds at one time. It is dangerous – and illegal – to discard household hazardous materials in the trash or down the drain. We encourage you to bring your products to this event on Sept. 30 in Kiln.

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

2017-18

For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com.

NEW DEER ZONES

White-tailed Deer DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Youth Gun (15 and under) Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 14 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

Youth Gun (15 and under) Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17 Jan. 18 - 31

Archery/Primitive Weapon Feb. 1 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license. Legal Bucks only on private and open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Small Game

SEASON

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 23 - 30

BAG LIMITS:

Squirrel - Fall Season

Sept. 30 - Feb. 28

Antlered Buck Deer: The bag limit on antlered buck deer is one (1) buck per day, not to exceed three (3) per license year. Legal bucks must meet the antler criteria within the appropriate deer management zone. For youth fifteen (15) years of age and younger hunting on private lands and authorized state and federal lands, all three (3) of their three (3) buck bag limit may be any antlered deer regardless of number of points, inside spread or beam length.

Squirrel - Spring Season

May 15 - June 1

SPECIES

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Rabbit

Oct. 14 - Feb. 28

Bobwhite Quail

Nov. 23 - Mar. 3

Frog

Mar. 31 - Sept. 30

25/NIght

Raccoon

July 1 - Sept. 29

1 per Party/Night

Opossum, Raccoon, and Bobcat

Sept. 30 - Oct. 31 (Food and sport) Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 (Food, sport, and pelt)

5/Day; 8/Party No Limit

Trapping

Nov. 1 - Mar. 15

No Limit

*On private lands and authorized state and federal lands only in those areas open for squirrel hunting.

Dove Wear Orange

Fall Turkey

Oct. 14 - Nov. 15 For legal restrictions and a list of areas open for fall turkey hunting, go to www.mdwfp.com.

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Greenwood • Winona • Cleveland • Indianola

treetops

Come play in our

By Debbie Stringer When Russell Durham ended a 20-year career in healthcare to build a recreational park with his wife, Candace, he knew he had some explaining to do. “I had to convince my parents I hadn’t gone crazy and I wasn’t having a mid-life crisis. Going from the CEO of a hospital to an adventure entrepreneur was one of those things that raises eyebrows quick,” Russell said. In July, after some eight weeks of construction, the Durhams opened Old Mountain Outdoor Adventures on a wooded hillside near their home in Montgomery County. Designed and built by Treetop Quest of Atlanta, the park is organized into separate challenge courses and ageappropriate activity areas for children as young as 2. Included are zip lines, rope bridges, tightropes, a climbing wall, tunnel, moving logs, a net trampoline (one of only three in the nation) and much more—all suspended from trees. Kids ages 7 and up can climb, crawl, step and swing through 24 such elements while moving from tree to tree along two courses, one more challenging than the other.

First, kids suit up with gloves and a helmet, plus a harness that hooks to an overhead cable extending the length of two of the more challenging courses. Known as a continuous belay system, the harness ensures the children remain connected to the cable, regardless of their location in the course. And, they love wearing the gear. “They’re like, this is so cool. It makes them feel like a mountain climber for a day,” Russell said. An employee briefs adventurers about procedures, safety rules and gear use before turning them loose in the trees. Employees are stationed along the courses to encourage and assist kids as needed. But even those wary of heights seem to acclimate quickly and finish the course happy, Candace said. “We’ve not had a child come out here and not enjoy it, even if they were hesitant or scared. They found something they enjoyed doing, and they wanted to do it over and over again,” she said.

Kids ages 4 to 6 can enjoy the park’s Kids Quest adventure, scaled just for them. This area includes 10 beginner near-ground challenges, an elevated course with eight challenges and a 1,500-square-foot net trampoline. In Spider Quest, the park’s 9,000-square-foot net course, kids ages 7 to 80 can enjoy harness-free play in suspended nets with 15 obstacles and walkways. “We’re only the second place in the U.S. that currently has a net like that,” Russell said. “And kids absolutely love it. It gives them a different perspective playing up there, and there’s a sensation you’re safe because you’re enclosed in a net.” Parents are encouraged to take part in the obstacle courses with their kids, but those who prefer to stay grounded can follow along on foot. Boardwalks and decks provide perches for watching and photographing their youngsters’ progress overhead. Recent park visitor Mike Rozier said he enjoyed watching his four grandchildren, ages 2 to 9, wear themselves out on the courses. “It makes me want to get up there,” he said.

No tree was harmed in the building of the park. An arborist inspected the trees before construction began, and periodic inspections

Delta Electric members Russell and Ca on a steep, wooded hillside in Montgo and even adults. Park employees in gr

continue. Wooden blocks pr them and platforms clamp o “Nothing is bolted to a tr down and it would be like n Conserving this old-growt native tree and plant species Delta Electric Power Associa Mississippi Tree Farm, a for Forestry Association. Overlooking the park is t A dirt road leads to the large the grounds to play or picni

September 2017

the hill known by the locals as Old Mountain. e grassy field atop the hill. Visitors may use c at no charge; the couple only asks they sign

Today in Mississippi

After gearing up with harness equipment, kids get instruction in its use from Candace, left. The 1,500-square-foot net trampoline, background, a part of the Kids Quest course, is suitable for harness-free play for kids ages 4 and up. Russell, below, watches two young adventurers on one of two Treetop Quest aerial obstacle and zip line courses. The platforms are clamped onto the tree trunks to avoid puncturing them, and wooden blocks keep the cables away from the bark. An arborist examined every tree before construction began in April. The park opened in July. The Durhams have a five-year plan to expand the park in order to offer more adventures, including hiking trails and a tactical laser tag area.

in at the park office. Church and scout groups have used the field for special events. Russell, a former Eagle Scout, wants to work with schools to make the park a destination for field trips—providing not only outdoor recreation for youth but educational experiences in nature as well. “We feel like this generation is so fixated on electronic devices [so] we wanted to draw them back outside,” Russell said. “We wanted to give people something unique and fun to do, so they can be excited about the outdoors again. “Hopefully, they’ll leave with a deep appreciation and understanding of nature, the environment, the outdoors and Mississippi’s abundant natural resources,” he said. Old Mountain Outdoor Adventures welcomes groups by appointment and walk-ins. For full details including operating hours, visit www.omoams.com or call 662-516-9722. The address is 90 Old Mountain Road, Winona.

andace Durham, top left, have created an innovative aerial recreational park omery County. Separate obstacle courses are designed for ages 4 and up— reen T-shirts monitor kids’ progress, above left and above.

rotect the trees from the cables encircling onto the trunks. ree,” Candace said. “We could take it all nothing had ever been here.” th forest of oak, sweetgum, hickory and other is important to the Durhams, members of ation. They have applied for certification as a restry stewardship program of the Mississippi

“We feel like this generation is so fixated on electronic devices [so] we wanted to draw them back outside.” – Russell Durham

Today in Mississippi I September 2017

Dixie Electric is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

Renovations at our offices mean progress Our three office locations are undergoing renovations to improve safety and accessibility Randy Smith for our members General Manager and employees. Although all three offices are being renovated, the degree of renovation varies based on the age of the building or how long since its last update. The Waynesboro office will receive safety improvements in the lobby area.

This is a minor project and should only take a few weeks. The office will remain open to serve our members during the renovation. The Petal office needs more extensive remodeling and will require the member service representatives to temporarily move to another location to serve members. Those details are being worked out now, so we will provide more information for you in the coming months. The Petal lobby area is receiving a significant redesign to improve safety and functionality for our member service

representatives. This office was built and began serving members in 2000. The most extensive project will be at the Laurel office. The Laurel facility on Highway 184 was built in 1969 and 1970, and the lobby was remodeled in 1994 and 1995. Due to the age of the building and the changes to building codes, the Laurel office needs extensive remodeling to the lobby, auditorium, public restrooms and the outside curbs. These renovations will improve safety and security and make the building, restrooms and parking areas more accessible

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 2018 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.

for individuals with disabilities. The Laurel office will remain open. The member service representatives will temporarily relocate to the auditorium on the east side of the building while the lobby undergoes construction. After the lobby is completed, the auditorium and public restrooms will be remodeled. Planning for this major project has been underway for more than a year and will hopefully be finished by spring of 2018. Thank you for patience and understanding as we undergo these renovations.

September 2017 I Today in Mississippi

Dixie Electric Power Association

ANNUAL MEETING of the MEMBERS Dixie Electric’s Annual Meeting of the Membership will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, at Journey Church, 130 Northeast Drive, Laurel.

Prizes to be given away! Overall Prize

Seven District Prizes

Vote Online Prize

(one prize awarded)

(one prize awarded per district)

(one prize awarded)

$500 credit on electric bill

$250 credit on electric bill

To be eligible for prizes, sign your proxy, mail in your absentee ballot, vote online or vote in person at the annual meeting. You need not be present to win. Dixie Electric employees and board members are not eligible.

Submit a Proxy

Vote by Ballot

Look for your proxy inside Dixie Electric Power Association’s annual meeting pamphlet, which will be mailed on Sept. 21, 2017, or at any Dixie Electric location. See instructions in the pamphlet for complete details on completing your proxy. You may vote by absentee ballot, vote online or execute your proxy, but you can only choose one. Mail or give your proxy to a Dixie Electric employee before the deadline. Don’t delay! All proxies must be in Dixie Electric’s office by 5 p.m., Oct. 16, 2017.

Vote by absentee ballot when your annual meeting pamphet arrives in the mail in late September.

How to complete your proxy. If you want the board of directors to vote your proxy, put an “X” here.

If you want someone who is attending to vote your proxy, put an “X” here, and fill out the person’s name, account number and mailing address.

Date proxy.

Write your name, account number and mailing address just as it appears on your bill stub.

Sign proxy.

PROXY The undersigned, one of the members of Dixie Electric Power Association, hereinafter called the Association, does hereby constitute either ( ) The Board of Directors of the Association, OR ( ) Proxy’s Name ________________________ Proxy’s Account Number __________________ Proxy’s Address ________________________ as my proxy to vote for and in the name of the undersigned at the annual meeting of the Association at Journey Church on Northeast Drive, Laurel, Jones County, Mississippi, beginning at 11 a.m. on the 21st day of October 2017, or at any adjournment thereof; and the undersigned does give and grant unto said proxy full power to act for and on behalf of the undersigned in connection with any and all matters of business properly and lawfully to be voted upon by the members of the Association at said meeting and any adjournment or adjournments thereof to the same extent as the undersigned could do if personally present. This proxy must be received at any office location not less than five (5) days prior to the meeting, otherwise to be null and void. Witness the signature of the undersigned member of the Association on this, the ___ day of ________2017. _______________________________________ Print Member’s Name _______________________________________ Member’s Account Number _______________________________________ Member’s Address __________________ _________________ Home Phone Cell Phone _______________________________________ Member’s Email _______________________________________ Signature

Or Vote Online How to vote online. Option 1: Login to your SmartHub account through dixieepa.com and click “Vote Now.”

Option 2: Check your email for a direct link to the vote online site. Your account number and member number, which is your unique login information, is included in the email too. Follow the link, login, and vote absentee ballot or proxy. You can use this unique login to vote online through the SmartHub app.

Option 3: If you would like to vote online and don’t have a SmartHub account or email address on file with Dixie Electric, set up an account online at dixieepa.com or call one of our office locations and provide your email address and password to us. For more information on SmartHub, visit dixieepa.com/smarthub/. Contact Dixie Electric at 601-425-2535 or dixieelectric@dixieepa.com for your voting credentials. Please include your name, account number, service address and phone number in the email to help us serve you better.

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

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

Encouragement to remain strong One of my pet peeves is to have the phone ring when we sit down to eat a meal and the voice on the other end of the line starts CEO Randy Carroll the conversation with “I only need a few minutes of your time.” These conversations usually center around political polling and organizations seeking contributions. Because I know how valuable your time is, I want to thank the EMEPA members that participated in a recent satisfaction survey done on our behalf by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). I must admit, I was skeptical about getting members to participate in a phone and online survey. I was wrong. In only three days’ time, 300 members willingly accepted NRECA’s request to spend ten minutes of their precious time answering questions about how well we provide electric service, the value associated with that service and any desire they have for new services. An additional 178 completed the online survey. The survey results were humbling, to say the least.

The results show an overall satisfaction rate of 88.5 percent for EMEPA with 73 percent of respondents giving EMEPA a top rating of 9 or 10 on a 10-point scale. When reviewed further, EMEPA rated excellent on meeting member expectations, being an ideal electric utility and likelihood of retention when given a choice. Statistically, the margin of error at the 95 percent confidence level is plus or minus 4.5 percentage points. Based on the analysis from the study, the strongest key drivers of member overall satisfaction are rates and efficiency. Members know we are taking actions to keep rates as low as possible while still maintaining a safe and reliable distribution system. We constantly provide efficiency recommendations and home energy audits to help you manage your energy consumption. A close second to rates and efficiency is member service. Member comments recognize that our employees are friendly and courteous, highly-trained professionals that resolve issues and problems quickly. Our employees are community oriented and have the member’s best interest at heart. Over half the responding members stated that their experience with

the association exceeds their expectations. Other areas where members offered positive response include working to keep outages to a minimum, restoring power quickly when there is an outage, keeping blinks to a minimum, being easy to reach, communicating with them and keeping them informed about issues that impact them and the communities where they live. The study did point out a couple of areas for suggested focus. While still positive, younger members gave lower ratings for overall satisfaction and don’t feel as connected as older members. A second suggested area of focus is solar. Fewer than one-fifth indicate they are aware of community solar projects and one-third say they are interested in owning solar panels at their home and/or purchasing community solar power. Again, let me say thank you for your participation in the survey as well as your daily feedback. It matters to us what you think and what you want from your local electric cooperative. We are committed to using your input as we pursue our vision of delivering energy to empower lives.

You can now pay your EMEPA bill at the Piggly Wiggly of Collinsville For fast, convenient service, we encourage you to use the new EMEPA payment kiosk available inside the Piggly Wiggly of Collinsville. You can now check your account balance and make payments that are immediately credited to your account anytime during the store’s operating hours, 7 days a week from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. EMEPA payment kiosks are also available

24/7 at our offices in Quitman, Meridian, DeKalb and Louisville. And as always, you can check your account information and make payments at EMEPA.com or our free smartphone app right at your fingertips anytime day or night.

Guess where we

went last summer ?

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

If you're an 11th grader served by East Mississippi Electric Power Association, make this year memorable by participating in the 2018 Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Miss., and Tour of Washington, D.C.

Washington National Cathedral, Jefferson, FDR, MLK Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery, Iwo Jima, World War II Memorial and the Vietnam Wall.

ZaColby Smith Southeast Lauderdale High School

See your Guidance Counselor or call EMEPA for information at 601-581-8600.

Jamal Kelly Grace Christian School

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Today in Mississippi

September 2017

EMEPA to hold 79th Annual Meeting East Mississippi Electric Power Association will conduct its 79th Annual Meeting of the membership Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, in the Association’s Meridian Auditorium. Official notices were mailed in August to invite you and all EMEPA members to attend our Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting will inform members of actions taken during the past year in addition to conducting the Association’s business and the election of four directors. Members in attendance at this year’s Annual Meeting will have the chance to win one of two $250 electricity credits or the grand prize of a $500 electricity credit. In accordance with the bylaws of East

Mississippi Electric Power Association, 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. Mark your calendar for Saturday, Oct. 7 and make plans to attend our 79th Annual Meeting celebration. If you have any questions about the Annual Meeting or just want to know more, please contact EMEPA’s Marketing and Communication Department at 601.581.8624 or visit our website at www.emepa.com.

1938

2017

Return your EMEPA Annual Meeting proxy card for a chance to win a $500 electricity credit The Annual Meeting notice and proxy were mailed to members the week of August 7, 2017. Attending the Annual Meeting If you plan to attend the annual meeting in person, the meeting is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 7, at East Mississippi Electric Power Association’s auditorium in Meridian beginning at 10 a.m. To vote and be eligible for prizes, you need to register at the door.

Returning your proxy If you do not plan to attend, you may appoint the Board of Directors or any other member of the association as your proxy. To do this you must sign and date the proxy card and return it to EMEPA. The postage to return the proxy is paid. All you need to do is sign, date and mail it. You may also drop off your proxy at your local EMEPA office.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, Oct. 7 and make plans to attend our 79th Annual Meeting. Don’t forget to bring your Co-op Connections Card with you for a chance to win additional prizes.

September 2017 I Today in Mississippi

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Financial Statement For Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2017 Assets Electric plant less accumulated depreciation investments CFC capital term certificates Cash and temporary investments Other investments

128,243,752 1,448,025 3,338,237 3,347,410

Accounts Receivable Customer electric bills Misc. accounts receivable

3,991,267 227,203

Stock of materials and supplies Prepayments and current assets Deferred debits

1,679,531 4,543,660 1,380,215

Total assets

148,199,300

Liabilities and Margins Long Term debt â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cobank Long Term debt â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CFC

2,314,960

Other long term debt Post retirement obligation Notes payable Accounts payable Customer deposits Taxes and interest accrued Customer advances for construction Current liabilities and deferred credits

930,811 7,763,768 4,978,869 6,584,475 1,840,338 115,359 186,932 2,480,373

Equities Memberships Accumulated other comprehensive income Earnings reinvested in system assets

Total Liabilities and Margins This is a copy of the Annual Meeting proxy. Actual proxies were mailed in mid-August and they are also available at each EMEPA office.

41,049,762

339,530 (502,500) 80,116,623

148,199,300

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Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Co-op Connections Business Spotlight Every month, EMEPA spotlights local businesses that participate in the Co-op Connections Program. This month’s featured businesses are Ed Chaney Tire Center, in Meridian and The Cut Above, in Meridian.

Get involved and save big when you use your Co-op Connections Card

Ed Chaney Tire Center

The Cut Above

306 22nd Street, Meridian 601-693-8473

900 B Street, Meridian 601-693-7407

Free nitrogen conversion with purchase of 4 tires.

$10 off your first service.

Don’t forget to bring your Co-op Connections Card with you to EMEPA’s 79th Annual Meeting on Saturday, Oct. 7 for a chance to win fun prizes! 27th Annual Clarke County

Forestry and Wildlife Festival The Clarke County Chamber of Commerce will sponsor the 27th annual Forestry and Wildlife Festival at Archusa Water Park in Quitman on Saturday, Sept. 30 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Events and entertainment include a car and truck show, an ATV show, Kiddie-Land with Nickelodeon style children’s games, arts and crafts, live entertainment, a bass fishing tournament, equipment displays,

Miss Clarke County Pageant and more. Registrations are being accepted for booth spaces at the festival. Space is available for arts and crafts, trades, industrial and equipment exhibits and food sales. Booth registration deadline is Sept. 26. For more information, contact the Clarke County Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 172, Quitman, MS 39355 or by phone at (601) 776-5701.

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

2017-18

For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com.

NEW DEER ZONES

White-tailed Deer DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

SOUTHEAST ZONE METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 14 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Youth Gun (15 and under) Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Jan. 18 - 31 Archery/Primitive Weapon Feb. 1 - 15

Small Game

SEASON

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 23 - 30

BAG LIMITS:

Squirrel - Fall Season

Sept. 30 - Feb. 28

Antlered Buck Deer:

Squirrel - Spring Season

May 15 - June 1

SPECIES

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Rabbit

Oct. 14 - Feb. 28

Bobwhite Quail

Nov. 23 - Mar. 3

Frog

Mar. 31 - Sept. 30

25/NIght

Raccoon

July 1 - Sept. 29

1 per Party/Night

Opossum, Raccoon, and Bobcat

Sept. 30 - Oct. 31 (Food and sport) Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 (Food, sport, and pelt)

5/Day; 8/Party No Limit

Trapping

Nov. 1 - Mar. 15

No Limit

*On private lands and authorized state and federal lands only in those areas open for squirrel hunting.

Dove Wear Orange

Fall Turkey

Oct. 14 - Nov. 15 For legal restrictions and a list of areas open for fall turkey hunting, go to www.mdwfp.com.

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Board of Directors

www.4county.org • 1-800-431-1544

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

Here’s An Idea

YOUR COOPERATIVE By Joe Cade CEO/General Manager

Member engagement saved the co-op 4-County Electric Power Association is a member-owned, member-governed cooperative. When the co-op was founded nearly 80 years ago, members of the community knew that we are a locallyowned business—likely because they or someone they knew played a part in helping found the cooperative. Over time, as the novelty of receiving electricity waned, the founders passed on and new people moved into the community, viewing the electric co-op like any other energy provider. But we are different and the key to that difference is you, the member-owner of our cooperative. Without your support and commitment, we would not exist. Research proves that when people own something they treat it differently, which is why we encourage 4-County members to act as an owner rather than a customer. As an owner, you play a critical role in our success. And we welcome your advice and counsel as we continually look for innovative ways to help you use energy efficiently and in a more cost-effective manner. As a local business, we have a real stake in the community, just as you do. That is why we seek opportunities to engage with local organizations through the 4-County Foundation and other community education and service endeavors. While electric power is the commodity that your co-op sells, the real power is that together, we empower this local community. When people feel empowered they accomplish great things. True, the world is different today than it was nearly 80 years ago when 4-County was founded, but our mission of serving you and our community is constant. Working together with your active, inspired engagement, we can continue to accomplish great things.

Lights out Automatic controls can keep lighting costs in check Whether you can’t train your kids to turn out lights when they leave a room or need a better outdoor lighting scheme, automatic controls might be a cost-effective solution. No matter what type you use, “the most important thing to remember for any lighting control is to use a type of lightbulb that doesn’t need to ‘warm up,’” says Brian Sloboda, a senior program manager specializing in energy efficiency for the Cooperative Research Network, the research and development organization for the nation’s electric co-ops. “All of the lightbulbs for residential use now on the market will work—incandescents, compact fluorescent lamps [CFLs], and LEDs [light-emitting diodes].”

Indoors

Occupancy sensors are helpful indoors, as long as they’re positioned to detect people in any corner of the room. They’re also good as task lighting—above places like a desk or kitchen sink—so you get the extra light you need while working, but you don’t forget and

leave it on all night. They are two types of occupancy sensors: ultrasonic and infrared. Ultrasonic sensors detect sound; infrared sensors detect heat and motion. Timers make an empty home look occupied. If kids are still running in and out, however, timers aren’t as effective as occupancy sensors. Plug timers into a wall outlet or install them in the wall, like a light switch or thermostat. New varieties are digital. Photosensors are generally best outdoors, but new applications have found they’re also useful for LED nightlights. When an overhead light is on, the nightlight shuts off automatically.

Outdoors If you already have or are thinking about installing an outdoor security light, consider combining it with a photosensor to keep it from burning all day. A motion sensor goes one step further, if you don’t want continuous light. Timers are commonly used for aesthetic or holiday lighting, sometimes in conjunction with a photosensor, so they turn on at dusk and turn off at a designated time. Visit EnergySavers.gov to learn more about energy efficiency in your home.

Co-op Connections Card saves Since the Co-op Connections Card was unveiled in September 2011, 4-County members have saved over $573,627 on prescription drugs through July.

Look here each month to see the savings total!

Holiday office schedule: 4-County offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 4, in observance of Labor Day. A dispatcher will be on hand to handle emergencies.

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

12a

Rate changes coming in October 4-County members will see some changes in rates this fall. That includes changes to some internal rate classes and an increase on purchased power from the Tennessee Valley Authority. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) board of directors in August approved a budget that included a rate increase of 1.5 percent. The increase will go into effect Oct. 1 for TVA customers. This increase will be passed through to 4-County members. (Last year 4-County was able to absorb a similar TVA increase; see sidebar, right). The average 4-County residential member will see this increase as about $2.12 per bill. The TVA increase is not unexpected. “TVA has let all of their Local Power Companies (LPCs) know that they plan to ask for about a percentand-a-half increase for the next several years,” said 4-County Chief Executive Officer Joe Cade. Cade says that according to TVA, the increase reflects the continued rise

in costs to produce the power they sell. If that’s the case, 4-County will continue to try to find ways to offset those increases. “We certainly hope that through continued cost-saving efforts and efficiencies that we can put ourselves in position to once again absorb a future increase, like we did in 2016,” Cade said. 4-County will also be making some changes to some rate classes. According to 4-County Chief Financial Officer Brian Clark, making sure the cooperative collects the right amount from each rate class is key. “According to regulations, each of our rate classes— from residential to the large commercial—has to pay their own way. We can’t over collect in one rate class and under collect in another. When that happens, one rate class ends up subsidizing others. We do cost-of-service studies periodically to make sure that each rate class is set up to accurately reflect the cost to serve the members in that class,” Clark said.

Among the changes will be shifts in 4-County’s residential and GSA-1 rates. Those changes will on average be revenue neutral so members in those two classes won’t see a change in rates. Three classes will see an increase. TGSA-1 accounts will see an increase. GSA-2 accounts will see an increase of $1 to demand charges. And street/signal/athletic light accounts will also see an increase. Clark says 4-County is committed to keeping rates as low as possible. “We work every day to be as efficient as we can be, and our overall goal is to make sure that we do everything we can to mitigate the impact that costs outside our control have on rates,” he said. “Costs for the poles, lines, transformers and everything else we use to bring power to our members go up every year. We do our best to get the best prices we can so the impact to our member is as small as possible. We also look for any way we can be more efficient in what we do,” Clark added.

Keeping costs low Last year, thanks to efficiencies and cost-cutting measures, 4-County was one of the few TVA LPCs to absorb a 1.5 percent rate increase. Every day, we work to bring you safe, reliable power at the lowest feasible cost. A kilowatt-hour costs 4-County members (all in average) about 11 cents today. The cost when 4-County began providing power in 1939 was 4 cents. We’re proud of the work we do to keep costs as low as we can.

POTENTIAL SCAM

ALERT

4-County Electric Power Association is urging its members to beware of a potential collections scam. Association officials are warning members to beware of anyone posing as a 4-County employee calling member homes and/or businesses to collect immediate payment on money owed or their power will be disconnected. 4-County does not call members to collect payment. The Association warns members (commercial and residential) never to give personal financial data, such as bank account numbers or Social Security numbers, to anyone who calls or visits seeking that information. “This is not the way we conduct business,” said 4-County System Security Coordinator Jimmie Daniels. “If you have any concerns about phone calls where individuals are claiming to be representatives of 4-County, please contact us.”

4-County officials urge members who suspect an attempted scam to contact the cooperative at 1-800-431-1544.

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Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Payment options expand with more kiosk locations 4-County payment kiosk locations

Choctaw County • Zippin – 1000 W. Main St. in Ackerman • Piggly Wiggly – 24844 Hwy. 15 in Mathiston

Noxubee County • Tem’s Food Market – 179 N. Oliver St. in Brooksville • Tem’s Food Market – 101 W. Pearl St. in Macon • Tenn-Tom One Stop – 14636 Hwy. 388 in Brooksville

Clay County • West Point Shell – 1443 Hwy. 45 N. in West Point • Knox Grocery – 9672 Brand Una Road in Prairie • Sprint Mart – 631 W. Main St. in West Point • McKee’s Kwik Stop – 8200 Hwy. 50 W. in Pheba

Lowndes County • Dutch Village Shell – 1245 Lehmberg Road in Columbus • Sprint Gasoline – 3115 Hwy. 45 N. in Columbus • New Hope Shell – 5780 Hwy. 182 E. in Columbus • Sprint Mart – 1313 Hwy. 69 S. in Columbus • Walmart – 1913 Hwy. 45 in Columbus • Sprint Mart – 111 Lehmberg Road in Columbus

4-County locations • Starkville office – 9776 Hwy. 25 S. • Corporate Center – 5265 S. Frontage Road in Mayhew

Oktibbeha County • University Hills Shell – 1125 Hwy. 82 E. in Starkville • State Shell – 801 Blackjack Road in Starkville • Walmart – 1010 Hwy. 12 in Starkville

4-County offers incentives through new program

4-County Electric Power Association officials are urging its members building a new home to call the cooperative and ask about the New Homes Program. Members or builders constructing a new home could receive new HVAC and water heating equipment incentives. The New Homes Program, offered through 4-County in conjunction with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), could offer members incentives for all-electric homes (and homes with gas appliances in them). Incentives are offered for both single family homes and duplexes. How do 4-County members qualify? To be eligible for incentives, homes must be: • New • Built to prevailing local code • Have qualified equipment installed. The New Homes Program offers incentives up to $900 per home. Those technologies that qualify for incentives are

highly desired for their efficiency, effectiveness and longevity (which makes a home more marketable). Additionally, participating homebuilders can receive the added marketing benefits of participating in a program sponsored by TVA and 4County. Home technologies that may qualify for incentives include: • All-electric home (no gas) - $900 • Electric heat pump and electric water heater (tanked only) - $700 • Electric heat pump - $600 • Dual fuel heat pump and electric water heater (tanked only) - $500 • Dual fuel heat pump - $400 • Mini-split - $300 4-County will inspect 100 percent of homes in this program. Minimum insulation requirements include R38 in attic, R15 in exterior walls and R19 in knee walls.

Contact Ronnie Vernon or Junior Eads at 1-800-431-1544 for more information or to sign up for the program.

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

12c

4-County asking young leaders to step up Three high school juniors in the 4-County Electric Power Association service area can win an allexpense paid trip to Washington, D.C., to attend the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour, June 9-15, 2018. 4-County’s 2018 Youth Leadership contest, set for Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017, is open to high school juniors who attend school in, and whose parents or guardians live in, the 4-County service area. The three winning students will represent 4-County at the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Feb. 21-23. This workshop is designed to help participants sharpen their leadership skills and acquaint

them with state government. They will enjoy presentations by government leaders, businessmen and electric power association professionals. At the Youth Leadership Workshop, one student will be selected to represent Mississippi on the NRECA Youth Leadership Council. The selection is made through a comprehensive process including personal interviews. The winning student serves a one-year term and participates in the annual meetings of both the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and NRECA. In addition, 4-County’s overall winners will travel with other Mississippi students to join hundreds of students from across the nation in Washington, D.C.

“It’s the

e l t t Li ”

s g n i h T

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

Ask 4-County member John Taylor Champion. The community college tennis player recently won the National Arthur Ashe Sportsmanship and Leadership Award. Participating in 4-County’s Youth Leadership Program in high school helped him develop skills needed to get such an award, he says. John Taylor recently stopped by the co-op to thank 4-County for its support. And we’d like to thank John Taylor for being a 4-County member!

Keep reading Today in Mississippi for more “It’s the Little Things” testimonials.

During their stay, June 9-15, students will tour historical memorials and monuments, the nation’s Capitol, the Smithsonian Institution, Arlington Cemetery and other national landmarks. Each public and private school in the 4-County service area may nominate a student to participate in the 4-County contest. Student winners will be selected during an interview process to be held Nov.1 at the cooperative’s corporate center. Information packets will be sent to area schools in September. Teachers or counselors may also request additional information by contacting Brad Barr, 4-County’s Youth Tour coordinator, at 662-245-0711.

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Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Think Safety First !

Co-op gets blue ribbon from Champion

See page 13 for info on upcoming hunting seasons in Mississippi.

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, SEPT. 9 Golden Triangle Walk to End Alzheimer’s; details, (662) 418-3001. Possum Town Quilters; Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St. in Columbus; 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; continues on Saturday, Sept. 30; details, (662) 323-2787. FRIDAY, SEPT. 15 Bulldog Bash; downtown Starkville; details, (662) 323-3322. SATURDAY, SEPT. 16 SEC Football: Mississippi State University versus Louisiana State University; Davis Wade Stadium on the campus of Mississippi State University in Starkville; details, (662) 323-3322.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 19 Circus Saurus; Mississippi Horse Park, 869 E. Poor House Road in Starkville; shows at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; details, (580) 743-7292. FRIDAY, SEPT. 22 CAC Annual Possum Town Tales Storytelling Festival; details, (662) 329-1191. THURSDAY, SEPT. 28 Downtown Artwalk; downtown Columbus; 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; details, (662) 328-2787. SATURDAY, OCT. 7 Artifact Identification Session; Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum, 206 Fellowship St. in Starkville; 9 a.m. to Noon; details, (662) 323-0211.

Wesley Champion isn’t afraid to rock the boat a little during his smooth adventures on the waterways in and around north Mississippi. That statement refers to his willingness to explore and deviate from the normal boating routes. “You can always find something to do and see on the river—a new place to hunt or just an area to explore,” he explained. Wesley, who lives in the Oktoc community of Oktibbeha County, just enjoys being in and around the area’s accessible lakes and rivers. “I enjoy all things associated with the water. Boating and wakeboarding are some of my favorite things to do,” he stressed. “And, in the winter, I enjoy getting out in the water and hunting for some ducks.” He also enjoys his new job at 4-County Electric Power Association. Wesley joined 4-County this year as an Apprentice Lineman 3, working on Brian Glusenkamp’s crew based at the Corporate Center. Prior to 4-County, Wesley worked at Starkville Electric and MDR (a combined total of three years) as an apprentice lineman.

He is a graduate of East Webster High School and also graduated from the East Mississippi Community College Basic Electrical Line Worker program. Wesley is a member of Mantee Baptist Church. Wesley spends most of his free time with family and friends. He also has a dog, Jingle, a four-legged friend of unknown origin. “He showed up on Christmas Eve.” He also helps his parents on their 59-acre cattle farm in Clay County. “It gives me something to do,” Wesley said. “The only thing I don’t like doing is handling square hay bales.” Wesley thinks of 4-County as a “home away from home,” and is thrilled to be at the co-op. “Everybody here is so willing to help,” he said. “We’re all glad to work here.” The new 4-County employee enjoys the ins and outs of electrical service projects. “I really do like the construction part of things. I enjoy building lines,” he said. “And, at the end of the day, you can sit back and see what you’ve accomplished.”

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

2017-18

For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com.

NEW DEER ZONES

White-tailed Deer DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 14 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

Youth Gun (15 and under) Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Jan. 18 - 31 Archery/Primitive Weapon Feb. 1 - 15

Small Game

In all zones: For youth 15 years of age and younger hunting on private lands and authorized state and federal lands, all three (3) of their three (3) buck bag limit may be any antlered deer regardless of number of points, inside spread or beam length.

SEASON

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 23 - 30

BAG LIMITS:

Squirrel - Fall Season

Sept. 30 - Feb. 28

Antlered Buck Deer:

Squirrel - Spring Season

May 15 - June 1

SPECIES

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Rabbit

Oct. 14 - Feb. 28

The bag limit on antlered buck deer is one (1) buck per day, not to exceed three (3) per license year. Legal bucks must meet the antler criteria within the appropriate deer management zone. For youth 15 years of age and younger hunting on private lands and authorized state and federal lands, all three (3) of their three (3) buck bag limit may be any antlered deer regardless of number of points, inside spread or beam length.

Bobwhite Quail

Nov. 23 - Mar. 3

Frog

Mar. 31 - Sept. 30

25/NIght

Raccoon

July 1 - Sept. 29

1 per Party/Night

Opossum, Raccoon, and Bobcat

Sept. 30 - Oct. 31 (Food and sport) Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 (Food, sport, and pelt)

5/Day; 8/Party No Limit

Trapping

Nov. 1 - Mar. 15

No Limit

*On private lands and authorized state and federal lands only in those areas open for squirrel hunting.

Dove Wear Orange

Fall Turkey

Oct. 14 - Nov. 15 For legal restrictions and a list of areas open for fall turkey hunting, go to www.mdwfp.com.

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Open House Magnolia Electric Power hosted an Open House for its members and the public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 25, to come and view the new facility located at 3027 Highway 98 West, Summit. Although a summer thunderstorm with a severe downpour occurred at the time of the event, those who did attend the Open House were treated to a program that began with a ribbon cutting. Following the ribbon cutting, those in attendance went into the auditorium for a welcome and words from General Manager Darrell Smith and Board President Hollis Alford. Then the group was invited to tour the facility, which showcased our newest technology. MEP tour guides took the visitors around to different parts of the building, stopping at certain locations for programs concerning our new technology. The special presentations included the IT department, the staking department and the Dispatch area. Tours also included the billing department, warehouse and grounds.

September 2017

Assisting with the Magnolia Electric Power Open House ribbon cutting are (from left) MEP Accountant Charlene Wilson, Board of Directors Bruce McCaffery, Carl Fuller, Board President Hollis Alford, General Manager Darrell Smith, Board of Directors Dennis Wilson, Jerry Sisco, Odell McKenzie and Member Services Director Lucy Shell.

Today in Mississippi

Prayer for dedication of Magnolia Electric Power new building Powerful God â&#x20AC;&#x201C; It is next to impossible for most of us to imagine a world in which we flip a switch and nothing happens. A few of us remember the days of coal oil lighting and splitting wood or hauling coal to cook and keep us warm. As much as we like to look back on those as the good old days, few of us want to give up our comfort and return to them. Those who strung the first power lines across rural south Mississippi could not possibly imagine the change they were unleashing on this region. From a single bulb dangling in the middle of a room to power outlets along every wall and charging stations wherever we want them, we have come much further than those pioneers of this industry could ever have imagined. We give you thanks for their commitment to enhancing life for their families and for all who have come after them. We give you thanks, too, for those who planned and designed this new facility for Magnolia Electric Power. More than a place to come to pay a bill, this facility serves for as a hub of activity for members whose lives are much better off because of this place. We ask your blessings on those who work here serving the needs of members and customers and others who pass through these doors. We ask your blessing on meetings and other gatherings held here. May all that happens here continue to enhance the life and work of this community. We ask your blessings on those whose foresight exceeds ours, those who are already looking for what comes next and finding ways to bring it about. Power can be a dangerous thing we know. We pray for linemen and others who will be dispatched from this place to restore power and to provide new service as our community experiences growth. Most of all, we give you thanks for the good things that come from power and we pray for those who exercise power over this place â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we pray that they will continue to use their power to serve and to improve this community. Bless our celebration today and all that this facility makes possible. We pray through Christ, the Lord. Amen.

7-25-17 Pastor Bob Phelps JJ White Presbyterian Church

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12b

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Remembering

When

electricity came into their lives As time quickly passes around us, it has been almost 80 years since a group of men gathered in Magnolia, with one goal in mind and that was to bring electricity to the rural areas of southwest Mississippi. It was the determination, hard work and efforts of these men who wanted to see that electricity was brought to the rural masses that got the movement going. Before long, numerous power poles were placed in the ground and wire strung across the local countryside and now the descendants of those men and others who have moved into our area, reap the benefits of electricity because of their hard work. To borrow a story written in 2012 by a fellow electric cooperative worker in another state who related the following story: “I was at a member’s house the other day. He was 88. Before I left, he stopped me and said, ‘I want to tell your CEO that I never mind to pay my electric bill. When I compare how much it costs to operate my allelectric home to the price I pay to fill my car twice, it’s amazing. I always think about what I get for my money. I stay warm in winter and cool in summer. I am entertained by TV and radio, thanks to electricity.’ Younger members have never lived without electricity. They think it’s a right, not a luxury.” In an effort to document the stories of the people who lived before electricity was brought in to their homes, we asked for our members to share their stories. We had a good turnout for our interviews, therefore we wanted to give you a preview of things they shared with renowned Mississippian Walt Grayson who conducted the interviews and documented the information. Later, Grayson will produce a video to put all of their information in a video clip for us to share with the public. Until the video is ready, we would like to share the photographs and bits of their stories in a series over the next several issues for our Today In Mississippi readers. And, we would like to extend a sincere thank you to the ones who came out and shared their information with Magnolia Electric Power. * Part one of a three month series

Evelyn Parker, 95 Parker remembers getting electricity when she was 18 years old. “Life before electricity was dark. It wasn’t that bad, but electricity sure did help,” she said. “You had to go by candlelight, lamps and the fireplace – that was your light by night.” The first thing my Mom got was an electric stove and then an iron and, oh Lord, we ironed everything on the place,” she remembered. “I think one of the last things we got was a refrigerator.” Parker, who recalled living in the country, said, “We packed our fruit in white sand during the winter time to preserve it.” Parker remembers how everyone waited for the electricity with hesitation, but once they saw what it brought, they all wanted it. “We were excited about electricity coming, but we didn’t understand how it was going to come through and not burn down the house. But it was so amazing when they first turned them on,” she said. “I remember the first time the light bulb came on. It was so bright. You could see things you had never seen before. I’m 95 and have forgotten a lot of things, but I remember that light coming on.” It brought so many changes,” she said. “I wouldn’t want to live in a world without it anymore.”

Julia Lee White, 97, & Vivian Reeves Julia Lee White and her sister Vivian Reeves remember the days before electricity came to their homestead. The house Reeves lives in today was wired for electricity in 1939. It is also the house she was born in. Julia, who was born before the house was built, said she was 19 years old when her Dad got electricity in the house, but both ladies remember what it was like before that moment in time. “We used coal-oil lamps. I went all through high school using coal oil lamps. I couldn’t go to bed till I had my schooling done,” White said. “We had the wash pot in the back yard. We washed the clothes, rinsed them, hung them up. Then we would iron them with a flat iron we heated

on the stove,” Reeves said. “This was a far raised crops, and our Daddy worked on t too.” “We didn’t have any brothers so we ha in the field, too,” White said. “We raised chickens. We had an ice bo Daddy would bring ice from town,” said “We would dress the hogs after we killed would can food.” When asked for details on what it was family to acquire electricity, White respon the fall of 1939, when we got the electrici like daylight and dark. We didn’t know a we just made the best of it. Dad got elect as soon as it was available.”

September 2017

Today in Mississippi I 12c

Edna Evans, 92

Mary Alice Price Jefferson, 90

Born in Franklin County, Evans said she grew up with no electricity. She was married and had moved away before her parents got electricity. “I think they got electricity in 1946. I got married in 1941,’ she explained. When she married, she moved to a location that offered electricity. But discussing her childhood she said, “We didn’t know it was bad because we hadn’t had any better.” She continued, “It was bad when you had to lay down on the floor to get your lessons by the firelight. Then you would get up there and get too hot and have to move back and then you couldn’t see. And packing those lamps around the house.” Evans said, “Momma got a refrigerator and a ringer-type washing machine, but kept her wood stove because she liked it.” She shared a memory her younger sister told Evans. “My sister remembers being out for the day and it was dark when she came back and she said she knew it was Christmas because when she came back, the first thing that caught her eye was the Christmas tree in the window had lights on it.” But as a child, Evans said she remembers, “We had to get water from a spring.” Laundry business was one of the worse things I remember. You had to pack water from the spring to do the clothes – it was lots of work. It was so much easier when you got a washing machine. It was just so much different back then,” she said. “Kids today don’t believe that we lived that way,” Evans said. “Electricity changed everything – you had better lighting, electric stove, refrigerator, iron.” When asked how it felt to go from having electricity at her own home and going back to visit her parents who didn’t have electricity, she answered, “It was strange, but I was used to not having it at their house. I was tickled when they got it. It was altogether different.”

Jefferson reminisced about times before she got electricity, “We say it was hard, but the times were good. I cooked on the wood stove, I washed with the tin tubs, and the rub board and an iron pot. We had an ice box for the ice on the back porch and that’s how we lived. We were farming, we would can in jars with the canner. We would dry meat in the smoke house.” We got electric lights in 1951 and bought a gas stove and a gas refrigerator from McComb,” she said. “We were proud Magnolia Electric Power came,” she said. “It was a blessing to the farmers, and all through Walthall County here. That was really a blessing to our church, too.” Jefferson enjoys canning jelly and said, “I have jelly in 20 states of the United States. That’s what keeps me going.” And she added, “I was raised to get up early and I don’t have no hurts.” Besides farming, she said her Daddy was a fireman on the railroad. Sometimes using the old timey ways, works in modern times. Jefferson said, “We use kerosene lamps even today when the power goes out,” she said. “We were 17 days out of lights during Hurricane Katrina.” When asked if Hurricane Katrina reminded her of the old days, she said, “Yes, it did, we thought it was bad memories, but nobody was hurt so that was good.” She also recalled how the neighbors brought a generator to run for a few hours a day to keep her vegetables in her freezer from spoiling. When Jefferson first got electricity in her home, she said she stopped using the old irons and having to heat them in the fireplace. She said she started using electric blankets instead of quilts. “I really love the electricity… you know it is so much better, and it’s so much easier on us,” she concluded.

s, 93

rm, we the railroad,

ad to work

ox … our Reeves. them. We

like for the nded, “In ity, it was any better, tricity here

Julie Lee White

Vivian Reeves

Life changed for the family. “We could then freeze our food. The lights were brighter than the kerosene lamps,” Reeves remembered. “It was a time saver and a back saver.” She also added that the conveniences of electricity was the greatest advantage. White responded, “Things are so much easier to do because of electricity.”

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2017 Lincoln County Wildlife & Outdoor Expo LINCOLN CIVIC CENTER

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

1096 Belt Line Drive NE • Brookhaven • 601-823-9064 Mark your calendars and get ready for the 2017 Lincoln County Wildlife Expo. The 2017 Expo is brought to you by Bank of Brookhaven and Toyota of Brookhaven. The expo will feature vendors from all aspects of the outdoor world. Booths will range from taxidermy work, seed companies and recreational vehicles to game calls, apparel, boats, free kids activities, information and much more for the entire family. The Expo will be held on Friday, Sept. 8, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 9, from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. The event will be held at the Lincoln Civic Center located at 1096 Beltline Drive in Brookhaven. All Children’s activities will be brought to you by Mississippi and Louisiana Sportsman’s Magazine and Farmbelt Equipment and this will include the largest Kids Zone south of I-20. The Kidz Zone will feature a huge number of Jumpers. Back again this year will be the ol’ fashioned pig catching contest sponsored by B92.1 “The Boss”. K106 and The Buyers Guide xtra. The Kidz Zone can provide all day entertainment for every child. Best yet, all Kids Zone activities are FREE, FREE, FREE! Brookhaven Honda and SuperTalk 102.1 Brookhaven and SuperTalk 93.5 McComb are sponsoring Terry Vandeventer’s Living Reptile Museum.

Vandeventer is better known as the “Snake Man”. He has presented his popular program to approximately 1 million school children over the last 30 years. His program is both entertaining and educational. A new event this year and brought to you by Kings Daughters Medical Center, Lincoln County Farm Bureau and Primos Game Calls is the Amazing Splash Dogs Competition. Come out and enjoy the athleticism of these amazing animals as they fly through the air. Back again, will be the heart pounding interactive hand-grabbing tank. Remember to bring a fresh change of clothes and a big dose of courage. Also, we’re recommending participants bring a clean change of underclothes: Because after you crawl in the tank and grab a big ol’ Mississippi catfish, you’re gonna’ need ‘em! The hand grabbing exhibit is brought to you by The Daily Leader of Brookhaven and Reed’s Metals. Fielders Pro Shop of Brookhaven and McComb is sponsoring a special appearance and booth by Mississippi’s own

Preston Pittman. Preston will be signing autographs, taking pictures and selling some of his world-famous game calls. Free AIM Bow Shoot inside MP Building for those that want to shoot their first bow!! In addition, the weekend will have an archery shoot that’s open to the public with a minimum charge. There will be a men’s, women’s and youth division. Top prize in the men and womens division is $600, second place is $300 and third place is $150. The youth division has a $250 first prize, second place is $100 and third place is $50. The Shoot-Out is brought to you by M4 Outdoors which is a locally based Christian organization. For information on the bow shoot and it rules contact Kirk Douglas at 601 757 2501. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks (MDWF&P) will again be bringing the ever-popular laser shooting booth. The MDWF&P will also be along to answer any outdoor questions. Come hold and get a picture with an alligator! Concessions will be available at the

complex and door prizes will be given away throughout the event. Gold Nugget Brookhaven and 51 Pawn and Gun will be giving away a chance on a gun for every ticket purchased at the door. Tickets for the event for adults are $6; children ages 7-12 are $5; and children age 6 and under are free. New for 2017 is the QDMA Banquet Sept. 7, at the Brookhaven Building just right around the corner from the Lincoln County Wildlife Expo that we are co-sponsoring this year. A portion of all tickets sold and all funds raised in the silent auction will benefit the special needs hunt sponsored by the Lincoln County Wildlife Expo. Come for great food, fellowship and listen to Preston Pitman tell you how to kill a turkey with cow manure! Tickets and information can be obtained from Bruce Grey 601-754-5592. Other sponsors: Southern Electric Works, Wand’s Seed Store, Magnolia Electric Power, United CountryMcDaniel-Gray Realty, Trustmark National Bank, State Bank and Trust Company, Backwoods Bayou Family Restaurant, Deep South Sporting Goods and Road and Track Power Sports. Also, information about booth spaces or becoming a sponsoring partner with the expo can be obtained by calling Quinn Jordan at 601-823-9064.

2017-18

For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com.

White-tailed Deer DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

NEW DEER ZONES

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

Magnolia Electric Power

business office will be closed Monday, Sept. 4 in observance of Labor Day. In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 601-684-4011. MEPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answering service will be on duty during the holiday. Magnolia Electric Power wishes you and your family a safe and happy holiday!

Konnor Battle Lawrence County High School

The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi (ECM) Foundation recently awarded a $2,500 engineering scholarship to Magnolia Electric Power cooperative engineer, Jose Luis Dominguez-Maeda. Jose is the son of Jose Dominiguez and Loyda Maeda. Jose is an electrical engineering student at Mississippi State University. He is pictured with MEP Genergal Manager Darrell Smith.

Nick Brumfield West Lincoln High School

Precious Thompson South Pike High School

Abby Griffin Franklin County High School

Guess where we went last summer ! If you are interested in the Youth Leadership program, talk to your counselor TODAY! Homeschooled students contact Lucy Shell at 601-684-4011. Deadline for applications is September 20. If you're an 11th grader served by Magnolia Electric Power, make this year memorable by participating in the 2018 Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Miss., and Tour of Washington, D.C.

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Providing affordable, reliable electricity to our members since 1936.

MONROE COUNTY ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

2017 Scholarship Recipients The Board of Directors of the Monroe County Electric Power Association has awarded a $1,000 scholarship to a 2017 graduating senior at each of the four high schools within the service territory. According to Barry Rowland, MCEPA general manager, the criteria for consideration for the scholarship includes maintaining an exemplary scholastic record, leadership roles and other involvement in school and community service, as well as plans to further their education at a community college or senior college.

Congratulations to these outstanding graduates.

Samuel Cooper

Ethan Joseph Foster

Tucker Bourland

Peyton Blair

Caledonia High School

Hamilton High School

Hatley High School

Smithville High School

Cooper is the son of Joey and Rhonda Cooper and plans to attend Mississippi State University and major in electrical engineering.

Foster is the son of Kenneth and Cherie Foster and plans to attend Itawamba Community College and major in communications.

Bourland is the son of Brent and B.J. Bourland and will begin his studies at Itawamba Community College and then transfer to Mississippi State University as he pursues a degree in electrical engineering.

Peyton is the son of Keith and Angel Blair and plans to attend Itawamba Community College and major in athletic training.

Monroe County Electricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business offices will be closed

Monday, Sept. 4 in observance of Labor Day.

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

2017-18

For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com.

NEW DEER ZONES

White-tailed Deer DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 14 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

Youth Gun (15 and under) Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Jan. 18 - 31 Archery/Primitive Weapon Feb. 1 - 15

Small Game

SEASON

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 23 - 30

BAG LIMITS:

Squirrel - Fall Season

Sept. 30 - Feb. 28

Antlered Buck Deer:

Squirrel - Spring Season

May 15 - June 1

SPECIES

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Rabbit

Oct. 14 - Feb. 28

Bobwhite Quail

Nov. 23 - Mar. 3

Frog

Mar. 31 - Sept. 30

25/NIght

Raccoon

July 1 - Sept. 29

1 per Party/Night

Opossum, Raccoon, and Bobcat

Sept. 30 - Oct. 31 (Food and sport) Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 (Food, sport, and pelt)

5/Day; 8/Party No Limit

Trapping

Nov. 1 - Mar. 15

No Limit

*On private lands and authorized state and federal lands only in those areas open for squirrel hunting.

Dove Wear Orange

Fall Turkey

Oct. 14 - Nov. 15 For legal restrictions and a list of areas open for fall turkey hunting, go to www.mdwfp.com.

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

For more information on Today in Mississippi, contact Janis Greene at 800-325-8925.

2017 Annual Meeting and Board of Director Election The Northcentral Electric Power Association Annual Meeting of the Members will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 25, this year in the Northcentral Electric auditorium. Besides summarizing the work of past year, as well as future projects, a major current business task at the Annual Meeting is the election of three members of the Board of Directors. This year, board members are to be elected from District 1, District 4 and District 8 of our system area. A general description of the area served in District 1 would be the 1984 city limits of the Town of Byhalia. District 4 generally covers the areas north and east of Hwy 78 (I-22) and east of Highway 309, excluding the 1984 city limits of Byhalia and Olive Branch. District 8 represents the at large position of Marshall, Tate and Lafayette counties in our service area. More detailed descriptions can be found in Section 4.02 of the Northcentral Electric bylaws. Current board members representing these districts are: Pat Woods – District 1, Tony Taylor – District 4 and Ricky Jones of District 8. Nominations to the Board of Directors, whether incumbent or a new candidate, will be made by twenty-five (25) or more members from the district. Nominations to the Board of Directors, whether incumbent or new candidate, will be

made by the membership. Any twenty-five (25) or more members from the district from which a director is to be elected shall make a nomination by signing a nomination form with the nominee’s name and district stated on the form. Nomination forms can be picked up from the receptionist’s desk in the Northcentral Electric Administrative Building. Nominations must be completed as required and received in the office no later that 5:00 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 25, 2017. The Elections and Credentials Committee will meet in Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2017, to verify the candidate nominations. A list of the valid nominations will be posted at the Northcentral office. Members can vote either by proxy prior to the Annual Meeting or in person by ballot at the Annual Meeting. Proxies will be mailed Oct. 5 and must be received in the Northcentral office no later than 2:00 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 23, 2017. The Elections and Credentials Committee will review the proxies for validation beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 23, 2017. For more details on the Board of Director elections, the Annual Meeting, or the nomination process, a copy of the Northcentral Mississippi Electric Power Association bylaws can be found under the “My Cooperative” section on Northcentral Electric’s website, www.northcentralepa.com.

We have an app for that!

Northcentral Electric has an app that lets you I I I I I

pay your bill with your smartphone keep up with multiple accounts view your billing history payment history track your use

Local photographer featured at Mississippi State art gallery

The photography of Jessica Hughes of Byhalia was featured in an exhibition of her works in the Art Gallery of the Mississippi State Colvard Student Union. Her photographs were on display during the month of August through September 1. A 2004 Mississippi State education graduate, Hughes is a seventh-grade science teacher at DeSoto Central Middle School.

Congratulations to this very talented photographer and Northcentral member!

Statement of non-discrimination Northcentral Mississippi Electric Power Association is subject to the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended; and the rules of the U.S. Department of Agriculture which provide that no person in the United States on the basis of race, color, national origin, age or handicap shall be excluded from participation in, admission or access to, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any of its organization’s programs or activities. The person responsible for coordinating this organization’s nondiscrimination compliance

efforts is Kevin Doddridge, General Manager/CEO. Any individual, or specific class of individuals, who feels that this organization has subjected them to discrimination may file a written complaint with this organization; or the Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250; or the Administrator, Rural Utilities Service, Washington, D.C. 20250. Complaints must be filed within 180 days after the alleged discriminatory action, or by such later date to which the Secretary of Agriculture or the Administrator of RUS extends the time for filing. Identity of complainants will be kept confidential except to the extent necessary to carry out the purposes of the rules and regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

September 2017 I Today in Mississippi

Essay contest for high school juniors

2017 Winners: Front row, left to right: Kailey Nixon Byhalia High School; Mackenzie Dodds Lewisburg High School; Aggie Doddridge Lewisburg High School; Sarah Flowers Northpoint Christian School; Bailey Jones Lewisburg High School; Back row, left to right: Charlie Brinkley Northpoint Christian School; Matthew Carlile Center Hill High School; Caden Walker Lewisburg High School; Rahmon Rutherford Marshall Academy; Zac Bobbitt Olive Branch High School; Adam Stone Desoto Central Hill High School; Chris Brown Olive Branch High School; Kelly Holt CTC/Olive Branch High School; Amber Nicole Terry Center Hill High School

Northcentral Electric Power Association is sponsoring the 32nd annual essay contest on rural electrification. The theme for the essay is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Electric Cooperatives: Meeting the Needs of the People-Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.â&#x20AC;? The contest is open to all high school junior class members, including home-schooled students. Parents or guardians of participants are not required to be members of Northcentral Electric Power Association. Winning students will receive an all-expense-paid trip to the Youth Leadership Workshop held February 21-23, 2018, in Jackson, Mississippi.

At the workshop, the students will join other essay winners from other electric power associations to learn about member-owned cooperatives and how they operate. They will also learn about state government and meet with elected officials. The three-day seminar will include inspirational speakers and plenty of fun and fellowship. Students will also vie for an opportunity to spend a week in Washington, D.C., June 9-15, 2018, at the Washington Youth Tour. For additional information and contest rules, contact Michael Bellipanni at Northcentral Electric by calling 800-325-8925.

For additional information and contest rules, contact Michael Bellipanni at Northcentral Electric by calling 800-325-8925.

2017 Fall Festivals Hummingbird Migration Celebration September 8-10 Strawberry Plains Audubon Center Holly Springs, Miss. Witness the migration of thousands of hummingbirds to their winter home in Central America. Activities include hummingbird banding, nature education programs, and nature arts and crafts. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 662-252-1155 or go online to: http://strawberryplains.audubon.org. The Strawberry Plains Audubon Center is located on Hwy. 311, 3.2 miles north from the Hwy 7 N and Hwy 311 intersection in Holly Springs.

October 7 Olive Branch City Park, Goodman Rd. Olive Branch will host its 39th annual hand-crafted arts and crafts festival, Octoberfest, on Saturday, Oct. 7. Sponsored by the Olive Branch Beautification Commission, this festival offers residents and visitors alike a plethora of crafts, games, food, and more. Also, winning photographs from the Olive Branch Arts Council Annual Photography Contest will be on display. Free to attend for public; small fee for vendors. Octoberfest will be held at the Olive Branch City Park on Goodman Road between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. For more information, call Lisa Pretti at 662-893-5219.

12 Today in Mississippi

September 2017

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

President’s Report The same cooperative spirit that created Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association 79 years ago has contributed to another B. F. Hudson Jr. successful year for your President of the Board Association. of Directors Our goal remains to provide high quality electric service at the lowest possible cost in keeping with sound business practices. Your Board of Directors is committed to meeting the needs of our member-owners. Throughout these years of service, we have worked hard to gain the trust and respect of our members—for it is that trust and respect we value most. As your Board, we will continue to work toward maintaining the economic strength and stability of your Association WHOLESALE POWER COSTS Purchasing wholesale power accounts for nearly

80 percent of our overall cost of providing electric service to members. PRVEPA is a member-owner of Cooperative Energy, a generation and transmission cooperative. This arrangement ensures us of having our wholesale power delivered on a not-for-profit basis. Cooperative Energy’s strategy to generate electricity is to use a broad mix of fuels—including coal, gas, nuclear, hydro and other renewable sources—which helps keep costs as low as possible. Finding new, cost-effective ways to meet our wholesale power needs is a continuing priority and your PRVEPA Board will be closely watching developments throughout the industry. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Your Association is very active in promoting economic development for our 12-county service area. We work with state and local organizations, as well as Cooperative Energy, to encourage new and existing businesses to expand where possible, so that additional employment and other economic

no activities will be engaged in which will interfere with, or diminish, that purpose. However, we will not close the door on looking at different business activities should opportunities present themselves in the future. ANNUAL MEETING Pearl River Valley is an electric cooperative owned by the consumers it serves. The annual meeting gives members an opportunity to learn about the progress of your Association and to participate in its business plans. We encourage you to be an active, informed member and attend the annual membership meeting. Pearl River Valley has developed a strong membership and a level of service comparable to any utility in the nation. This annual report supports the fact that we continue to operate a financially sound cooperative under the control of its membership. Your Board of Directors remains committed to this tradition. As President of your Association, I am proud to present this report for your consideration.

benefits will come to our area. The most ambitious development project in south Mississippi is a mega-site of more than 2,000 acres just southwest of Hattiesburg, being developed and marketed by the Area Development Partnership. The site is located within PRVEPA’s service territory and we stand ready and able to provide any electric infrastructure required to meet the needs of a large industrial facility interested in moving to our area. Once occupied, this project could provide significant economic benefits to our region in the years to come. CORE BUSINESS Many electric power associations have undertaken various business enterprises other than their primary function of providing electricity to customers. We have studied this matter carefully at different times over the years. Each time your Board of Directors has determined that our primary purpose should continue to be furnishing electric service to our members at the lowest possible cost. Furthermore,

Secretary-Treasurer’s Report The Association’s records and accounts were audited by Topp, McWhorter, Harvey, PLLC, Certified Public Accountants. The report was Danny Wilks complimentary of your General Secretary-Treasurer of the Board of Directors Manager and staff. It also showed the records and accounts in excellent condition and that the Association is in a financially strong condition. The following is from the annual audit dated December 31, 2016: • Total electric plant increased $4,686,027, bringing the total to $164,690,752. • Assets total $233,658,938, which reflects an increase of $8,406,302 for the year. • The member-owners of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association have equity of 39.2% in the system. REGULAR PATRONAGE REFUND Your Board of Directors is dedicated to the principal of returning patronage capital to our member-owners—in fact, we were the first electric power association in Mississippi to start paying regular patronage refunds.

This year we refunded $2,000,000 to our members. In 42 addition, Cooperative Energy, 43 our wholesale power provider 13 which is a cooperative owned by 35 PRVEPA and 10 other electric 587 44 power associations, began returning 98 capital credits in 2015. Those credits, totaling $419,064.94 for 2016, will be returned to applicable PRVEPA members, increasing the total amount returned to $2,419,064.94. 13 43 We have now made patronage refunds to our member-owners for 54 years, totaling more than $44 million. Very few electric cooperatives in the nation can surpass our record of paying patronage refunds to We have also their members. recently established a PATRONAGE REFUNDS TO DECEASED AND FORMER program for former members MEMBERS In 1988, your Board of Directors started a program where to receive their patronage capital balances on a discounted basis. we return the accumulated patronage capital to the estates For 2016, more than $14,500 was of deceased members. We have returned nearly $13 million distributed to former members. through this program, including $672,000 in 2016.

589 98

49 11 29

59 26 15

September 2017 Today in Mississippi

General Manager’s Report I am pleased to present this annual report to our members. Pearl River Valley Electric was founded in 1938 by a handful of people coming together to meet Randy Wallace a common need. Now 79 General Manager years later, that spirit of working together is still very much alive in all we do. Because Pearl River Valley Electric is memberowned, it is vital that each of you be aware of the changes and challenges that we face together. As a local, not-for-profit organization, our Association’s overall priority is to provide electric service that is affordable, safe and reliable. I am proud to be able to say that we have seen many good results over the past year. SYSTEM GROWTH AND IMPROVEMENT For 2016, the number of meters served by the Association increased 1.2% from 48,382 to 48,951, while our annual sales of electricity— 1,032,937,718 kilowatt hours (kWh)—were about 0.4% below 2015. Maintaining reliable service to members requires continual planning and upgrading of our lines and equipment. In 2016, our crews added nearly 80 miles of new overhead and underground lines to our system, which now has more than 5,900 miles of lines and 25 substations throughout our 12-county service area. RIGHT-OF-WAY TRIMMING Right-of-way (ROW) trimming is an essential part of our maintenance program. Our goal is to rotate through our entire system every 6-7 years, which means we trim nearly 1000 miles of ROW annually. We sincerely appreciate all the cooperation we receive from members in allowing us to cut

adequate right-of-way. Your continued help and understanding are vital when crews are clearing lines that serve your home. It could mean the difference in the reliability of your electric service as well as your safety. SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND OUTAGES Pearl River Valley Electric has an excellent outage record that is well below the national average. On average, our members experience very few outages lasting only short amounts of time, which is remarkable when you consider that electric service is a 24/7 commodity. We continue to implement a pole inspection program to change out bad poles that could possibly cause power outages. As always, over the past year we also replaced, upgraded or retired equipment and facilities as needed. SAFETY All of our employees are committed to working safely. They have adopted a full time culture of safety and strive to work accident free each and every day. An effective safety program not only ensures the well-being of employees, but saves your Association money. MEMBER PROGRAMS Pearl River Valley has always been committed to building strong, enduring relationships with our members because you are the reason our organization exists. And because we are operated locally, we are also dedicated to assisting the communities in which we live. Our member services department is constantly looking for new ways to provide valuable information and programs. I would encourage everyone to make use of our website as often as possible, as it has features related to wise energy use and other services designed to make your dealings with us more efficient. We offer a mobile app that offers

similar services. You may also call us about home energy audits, advice on the proper sizing on heating and air-conditioning systems, and educational programs for civic groups and schools. This will be our fifth year of operating Round Up for Education, a community college scholarship program designed to encourage members and their children to continue their education. The vast majority of our members are rounding up their bills each month, which is providing the money to fund the scholarships. Over the past four years, nearly 775 students have received $756,000 in scholarships to help with their education costs, and this year we have more than 260 applicants. Without doubt this program is a unique and collaborative way to improve the quality of life for hundreds of families in the communities we serve. It is an outstanding example of what can be accomplished by cooperative members working together; I don’t think there’s another program like it in the country. YOUTH LEADERSHIP ESSAY CONTEST Each year Pearl River Valley Electric sponsors an essay contest for junior class students in high schools located within our service area. A judging committee reviews the essays and selects the winners. The winners attend a three-day youth leadership workshop in Jackson and during the summer they travel with other Mississippi students to Washington, D.C. for the week-long Youth Tour. This year’s winners were Kori Miles of Columbia High School and Ally Ratliff of Forrest County AHS. Both of these young people have been outstanding representatives for Pearl River Valley Electric. THE SPIRIT OF COOPERATION ENHANCES QUALITY OF LIFE I would again like to say thank you to our members. We appreciate your support, patience and trust. It has been a privilege to serve you this

Annual meeting set for September 23 All members of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association are invited to attend the annual meeting of members on Sat., Sept. 23, 2017. Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Association’s meeting room facility (Lawrence Building) in Columbia at 1428 Highway 13 North. The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. Member participation at the annual meeting is important to elect directors, hear reports covering the operation of the Association and to transact other business that may come before the meeting. Included on the agenda is the election of three directors to three-year terms. Nominated for director posts are: District 2: W.A. “Pete” Kendrick District 5: Ben F. Hudson, Jr. District 7: Byrus E. Hurt At-Large: Leslie Peters PRVEPA will award 12 attendance prizes, including a $1,250 certificate for electricity. You must be present at the meeting to be eligible for the attendance prizes. If you cannot attend the meeting, mail in your annual meeting ballot today. By returning your ballot you will be eligible for the absentee prizes. past year, and we will continue to work hard in coming years to meet and exceed your expectations. I am very proud to be your general manager and to be a part of the cooperative way of doing business. I’m also proud of our employees’ dedication and hard work. By communicating and working together, we can ensure our ability to continue providing the affordable, safe and reliable electric service that enhances the quality of all of our lives.

Contract crews inspecting power poles Utility poles form the backbone of Pearl River Valley Electric’s delivery system, reaching 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, ultimately posing a safety hazard for our linemen and the general public. PRVEPA has developed a systematic pole inspection program. Poles that show signs of decay or aging are specially treated with environmentally safe preservatives to inhibit the decaying

process and prevent further deterioration. Poles that are found unsafe are replaced. OSMOSE crews are in the field To assist in its pole inspection and maintenance program, PRVEPA has contracted with OSMOSE Utilities Services, Incorporated. A nationally recognized company, OSMOSE has been in the wood preserving business since the 1930s and has inspected and retreated poles for PRVEPA for over 30 years. OSMOSE personnel began inspecting the Association’s poles in September and will continue through December 2017. OSMOSE crews will inspect and treat approximately 6,000 poles this year within the following areas and communities:

Columbia: Dan Stepney Housing, Edna, Hub, Lampton, Pine Burr, Russ Ford, Spring Cottage, Trading Post, Baxterville Oil Field, Clear Creek, Bedwell Community, Mays Creek, D&P Trailer Park, Highway 35 South, Jamestown, Cheraw, Hopewell, Highway 48 West, Hurricane Creek, New Hope, Pickwick, Sandy Hook, Ten Mile Creek Road, Turnage Chapel. Purvis: Baker Road, Camp Dantzler, Churchwell Road, Old Highway 11 South, Pistol Ridge Road, Rock Hill to Brooklyn, Rock Hill to Lumberton, Rutledge Road, Yawn Community. Wiggins: Benndale Road, Cross Roads, Fairley Bridge Road, Florida Gas Road,

Highway 29, Janice, Janice to Brooklyn Road, Paret Tower, Border Avenue, Butch Oustalet Ford, Chevron, Old and New Highway 26, Perkinston, Sweet Beulah, Wiggins. 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 field 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.

12 Today in Mississippi

September 2017

“Pioneers In America’s Rural Electrification”

Faith and family top priorities for Laprade By Jennifer Johnson Pontotoc Electric Payroll Clerk Karen Laprade had some tough decisions to make a few years ago. After a successful 20-year career in the furniture manufacturing industry and a position as Vice-President of Operations/Brand Manager, Laprade struggled with the time demands of her job and being a busy wife and mother. “I found myself at a crossroads of sorts. I began to evaluate what was best for my husband and children. My older daughter would be a freshman in high school and my younger in fifth grade that fall, and I knew I needed to be more available to them. Selfishly, I needed more time with them too.” Laprade said she had a great working relationship with the owners of the company, and that made her decision more difficult. “They were like family. Actually they still are.” Laprade said she and husband Greg prayed for guidKaren Laprade ance in making the right decision, and they chose for her to leave the corporate world, take a huge financial leap of faith, and become a stay-at-home mom for a while. That summer, Laprade said she planned a vacation for her family, and they made wonderful memories being together. “We went to Oklahoma and Texas. We played in the pool. I absolutely loved it. It was the first time since my girls were infants that we were able to do that.” After several months at home, Laprade found employment with First Choice Bank in the computer department before taking a position with the City of Pontotoc. She worked in the water and gas department and then transferred to the tax department. “After living in Pontotoc and working out of town for 20 years, I absolutely loved working in Pontotoc. It made it easier to be available and involved with my girls’ school needs and activities. Getting to know and interact daily with the community was also fulfilling. I was able to get involved with local activities and even served on the

Pontotoc Chamber of Commerce Board for two years.” Laprade said she is proud to live in Pontotoc. “I really don’t think we all realize and appreciate what a great town we have here. I have made some wonderful friends everywhere I’ve worked, and I am so thankful for that.” In 2012, Laprade accepted the position of payroll clerk at Pontotoc Electric. She said she enjoys the work and the group of employees at the utility. “The sense of family is what I like. It makes for a peaceful environment that you are happy to come into each day to do your work.” Family is a priority for Laprade, who said she has the unique privilege of being loved by both her adoptive family and birth family members. “I was blessed to be adopted by an amazing couple from Shannon, Mississippi. My dad was a lineman for Pontotoc Electric Payroll Clerk Karen Laprade sewed this T-shirt the Tennessee Valley Authority for years before quilt for her husband Greg. The shirts belonged to Greg’s father becoming a line crew supervisor. When I became Wayne Laprade. part of the PEPA family, I felt humbled and honored by it.” quilt for their own dad. That was one of the most She continued, “I saw my dad get up at all hours heartfelt creations that flowed from my sewing of the day or night to work in all kinds of weather machine.” and disasters to restore power. I missed him when Laprade’s biggest sewing challenge came when he went offsite for days, even weeks to help. I daughter Kristen asked her to make her wedding dress. respected his hard work and selfless commitment to the “I asked if she was sure about it and reminded her I was community. Now I am a small part of that same type not an advanced seamstress. She put her hand on my commitment to my own community.” arm and said ‘Mom, I really want you to make it.’ I Laprade said she is blessed to be married to her soul- didn’t feel qualified to do it, so I literally prayed over mate and best friend Greg. They’ve been married for every step. It might be better to say God and I made 32 years. “We have been a good team to ‘do’ life and that dress!” raise a family.” She said they enjoy completing projects Laprade said her faith is an extremely important part together such as woodworking and have built a rustic of her life. “It’s literally who I am. My family is a table, book shelf, a night stand, and many other pieces. praying family. That’s how I want to be remembered Some projects are requested by their daughters Kelsey by others one day. I feel honored when people ask me and Kristen. “Greg will get a photo text with a caption to help them pray about something. I take that very asking ‘Dad, can you do this?’ He has grown to dislike seriously.” Pinterest!” The Laprades are now empty nesters and just When she’s not helping Greg with a woodworking recently became first-time grandparents. Their lives project, Laprade may be found working on her sewing. are full, and they treasure their family. “Greg and I She’s made a T-shirt quilt for Greg, using shirts worn were blessed to be parents to two wonderful girls who by her late father-in-law Wayne Laprade. “My fatherhave grown into amazing young women. The girls in-law was one of the most amazing men I’ve ever grew our family as they married two exceptional young known. When he died, the girls helped me take those men. Now I am a grandmother! Life just keeps precious shirts and transform them into a beautiful getting better.”

September 2017 Today in Mississippi

Pontotoc to celebrate

Mississippi’s 200th birthday By Jennifer Johnson Pontotoc is getting ready for a party 200 years in the making. The Pontotoc County Historical Society is planning a Bicentennial Celebration on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017, to recognize the 200th birthday of the state of Mississippi. Event Chairwoman Sadie Kenney said, “We want to remember the history of our state and what people went through. We have a rich history. We want everyone to experience it, and we hope to give young people a glimpse into life back then.” Pontotoc County Historical Society President Martha Jo Coleman agreed. “This is right in our own backyard. It’s every day. Our recorded history began with Hernando Desoto and later with the French and the Native Americans. We want to celebrate 200 years of progress.” Kenney and Coleman said their planning for the event started about a year ago, but they aren’t alone in putting the slate of activities together. The Pontotoc County Chamber and Main Street Association, Women’s Club and Juniorettes, Pontotoc Community Theater, Open Gate Garden Club, Town and Country Garden Club, Pontotoc Civitans, Pontotoc Music Study Club, Friends of the Library, Fine Arts Club, and the Artist Guild have all contributed time and efforts to provide A collection of memorabilia from “something for everyone” during the celebration. The day will start with a welcome reception for Pontotoc native Ruby Elzy is on display United States Senator Thad Cochran (who has been at the Town Square Post Office Museum in Pontotoc. Elzy’s operatic soprano invited and hopes his schedule will permit). This voice was featured on Broadway, radio, will take place at the Boatwright House at 9:30 and movies in the 1930s. a.m., followed by a parade down Main Street at 10:00 a.m. The parade will be open to antique tractors and cars, floats, or old wagons. Veterans who would like may ride or march in the parade. During the day, guests at the celebration will enjoy music, dancing by the Choctaw Dancers, and a group of interpretive displays. A historic walking tour of Pontotoc will be available, along with carriage rides in the city. Two homes will be on tour during the day: the home of Johnny Wilder, located on Reynolds Street and the Larry Boatwright home (the old Rayburn Clinic) located on Main Street. Guests are encouraged to wear

Watts Cooking? Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps Jeanna Sorto (Plant Accountant) 1 ½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 lb. sliced bacon ¾ cup firmly packed brown sugar 2 tbsp chili powder

Preheat oven to 350. Cut chicken breasts into one-inch cubes. Cut each bacon slice into thirds. Wrap each chicken cube with bacon and secure with a wooden pick inserted on the diagonal starting where bacon seam overlaps. Stir together brown sugar and chili powder. Dredge wrapped chicken in mixture. Coat a rack and broiler pan with non-stick cooking spray. Place chicken on rack in broiler pan. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes or until bacon is crisp.

Pontotoc County Historical Society President Martha Jo Coleman (left) and Bicentennial Celebration Chairwoman Sadie Kenney stand beside one of the displays in the Town Square Post Office Museum. Coleman and Kenney said visitors will enjoy checking out two floors of exhibits and historical items during the celebration of the 200th birthday of the state of Mississippi.

historical-type clothing to the celebration. The Pontotoc County Library will lead a scavenger hunt that day, and children of all ages will enjoy old-fashioned outdoor games like horseshoes. The Town Square Post Office Museum will be open all day beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Sept. 30, to allow visitors to view the large number of historical displays, old documents, period clothing items, and other glimpses into Pontotoc from the past 200 years. Plans are to have a style show and costume contest, and local businesses are asked to decorate their store fronts and display windows with Mississippi history in mind. An antique car and truck show will be located in front of the museum. Coleman said the historical society members had been looking for a way to celebrate this milestone for the state. “We were brainstorming, and we got to talking about how the nation’s bicentennial had been celebrated back in 1976. We knew we wanted to do something, and we wanted to involve the community.” Kenney added, “Not only should it be a very entertaining, fun-filled day, we hope it will be a very unique learning experience. We definitely want the community to come together and enjoy this special day.” For more information about the Bicentennial Celebration or any of the related events, please contact the Pontotoc County Chamber of Commerce/Main Street Association at 662-489-5042 or the Town Square Post Office Museum at 662-488-0388.

24th Annual Pontotoc Bodock Festival slated for

September 15 and 16 Featuring Trent Harmon

• Pancake breakfast • Bike ride on the Tanglefoot Trail • Car show • Pet show • Music • Arts and crafts • Children’s Corner For more information call Pontotoc County Chamber/Main Street Office: 662-489-5042

13 Today in Mississippi September 2017 Pay Bill

Mike Smith, General Manager & CEO Lorri Freeman, APR, Manager of Public Relations Amanda Parker, Public Relations Specialist

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Singing River Electric is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

CEO’s Message

Energy Use For more information, call 601-947-4211/228-497-1313 x 2251 or visit Contact Us our website at www.singingriver.com

Cyberattack

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Protecting yourself in a

For the past several months, the topic of cybersecurity or cyberattacks has been in the news almost daily. From individuals having personal information compromised and businesses Mike Smith having their data files hacked General Manager and CEO to agencies of the Federal Singing River Electric government having their security breeched, many of us may have already been victims to these type acts. All of us are targets. Singing River Electric’s staff works hard to stay abreast of security measures, changing technology and software that protects member information, SRE’s electrical system and assets, in order to ensure reliable service to our members. Likewise Cooperative Energy, our generation and transmission provider, continues to improve their physical

and cybersecurity systems to help prevent attacks. A couple of basic things we stress to our employees may also be helpful to you: • Be sure to change passwords annually, and include a combination of letters, numbers, capital letters and special characters for added security. • Beware of emails that look suspicious, are unscheduled, or do not come from a business you know. Delete these emails and do not click on any links associated with the email. • If you receive an email that states it is from Singing River Electric and you are concerned, call any of our offices before responding. The conveniences that technology brings to our lives are many, but we have to use technology wisely to protect ourselves, our families, and our belongings. Taking a moment to verify sender addresses, logos, names and questioning emails that look suspicious can help ensure cyber safety.

Have Heat Pump Serviced this Fall

Jeff Gray Member Services Representative gray@singingriver.com

Cooler weather will be approaching soon. If your home has a heat pump installed you may need to make sure it is operating at full efficiency by having your unit serviced. A heat pump uses refrigerant to cool in the summer and heat in the winter. Low levels of refrigerant could cause a heat pump to operate for longer cycle times, increasing the kilowatts used and raising your electric bill. If your heat pump cannot keep up with the thermostat setting, it may also engage the secondary heat source to heat your home. A heat pump’s secondary heat source or heat strips, are intended to work only for short periods of time. Having heat strips running for an extended period of time can double or triple your electric bill since the operating cost of a heat pump is usually one-third of the operating cost of a conventional electric furnace. We recommend servicing heat pumps or HVAC units biannually to ensure your unit is operating at 100 percent efficiency year round. For more information, visit www.singingriver.com/saveenergy-and-money or engage us on social media at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

This could be YOU next summer !

September 2017

Today in Mississippi 13

Iwo Jima Memorial

Represent your school and compete for FREE TRIPS to: I Jackson, MS – 3-Day Leadership Workshop I Washington D.C. – 7-Day Tour of our Nation’s Capital

White House Jefferson Memorial

For more information: · www.singingriver.com/youth-and-education · Check out last year’s hashtag: #msyouthleaders17 Meeting with U.S. Representative Steven Palazzo

Morgan Rich

Kenley Cochran

Austin Baldwin

Noah Moran

East Central High School

Perry Central High School

St. Martin High School

Ocean Springs High School

11th Graders: See your Guidance Counselor TODAY!

One free, easy call gets your utility lines marked AND helps protect you from injury and expense.

12 I Today in Mississippi I September 2017

Fostering the future We say it every year: “It’s hard to believe it’s already here.” Just a few short weeks ago, another new school year got under way. I enjoy seeing the excitement on the faces of my children as they prepare their new backpacks and clothes for their first day back to school. I also savor the one morning of the year that is so much easier than the rest to get them to rise out of bed with a smiling face. Whether it’s about a new lunch box, backpack, pair of shoes or the idea of going up to the next school grade, there’s something about this fresh start that fills the air with optimism and excitement.

Supporting the education and development of our youth is a vital part of our concern for community. As I dropped off my children for their first day, I watched an entire community buzz as if it were a holiday. It reminded me how fortunate our young ones are to live and go to school in a place where everyone knows it takes a village to raise a child. I don’t believe there is any other place in the world where this value thrives as it does in our south Mississippi communities. Rearing children into the productive citizens we want them to be is no easy task. We live in a world where it seems our children’s well-being is threatened everywhere you turn. On this day, though, it seems different. Whether it’s the bus driver motioning the kids across the street, the teacher ushering them down the

MyPower upgrade MyPower will be temporarily unavailable for the month of September as Southern Pine Electric performs an upgrade. We apologize for any inconvenience. If you have questions or concerns, please email us at info@southernpine.coop.

sidewalk, the police officer directing traffic or the church parking lot filling up with high school seniors for a dedication ceremony, everyone is working toward one goal: getting this important day started the right way. It really does take a village. Behind every soldier, police officer, accountant and doctor there were good people who influenced a child Jason Siegfried, above, president and CEO of Southern Pine Electric, visits sixth-graders at along the Hopewell Elementary School in Covington way. I’m sure County, including student Reginald Sullivan, you have that right. special someone, as I do, of that concern. that made a difference in Through classroom your life. It’s a good time demonstrations, politito remember this and espe- cal forum youth tours cially to tip our hats and and scholarship proJason S. Siegfried offer up our thanks to the grams, Southern Pine President/CEO school teachers, coaches, Electric engages with and assistants who play a vital role in shaping our our youth to build tomorrow’s leaders. Bringing the future by developing our sons and daughters. Not only power to Mississippians in our service territory means do they work to inspire our children to learn, but they much more to us than delivering electricity. Part of our also work hard to keep them safe from harm. mission is to improve the quality of life in the commuOne of Southern Pine Electric’s seven cooperative nities we serve. We pledge our support to the teachers principles is concern for community. Supporting the and others in the village who share our desire for our education and development of our youth is a vital part kids’ bright futures.

Southern Pine Member Information

Photos Needed

SPE is updating member information, including phone numbers and email addresses. Update your information and you may win an Apple iPad or Apple Watch.

Submit your old and new photographs of members, homes and businesses within Southern Pine’s service area for a chance to get your name and photos published in our upcoming limited edition book from 1938-2017.

Visit www.southernpine.coop and click on the rotating giveaway banner for instructions and your chance to win!

To request a photo entry form, please email us at info@southernpine.coop.

September 2017 I Today in Mississippi

Is it a blink or an outage? At Southern Pine Electric, we realize that brief power outages, or “blinks,” can be frustrating for our members. It is a problem facing all electric utilities, but Southern Pine takes steps to reduce their occurrence. A power blink is an interruption in electric service lasting only a fraction of a second. “Not long ago, blinks went unnoticed for the most part. Now, however, homes are filled with sensitive electronics—such as digital clocks, computers and satellite receivers—that may require resetting after a single power blink,” said John Barr, Southern Pine’s operations coordinator. “Blinks can be very annoying. However, they’re a necessary evil in the protection of an electric power system. Without the blinks, there would be longer and more frequent outages,” said Jim Jordan, PE, vice president of engineering. According to Jordan, the most common causes of blinks are:

• lightning striking a power line • a tree (or other object) touching a power line and the ground at the same time

• strong wind • equipment failure • animals

The good news is that power blinks mean Southern Pine’s electrical system is working as it should. Protective devices installed on power lines automatically respond to anything obstructing the flow of electricity. In the case of a lightning

strike, equipment installed on the line attempts to divert the resulting electric power surge into the ground. When an obstruction such as a tree comes in contact with a power line, a circuit breaker opens to briefly Jim Jordan interrupt the electricity, caus- John Barr Operations Coordinator Vice President of Engineering ing an electrical blink at your house. The idea is to allow time for the obstruction to clear the line by itself. If, after a set period of time, the obstruction remains on the line, the blink becomes an outage until Southern Pine personnel can remove the obstruction and manually reset the breaker. When a member reports blinking lines, Southern Pine dispatches personnel to inspect the line and connections serving the member’s meter. If the cause is not immediately apparent, every pole leading to the meter will be inspected in order to correct the problem. Regardless of the cause, Southern Pine reacts quickly to any outage affecting its members. “Outages take priority. We drop everything and fix it,” Jordan said.

2017-18

NEW DEER ZONES In all zones:

White-tailed Deer For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com. DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

SOUTHEAST ZONE METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 14 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Jan. 18 - 31 Archery/Primitive Weapon Feb. 1 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license. Legal Bucks only on private and open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

For youth fifteen (15) years of age and younger hunting on private lands and authorized state and federal lands, all three (3) of their three (3) buck bag limit may be any antlered deer regardless of number of points, inside spread or beam length.

BAG LIMITS: Antlered Buck Deer: The bag limit on antlered buck deer is one (1) buck per day, not to exceed three (3) per license year. Legal bucks must meet the antler criteria within the appropriate deer management zone. For youth fifteen (15) years of age and younger hunting on private lands and authorized state and federal lands, all three (3) of their three (3) buck bag limit may be any antlered deer regardless of number of points, inside spread or beam length.

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

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

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

Southwest Electric to retire capital credits totaling

ANNUAL MEETING

$1,237,852 Unlike an investor-owned utility, which operates to make profit for investors, Southwest Electric is a Member-Owned cooperative and does not operate for profit. Revenue generated from Members’ bills is first used to pay for operating expenses and remaining funds are invested in the utility system. The invested funds represent the Member-Owners’ economic participation and are allocated to the Members in the form of capital credits. On September bills, Southwest Electric will provide a bill credit for active Members with a capital credit retirement total of less than $50. On September 15, approximately 8,500 capital credit retirement checks will be mailed to Members with totals of $50 or greater. Southwest Electric has returned over $24 million in patronage capital to its Members since 1960.

CHECK NO.

PAY

002017

8-26-2017 DATE

1,237,852. 00 AMOUNT OF

CHECK

One million, two hu ndred thirty-seven thousand , Eight Hu ndred

TO THE ORDER OF

MEMBERS

OF S o u t h w e s

t E l ect r ic

No. 2017 Lorman, MS

Door prizes were drawn and given to Members who attended the Annual Meeting on August 9. Winners pictured are: Front row Robert and Willye Jean Turner of Jefferson County, Robert Purnell of Adams County, Shirley Lewis of Claiborne County and Matt Hebert of Lincoln County. Back row Gerald Baker of Claiborne County and Paul Arnold of Franklin County.

fifty-two Dollars

Board of Directo

All Members in attendance at the Annual Meeting or who returned their proxies were entered into a drawing to win an LED TV. Pictured is Eddie Orcutt (left) of Jefferson County with Safety & Loss Coordinator Mitchell Smith (right). Orcutt’s name was drawn at the Annual Meeting as the winner of the TV.

Our offices will be closed September 4 in observance of Labor Day. Dispatchers will remain on duty and crews will be on call throughout the holiday weekend. Call 800-287-8564 or use the SmartHub app to report an outage.

September 2017 Today in Mississippi

2017-18

For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com.

NEW DEER ZONES

White-tailed Deer DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

SOUTHEAST ZONE METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 14 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Youth Gun (15 and under) Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17 Jan. 18 - 31

Archery/Primitive Weapon Feb. 1 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license. Legal Bucks only on private and open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Small Game SEASON

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 23 - 30

BAG LIMITS:

Squirrel - Fall Season

Sept. 30 - Feb. 28

Antlered Buck Deer:

Squirrel - Spring Season

May 15 - June 1

SPECIES

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Rabbit

Oct. 14 - Feb. 28

Bobwhite Quail

Nov. 23 - Mar. 3

Frog

Mar. 31 - Sept. 30

25/NIght

Raccoon

July 1 - Sept. 29

1 per Party/Night

Opossum, Raccoon, and Bobcat

Sept. 30 - Oct. 31 (Food and sport) Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 (Food, sport, and pelt)

5/Day; 8/Party No Limit

Trapping

Nov. 1 - Mar. 15

No Limit

*On private lands and authorized state and federal lands only in those areas open for squirrel hunting.

Dove Wear Orange

Fall Turkey

Oct. 14 - Nov. 15 For legal restrictions and a list of areas open for fall turkey hunting, go to www.mdwfp.com.

12 I Today in Mississippi I September 2017

Twin County Electric Power Association

They’re back

Migrating birds are starting to show up in local waters, woods, fields and backyards

By Debbie Stringer Each fall, Wildlife Mississippi biologist Brian Ballinger watches and listens for the arrival of specks, a common name for Greater White-fronted Geese. “I always look forward to the geese getting here, if for nothing else than they’re usually a great harbinger

Inexpensive nesting boxes for wood ducks and bluebirds are available for purchase at the Wildlife Mississippi office in Stoneville.

of cooler weather ahead,” he explained. According to Ballinger’s personal log, flocks of specks begin landing here in October after a long journey from their summer homes in Arctic coastal areas. They and many other migratory waterfowl are looking to feast on leftover grains and grass in agricultural fields. “With the efficiency of farming equipment these days and the fall disking, there’s a lot less here for them than there used to be,” Ballinger said. “But it’s not just strictly corn or soybeans or rice waste grain they’re looking for. There’re also natural plants out there—moist-soil plants, seed-producing annuals. They’re probably the best thing there is for ducks.” In his role as director of both the Mississippi Land and River Trust programs, Ballinger shows private landowners ways to improve their land’s appeal to waterfowl, in part by encouraging native vegetation such as wild millet and barnyardgrass in moist-soil environments. “The seed bank out there is an amazing thing.

There’re some great groceries for ducks that most folks just consider weeds. But things are changing, and people are coming around to realize that they don’t have to plant something; there’s good stuff already there. All they have to do is give it the right conditions to grow and produce.” For the next couple of months, hundreds of species of migrating waterfowl, shorebirds and neotropicals will enter the air space over the south Delta. Some will settle down here for the winter; others will fly as far as the southern tip of South America. “We’re smack dab in the middle of the Mississippi Flyway, which is the largest and most important of the four flyways that are used as migration corridors in the United States,” Ballinger said. The Mississippi Flyway, which generally follows the Mississippi River, is made up of 14 states and three Canadian provinces. About 40 percent of all North American migrating species seem to prefer this flyway, due to its abundant food, water and shelter resources. And, there are no mountains blocking the way. Alert birders may have already spotted some early arrivals. “Right now, we’re coming into a really great period for shorebird migration,” Ballinger said. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, too, are stopping to sip nectar from the tubular flowers of the trumpet creeper as they make their way toward Mexico and Central America.

September 2017

Some raptors are on the move as well. The Northern Harrier, a slender, long-tailed hawk, will be seen gliding low over Delta fields, hunting for small animals. The hawk is easily identified by its distinctive white rump patch. Bird enthusiasts can choose from several excellent public bird-watching locations in the south Delta, including Sky Lake Wildlife Management Area, Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge. “Catfish ponds are a birder’s paradise,” Ballinger said. They are also private property, he added, and birders must get the owner’s permission to enter. Whether filled or drained, catfish ponds are ideal winter habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl, such as the diving Ruddy and Ring-necked ducks. Flooded fields and

woods will attract Mallards, Pintails and other ducks who “dabble,” or feed on underwater plants by tipping forward. Those new to bird watching should consider investing in a reference such as Peterson’s Field Guide to Birds of North America to learn about and identify unfamiliar migrating species. Birding apps are available as well. Merlin Bird ID, from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, is a free app that provides not only information on more than 1,500 species but also recordings of

Today in Mississippi

Wildlife Mississippi offers guidance for landowners in its publication “Wetland Management for Waterfowl.” The 131-page softcover book includes a moist-soil plant identification guide with color photographs, plant control strategies, directions for building a wood duck box, info on waterfowl food plots and much more. For buying information, call Wildlife Mississippi in Stoneville at 662-686-3375.

their songs and calls. Cornell also maintains a comprehensive web resource for birding enthusiasts at www.AllAboutBirds.org. Whether you enjoy watching the local songbirds at a backyard feeder or tracking down unfamiliar species in the wild, now is a great time to enjoy birding in the Mississippi Delta.

“We’re smack dab in the middle of the Mississippi Flyway, which is the largest and most important of the four flyways that are used as migration corridors in the United States.” – Brian Ballinger

LEGAL NOTICE

Twin County Annual Meeting set for Sept. 19 Twin County Electric Power Association will conduct its Annual Meeting Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017, at 2 p.m. at the home office in Hollandale, Miss. Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. During the meeting, action will be taken on the following matters:

Brian Ballinger, wildlife/wetlands biologist at Wildlife Mississippi’s Stoneville office, helps landowners with their wildlife conservation efforts. Wildlife Mississippi, a nonprofit organization with four offices in the state, has protected, restored and enhanced some 420,000 acres of wildlife habitat, Ballinger said.

Waterfowl and shorebirds like this Black-necked Stilt, left, are drawn to shallow water in open fields where they feed on fish and aquatic invertebrates. Photo: Robert Smith, www.photobiologist.com

• The reports of officers and directors • The election of three directors • All other business that may come before the meeting. Members of the nominating committee are Sam Newsom, Dalton Ducrest, Tommy Goss, Billy Ray Harris, Lewis Hatcher, Charles Hill, Paul Holland, John Oglesby and Julie Peyton.

Holiday closing Twin County Electric Power Association offices will close Monday, Sept. 4, in observance of Labor Day.

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Think Safety First !

ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

Layering effect

The effect of a single overhead light source can be too much light in one area and not enough in others. Layering different types of light from different sources is not only a smart plan, but it makes good sense from an efficiency perspective. Task lighting, such as under-counter lighting illuminates a particular work surface without a shadowing effect. Energy efficient options typically feature LED-powered puck lights that can be placed precisely where they are most needed under the cabinets. Another option is the thin-diameter fluorescent tube that use about 25 percent of the electricity of halogen or incandescent bulbs and have a much greater life span. Regardless of the type of light selected, when installing the lights, place them toward the front of the cabinet so they illuminate the whole countertop rather than the wall. Most types of under-counter lights can be plugged into a standard out-

TIP of the

Month

let. Overhead lights, whether from a central fixture, track lights or recessed, can offer indirect illumination and complement the task lights. Where possible, utilize ENERGY STAR and LED options.

Shining a light on flexibility

662-746-4251

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

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2017-18

For a complete listing of hunting seasons, bag limits and other legal restrictions, go to www.mdwfp.com.

NEW DEER ZONES

White-tailed Deer DELTA, NORTHEAST, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST ZONES METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Sept. 30 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Gun (15 and under)

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Jan. 31

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Early Primitive Weapons

Nov. 6 - 17

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 18 - 31

SOUTHEAST ZONE METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 14 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Nov. 4 - Nov. 17

Either-Sex on private and authorized state and federal lands. Youth 15 and under.

Nov. 18 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. Legal bucks only on authorized state and federal lands.

Youth Gun (15 and under) Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 18 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 17 Jan. 18 - 31

Archery/Primitive Weapon Feb. 1 - 15

Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Either-Sex on private land. Legal Bucks only on open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license. Legal Bucks only on private and open public land. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Small Game SEASON

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 23 - 30

BAG LIMITS:

Squirrel - Fall Season

Sept. 30 - Feb. 28

Antlered Buck Deer:

Squirrel - Spring Season

May 15 - June 1

SPECIES

SEASON DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Rabbit

Oct. 14 - Feb. 28

Bobwhite Quail

Nov. 23 - Mar. 3

Frog

Mar. 31 - Sept. 30

25/NIght

Raccoon

July 1 - Sept. 29

1 per Party/Night

Opossum, Raccoon, and Bobcat

Sept. 30 - Oct. 31 (Food and sport) Nov. 1 - Feb. 28 (Food, sport, and pelt)

5/Day; 8/Party No Limit

Trapping

Nov. 1 - Mar. 15

No Limit

*On private lands and authorized state and federal lands only in those areas open for squirrel hunting.

Dove Wear Orange

Fall Turkey

Oct. 14 - Nov. 15 For legal restrictions and a list of areas open for fall turkey hunting, go to www.mdwfp.com.

12b

Today in Mississippi

September 2017

Delta

Strong

“We’re looking to show why it would be to their advantage to be in the Delta.”

partner in the Delta Strong program. "Yazoo Valley Electric is a partner in the Delta Strong initiative. We believe this partnership with other businesses through the Delta Council will provide many growth opportunities for our communities,” said Yazoo Valley Electric General Manager Ron White. Philpot, a Certified Economic Developer, recently joined the Delta Council staff in Stoneville after serving as executive director of West Tennessee Industrial Association. “I was intrigued and then impr whole Delta Strong concept,” Phi decision to make the unplanned c his wife, Robin. “The excitement of the [Delta Council] leadership, ness acumen, really hooked me wh here. They’re so passionate and so was just drawn to it.” One of Philpot’s first prioritie “getting communities up to speed to accomplish with Delta Strong, more economic development opp Delta,” he said. Delta Strong represents a hyper tive effort to match prospects (com to relocate or expand) with comm Mississippi Delta region. “We’re l why it would be to their advantag Delta,” Philpot said. One of the region’s selling poin

ressed by the ilpot said of his career move with and the structure , and their busihen I was visiting o committed that I

es in his new job is d on what we want which is bringing portunities to the

r-focused, proacmpanies seeking munities in the looking to show ge to be in the

nts is the expan-

September 2017 I Today in Mississippi

Mike Philpot, pictured at Delta Council’s headquarters in Stoneville, leads the regional economic development activities of the new Delta Strong program.

Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 4 in observance of

LABOR DAY

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Today in Mississippi September 2017

Annual Meeting Set for November 14 The Annual Meeting of Members of Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association will be held Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. at the office of the Association in Yazoo City. At this meeting, two directors will be elected to serve a three-year term each. Of the two directors to be elected, one must be a Yazoo Valley member and resident of Yazoo, Holmes or Humphreys County. The other director must be a Yazoo Valley member and resident of Warren, Sharkey or Issaquena County. A committee to consider and make nominations for directors of the Association was appointed at an August meeting of the board of directors. Members appointed to serve on this committee are Will Jones, Rosemary Watson, Gregory Moseley, Jamie Peaster, Houston Cohea, James T. Henry and Joseph C. Thomas. The Committee will meet at a time and place set by the board of directors and shall prepare and post a list of nominations for board members at the main office of the Association at least thirty days before the annual meeting. Any 50 members acting together may make other nominations by petition, and the Secretary shall post such nominations at the same place where the list of nominations by the Committee is posted. Nominations made by

petition, to be effective, must be received by the Association at least 10 days before the meeting. At least 30 days before the date of the annual meeting, each member will receive a notice stating the place, day and hour of the meeting. Such notice will include the number of directors to be elected and the names and addresses of the candidates nominated by the committee on nominations. At the annual meeting, a report will be made to the members on the operation of the Association for the past year, and all business coming before the meeting will be transacted.

2255 Gordon Avenue Yazoo City, Mississippi Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017 1:00 p.m. Save time and money by signing up for our paperless E-Billing today. Pay at our main office location 2255 Gordon Ave., Yazoo City Pay at a U.S. payment kiosk • Super Junior 1035 Oakridge Rd, Vicksburg • Kangaroo Crossing 4850 Hwy 17, Pickens Pay at Thurmond’s Hardware 120 Lexington Cir., Lexington Pay by phone Download the Yazoo Valley app Online at www.yazoovalley.com

662-746-4251

ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

September 2017

Today in Mississippi

Youth Leadership Program: Apply now! Are you currently a high school junior and your parent(s) or legal guardian receives electric service from Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association? If so, you are eligible to apply to represent Yazoo Valley Electric in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Youth Leadership Workshop February 21-23, 2018 and the NRECA Washington, D.C., Youth Tour June 9-15, 2018.

GUIDELINES: 1. Applicant must be a high school junior (11th grade) whose parent(s) or legal guardian receives electric service from Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association. 2. The top fifteen applicants will be selected by an independent panel of judges to participate in an interview process for the selection of a winner who will represent Yazoo Valley Electric Power

Association in the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Miss. and the NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. 3. Winners will be notified following the Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 Cooperative University. 4. If selected, student must commit to attend both the Leadership Workshop February 21-23, 2018 in Jackson, Miss. and the NRECA Youth Tour June 9-15, 2018 in Washington, D.C.

Please mail to:

Youth Leadership Program Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association Attention: Dennis McFee P.O. Box 8 Yazoo City, MS 39194

5. Application must be postmarked by Monday, October 2, 2017.

PLEASE COMPLETE THE APPLICATION BELOW AND RETURN TO YAZOO VALLEY ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION: STUDENT’S FULL NAME _______________________________________________ NAME STUDENT GOES BY ______________________________________________ STUDENT’S MAILING ADDRESS ___________________________________________ STUDENT’S 911 ADDRESS ______________________________________________ PARENT(S) OR LEGAL GUARDIAN _________________________________________ NAME YAZOO EPA BILL IS LISTED IN ______________________________________ ACCOUNT NUMBER _________________________________________________ DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER _____________________________________________ ALTERNATE NUMBER ________________________________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS ___________________________________________________

PLEASE LIST ANY SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES/MEMBERSHIPS AND LEADERSHIP POSITIONS:

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ PLEASE LIST ANY AWARDS OR SPECIAL RECOGNITION:

SCHOOL _______________________________________________ 11TH GRADE WHAT ARE TWO CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD LEADER AND WHY?

STUDENT’S SHIRT SIZE _______________________________________________ STUDENT SIGNATURE ________________________________________________ PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN SIGNATURE ______________________________________