Today in Mississippi November 2020 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

FOR MEMBERS OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI

OUR CO-OP

VETERANS

A FAMILY

BIBLE BUSINESS

DESIGNING

MLB PARKS

NOVEMBER 2020

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CENTRAL ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

A tradition of dependable, hometown service since 1937 CARTHAGE: 601-267-5671 | PHILADELPHIA: 601-656-2601 | RANKIN: 601-829-1201 | SEBASTOPOL: 601-625-7422

107 EAST MAIN STREET • CARTHAGE, MS 39051

Four ways to in the kitchen by Abby Berry Ah, the kitchen. It’s undeniably one of the most-loved rooms in our homes. It’s where we gather with family and friends for our favorite meals and memories. But like most of us, you probably aren’t thinking about saving energy when you’re planning that perfect dish. Here are four ways you can save energy in the kitchen with minimal effort. When possible, cook with smaller appliances. Using smaller kitchen appliances, like slow cookers, toaster ovens and convection ovens is more energy efficient than using your large stove or oven. According to the Department of Energy, a toaster or convection oven uses one-third to one-half as much energy as a full-sized oven. Unplug appliances that draw phantom energy load. Halloween may be over, but it’s possible you have energy vampires in your kitchen — these are the appliances that draw energy even when they’re not in use, like coffee makers, microwaves and toaster ovens. The Department of Energy has estimated that one home’s energy vampires left plugged in yearround can add up to $100-$200 in wasted energy costs. Unplug them when they’re not in use, or better yet, use a power strip for convenient control. 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

When it’s time to do the dishes, remember to run full loads. You can also save energy by allowing your dishes to air dry. Photo Source: Scott Van Osdol

Use smaller kitchen appliances, like slow cookers, toaster ovens and convection ovens when possible. These smaller appliances use less energy than a full-size oven.

Help large appliances work less. There are small ways you can help your larger kitchen appliances run more efficiently. For example, keep range-top burners clean from spills and fallen foods so they’ll reflect heat better. When it’s time to put leftovers in the refrigerator, make sure the food is covered and allow it to cool down first. That way, the fridge doesn’t have to work harder to cool warm food. Use your dishwasher efficiently. Only run full loads, and avoid using the “rinse hold” function on your machine for just a few dirty dishes; it uses 3-7 gallons of hot water each use. You can also save energy by letting your dishes air dry. If your dishwasher doesn’t have an automatic air-dry switch, simply turn it off after the final rinse and prop the door open so the dishes will dry faster. Bonus tip: The best way to save energy is to not use it. Try a tasty, no-bake dessert recipe. Your sweet tooth (and energy bill!) will thank you. By slightly adjusting a few of your habits in the kitchen, you’ll be well on your way to energy savings. Contact us to learn about additional ways you can save energy and money at home.

The business oďŹ&#x192;ce will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.

Merry Market Place Date: November 22 through December 18, 2020 Place: KAP Office Time: Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.; Saturday 10:00 a.m.-to 3:00 p.m.

Small Business Saturday Date: November 28, 2020 Place: Local retail stores

Neshoba County

Date: December 7, 2020 Place: Downtown Square Time: 6:30 p.m.

Leake County

Holiday Open House Date: November 8, 2020 Place: Local retail stores Time: 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Christmas Open House

Small Business Saturday

Date: November 15, 2020 Place: Local retail stores Time: 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Date: November 28, 2020 Place: Local retail stores

Small Business Saturday Date: November 28, 2020 Place: Local retail stores

Date: December 7, 2020 Place: Downtown Time: 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Carthage Christmas Parade

Moonlight Madness

Date: December 10, 2020 Place: Downtown Courthouse Square Time: 6:00 p.m.

Date: December 10, 2020 Place: Downtown Time: 6:00-9:00 p.m.

NOVEMBER 11

VETERANS THANK YOU!

Thank you to those who have served our nation to preserve the freedom we hold so dear.

Philadelphia Christmas Parade

Small Business Saturday Date: November 28, 2020 Place: Local retail stores

Grand Lighting of the Park & Chili Cook-off Date: December 5, 2020 Place: Winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Circle Park Time: 2:00-8:00 p.m.

Scott County

Small Business Saturday Date: November 28, 2020 Place: Local retail stores

Forest Christmas Parade Date: December 4, 2020 Place: Downtown Time: 6:00 p.m. * All events are subject to change based on health advisories at the time of the event. Please contact your local chamber of commerce to confirm all events.

Thank you to the employees that assisted Baldwin EMC and Southwest Electric due to: Hurricane Sally Jeff Holder Kirkland Ledbetter Weston Bowman Donovan Irby Eric Griffin Quinton Pullin Nick Mallett Cade Martin

Hurricane Delta

Brandon Rhinewalt Gaines Measles Mason Ghee Vernard Summers Rick Harris Pete Graham Justin McDill

James Tull Brandon Rhinewalt Lance Jones Mason McDill Stone Ballard Mark Sanders

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

Revisions Requested

Kosciusko Christmas Parade

Rankin County

Approved

Date: November 22, 2020 Place: Retail stores Time: 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Date: December 17, 2020 Place: Local retail stores and local businesses Time: 2:00-7:00 p.m.

STEVEN Date_____

Christmas Open House

Sippin Cider

Date: December 2 through December 16, 2020 Place: Local retail stores Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Revisions Requested

Date: November 19, 2020 Place: Downtown Square Time: 5:30 p.m.

Carriage Rides

Approved

Kosciusko Downtown Christmas Lighting

RON Date_____

Attala County

VERSION #______________

2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS

CHAD Date_____

Approved

In case of a power outage or emergency, please visit www.centralepa.com and click on Report an Outage or call 601-267-3043.

Revisions Requested

Happy from Central Electric Thanksgiving Power Association

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

Bylaws outline procedure for Annual Meeting Coahoma Electric Power Association will hold its Annual Meeting of the Membership at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021, at Coahoma Electric’s Training Center in Lyon, MS. The following is an excerpt from the association’s bylaws pertaining to the Annual Meeting of the Membership.

ARTICLE III Meeting of Members • Section 3.01. Annual Meeting. For the purposes of electing Directors, hearing and passing upon reports covering the previous fiscal year, and transacting such other business as may properly come before the meeting, the annual meeting of the Members shall be held on the second Thursday of February of each year, at such place in Coahoma County, Mississippi, and beginning at such hour, as the Board of Directors shall, from year to year, fix; PROVIDED, that, for cause sufficient, the Board of Directors may fix a different date for such annual meeting not more than thirty (30) days prior or subsequent to the day otherwise established for such meeting. Failure to hold the annual meeting at the designated time and place shall not work a forfeiture or dissolution of the Association. • Section 3.02. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Members may be called by a majority of the Board of Directors, or upon written petition submitted to the Board of Directors signed by at least three hundred (300) Members; any such petition(s) shall be submitted on forms provided by the Association, and the same shall be signed, completed and verified in the same manner as are petitions submitted under Section 4.04 of these Bylaws. Special meetings shall be held at such place within Coahoma County, Mississippi, on such date, and at such hour as the Board of Directors shall fix and determine, and the Association’s Secretary shall cause notice of any such meetings to be given as hereinafter provided. • Section 3.03. Notice of Members’ Meetings. Written or printed notice stating the place, day and hour of the meeting and, in the case of a special meeting or of an annual meeting at which business requiring special notice is to be transacted, the purpose or purposes of the meeting shall be delivered to each Member not less than fifteen (15) days nor more than twenty-five (25) days prior to the date of the meeting, either personally, by mail, or electronically, by or at the direction of the Association’s Secretary, or by the directors or members calling the meeting. Written notice of any meeting at which the Association’s certificate of incorporation will be voted on by the Members must be sent to the Members at least thirty (30) days prior to the date of the meeting, and shall identify and describe the purpose of the amendment. If Directors are to be elected at such meeting, the notice of Members’ meeting shall include a statement of the members of the Board of Directors to be elected as provided in Section 4.04. Unless specified in such notice of meeting, no matter may be acted upon at such meeting. If mailed, such notice shall

14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

be deemed to be delivered when deposited in the United States mail, addressed to the Member at his or her address as it appears on the records of the Association, with postage thereon prepaid. The failure of any Member to receive such notice shall not invalidate any action which may be taken by the Members at any such meeting. • Section 3.04. Quorum. Three hundred (300) Members shall constitute a quorum at any regular or special meeting of Members. This number shall be arrived at by adding the number of Members present in person at the meeting to the number of Members represented at that meeting by valid proxies filed as provided by these Bylaws. If less than a quorum is present at any meeting of Members, the officer of the Association who is presiding at the meeting may, at the time stated in the notice and without a motion, declare the meeting adjourned and closed or he may hold the meeting open for not longer than thirty (30) minutes to see if a quorum is present within that time; and the meeting shall automatically be adjourned and closed if a quorum shall not be present at the end of said thirty (30) minute period. The Members present at a meeting at which a quorum is not present shall not have the power to take any kind of action, including, but not by way of limitations, adjourning said meeting to another time or place. • Section 3.05. Voting. Each Member who is not in a status of suspension, as provided for in Section 2.01, shall be entitled to only one vote upon each matter submitted to a vote at any meeting of the Members. A Member may vote at any such meeting either in person or by proxy. At a meeting of the Members where Directors are to be elected, all Members present in person or by proxy may cast one (1) vote for each Director to be elected; each Member may vote his or her own vote plus those proxies executed in such Member’s favor, pursuant to Section 3.06 and 3.07 of these Bylaws. Voting by Members other than Members who are natural persons shall be allowed upon the presentation to the Association, prior to or upon registration at each Member meeting, of satisfactory evidence entitling the person presenting same to vote. At all meetings of the Members, all questions shall be decided by a majority of the Members voting thereon, except as otherwise provided by law or by the Association’s Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws or any amendment(s) thereto. Members may not cumulate their votes. • Section 3.06. Proxies. At all meetings of the Members, a Member may vote by proxy executed in writing and signed by the Member, subject to the provisions hereinafter set forth, provided, however, any Member intending to vote by proxy must file the executed proxy at the Association’s headquarters by the close of

Notice to Members

ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS

Happy Thanksgiving

from Coahoma Electric Power Association The business oﬃce will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.

In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 662-624-8321. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

VERSION #______________ RON Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested STEVEN Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested CHAD Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested ELISSA Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested CHRIS Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested ARTIST ___________ Date_____ Approved Revisions Requested

business on the later of the Monday preceding the annual or special ARTICLE IV meeting or three (3) business days prior to such meeting. A Member may • Section 4.04. Committee on Nominations. personally deliver his or her proxy to the said offices of the Association (a) It shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to appoint, no less or mail the proxy by United States Mail, postage prepaid, addressed to than forty (40) calendar days nor more than ninety (90) calendar days the Secretary, Coahoma Electric Power Association, P. O. Box 188, Lyon, before the date of the meeting of the Members at which Directors are Mississippi, 38645. If the proxy is sent by mail, the date of its receipt in to be elected, a Committee on Nominations consisting of not less than the Association’s office at the above address shall be its filing date. The five (5) nor more than eleven (11) Members who shall be selected with proxy must have entered thereon the name and account number of the consideration being given to provide geographic representation of the member appointed to vote the proxy. No proxy shall be voted at any Association’s service area. No existing Association employees, agents, meeting of the Members unless it shall designate the particular meeting at officers, Directors or known candidates for Director, and close relatives which it is to be voted, and no proxy shall be voted at any meeting other (as hereinafter defined) or members of the same household of existing than the one so designated, or any adjournassociation employees, agents, officers, Direcment of such meeting. No proxy shall be voted tors or known candidates for Director may serve by anyone except a Member. A Member may on such committee. The Committee on Nominaappoint any other individual Member to vote tions shall receive and consider any suggestion his or her proxy, or a Member may appoint the as to nominees submitted by Members. The COAHOMA ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION individual members of the Board of Directors, Committee on Nominations shall meet at a time collectively, to vote said proxy. No Member shall and place set by the Board of Directors. The vote as proxy for more than fifty (50) Members Committee on Nominations shall prepare and at any meeting of the Members. In the event an post at the principal office of the Association at individual Member is appointed to vote as proxy Thursday, Feb 11, 2021 least thirty-five (35) calendar days before the for more than fifty (50) other Members, such meeting a list of nominations for Directors. The at 10 a.m. proxies in excess of fifty (50) shall be assigned Secretary must mail with the notice of the meetCoahoma Electric’s Training Center, Lyon MS to the Board of Directors for voting; and the ing or separately a statement of the number Members of Coahoma EPA’s proxies so assigned and those proxies appointof Directors to be elected and the names and ing the individual members of the Board of Committee on Nominations addresses of the candidates nominated by the Directors shall be voted according to the will of a Committee on Nominations. Reggie Hibbler Harvey B. Rodgers Jr. majority of the Board of Directors. The presence (b) Nominations By Petition. Any fifty (50) Hamp Bass Ann Ruscoe of a Member at a meeting of the Members shall Members acting together may make a nomiRobert A. Boyce Tommy Sides revoke a proxy theretofore executed by that nation by petition and the Secretary shall post William Peal Member, and such Member shall be entitled to such nomination at the same place where the vote at such meeting in the same manner and with the same effect as if list of nominations by the Committee on Nominations is posted. Any the proxy had not been executed. In case of a joint membership, a proxy petition for nomination shall be submitted on a form designated and may be executed by either spouse. The timely presence of either spouse provided by the Association. Each Member signing such petition shall at a meeting of the Members shall revoke a proxy theretofore executed place thereon the date of signing, address and account number of the by either of them and such joint Member (or Members) shall be entitled Member. The Secretary shall mail with the notice of the meeting or septo vote at such meeting in the same manner and with the same effect as arately a statement of the number of board members to be elected and if a proxy had not been executed. A standard proxy form shall be used the names of candidates nominated by the committees and the names of candidates nominated by petition, if any. Nominations made by petition, which identifies the Member by name and Member number, in order to assure authenticity and facilitate the tabulation of votes. If the proxy form if any, received by the close of business at least 90 calendar days before of a Member is lost, stolen, or destroyed, the Association shall furnish such the annual meeting shall be included on the official ballot. No petition may contain more than one nominee. Member with a replacement proxy form upon request, provided that the (c) Notwithstanding anything in this Section, failure to comply with any Member executes a revocation of the lost, stolen or destroyed form, to of the provisions of this Section shall not affect in any manner whatsoevbe witnessed by an employee of the Association. Blank proxy forms will er the validity of any election of Directors. not be distributed in bulk to any Member. Designation of proxies shall be upon forms prescribed by the Board of Directors and furnished by the Association and no other forms shall be recognized or accepted.

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

Where our members have the power

Communicators: April Lollar & Merilee Sands

A message from your CEO How many times in the past several months have you heard someone say they are ready to move on to a new year, leaving all that has happened in 2020 in the rearview mirror? It’s often true that time heals wounds, so I understand the desire to put the bad firmly behind us and move forward. It is my hope that in these last two months of the year, especially in this month of Thanksgiving, we pause to consider the blessings in our lives. That might seem like a more difficult task this year than it usually is, but I hope we can find the joy in simple but important things that make our lives better — staying connected with family far and near, the scent of your favorite dish cooking in the oven on Thanksgiving, the coming joy of the holiday season. In the past year, I have seen — again — how resilient the people

in our community are. I’ve seen how giving and compassionate they are. I am grateful to be part of this community and I am ready to meet the new challenges and opportunities that will come our way in the remaining months of 2020 and in the upcoming year. Whatever comes our way, Coast Electric and our employees will be here to power and connect our community. That’s something I give thanks for every day.

by Ron Barnes President and CEO

Happy Thanksgiving from Coast Electric Power Association The business offices will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.

Dispatchers will be on duty and crews will be on call throughout the holiday weekend. If you have an outage, you can report it on our CE on the Go mobile app, text us at 352667 or call 877-769-2372. Have a safe and happy holiday! 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

Thank you to those who have served our nation to preserve the freedom we hold so dear.

Broadband When Coast Electric officials received have also completed another step in the news that the co-op secured a CARES process of bringing high-speed internet Act grant in late July, construction on the service to those in the footprint of our broadband pilot project pilot project. began immediately. Fiber huts have been Not only are we eager installed in our Derby and to provide high-speed Crossroads substations. internet service to those These huts house the in some of the most unnetwork equipment that derserved areas of our will provide high-speed state, the CARES Act internet service. Placing grant that is funding the the huts in our substaproject requires a subtions allows us to house stantial and immediate Coast Electricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Director of Substaequipment in a secure tion Engineering and System Control impact. area on land already Steven Broussard coordinated the Last month, we owned by Coast Electric. installation of fiber huts in our provided details about Derby and Crossroads substations. Crews are constructing the work our operations personnel and service drops to individual homes and contractor crews are doing to install fiber businesses and will be offering broadband on poles. The work of preparing poles service to the first consumers this month. and stringing fiber has continued and we

Update Let us connect you Members in Pearl River County are encouraged to visit www.coastepa.com to show us your interest in receiving high-speed internet service. Two residential packages are available that offer the fastest speeds around with no data cap. We have great packages available for businesses too! Want to know more? Fill out our online pre-registration form and we will be in touch!

AT COASTEPA.COM NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

Revisions Requested Approved

CHAD Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

STEVEN Date_____

Sonia Mitchell Sean Mitchem Walter Samayoa Tony Wallis David Warman Chris Westbrook

Revisions Requested

Donnis Harvey Darrell Henderson Gus Irias Rex Jenkins Susan Lossett Greg Martin Kenneth Mitchell

Approved

Scott Baucum Rodney Beech Donnie Bond Chris Bonney Buddy Bourn Luke Davis Jesse Hardee

RON Date_____

This Veterans Day, we honor those who have served this great nation in our military. We salute those who have served and appreciate the Coast Electric employees who are not only dedicated to our members, but to our country.

VERSION #______________

VETERANS THANK YOU

NOVEMBER 11

OPERATION ROUND UP APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE We are thankful for our members’ generosity! The generosity of Coast Electric members displays itself in numerous ways but is most evident through the success of our Operation Round Up program. Operation Round Up participants’ electric bills are rounded to the next dollar amount each month, with 65% going into a community trust for community grants, 25% going toward energy assistance and the remaining 10% going into an endowment. The Coast Electric Community Trust has been able to provide hundreds of thousands of dollars to organizations in our local communities that feed and clothe the needy, provide programs for children, shelter animals and so much more. Round Up adapted to the needs of our community in 2020 as businesses closed and many lost their jobs. The allocation of funds was temporarily changed so 100% of all donations went to the Share Your Blessings energy assistance fund. Residents and

— for the first time — small businesses experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 received the immediate financial help they needed. Regular allocations resumed in August to build up the community trust fund and we are happy to announce that applications are now available to charitable organizations that make an impact in our communities. Grants will be awarded twice each year. Applications are available on www.coastepa.com through Nov. 30 and will be available again in May of 2021.

We are now accepting applications for Operation Round Up grants! WHO CAN APPLY

Charitable organizations that have a positive impact in Hancock, Harrison and Pearl River counties.

HOW TO APPLY

Visit www.coastepa.com/my-community-operationroundup

WHEN TO APPLY

Applications are available through Nov. 30.

HAVE QUESTIONS?

Contact our partner, the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, at 228-897-4841 for information or attend one of our grant writing seminars:

GRANT WRITING SEMINARS: NOV. 4 — 9-10 A.M.

NOV. 5 — 6-7 P.M.

Knight Non-Profit Center, Gulfport

Coast Electric Headquarters Annex, Kiln

16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

TOU winter hours began Nov. 1 Members on our Time of Use (TOU) rate — remember that winter hours began Nov. 1. If you haven’t adjusted your programmable thermostats, water heater timers and pool pump timers, make sure to do so ASAP for ultimate savings. Also remember that you should set timers to reflect Daylight Saving time if they do not automatically reset.

Winter period (Nov. 1 — March 31) On-peak: 6 a.m. — 8 a.m. Off-peak: All other times including all day Saturday and Sunday Off-peak: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day

Information you need to know if you are considering TOU: • You will only need to avoid the two peak hours MondayFriday in the winter period. That’s only 10 peak hours a week! • The easiest way to save money on your electric bill is to install programmable thermostats and water heater/pool pump timers and set them to avoid the peak hours. • For more information on the time of use rate plan, visit www.coastepa.com.

Happier holidays with TOU Give yourself the gift of our Time of Use rate this holiday season — it’s the gift that keeps giving all year! During the holidays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day are off-peak prices all day long. Give us a call at 877-769-2372 or visit www.coastepa.com for more information.

WINTER PCA Coast Electric’s winter power cost adjustment began Nov. 1. Here is what you need to know:

• Power costs used to be averaged once each year. However, the price for generating power changes with the seasons. Costs paid to our power supplier are typically higher in the winter and lower in the summer. Even though we may only have a couple of days of freezing temperatures in the winter, the high demand for electricity on those days affects power costs. • To ensure that charges are equal to costs, Coast Electric averages power costs twice each year.

What does that mean for you? • Over a period of 12 months, you won’t see a difference. However, you may notice slightly higher bills in the winter and slightly lower bills in the summer. • Since Mississippi typically has milder winters and long, hot summers, you need to be more aware of your energy use in the winter but will have more opportunities for comfort in the months when you need it the most.

Who does this affect?

Sign up for TOU in November Sign up in November and be entered into a drawing for one of three $250 bill credits! Remember, there is a six-month guarantee so if you decide TOU isn’t right for you, there is no risk.

VISIT https://coastepa.com/my-home/time-of-use-rates/ for information on this program that will help you use less and save more! Call us at 877-769-2372 to sign up.

• This affects all member classes.

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

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

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

When it’s time to do the dishes, remember to run full loads. You can also save energy by allowing your dishes to air dry. Photo Source: Scott Van Osdol

Use smaller kitchen appliances, like slow cookers, toaster ovens and convection ovens when possible. These smaller appliances use less energy than a full-size oven.

Happy Thanksgiving from Delta Electric Power Association The business oï¬&#x192;ce will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 662-453-6352 or our IVR number, 662-743-4425.

NOVEMBER 11

VETERANS

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

THANK YOU Thank you to those who have served our nation to preserve the freedom we hold so dear.

Keep cold air out to save energy. Seal air leaks around pipes and any gaps around chimneys and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

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

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

@DixieEPA

@dixie_electric

Thank you for upholding the seven cooperative principles As you may know, Dixie Electric held its annual meeting in October. Several things made this meeting unique. For the first time, the annual meeting was held virtually, due of course to concerns about COVID-19 and the safety of our members and employees. Secondly, you voted to change Dixie Electric’s Certification of Incorporation to include internet services. The support for this amendment was overwhelming with a 96% “in favor” vote. Our board and employees appreciate the confidence you have in us to offer high speed internet services, and we are working toward construction and installation in our pilot project area — in southeast Jones County and northeast Perry County. Currently, we are looking for additional grant opportunities, similar to what we received for the pilot project. A decision to expand internet services across our territory will be made later this year or early 2021 after we have successfully worked through the first phase of the pilot project and, hopefully, have acquired additional grant funds. Once again, your participation in the annual meeting this year was exceptional. Exactly 5,585 ballots and proxies were returned. Thank you for taking the time to vote in our board election and for the amendment to change the Certification of Incorporation. Your

participation means that $5,585 will be divided among three food pantries, fulfilling the commitment of our board to donate $1 for every vote cast or proxy submitted. The results of the election and the annual meeting prize winners are listed on page 16. Dixie Electric is an electric cooperative, and it is our mission to live out the Seven Cooperative Principles. The annual election upholds the Second Cooperative Principle of Democratic Member Control. Also, this month, we are retiring capital credits, which lives out the third principle — Member Economic Participation. For many years, Dixie Electric has retired capital credits and provided the funds back to the members as a credit on their bill or as a check to former members. Our board approved $1.68 million retirement of capital credits to our local member-owners. At Dixie Electric, our mission is to uphold our principles as an electric cooperative. Thank you for your support.

by Randy Smith General Manager

Happy Thanksgiving

from Dixie Electric Power Association

Our oﬃces will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. Call 888-465-9209 or use the SmartHub app to report a power outage or an emergency. Servicemen will remain on call. 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

CLEARING PROJECTS UNDERWAY • West Waynesboro substation: Waynesboro, Big Creek, Dyess Bridge, Clara and Shubuta

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

• Burr Creek substation:

Moselle, Union

and Ellisville

• Eucutta substation:

Eucutta, Sandersville, Pleasant Grove and Evergreen

are underway

Osmose Utilities Services are performing inspection and maintenance on some of Dixie Electric Power Association’s poles. Inspections began in August and will continue for approximately four months. The general areas to be inspected are the West Ellisville, Sand Hill, Oak Bowery, West Moselle and Sanford areas. This work will generally consist of excavating a hole about 18-inches deep around the poles to inspect them and applying a preservative and/or remedial treatment to the poles as needed. The purpose of the inspection and treatment is to identify poles that do not meet industry strength standards and to extend the useful life of all others. All Osmose contract workers will be identifiable by their yellow and orange Osmose work vests and hard hats. Osmose vehicles should be marked with Osmose Utility decals as well as Dixie Electric Power Association “Contractor” decals.

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

CHAD Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

STEVEN Date_____ Revisions Requested

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

Pole inspections

Approved

Maintaining reliable service

RON Date_____

by Abby Berry Ah, the kitchen. It’s undeniably one of the most-loved rooms in our homes. It’s where we gather with family and friends for our favorite meals and memories. But like most of us, you probably aren’t thinking about saving energy when you’re planning that perfect dish. Here are four ways you can save energy in the kitchen with minimal effort. When possible, cook with smaller appliances. Using smaller kitchen appliances, like slow cookers, toaster ovens and convection ovens is more energy efficient than using your large stove or oven. According to the Department of Energy, a toaster or convection oven uses one-third to one-half as much energy as a full-sized oven. Unplug appliances that draw phantom energy load. Halloween may be over, but it’s possible you have energy vampires in your kitchen — these are the appliances that draw energy even when they’re not in use, like coffee makers, microwaves and toaster ovens. The Department of Energy has estimated that one home’s energy vampires left plugged in year-round can add up to $100$200 in wasted energy costs. Unplug them when they’re not in use, or better yet, use a power strip for convenient control.

VERSION #______________

in the kitchen

Approved

Revisions Requested

Four ways to

Annual Meeting 2020 Dixie Electric’s 2020 annual meeting was held online at dixieepa.com on Saturday, Oct. 24, at 11 a.m. The virtual meeting was a safety measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Opportunities for voting began in late August and mail-in balloting began in September. There were 5,585 members that participated in Dixie Electric’s annual meeting by voting by ballot, submitting a proxy or participating in drive-through voting on the morning of the annual meeting.

Also, members had an opportunity to approve an amendment to the Certification of Incorporation to allow Dixie Electric to provide high speed internet services. The amendment overwhelmingly passed with a 96% majority — 60% was needed for approval. General Manager Randy Smith gave a brief overview of the cooperative, including information about the newly formed internet subsidiary DE Fastlink, LCC. He also announced the 2020 capital credit retirement. Dixie Electric is retiring $1.68 million in capital credits to members. Smith discussed the restoration efforts after four devastating tornadoes struck the service territory in April. He shared the willingness of the line crew personnel to restore power after hurricanes caused destruction in neighboring states. Members who voted or attended the annual meeting were entered into a drawing for either a $250 or a $500 credit on their power bill. The winners are listed below.

Credentials and Elections chairman Mark Waller congratulates the board election winners as Emcee Gene Hortman, Esq. prepares for the next portion of the meeting.

For each vote cast or proxy submitted, Dixie Electric’s board of directors agreed to donate $1 to the Good Samaritan Center of Laurel, Petal Children’s Task Force or the Samaritan Closet and Pantry in Waynesboro. A donation of $5,585 will be divided equally among these three charities. At the annual meeting Allen Sledge was re-elected to serve on the board of directors in District 2, and Dale McKee was re-elected to represent District 7 on the board.

General Manager Randy Smith shared the Ann Polen and Aaron Zumwalt assist a challenges and victories over the past year member who participated in drive-through with the membership. voting.

2020 Annual Meeting OVERALL WINNER ($500 BILL CREDIT) District 1

Thomas Sumrall, Richton

ONLINE WINNER ($250 BILL CREDIT)

District 4

Raina Windham, Laurel 16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

DISTRICT WINNERS ($250 BILL CREDITS EACH) District 1 Christopher Edwards, Ovett District 2 David Hillman, Petal District 3 Samuel Guthrie, Moselle District 4 Melissa Ulmer, Laurel District 5 Ruthie Bell, Heidelberg District 6 Wanda Dickerson, Waynesboro District 7 Jasper Mashburn, Buckatunna

Capital credits and an upcoming bill adjustment What is a capital credit? Dixie Electric is a member-owned electric cooperative and the members receive electric service. Capital credits represent a member’s equity ownership in Dixie Electric, similar to the equity you may have in your home. Capital credits represent the amount of ownership in the system. Electric cooperatives use capital credits to invest in the operations of the cooperative, purchasing bucket trucks, poles and wire, among other items. This reduces the need for loans and related expenses and helps to keep power costs low, which benefits all members.

Why am I getting capital credits? Capital credits represent the margins — revenues minus expenses — from the sale of electric service. Members have capital credits allocated (assigned) to them based on the amount of electricity they use in a particular year. The amount retired to members is decided by the board of directors and depends on the cooperative’s financial condition and strategic plan for growth and operations. For example, costs for repairing damage to the electrical system caused by a major hurricane might reduce or prohibit an annual capital credit retirement. Allocated = Equity amount in the association assigned to a member. Retired = Capital credits paid out to a member.

How much are my capital credits? When will I get my capital credits? The Board of Directors for Dixie Electric approved a capital credit retirement of approximately $1.68 million to the members, which represents 100%

of the unretired or remaining operating margins for 1994 and 12% for 2019. Capital credits will appear as a line item on members’ bills and will be credited to their power bill in November or early December. Former members, with inactive accounts, will receive a check for their capital credit retirement. In addition to the capital credit retirement approved by the board, Dixie Electric’s wholesale power provider Cooperative Energy is providing Dixie Electric with an approximate $1.8 million bill credit, which will be passed through to the members as a power cost adjustment. This adjustment reflects a reduction on member’s bills each month from September through December 2020. Cooperative Energy has experienced positive margins in 2020 and is able to pass this savings along to help members recover financially from COVID-19 and the job losses caused by it. The power cost adjustment will be credited to members’ accounts before the bills are prepared, so it will not show as a line item on the bill statement.

Dixie Electric is returning capital credits again this year. For those individuals who have active accounts, the amount of their capital credits will be applied to their bill. Individuals with inactive accounts will receive a printed check. If you have questions about your capital credits, please call Dixie Electric at

601-425-2535 or email dixieelectric@dixieepa.com. Please provide your name, address, phone number, social security number and account number if possible.

Capital Credit Retirements – Past 5 Years Year 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Capital Credits Retired $3.4 million $1.9 million $3.0 million $4.4 million $1.6 million

Total for the lifetime of Dixie Electric (as of December 2019)

$33,842,751

Dixie Electric personnel respond to major hurricanes The 2020 hurricane season has been very active. Crews from Dixie Electric traveled to Louisiana after Hurricane Laura and Alabama after Hurricane Sally. On Oct. 11, 2020, 16 of Dixie Electric’s line workers headed to Southwest Mississippi Electric Power Association to restore power after Hurricane Delta struck their service area. Southwest Electric, located in Lorman, Miss., reported more than 22,500 members without power at the height of the outages, which is 88% of the meters they serve. The damage was described as extensive with large trees on power lines and broken poles. Southwest Electric requested assistance, and Dixie Electric responded by sending linemen, bucket trucks, a track machine and other support vehicles. Dixie Electric and Southwest Electric are both electric cooperatives and are members of a network of cooperatives from across the country who aid one another when disasters, like Hurricane Delta, strike. “Unfortunately, our linemen have been called upon several times recently to help with power restoration after hurricanes,”

Co-op Connections Business Spotlight

The Catfish Wagon

In Petal

The Catfish Wagon Restaurant has the best steak and seafood around. Enjoy the best fried catfish or shrimp in town plus other favorites, like crab claws and crawfish eggrolls. The Catfish Wagon is located on Highway 42 in Petal and offers a 10% discount to Co-op Connections card holders.

said General Manager Randy Smith. “We have answered those calls because we needed assistance last spring after destructive tornadoes struck our service area.”

Front row: Brian Barkley, Landon Martin, Ryan Boutwell, Jason Holder, Tanner Walker; Second row: Guy Shelton, Ed Ritchey, Dan Wooten, Jacob Welch, Jack Payne, Le’Kilo White, Kenny Batte; Back row: Joe Donald, Ben Blailock, Lucas Laird and Ford Turner

Courtesy of The Catfish Wagon

INGREDIENTS 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup mayo (or Miracle Whip) 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 4 ounces diced pimentos, drained 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard 1. With an electric mixer, mix the cheddar cheese and cream cheese together. Mix for 2-3 minutes. 2. Add the mayo and mix. 3. Add in the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder and dry mustard. 4. Mix in the pimentos. 5. Refrigerate at least 10-15 minutes before serving.

18 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

Introducing DE Fastlink, LLC DE Fastlink, LLC is the official name of the high-speed internet company, which is a solely owned subsidiary of Dixie Electric Power Association. DE Fastlink was officially chartered as a company with the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office in late August. The newly designed logo for DE Fastlink can already be seen in the pilot project area in south Jones and north Perry counties. Although DE Fastlink is owned by Dixie Electric, it will operate as a separate business with its own set of accounting books, keeping the income and expenses from the two companies separate. In addition to the newly formed internet company receiving a name and logo, the first fiber hut was put in place on Tuesday, Oct. 13, on Highway 42 near Runnelstown at Dixie Electric’s West Richton substation. The fiber hut will house the connection between DE Fastlink and C Spire, as well as the necessary network equipment to provide high-speed internet to the pilot project area. The first fiber optic cable was installed in mid-October. Cable installation for the pilot project area will continue for the next several months. For more information about DE Fastlink, visit defastlink.net. Members in the pilot project area can preregister for service on the website.

The first fiber hut was lowered in place on Highway 42 at the West Richton substation.

Wildgame Terra Max 16 MP camera (value of $65)

Polk Audio Signa sound bar and subwoofer (value of $193)

Instant Pot Lux 8 Quart (value of $75)

Lowe’s gift card (value of $200)

Academy gift card (value of $100)

Ring Alarm home security system 5-piece kit (value of $214)

Bed Bath & Beyond gift card (value of $125)

iRobot Braava Jet 240 Robot mop, pads and solution (value of $223)

Moultrie Elite II Deer Feeder, plus two bags of corn (value of $142)

50-inch LG UHD TV (value of $343)

Outdoor heater with propane bottle (value of $155)

Visa gift card (value of $400)

TICKETS — $25 EACH

Buy four tickets for $100 and receive a fifth BONUS TICKET!

First drawing will be Tuesday, Dec. 1, and will continue each weekday through Wednesday, Dec. 16. Only 500 tickets will be sold. Winning tickets will stay in the drawing, allowing the opportunity to win multiple days. Winners will be announced each day on Facebook @DixieElectricMS. Sponsored by Dixie Electric Power Association. Proceeds benefit The Salvation Army and Christian Food Mission. Contact your local Dixie Electric office to purchase a ticket.

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 19

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

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

2020: The year of challenges A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO For 82 years East Mississippi Electric Power Association has served the communities of east Mississippi, delivering the power needed to make lives more comfortable and communities more viable. This year has been challenging to say the least. The 2020 annual meeting, like so many others this year, was adjusted due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Safety guidelines required limited seating in the auditorium. To compensate, we live-streamed the meeting for the first time in our history. The 2020 annual report reflects our tradition of financial stability while maintaining your expected high level of reliability. We were successful in maintaining stable rates for our members again this year, despite being hit by numerous tornados in October, November, December, January, February, March and April. Amid the tornados, the Coronavirus pandemic hit. We established dual goals of keeping our employees safe from the virus and meeting our members’ needs. We continue to accomplish both. History was made during this annual meeting. You, the members of EMEPA, approved the establishment of East Mississippi Connect, LLC (EMC) with a 99% approval vote. To say we are humbled by your support and the confidence placed in your EMEPA Board and Staff is an understatement. I want to thank our board for the opportunity to represent EMEPA each day. It is an honor and privilege to serve with them. Your Board of Directors establishes the policies by which we operate, reviews monthly reports regarding our financial condition and monitors the many decisions we must make regarding the operational efficiency of EMEPA and the service quality to members. This year, they had the added responsibility of evaluating the

feasibility of entering the broadband internet business. Much like community-minded people stepped out on faith to build EMEPA in the 1930s, these board members embraced making our communities more connected by establishing a fiber-to-the-home business. With your support (and sign-ups), we move full speed into a five-year buildout plan to further empower our members. This board and management team worked tirelessly over the last few months to provide a solid foundation to ensure you, our members, can enjoy fiber-to-the-home broadband services. Another board responsibility involves the return of capital credits. Being a cooperative member has distinct advantages. Your participation as a member-owner rather than a customer is never more evident than through the retirement of capital credits. Following a review of the financial condition of the Association, I am pleased to announce on behalf of your board, the return of $1,984,754.58 to the members that received service during 1990. Those members can expect their returns in December. Let me also thank the 130 dedicated employees of EMEPA for their steadfast devotion to serving our members and communities. Their commitment to customer service has been evident through the storms of the fall and spring and their concern and patience during the pandemic. Without our employee support team, EMEPA could not achieve the success we do each day.

by Randy Carroll CEO — East Mississippi Electric Power Association

Happy Thanksgiving

from East Mississippi EPA

14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

The business office will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 601-581-8600.

East Mississippi Electric Power Association recently made history as its membership voted to launch East Mississippi Connect to help close the digital divide for our area. The vote passed with 99% in favor at the 82nd Annual Meeting held on Saturday, Oct. 3 in Meridian. In June 2020, EMEPA Board of Directors voted to amend EMEPA’s Certificate of Incorporation to expand EMEPA’s purpose to include broadband services. The board authorized the creation of East Mississippi Connect, LLC, an affiliate of EMEPA, to offer the broadband services. As a member-owned electric cooperative, EMEPA then needed approval from the membership to ratify these decisions.

Your voice and your vote played an especially critical role in our ability to begin offering high-speed broadband service to our communities! EMEPA’s Annual Meeting is a vital part of its governance because, as an electric cooperative, the Association is democratically controlled, with each member having one vote. You have a voice and a vote in how your cooperative is governed. As a result, control stays in local hands. Those principles are the basis of why East Mississippi Electric Power Association has thrived for 82 years. It is also why we continue to enjoy a strong place of trust in our community. Eight EMEPA members, two from each district, won a $500 electricity credit for returning the 82nd Annual Meeting proxy.

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S to the following EMEPA members for winning a $500 electricity credit in a drawing from those who returned their 82nd Annual Meeting proxy.

LAUDERDALE

WINSTON

CLARKE

KEMPER

SHANDA GORDON DONALD NICHOLAS

JOSH MARK DRURY BOB AND NITA LINCOLN

PEARLENE BRADLEY NORA IRBY

CAROLYN FARLOW PEGGY ODOM

Please note that the Bylaws have been amended to add Sections 8.03 and 11.08 requiring Alternative Dispute Resolution and to revise Section 4.04 to describe the Credentials Committee, Elections Committee and nominating process. Members can access the EMEPA Bylaws by clicking “My Account” at EMEPA.com.

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

EMEPA MAKES HISTORY

EMEPA members vote to launch

After an overwhelmingly favorable vote by East Mississippi Electric Power Association (EMEPA) members at the Association’s 82nd Annual Meeting in October, East Mississippi Connect fiber internet is launching to help close the digital divide for our area. Fiber internet is the fastest and most reliable internet technology in the world. This affordable technology will help to transform east Mississippi by allowing improved access to health care, education, information and entertainment. It will enable our communities to keep pace in today’s high-tech world without relying on outdated technology, slow speeds or poor reliability. It will close the gap for our area businesses, giving them the tools they need to compete and thrive in their markets. EMEPA CEO Randy Carroll said as East Mississippi Connect grows, it will help the area reach its fullest potential.

16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

“Our focus has always been on delivering energy to empower lives. East Mississippi Connect fiber internet will improve the quality of life for our members, empower businesses and contribute to the vitality and diversity of our communities.” “Not only will East Mississippi Connect provide internet service, but they are going to have internet speeds faster than anyone else out here,” said Mississippi Senator Jeff Tate (District 33). “It’s going to help our kids’ education, it’s going to help incentivize people to move here, and it’s going to help businesses in our area.” East Mississippi Connect fiber internet is provided with free installation, no activation fees, no contracts, no data caps and no throttling. Visit eastmsconnect.com to learn more about this project and its positive impact for our members.

What is fiber, and what’s special about it? Fiber optic systems are tiny strands of glass that carry data (the internet) using light waves, resulting in much faster speeds than traditional copper lines. Most internet providers use fiber in their systems, but use copper lines for the final connections to the home, resulting in slower speeds. East MS Connect will bring fiber all the way into your home, giving you access to download and upload speeds up to 1 gigabit. Fiber is more reliable than other types of network and less prone to interference and complications from lightning and other natural elements.

How will I know when you begin serving my area? Visit EastMSConnect.com to check availability and preregister for service. As the timeline for construction draws near to your area, we will invite you, along with the other members in your area, to sign up and complete necessary steps to take service.

How much does it cost? Pricing will begin at $69.95 per month for 100-megabit service and $99.95 per month for 1-gigabit service. Service includes managed Wi-Fi, no data caps, no throttling, no contracts and free installation.

For quick cleanup, Haynes recommends trying slow cooker liners.

Check out these other tips from USDAFSIS for using a slow cooker safely: • Store preprepared items in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Use separate containers for raw meats and other items, such as vegetables. • Cook foods according to recipe directions and use a slow cooker of the correct size for the amount of food to be cooked. • Keep the lid on during cooking to keep the temperature steady. • Remove leftovers from the cooker and store them in shallow containers in the refrigerator within 2 hours after cooking is done. • Throw out any food cooked during a power outage if not at home. Foods completely cooked when the power goes out will be safe in the cooker for 2 hours. Otherwise, finish cooking the food by another method, such as a gas stove or outdoor grill. • Always reheat leftovers in the microwave, in the oven or on the stove. Be sure foods are reheated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

INGREDIENTS 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, divided 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon cinnamon 2 eggs

½ cup whole milk ¼ cup canola oil 1⁄8 teaspoon salt 4 cups frozen mixed berries or berry of your choice

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder and cinnamon. Add the eggs, milk and oil. Stir until moistened (batter will be thick). Coat the slow cooker with cooking spray. Spread the batter evenly into the slow cooker. In a separate large bowl, combine the salt, remaining flour (1/2 cup) and remaining sugar (1 cup). Add berries and toss to coat. Pour over batter in the slow cooker. Place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the cobbler comes out clean. Serve immediately. Susan Collins-Smith is a writer for the Mississippi State University Extension Service. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

Approved

STEVEN Date_____

These barbecue chicken sliders are quick to make in the cooker. Depending on the barbecue sauce used, they can be healthy, too. Look for tomato or vinegar as the first ingredient in the sauce, not sugar.

Revisions Requested

Spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray. Place chicken in the slow cooker and sprinkle with spices. Add the sliced onion and water. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is done. Drain water from the slow cooker, and shred chicken with two forks or a hand-held mixer. Mix in the barbecue sauce, and heat for 15 minutes. Assemble sandwiches using extra barbecue sauce and other toppings as desired.

Approved

1 teaspoon chili powder 1 small onion, sliced 1 cup water 1⁄3 cup barbecue sauce 8 mini whole-wheat buns

RON Date_____

INGREDIENTS Nonstick cooking spray 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts ¾ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon black pepper

VERSION #______________

by Susan Collins-Smith Slow cookers can make dinner time fast and easy any day of the week. The small countertop appliance can cook almost anything — from meats to desserts. Slow cookers come in various sizes that are handy for different dishes. They work by cooking foods low and slow, reaching temperatures between 170 and 280 degrees, according to the U. S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service. Even at such low temperatures, foods cooked properly are safe because of the extended cooking time, the heat from the pot and the steam created. However, cooks should follow the same food safety guidelines that apply to other cooking methods, said Natasha Haynes, a family and consumer science agent with the Mississippi State University Extension Service. “Meat and poultry should always be thawed before cooking it in a slow cooker,” Haynes said. “But be sure to thaw these ingredients ahead of time in the refrigerator. Never thaw meats on the counter or in hot water.”

Revisions Requested

make meals

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

is here;

Concern for Community Over the years, you’ve probably heard or read about 4-County Electric Power Association’s concern for our community. This is one of the core principles that sets cooperatives apart from other types of utilities and businesses. We’ve always taken this mission and responsibility to heart. It’s who we are as a co-op. With that in mind, we are excited to announce the name of our new broadband subsidiary, FASTnet. We’re living up to that name. Since announcing we would begin broadband services on an initial basis, we’ve hit the ground running. Plans are being made, equipment is being delivered and the first spools of fiber have arrived. That’s Concern for Community. And, beginning in November, 4-County members will see a reduction in rates (see story on page 17). That’s also Concern for Community. It doesn’t stop there. Over the past few months, like so many of you, we’ve risen to meet new challenges and strengthen the safety net for our community, particularly for those who are most vulnerable. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve made numerous adjustments to programs and operations to maintain business continuity while staying focused on the bigger mission of helping our consumer-members during this turbulent time. That’s Concern for Community. There’s more. Now, with the holidays fast approaching, these recent events have made me pause and think about the role we play in our community. While our purpose is to provide safe and reliable energy to you, the members we serve, we have a greater mission — to be a catalyst for good. You’re probably aware of the 4-County Foundation, where we take donations from generous members like you who have “rounded up” the amount due on their electric bill to help non-profit organizations within our communities. Or our Youth Tour program, where we help build on the dreams of our community’s brightest young people. 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

We also have a strong commitment to safety — not just for our employees, but for our community as well. We visit schools to teach children of all ages how to stay safe around electricity. We hold safety demonstrations at community meetings and other gatherings. We have also provided our hotline demonstration to organizations in our service area. 4-County invests in the economic development of the community through an active role in our local Chamber of Commerce. We assist in economic development projects by providing our expertise in providing electricity for set-up, maintenance and growth of incoming companies. You’ll also see our employees serving on local boards, coaching youth sports, volunteering at charitable events and serving at area churches. Because when you work at a co-op, you understand how important a strong community is — after all, without you, the co-op wouldn’t exist. We know that our core job is to keep the lights on; but our passion is our community. Because we live and work here too, and we want to make it a better place for all. If there’s anything we can do to help you — whether providing energy-saving advice to help lower your monthly bill or discuss payment plan options during these difficult times — please reach out to us at 1-800-431-1544. Concern for community is the heart and soul of who we are. And no matter what the future brings, you can count on your electric co-op to care about you.

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

Update

FASTnet is 4-County’s new broadband subsidiary FASTnet is the name of 4-County Electric Power Association’s subsidiary company that will bring broadband services to co-op members. 4-County unveiled the name and logo in October during a brief ceremony at the co-op’s Corporate Center in Mayhew. “This is a historical day for 4-County and its members,” said 4-County CEO Brian Clark. “We’re entering a new area of service. But, like always, we’re prepared to deliver.” Fast, reliable, quality. These three adjectives embody the FASTnet brand, according to Clark. “Our goal is to live up to the FASTnet name,” Clark said. Supplies are coming in. Plans have been made. And the first spools of fiber are rolling in. Construction has begun. Broadband preparations are alive and well at 4-County Electric Power Association. “We’re already working hard to make this happen,” Clark said. “And we’re doing so with a sense of excitement, offering something new and needed to our members.” 4-County members recently voted to amend the co-op’s Certificate of Incorporation, paving the way for the utility to create a subsidiary company that can provide broadband. The Columbus-based cooperative has received a matching grant from the recently enacted Mississippi CARES Act Grant Program that will enable the Association to launch a pilot program in areas of Choctaw, Clay and Noxubee counties. That grant program, established by the Mississippi Legislature in July, earmarked $65 million in potential funding for state electric

cooperatives to help deploy broadband to their members. Clark says 4-County was excited to take part in the fund distribution and the groundbreaking rollout of these broadband services to the 4-County territory. “We’ve been working on an approach to broadband and this was a great way to get started. The whole point of co-ops getting into the broadband area is to make fast, affordable internet available to people who don’t currently have access to it. That’s exactly what this grant will help us do,” Clark said. Capped at $6 million per cooperative, the grants must be matched by the cooperative and must be used in areas that are considered unserved or underserved. 4-County will put in about $7 million dollars to kick-start the three pilot programs. The projects will cover parts of north east Choctaw, west Clay and north Noxubee counties. Not everyone in those counties, or even in the areas covered by the pilots will initially be able to get service. The grant requirements are very specific about the areas and members that can be served. The co-op hopes that these initial projects are the start to bringing broadband to all members. Details of the projects Clark outlined (such as how much the service will cost and when it will be available to members) have yet to be determined. However, those bullet points will be announced as soon as possible. Members with questions or comments about broadband can call 1-800-431-1544 or email broadband@4county.org. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

Singing weatherman hits the high notes

by Brad Barr Meteorologist Bob Swanson might not know any rain dances, but he will gladly shower you with a few songs about the weather. Swanson, known in these parts as “the singing weatherman,” delivers his folksy weather and astronomy ballads to students in and around Mississippi. Why? “I guess there are not many professionals writing songs about their academic areas of expertise. But it works for me,” he said with a grin. The Mississippi State University (MSU) instructor/lab coordinator teaches his students the ins and outs of physics and astronomy all to the tune of a well-worn Washburn acoustic. There is a definite correlation between music and learning, he said. “How many songs do you remember from childhood? Think about it. You can remember a lot of them. The melody 16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

and repetition of songs enhances the learning curve.” Students enter his second-floor classroom in MSU’s Hilbun Hall with a sense of anticipation. In the lobby outside, Swanson takes a deep breath before entering the classroom like a modern-day Elvis, complete with sequined and embroidered jacket (decorated with weather, astronomy and physics this and that) and a symphony of instruments. “Singing is my real instrument,” he stresses. However, the guitar, banjo, harmonica, mandolin and accordion accessorize Swanson’s one-man band. After a slight pause for affect, the teaching begins. “They love it,” he said of his college physics students. “When the guitar comes out, so do their phones for a video. They’re engaged.” But how did the singing weatherman shtick get started? Let’s start at the beginning, Swanson advised. He grew up at the top of Limestone Ridge in south central Pennsylvania, surrounded

by dairy farms and a frequent deluge of snow. As a youth, he was passionate about sports radio, and aspired to be a major league baseball play-by-play announcer. “I fell in love with radio baseball,” the Pittsburgh Pirates fan explained. However, his Uncle Richie, one of three uncles named Richie, urged him to pursue a more obtainable career. An interest in science ensued and a bachelor’s degree in physics and philosophy from the University of Scranton and a master’s degree in meteorology from Penn State University followed. After graduation, he had stints as a television weatherman in Pennsylvania, Arkansas and Tennessee. During his early television career, Swanson received a request to speak to a preschool class about weather. “I had nothing,” he said, with regard to educational content for children. “In five minutes, they were done with me and I was done with them.” In the search for an educational hook, Swanson thought about his love of music. He had a guitar. He liked to sing. Why not sing educational songs about the weather? Swanson was soon doing 80 to 90 interactive performances a year. “Teachers started calling the television stations asking for the guy with the guitar,” he said. “It was my calling card.” He began writing songs, like the “Weather Riddle Song” and the “Weather Wiggle Song,” and then recorded a CD. His music can best be described as “folksy” or full of polka. But they will never be called mundane. Here is a verse from the meteorological hit, “How hot is it”: “Farmer Jones just mutters that he can’t make any butter because the udders on his cows give powdered milk.”

Swanson said he receives much support from contemporaries, friends and family. He lives in Starkville with his wife Meredith (responsible for the details of his colorful jackets) and their three sons: D.J., 13; Nate, 11 and Henry, 8. The family’s favorite kind of weather is crisp, cool and clear. “That’s the best time to look at the stars.” When he decided to leave media and begin teaching in college, Bob discovered the “singing weatherman shtick” worked for older kids, too. “It goes over really well. I like the live performances — being in front of a classroom of students,” he said. Former student Sommer Shmulsky agrees. “Bob Swanson goes above and beyond to teach his students,” she said. “He uses very creative methods to teach. His classes were so informative and entertaining, and I looked forward to them every week. His unique teaching methods made physics so much fun.” Today, Swanson often travels around Mississippi with his guitar slung on his back, looking to spin a few stories about the sky and stars. He often performs at library groups and other scholastic venues. You can book him for a paid appearance by going to www.storminswanson.com. On the other hand, you can enroll in his class at MSU and hear his narrative singsong verses. Swanson acknowledges that his teaching method may be a little unconventional. However, is the conventional way always the best way? “I think it shows the level of passion I have for my job,” he said. “Do something different. Make yourself stand out.” When it’s all said and done, Swanson’s forecast is the same today as it is tomorrow: Bright and sunny with a chance for learning.

Rate decrease for 4-County members 4-County Electric Power Association members will enjoy a reduction in rates, beginning in November and lasting for a 12-month cycle. Residential members should see about a $2.17 a month decrease. Commercial accounts will also see a decrease with certain variances, depending on the type of business and energy usage, according to estimates by 4-County officials. Local power companies, like 4-County, recently received a cumulative $200 million credit from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). 4-County decided to use its portion of the pot to reduce its members’ rates. “We continually strive to provide the best service at the lowest possible cost. 4-County members are our priority,” said 4-County CEO Brian Clark. TVA is reducing the price of its power through rebates or credits to utility customers like 4-County after cutting its own

debt and expenses. The reduction is associated with a special $200 million coronavirus pandemic relief credit, equal to a 2.5% discount on its base electric rates. TVA officials say the credit is intended to help communities and businesses recover more quickly from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and reflects the improved efficiencies and fiscal performance of TVA. 4-County officials say the cooperative strives to provide a high quality product at a good price. In 2016, thanks to cost-saving measures and fiscal prudence, 4-County absorbed a TVA rate increase and did not pass the rate increase on to its members. In total, member savings for that year alone were in excess of $1.4 million system wide and $5.66 million over a fouryear period. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

4-County sent crews to Florida

2020 Macon

4-County Macon line workers were recently selected as “Hometown Heroes” in a Commercial Dispatch Reader’s Poll for the Macon/Noxubee County area. Congratulations!

Bert Hadaway

Johnny Mitchener

Robbie Agnew

Derek Dawkins

Jason Sellers

Rowdy Rigdon

Isaac Carroll

Tanner Owen

Dedrick Stevenson

18 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

Two 4-County Electric Power Association crews recently assisted Escambia River Electric Cooperative in Florida with power restoration efforts after Hurricane Sally swept through their service area Sept. 15. The 4-County crews (13 men total) left Sept. 17, carrying with them three bucket trucks, two digger derrick trucks and two crew trucks. They worked in the area for several days. In the direct aftermath of the storm, nearly all of Escambia River Electric’s 11,450 members were without power. Hurricane Sally caused widespread damage with high winds, pounding rain and storm surge, breaking poles and downing power lines. Escambia River Electric, serving Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in the Florida panhandle, has 1,800 miles of energized line. Rural electric cooperatives throughout the nation share a reciprocal agreement with each other to provide help to sister cooperatives in times of crisis. 4-County will send crews and equipment, if needed, to assist in the restoration of power lines, poles and substations damaged by wind, storm surge and other elements of hurricane-related weather. Two 4-County crews also recently assisted Beauregard Electric Cooperative for several days in their Hurricane Laura storm restoration efforts. “We were glad to be in a position to send this assistance to help restore power to Escambia River Electric Cooperative and Beauregard Electric Cooperative members in need. We have been in the midst of hurricane season. Our system and members have been the recipients of assistance from other electric cooperatives in the past, and we are always glad to be able to help others when they need assistance. That’s the cooperative way,” said 4-County Manager of Operations Anthony Miller.

E S

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Problems are no problem for Branning A wise person once said that problems are actually opportunities in disguise. As an accounting clerk at 4-County Electric Power Association, Jima Branning likes to search for the answers to challenging questions. “I like to solve problems,” Jima said. “I enjoy working with the members. We want them to feel good about our interactions,” she said. Jima takes her cue on customer service from her father, Ted Lewis, a 4-County retiree with a long career that included stints as district manager and safety coordinator. “As a little girl, I loved to hear what he had been doing all day at work,” she said. “I was very interested. I asked a lot of questions about power lines, poles and all the equipment. We have been blessed to be a part of 4-County. God has a plan for me being here.” She also remembers Ted’s middle-of-thenight phone calls, storms coming through during holidays and the long hours frequently associated with restoring power outages. “Sometimes we would do events early, like Christmas, if we knew bad weather was coming in. He wanted to be here with us for those times, so we adjusted,” the co-op legacy explained. “One Christmas, we got up at 3 a.m. to celebrate because he knew he was going to go in to work because of an ice storm. I’ve always looked up to my dad.” Jima Branning lives in the Morgantown community of Sturgis with her husband, Jay, and their children Ainsley, 7, and Baylor, 2. They attend Morgan Chapel Baptist Church. Their home site sits on about 50 acres, presided over by Onan the rooster and his subservient chicken friends. Jima attended East Mississippi Community College where she studied liberal arts. She also attended Mississippi State University (MSU). She began working at 4-County in May 2008. “Time flies,” she said. Jima began her career as a roving cashier and advanced to her current position as accounting clerk.

Prior to 4-County, she worked in the offices of Morgan Construction Company in Starkville. Jima describes her home community of Morgantown as a very strong, close-knit atmosphere. “My friends from childhood are still my friends today. Our kids are growing up together like we did,” she said. Her hobbies include watching MSU sports, baking, being outside and painting with her kids. She strives to be a good wife and mother. And she enjoys being a part of a women’s prayer group. “That’s special to me. My passion is my relationship with Jesus Christ.” Her favorite Holy Bible scriptures are 1 John 5:11: And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son; and 1 Peter 3:15: but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence. Day by day, Jima added, there’s always something new happening at the co-op. “We provide a valuable service to the community and we work to brighten their days.” 4-County, she said, is truly a home away from home. “I love the camaraderie with my co-workers,” Jima explained. “It’s a place of business, but it’s so much more than that. We’re a family.”

Words to hang your hard hat on Honesty, Integrity, Service. Those are good words to live by — and work by. 4-County Electric Power Association employees keep them close to heart. Actually, they will soon be big and bold on their shirt sleeves and vehicles. The colorful slogan, featuring 4-County’s traditional red and blue colors and a graphic with pole with transformer, will soon be implemented on employees’ right shirt sleeves. The graphic slogan will also be displayed on each side

of co-op vehicles. 4-County’s logo will not change. This slogan will be featured as a stand-alone graphic. “These are the words we live by,” 4-County CEO Brian Clark said. “So we decided to emphasize them and let our members rest assured that we’re here for them and that’s the way we want to do business.” The co-op will gradually implement the new clothing patches and vehicle decals throughout 2021. For more information, call 1-800-431-1544. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 19

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

www.MEPCoop.com

The winds preceding Hurricane Delta brought damage to the Magnolia Electric Power system beginning Friday, October 9, and crews worked Friday night until the weather was unsafe. By Saturday morning, the winds had died down where it was safe to send crews out to begin restoring power. All crews and staff reported to work on Saturday morning, October 10, at 6 a.m. The number of outages began that morning at 6:30 a.m. with 16,382, but quickly topped out with 18,280 by 7:30 a.m. Crews were headed to the field to work by 7 a.m. At that time, we were aware that there were transmission issues to the Liberty and Smithdale substations. The transmission issues were not resolved until 5:15 p.m. on Saturday. The transmission effected 4,140 Magnolia Electric Power meters. The hurricane had traveled along the western side of the MEP 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

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

and Twitter

service area, causing the most damage in Amite, Franklin and western Pike Counties. However, the winds were high enough across south Mississippi that there were outages scattered across the system. MEP brought in 112 people to aid our linemen in power restoration efforts. The 112, along with MEP crews, gave us a total of 148 personnel in the field. Those who aided include: Pearl River Valley Electric Power, Singing River Electric, both electric cooperatives, and Pike and Kinco, both outside contracting crews. Helping with ROW (Right-of-Way) were: Barnes ROW, Deviney, and Scott Johnson Specialties. At last count, MEP was reporting around 25 broken poles across the system. All meters that could receive power were officially restored at 8:55 p.m., Monday, October 12, 2020.

746 73 53 0

MEP would like to thank all our members for their patience.

Revisions Requested

Honoring Marty Wooten

Revisions Requested

Monday, October 12, 8 a.m.: Monday, October 12, 1:30 p.m.: Monday, October 12, 6 p.m.: Monday, October 12, 9 p.m.:

On Wednesday, October 14, 2020, Magnolia Electric Power sent crews to Southwest Electric, headquartered in Lorman, to assist with restoration efforts from Hurricane Delta, the same storm that hit MEP. MEP sent three two-men crews and one six-man construction crew to aid in Southwest Electric’s power restoration efforts. Southwest Electric had considerable damage from the storm, as their system was more in Hurricane Delta’s direct path. On the day MEP arrived, Southwest Electric had over 4,000 meters without power and numerous broken poles. The addition of the MEP crews gave Southwest Electric 206 men in the field. The MEP linemen joined the efforts after they had worked three 15-16 hour long days to get Magnolia Electric’s power restored from the same storm.

Approved

5,511 3,017 698

CHAD Date_____

Sunday, October 11, 8 a.m.: Sunday, October 11, 3 p.m.: Sunday, October 11, 8:30 p.m.:

Revisions Requested

18,280 12,296 9,581 6,301

Approved

Saturday, October 10, 7:30 a.m.: Saturday, October 10, 12:30 p.m.: Saturday, October 10, 3 p.m.: Saturday, October 10, 7 p.m.:

MEP sends crews to Southwest Electric to aid in Hurricane Delta restoration efforts

STEVEN Date_____

Storm outage by the numbers:

VERSION #______________

RON Date_____

Approved

A 41-YEAR EMPLOYEE OF MEP

Two Magnolia Electric Power trucks formed an arch at West McComb Baptist Church for former MEP employee Marty Wooten’s funeral procession to pass through. Marty was a 41-year employee who passed away Thursday, October 8, 2020. Burial was in Hollywood Cemetery. He had been employed with Magnolia Electric Power since October 1, 1979.

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

When it’s time to do the dishes, remember to run full loads. You can also save energy by allowing your dishes to air dry. Photo Source: Scott Van Osdol

Use smaller kitchen appliances, like slow cookers, toaster ovens and convection ovens when possible. These smaller appliances use less energy than a full-size oven.

Happy Thanksgiving from Magnolia Electric Power The business oï¬&#x192;ce will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 601-684-4011. Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

VETERANS THANK YOU

NOVEMBER 11

JOHN LEE Custodial Lead

KENDALL HOLMES Line Superintendent

WAYNE PETERS Senior Meter Technician

DORNEAIL MAGEE Senior Lineman

Thank you to those who have served our nation to preserve the freedom we hold so dear. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

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

When it’s time to do the dishes, remember to run full loads. You can also save energy by allowing your dishes to air dry. Photo Source: Scott Van Osdol

Use smaller kitchen appliances, like slow cookers, toaster ovens and convection ovens when possible. These smaller appliances use less energy than a full-size oven.

In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 662-256-2962. Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

THANK YOU Thank you to those who have served our nation to preserve the freedom we hold so dear.

Revisions Requested Approved

CHAD Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

EFFICIENCY

RON Date_____

VETERANS

ENERGY

Keep cold air out to save energy. Seal air leaks around pipes and any gaps around chimneys and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

VERSION #______________

NOVEMBER 11

Approved

The business oï¬&#x192;ce will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.

STEVEN Date_____

from Monroe County Electric Power

Revisions Requested

Happy Thanksgiving

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

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

Local communities succeed despite challenges of 2020

by Elissa Fulton This year has brought challenges for many of us, but the communities in Natchez Trace Electric Power Association’s service area are still thriving. This year has demonstrated, more than ever, how important it is to support our local communities – especially in times of crisis. Natchez Trace Electric serves its largest membership in Chickasaw, Calhoun and Webster counties, and each of these counties have worked diligently in its economic development interests.

The community has already held shows and most recently hosted A Night at the Opera. Nathan Carlisle, who has familial roots in Houston and performs with the Metropolitan Opera, recently performed for a community arts fundraiser. More than $7,000 was raised for the theater project. Houston also received the 2020 Levitt Amp Concert Series grant. Ten communities around the country received a grant of $25,000 through a voting system Chickasaw County and Houston was selected as Sean Johnson, the executive a tourist destination based on director of the Chickasaw several criteria. Development Foundation, said that “Houston has a compelling Houston is seeing a transformation. story,” said Johnson. “We are “This year we have seen a 22% trying to put together a vision increase in sales tax revenues and that our residents can get behind. Chickasaw County courthouse in Houston about 12% in tourism tax revenues. This was a pre-civil war town These numbers are despite the coronavirus pandemic and the and we have a rich culture and history here that we have to take spending being way down in April and May. Part of the reason advantage of. We have lots of surrounding villages that are great our tax revenues are so high this year is because everyone stayed communities in and of themselves. I believe that when Houston home. They kept their money at home, and it shows. It’s so can rise to the tide, all of the ships around us will rise too.” important to shop local, especially in these small towns.” Calhoun County According to Johnson, there’s a lot happening in Chickasaw Sheila Freely is the director of Calhoun Economic Development County. Several years ago, there was a tourism tax that was Association and a Calhoun County native. She also serves on the implemented to fund curbside clean up. The sidewalks are being replaced and cleanup efforts are underway around the city square. board of Natchez Trace Electric Power Association. Though Freely retired from USDA, Rural Development in 2011, her efforts are now “Houston has been holding its own for a while, but we are in the spent on helping with job creation and economic development for process of taking some steps and moving forward,” said Johnson. Calhoun County. “A big project that we are working on is a community theater. It’s “Thank goodness we have great partners in this area,” said being designed to show movies, concerts and plays. We believe Freely. “TVA has been wonderful to us here and our state having a community arts center will make a huge difference in legislators help us with many of the needs we have here. our town.” 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

Happy Thanksgiving

from Natchez Trace Electric Power Association Our oﬃces will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. December 24 and 25 for Christmas and January 1 for New Years Day. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

Revisions Requested Approved

CHAD Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

STEVEN Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

Three Rivers Planning and Development District. They have an economic development division and they help us with many of our specific manufacturing needs and training for those jobs.” Freely said that Calhoun County is fortunate to have a hospital with an emergency room through Baptist Hospital. “The hospital has a brand-new administration building and a state-of-the-art therapy area,” she said. “Though our residents may have surgery at one of the larger hospitals, it’s been wonderful that they can continue therapy right here at home, and the facility is really cutting-edge.” The population in Calhoun County is approximately 15,000. As a county with one of the highest acreages in the state, the community focuses heavily on agriculture and the sweet potato industry. “Having a great medical footprint in this area is huge,” said Freely. “It means so much to the agriculture community here.” Calhoun County also has a career and technical center through the public school system. The high school students are bussed in county wide each day where they learn technical skills such as welding, hands-on mechanical skills and computer programming.

The City of Eupora has received funding from state and federal sources to make improvements to the Eupora Industrial Park. The City of Eupora is supported by the Enterprise of Mississippi, a regional economic development organization serving Choctaw and Webster counties. The City of Eupora will be installing water and sewer lines to a 50-acre site in the industrial park along with installing a road into the property. These improvements are being made to the park to help create shovel ready sites for industrial development. The entrance of the Eupora Industrial Park will also receive upgrades with the installation of new signage and lighting into the park. The Enterprise along with its partners presented virtually in June to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) InvestPrep program requesting funding to make improvements to the Eupora Industrial Park. In July, The Enterprise was notified of an InvestPrep funding award to install lighting and signage at the Eupora Industrial Park. Signage and lighting will be placed at the entrance of the park at US Hwy. 82 and Industrial Park Boulevard. “The Eupora Industrial Park is located directly off four lane U.S. Highway 82,” said Lara Bowman, Director of The Enterprise of Mississippi. “The improvements being made to the industrial park will allow Webster County to be competitive in industrial recruitment projects. Natchez Trace Electric has been a tremendous asset and partner in the planning and development of the industrial park.” As an electric cooperative, Natchez Trace Electric’s mission is to improve the quality of life for the members they serve. It is fortunate to have community leaders and partners that have that same vision. This year has been a challenge, but these communities are working together, and there are brighter days ahead.

RON Date_____

Webster County We also rely on

VERSION #______________

“We are really trying to reach our students here,” said Freely. “The workforce training is so important. There are funds out there, but we have to get our people to work.”

NORTH EAST MISSISSIPPI ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

CEO MESSAGE This year has been quite a year to remember, or for some, a year to forget. When the New Year rolled around 10 months ago, many of us were looking forward to a positive turn of a decade. I believe I recall the optimistic 20/20 vision statements from many leaders in our industry. Well, as we’ve all seen, this year has been far from visionary. It’s been more of a survival. No one could have foreseen the trials that we would face in our normal day-to-day operations. Although we’ve accomplished a great deal through this year, our employees have seen it through with many challenges. Despite these overwhelming challenges, we’ve been able to complete the building renovations and bring high-speed internet services to a large percentage of our membership this year. The global coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has slowed business for everyone, but though we’ve seen difficult times this year, as always, our employees rose to the trials presented.

Mutual Aid One thing that can never be certain in our business is the weather. This year, the South had a record number of storms — some of which have minorly affected our service area. However, we must remember our neighbors in Alabama and Louisiana who have been severely affected by back-to-back hurricanes. One thing that sets electric cooperatives apart is our mutual aid agreements. When one of our sister cooperatives are hit hard with disaster, our employees are always willing to help. This year, 100% of our line workers volunteered to help with the electric restoration efforts after Hurricanes Laura, Sally and Delta. COVID-19 made these mutual aid efforts more difficult, but our employees were still willing to help our neighbors — and for that — I am extremely proud. The one thing that makes these mutual aid agreements so important, is when we are in crisis, there’s always a line of people to help us.

2020 Annual Meeting The next challenge we will address will be this year’s Annual Meeting in December. Like with everything else this year, we will be forced to do things differently. Because of COVID-19, we will be holding our annual meeting virtually. There’s no official business to come before the members this year, so the board has decided in lieu of having an in-person meeting with limited space for our membership, we will livestream the meeting on YouTube. We encourage you to go on our website at nemepa.org and tune in on Dec 12. There will be a link embedded in the video to register for door prizes, so be sure to watch all the way through, or you could miss the prize opportunities. By the time you receive this issue of Today in Mississippi, you may have also received your official Annual Meeting Notice. Please be sure to review the notice for information regarding our 2020 virtual Annual Meeting and ways to register on our website. Since we will livestream the meeting, this will not be an official meeting. In closing, I want to thank our dedicated employees here at North East Power for their unwavering commitment during this challenging year. We also thank our membership for your patience. Despite the obstacles, we’ve accomplished a great deal this year. We may be conducting business differently for the unforeseen future, but we always get through these tough times together. We wish you and your families a happy holiday season!

Be sure to watch our virtual annual meeting to sign up and win door prizes. 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

by Keith Hayward General Manager/CEO

ANNUAL MEETING

UPDATE

This year has been a challenge — no doubt about it. So many activities and meetings have either been cancelled or relegated to virtual meetings. Due to social distancing and recommendations by many officials, the NEMEPA Annual Meeting of our members will be one of those gatherings pushed to the virtual format. The North East Mississippi Electric Power Association Board of Directors has voted to have the meeting virtually and it will take place on December 12 at 1:00 p.m. Beginning last year, the Board election was changed to a stand-alone process. CEO Keith Hayward, will give a financial update, a “State of the Association,” and our accounting firm, Franks, Franks, Wilemon and Hagood, will give the results of this year’s board election.

The annual meeting notice will be sent the first week in November. The ballot will be sent out the following week. Please be on the lookout for both documents and return the ballot as soon as possible, allowing for possible delays in the mailing process. All ballots returned will be eligible for a chance to win a 55” TV or NEMEPA Bucks — which will help in paying electric bills. Members can also win NEMEPA Bucks by watching the meeting on our website, YouTube or Facebook. There will be a link embedded in the video allowing members to enter the proper information required to win a prize. Winners will be announced the following Monday. 2020 has been a challenge but we are thankful to you, our members, for hanging in there with us.

Happy Thanksgiving from North East Power

The business oﬃce will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 662.234.6331. Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

Heroes in Hardhats Veterans Day will be celebrated across the nation on November basic training together, but Gibson wasn’t convinced. However, at 11. It is a day that honors and pays respect to our military veterans the time, he was married and had a young daughter, and the job who have served our nation, while willing to sacrifice greatly. North training was what sold him. His brother eventually changed his East Mississippi Electric Power Association has two veterans that mind, but Gibson has no regrets. we would like to acknowledge — Bill Gibson and Julian Smith. “Even though my brother didn’t join, I am so thankful that he Bill Gibson has been employed by NEMEPA for five years. He is talked me into it,” said Gibson. “It got me out of a bad situation a native of Memphis, Tennessee and served in the Army for eight and helped me to establish a career with a lot of stability. Believe years. During his military career, Gibson it or not, even with two deployments, it served on border patrol in Yuma, offered a lot of stability for my family.” Arizona. He also served for a year Gibson really likes working at NEMEPA. in Iraq as a mechanic and as an M1 He likes the cooperative atmosphere and Abrams Tank Crew Member. being part of an organization that helps “Serving overseas is different,” he out other cooperatives when in need. said. “Of course, you’re scared, and you “It’s a big family,” he said. “It reminds hear all the stories, so you don’t really me of the military in a lot of ways.” know what to expect. Everything went Gibson lives in Oxford with his wife pretty smooth and we were lucky that Angel and their two children, Amber we didn’t lose any soldiers. There were and Drew. Bill Gibson served in the U.S. Army and deployed to Iraq. He a few incidents with IUD’s and indirect Julian Smith is a 17-year employee with was a mechanic and an M1 Abrams Tank Crew Member. Gibson fire, but for the most part, no one was NEMEPA. He and his wife Karen are both is now a mechanic at North East Power. hurt badly.” natives of Oxford. Smith serves as an While serving in Iraq, Gibson was Underground Forman with the line crews part of a convoy security team that at NEMEPA. did over 100 miles of combat missions Smith went to Ole Miss for a year right in the year that they were deployed. out of high school and then joined the The team ran gun trucks and protected Army. convoys that shipped supplies be“I was a paratrooper at Fort Bragg,” tween different bases in Iraq, covering he said. “After my service, I returned to most areas between north and south Oxford and finished my degree in Exercise Iraq. Science at Ole Miss.” Gibson never thought about a miliDuring Smith’s service, the country was Julian Smith served in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper. During tary career until his brother convinced not in conflict, and his unit did humanitarihis Army career, his squad did humanitarian work overseas. He him to join. His brother wanted to do is now an Underground Foreman at North East Power. an work in Haiti and other countries.

These men served in the military and are now serving the membership of NEMEPA. We are so thankful to have them in our cooperative family and thank them for their service.

NOVEMBER 11

VETERANS

THANK YOU

Thank you to those who have served our nation to preserve the freedom we hold so dear. 16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

UPDATE

NE SPARC surpassed 800 customers as it continued to roll out high-speed broadband to areas within its service territory. Lafayette Springs 244 fiber zone was opened on September 7 as scheduled. This zone serves the Thaxton, Hurricane and customers along Highway 6 to the eastern edge of North East Power’s service territory. Orders for the area have been strong with in excess of 350 customers choosing NE SPARC’s service. Both the gigabit and 100 Mbps speeds are game changers for people in the area, as existing internet service was very poor. Fiber construction crews are working in multiple additional zones simultaneously to get fiber service deployed as quickly as possible to those that need it most. Construction is underway in Lafayette Springs 234, Enterprise 224, Enterprise 234 and Brittany Woods 224. Headquarters Zone 214 is nearly complete with fiber installed throughout the zone, and only splicing and testing remaining. Other zones are already engineered and ready for construction to start as soon as crews are available. These include Enterprise 214, Martintown 234, Sardis Lake 214 and Sardis Lake 224.

“The major challenge for the project at this point is finding the manpower to get the fiber installed,” said Randall Abel, chief operating officer of NE Sparc. “All of the fiber projects throughout the state and region are putting tremendous pressure on acquiring and keeping manpower to get fiber installed. But we are holding our own and making good progress. We should have around 1,200 active customers before Christmas.” The best way to determine the schedule for your zone is to visit www.nesparc.com. At the top of the page you will see “Zones” (left) just to the right of “Services.” Click on this button and then scroll down to the map titled “Service Areas” (below). There you can roll over each fiber zone and see when your zone is scheduled to open. Some zones are in Phase 2 of the project. It is important to know that the project is being built over a 36-month period. North East is trying very hard to beat that estimated project schedule. Fiber distribution circuits must be engineered, designed and built outward from existing locations that have access to internet backhaul and North East’s servers and electronics.

We are on target to reach more than 1,000 customers by the end of 2020! Congratulations NE SPARC! NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

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

NorthcentralEC

@Northcentral_EC

a message from your CEO

Endeavor to persevere In the movie, “The Outlaw Josey Wales,” Chief Dan George tells us that we must “endeavor to persevere.” I feel the impact of these words even more these days, as the race to end the COVID-19 threat turns into a marathon. Unfortunately, October Executive Orders forced Northcentral to turn its 70th Annual Membership meeting into a virtual event. Business and elections took place as needed, but a virtual event cannot replace the face-to-face interactions that many of us need at this point. The key is for us not to falter at the end of the race. We cannot knock this virus out of the park just to fail to tag home plate. As family returns from school and holiday gatherings

14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

occur, let’s not fail to protect family, friends and ourselves. As we move toward this post-virus, post-election period, let’s not fail to persevere. To paraphrase William Faulkner, I don’t believe that our community will endure, it will prevail. Stay safe.

by Kevin Doddridge General Manager/CEO

Cooperative Principle #6

Cooperation Among Cooperatives by Justin Jaggers The Seven Cooperative Principles. These are the guidelines for how electric cooperatives all across the country operate. It defines how we conduct business, get involved in our community, how we educate ourselves and our members and how we help each other. The sixth of these principles is Cooperation Among Cooperatives. But what does that mean? For Northcentral, twice in the month of September, it meant sending crews to help our neighboring states of Louisiana and Alabama after hurricanes tore through their area and left tens of thousands of homes without power. In the first week of September, Northcentral sent a crew of eight linemen along with equipment to replace poles and lines after Hurricane Laura came through south Louisiana. They were sent down to DeRidder, La. to assist Beauregard Electric Cooperative. Serviceman Robert Smith was among that group helping out more than 100 homes in the area. “It doesn’t sound like a lot of homes, but it was a very rural, spread out area and there was a lot of line to replace,” said Smith. The crew traveled down to the area and spent seven days working on restorations before heading home. “It was still storming when we got down there. The first night we saw crawfish wandering through our tent.” So, what’s a normal workday when these men travel so far? “We wake up at five o’clock, get ready, grab our materials for the day, get breakfast and we’re at the work site by 7 a.m.,” said Smith. The crew spent the week in a “tent city” that contained crews from surrounding service areas and states. The typical workday would end around 8 p.m. Smith said, “It wouldn’t take much to fall asleep as soon as your head hit that pillow. We had to get up and do it all over again the next day.” The crew would return after two days of traveling and seven days of working these 14-hour days. The crew was well greeted by the residents of DeRidder. During their work in the field, folks would cheer them on and even bring drinks and snacks. But that wasn’t the end of hurricane season. Just two weeks later, another crew was sent out to Summerdale, Ala. to assist Baldwin Electric with more than 78,000 member outages after Hurricane Sally hit the Gulf Coast. In a

recent Facebook post, Baldwin CEO Karen Moore stated, “After Sally overstayed her welcome, we experienced 2,000 broken poles, 1,248 broken crossarms, 4,297 trees on lines and 4,160 spans of downed wire.” On September 17, another Northcentral crew began assisting with those outages. This crew spent one day traveling, seven days working and one final day traveling home. This hurricane was the worst experience for the area since Hurricane Ivan in 2004. The restoration required a larger effort and more crews from surrounding areas. “It felt like there were over 2,000 linemen from other areas working together,” said Lineman Jody Morgan. “One morning, the breakfast line had about 400 men waiting to get something to eat before they got to work.” Morgan and the crew he traveled with worked long, 14-hour days in order to restore more than 2,500 homes with power. The places they worked were in more residential areas. “At most of the homes we stopped to work, the people would come out to greet us. We even got invited to a few cookouts,” Morgan recalled. “That’s what we like the most, is when those people are happy to see us restore their power back.” That’s what Cooperation Among Cooperatives is; it’s answering the call when cooperative members, even outside of the service area, need help. It’s our linemen leaving home for a week in order to assist others. It’s also stepping up when it means putting your life on hold. “Yeah, you’re away from your family. But we love seeing people happy after we do our job,” said Smith. “In 2015, our service area was hit by tornadoes right before Christmas,” said Northcentral Electric Cooperative CEO/General Manager Kevin Doddridge. “We had days of restorations and had to rely on help from other cooperatives. We hope that we don’t need that kind of help for a long time. But when we do, we know that we can call on other cooperatives to help when we need it. And, in the meantime, we’ll continue to offer our help when we can. We know that our guys are ready to go and have the training they need to come back safe.”

Happy Thanksgiving from Northcentral Electric Cooperative The business oﬃce will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 662.895.2151. Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Olive Branch presents the th

44 Annual Christmas Parade

A Very Merry Holiday

Come spend the holidays in Byhalia EVENTS: Nov. 12

Byhalia Area Chamber Main Street (BACMS) Membership Luncheon hosted by Northcentral Electric Cooperative

Saturday, Dec. 5, 2020 @ 2:00 p.m. Applications are available and return to: CommunityServices@olivebranchms.com Olive Branch Chamber Office 9123 Pigeon Roost Road Phone: 662.895.2600 • Fax: 662.895.2625

Thank you to our sponsors:

Dec. 4 & 5 Marshall County Home Tours — by Marshall Co. Museum

Dec. 17 “Light Up the Town” — Lighting Contest by BACMS & Byhalia Garden Club

Dec. 3 “Illuminate the Night” — Historic Downtown Byhalia by BACMS and Byhalia PTO Organizations

Dec. 19 “Winter Wonderland” — by Town of Byhalia The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) advises that people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions may be at higher risk for severe illness from Coronavirus. Spectators should evaluate their own risk in determining whether to attend. By coming to the Parade you acknowledge and agree that you assume these inherent risks associated with attendance. The 44th Annual Christmas Parade is being planned for December 5, 2020. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and utilize the guidance of the Mississippi State Department of Health and CDC. The Chamber of Commerce wants to make sure your participation, float entry or spectator at the parade is a memorable and safe experience. We hope to see you there. The parade will also be livestreamed on Comcast Station 19.

Visit byhalia-ms.com for a complete listing of events.

For quick cleanup, Haynes recommends trying slow cooker liners.

INGREDIENTS 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, divided 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon cinnamon 2 eggs

½ cup whole milk ¼ cup canola oil 1⁄8 teaspoon salt 4 cups frozen mixed berries or berry of your choice

Approved

STEVEN Date_____

Revisions Requested

Approved

1 teaspoon chili powder 1 small onion, sliced 1 cup water 1⁄3 cup barbecue sauce 8 mini whole-wheat buns

RON Date_____

INGREDIENTS Nonstick cooking spray 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts ¾ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon black pepper

VERSION #______________

Revisions Requested

make meals

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

2020 scholarships awarded The education careers of 175 students from throughout Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association’s 12-county service area will get a financial boost this fall. Each will receive a scholarship of $500 to help them attend state community colleges this year, thanks to the generous spirit and support of the Association’s member-consumers. This is the eighth year for the Round Up for Education scholar’s program, which is funded by members who round their bills up to the nearest dollar each month. Scholarships are available to members who do the round up, as well as for their spouses or dependent children who are enrolled as freshmen this fall. “The purpose of electric cooperatives has always been to make life better in the areas they serve,” said General Manager Randy Wallace. “Our Round Up for Education program is an example of how cooperatives can improve the lives of their members through education which is vital to improving the future for all of us in south Mississippi.” “I am extremely proud of the work our members have done to achieve a common goal, which is a unique hallmark of cooperative organizations, and I am proud of the positive response we’ve received on this effort. As we are now able to see, the accumulation of what would normally be spare change for an individual has added up significantly. These funds will help create longterm educational opportunities as well as economic benefits,

14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

which is good for everyone in the communities we serve.” PRVEPA serves more than 51,000 meters. Since the Round Up program began in November 2012, more than $1.6 million has been collected and deposited in an account overseen by the Pine Belt Foundation. Ten percent of each year’s funds are set aside in an endowed fund for future use. The remaining money is divided equally between the number of eligible applicants, resulting this year in 175 scholarships worth $500 per student. In the program’s eight years, 1,651 students have now received scholarships. Scholarship recipients this year include 107 students attending Pearl River Community College, 27 at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and 31 at Jones County Junior College. An additional 10 students are attending four other state community colleges. Overall, students came from 21 different high schools and home school programs. “I hope our members are able to see the effects this program can have — helping more than 1,600 community college students begin their college careers,” said Wallace. “We are thrilled with the results and know that members’ participation in the program will have positive impacts for years to come.” Round Up for Education funds collected after August 1 go toward next year’s scholarships. Applications for 2021 scholarships will be available beginning this month.

Hinds Community College Nelvis Antoine Franklin

CHS

Jones County Junior College Tytan A. Lee Nyla Zarai Abram Halle Hendrix Conner Rayburn Abigail Swilley Kealy Smith William Purser Sullivan Clark Teel Garcia Johni Cassidy Graham Hunter Scott Courtney Benson Alexander Trussell Ashely Brooke Allee Justice Darren Hanberry Tyler Lowe Jacob Caston Rogers Cameron Aultman Hannah Clare West Kyle Herring Ethan Wilson Robertson Jaclyn Mordica Colby Thompson Rebecca Speights Taylor Ready Mackenzie Nicole Mauldin Coleman Wayne Kendrick Emma Frances Burge Bryce Crawford Laka Till Chandler Burns Nathan Whitworth

SHS WM PHS FCAHS OG OG OG Sum FCAHS OG CA Sum PCS Sum PHS FCAHS Sum OG CA WM FCAHS CA GED Sum Sum FCAHS OG OG Seminary Shaw HS FCAHS

Miss. Gulf Coast Community College Kate Lynn Chandler Taylor C. Fayard Nicholas Mason Smith Jayde Allison Martin Julia L. Powell A’niya Breland Katelyn Leger Robert Hoskin III Gavin Martinez Lawson Pearson Breanna Lee Brianna Lee Salena Boggs Russell Cain Bryant Renot

SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS

Pearl River Community College Samuel Drake Peak Madelyn Pittman Aiden C. Butler Daniel Kaden Hernandez Anna Grace Branan Madison Broom Hannah Beth Nelson Kyler Jo Ducker Lindsey Sumrall Skyler Nicole Edwards Charles Dengler IV Gracie Elisabeth Jones Baleigh Belk Karley Danielle Brooks Hunter Lee Dearman Ashanti Amya Ruffin Avery Holmes Jasmine Braxton Haley Krummel Precilla Anselmo Caley Thornhill Alexis Eubanks Samuel Largen Karlee Rodriguez Victoria Hagan Coleton King Travis Keaton Little Madison Tynes William Hutchinson Breithaupt II Brookelynn Emily Stuart Allison Young Kassidy Cowart Andrew Trotter Matthew Chabert Mary Catherine Galloway Trenity Key A’lheria Barnett Shelby Bedwell Alaina Broom Harper Jordan Katherine Elise Speights Cashonia Daniel Lacey Harlin Cody Everette Robbins Hannah Lynn Rowley Alexis Lynn Broom Sarah Harrington Taylor Toland Joey G. Croom Jr. Hannah Phipps

WM WM CHS Sum Home Sum PHS OG CHS WM FCAHS CA PHS SHS FCAHS EM WM OG PHS SHS WM PHS OG POP PHS CHS WM WM OG Sum PHS PHS OG PHS Home CA OG WM Sum PCS Sum EM Sum CA WM Sum LCS PHS CHS OG

Southwest Community College Parker Wilks Bailey Buckley Sherry Reyer Patrick Gill

CHS CA PHS CA

Revisions Requested Approved

Pearl River ....................................................... 107 Gulf Coast .........................................................27 Jones ....................................................................31 Southwest ...........................................................4 Hinds ..................................................................... 1 Co-Lin ................................................................... 3 East MS ................................................................ 2

High Schools Recipients Attending Stone ...................................................................29 Sumrall ...............................................................17 Purvis .................................................................24 West Marion .....................................................15 Oak Grove ........................................................29 Forrest County AHS ......................................18 Columbia ............................................................11 East Marion ........................................................ 5 Columbia Academy ...................................... 10 Lamar Christian ................................................ 1 Lumberton .......................................................... 1 Homeschool ....................................................... 3 Poplarville ........................................................... 2 Presbyterian Christian High.......................... 2 D’Iberville ............................................................ 2 George County High School ......................... 1 Picayune Memorial High ................................. 1 GED ........................................................................ 1 Seminary Attendance Center ....................... 1 Shaw High School ............................................. 1 Bass Memorial Academy ................................ 1

CHAD Date_____

CHS WM

Community Colleges Students are Attending

Revisions Requested

Haven Ryals Joshua Ham

Lum OG PHS CHS EM FCAHS POP FCAHS PHS FCAHS CHS Home FCAHS FCAHS EM Sum FCAHS OG OG OG Sum OG GC OG PMHS OG PHS PHS CHS PHS PHS OG FCAHS WM Sum FCAHS FCAHS SHS CA PHS Sum CA PHS OG EM OG OG OG OG OG PHS BMA WM WM PHS PHS PHS

Approved

East Mississippi Community College

Zykyria Bush Austin Bailey Rivers Grant Aaron Chiasson Daulton Lee Turnage Raven Newell Julius Xavier Williams Anna C. Barnett Gage Mapp David Allen Cooper Kayleigh Grace Risk Abigail Grace King Joshua Motichek Madelyn Mapp Abbie Joelle Graham Alaila Holmes Anna McGuffee Bethanna Rachelle Lee Caitland Cummins Jacob Charles Giron Jordan McKenzie Connor Smith Madeline Burge Makayla Moye Jaila S. Parker Cameron Vaughn Justus Dillon Isabella Madden Jonathan Madden Rachel Carley Davis Daniel James Kelly Samantha Kelly William Parker Harrington Angela Brianna Allen Chaz Holman Hope Haddox Christina Mariella Adams Benjamin Cade Collins Ryan Dedeaux Gracie Graham River Ryan Royals Kaylee Fortenberry Ethan Cade Stringer Wilson Hannaford Jennifer Adams Ontariunna Marsalis Jillian Adams Elyssa Puahala Samuel Lawing Al’Lasia Pittman Joseph Daniel Patterson Tyler Guy Ferguson Savannah Diamond Coby Rowley Nicholas Isaiah Thompson Logan Cuevas Haegan Tynes Brittany Rogers

STEVEN Date_____

CHS SHS SHS

SHS SHS SHS SHS SHS FCAHS D’Iberville D’Iberville SHS SHS OG SHS

2013-2020 Students’ Community College Pearl River CC................................................ 871 Miss. Gulf Coast CC ....................................343 Jones County JC .......................................... 319 Southwest Miss. CC ...................................... 48 Hinds CC .............................................................15 East Central ........................................................11 Other .................................................................. 44 Total ...................................................... 1,651

2013-2020 Students’ High Schools Stone HS .......................................................... 331 Oak Grove HS ................................................ 212 Purvis HS ........................................................203 Forrest County AHS .................................... 159 Sumrall HS....................................................... 157 West Marion HS ............................................ 154 Columbia HS ................................................... 94 Columbia Academy ........................................91 East Marion HS .................................................81 Lamar Christian .............................................. 43 Other ................................................................. 126 Total ...................................................... 1,651

Yearly Totals

Students

Awards

2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 Total

175 214 253 241 217 207 172 172 1,651

$500 $500 $725 $800 $935 $975 $1000 $963 $1,313,081

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

Revisions Requested

Caleb Broom Kasey Krohn Carson Strickland

McKenna Danzey Allee Johnston Adam Labiche Anna Whitten Madison Armstrong Hannah Grace Helton Paige Christine Bond Shelby Thibodeaux Ben Reece Edens Elisabeth Reaux Landon Forbes Haylee Eaton

Approved

Copiah Lincoln Community College

RON Date_____

Total amount: $87,500 • Each recipient receives: $500 • Total recipients: 175

2020 Community College Scholars Program

VERSION #______________

2020 PRVEPA SCHOLARS PROGRAM

82nd Annual Meeting As a member of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association, you are part of a unique business model which gives members ownership in their cooperative. An important part of a cooperative business is our Annual Meeting, which we conduct each year in September. Pearl River Valley Electric held its most recent Annual Meeting on September 26, 2020 at the Columbia Water Park Pavilion in Columbia. Four directors were elected to three-year terms: Winfred Kendrick – District 2, B.F. Hudson Jr. – District 5, Davis Wingo – District 7 and Leslie Peters – At Large

In addition, the membership voted to approve the Board of Director’s recommendation to amend the Certificate of Incorporation to allow for high-speed internet (broadband) should the board find it is financially feasible. Attendance and absentee prizes were awarded as a part of our celebration.

2020 ATTENDANCE PRIZE WINNERS Edna Jefferson $1,000 Mary Frelix $750 Calandro Farms C/O Victor Calandro $500

2020 ABSENTEE PRIZE WINNERS

$100 WINNERS Mark Trago James Fulton Chris V. Smith C. R. Stuckey, Jr. Debbie Sistrunk

David Hertz $1,000 Rany C. Robert $750 Bonnie G. Bean $500

$100 WINNERS Joan Summers Brandon Cooper Jalil Buti Sonya S. Fite Loyd Randall Christi Bounds Jessica Washington Todd Fortenberry Derek S. Zumbro Jaunice Dyess Robert G. Goolsby George Magola George L. Rayburn

Edna Jefferson $1,000

Mary Frelix $750

Victor Calandro $500

$100 WINNERS (In Attendance)

16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

Dorothy L. Hunt Jerry L. Bullock Stephen M. Robbins Lucy Grace Sullivan Ronald Montague

$50 WINNERS Kenneth C. Glover Hwy 98 E. Water Ass. Roy W. Beach Mary M. Breazeale Jimmy D. Saucier Ginger Ann Stevison Irene Rodgers Keith Alford Charles P. Autry Dewey Lott Douglas A. Lee Richard L. Maddox

Cary A. Moree Charliene H. Gilder A. M. Robert Dorothy Mason Charles P. Jones Mindy L. Hamilton Elizabeth A. Foreman Christopher D. Kirby Wanda Jean Carnesi Mary T. Mccloud Steve Morgan Mozell Aultman C/O Marcy Lee Aultman Sedrick Magee

L. E. Davis Robert J. Armstrong Dorothy Newell Ronnie W. Farrar Julia Gatewood Vernon M. Hoadley Daniel Holcomb Charles E. Broome Byron White Marion Forest Products C/O Amanda Miller Homer L. Whitten C/O Lisa Clark William Saski

ucts

Jimmy Ryals Pearl River Valley Electric unfortunately said goodbye to a long-time employee and friend, Jimmy Ryals, who passed away on September 23. Jimmy began work at Pearl River Valley Electric in January 1979 as an apprentice lineman at the Columbia headquarters office. Later, in 1982, he became an equipment/truck operator until he took the position of dispatcher in 1994. Jimmy will be remembered by his co-workers for his extensive knowledge of our system and

his assistance to our linemen working in the field during power outages. “I along with our employees extend our deepest sympathies to the Ryals family,” said Randy Wallace, general manager of Pearl River Valley EPA. “Jimmy was a valuable member of our family and we will miss him greatly.” Jimmy is survived by his wife, Beverly Ryals and his children Eric and Erin Ryals and his stepsons, Jonathan Stringer and Eric Stringer.

Happy from Pearl River Valley Thanksgiving Electric Power Association! We will be closed November 26 and 27. Dispatchers will be on duty!

Rocket fuel company moves operation to Stone County Solid rocket fuel innovator Adranos, Inc. is locating its rocket motor research and development operations in McHenry in Stone County, according to a news release. As a part of its relocation to Mississippi, Adranos will make a $525,000 corporate investment and plans to create 20 jobs. “Mississippi continues to make strides in our efforts to send astronauts once again to the moon and beyond. The newest company to join the ranks of others in this mission, Adranos, will further bolster our position as a leader in space exploration,” Gov. Tate Reeves said in the release. “The company’s environmentally friendly, next-generation rocket fuel will be advanced by Mississippians in Stone County, and we are proud to partner with them and with Adranos as we continue to make history on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and for our nation.” Adranos is locating at the 640-acre, seven-building complex formerly occupied by General Dynamics. The site’s primary advantages are its proximity to Stennis Space Center and its compliance with all Department of Defense safety requirements for munitions handling. There, Adranos will build a rocket motor test stand so it can perform a series of tests of its next-generation rocket fuel, the first of which will occur during the summer of 2021. “The opportunity afforded to us by Stone County and the Mississippi Development Authority is truly extraordinary. The facility and local employment base will enable us to advance our high-performance rocket fuel and grow our company for many years to come,” Adranos CEO Chris Stoker said in the release. “South Mississippi’s workforce is second-to-none and plays a critical role in the region’s efforts to explore the depths of outer space, and now 20 more of the area’s residents will have the opportunity to be an active part

of this important mission,” said MDA Interim Director John Rounsaville. “We are grateful to the Stone County Economic Development Partnership and Cooperative Energy for their support of this company. As a result of their teamwork, new jobs and investment are being realized in Stone County and beyond as Adranos prepares to ramp up production of its state-of-the-art rocket fuel.” The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance for site improvements. Through the Cooperative Competes grant program, Cooperative Energy and Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association also are assisting with the project, as well as the Stone County Economic Development Partnership. “These outstanding innovators have developed the next generation of solid rocket fuel that increases rocket performance and does not harm the environment. Adranos co-founders Chris Stoker and Brandon Terry are excited about having discovered the perfect facility here in South Mississippi.” Betsy M. Rowell, executive director Stone County Economic Development Partnership said. “Homes are being purchased, they are looking to fill jobs here soon and nearly two dozen local construction employees are working on the buildings with move-in day in mind. Adranos brings a level of technology that further enhances Mississippi as a leader in space launch capabilities and offers a competitive advantage for military defense technology.” “Along with Cooperative Energy, we have worked with various partners to support marketing the former General Dynamics campus for new development,” said Pearl River Valley Electric General Manager Randy Wallace. “Adranos choosing the campus is a great win for our territory, and we are excited to welcome the company and state-of-the-art career opportunities to our region.” Adranos plans to fill the 20 jobs by the end of 2023.

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

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

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

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

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

Multi-talented Holmes uses creative outlets to spark joy by Jennifer Johnson To say Torrance Holmes is talented could be an understatement. A self-proclaimed “jack of all trades,” Holmes finds joy in expressing himself through numerous projects, including drawing, producing music tracks, cutting artistic features in hair, and creating artificial ice sculptures. And then there are the balloon creations. Holmes creates detailed balloon designs of cartoon characters, Holmes puts the finishing touches on an people, buildings, and just artificial ice sculpture using a blow torch. about anything else that can be imagined. He said he got his start by watching some basic YouTube videos and taking them to the next level. “One time I had a lady approach me about creating a large walk-in castle and some cartoon characters for her child’s birthday party. She showed me what she wanted, and it needed to be pretty large. I created the castle with balloons and some other materials, and she was thrilled when she saw the finished product.” Holmes said word got around at a past employer about his abilities. While working as a postal contractor, the company hired him to train a group of employees in Washington, D. C., on the art of balloon twisting at one of their corporate events. He taught them to make race cars from the balloons and actually design the cars to roll. His “students” raced their newly-made cars as part of a teambuilding exercise during the session. He’s been hired to create balloon art for country clubs 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

in the Memphis area, and he took part in several events for the Shelby Residential and Vocational Services, which is a facility for disabled individuals. Holmes once worked for Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. As part of the housekeeping team, his department was charged with creating “special touches” to make guests feel welcome. He learned to make a sort of origami using the bath towels and crafted several intricate designs, including making a Yoda character from the Star Wars movies using towels. Even before his stint with the theme park, Holmes had a knack for making things. The Memphis native recalled as a child taking things apart in his family’s home and trying to put them back together. “I always liked to build stuff, and I drew a lot.” As his talents grew, Holmes said his parents seemed shocked at his skill level and found themselves asking, “Where did this come from?” He was well-rounded, enjoyed playing basketball in school and even advancing to a semi-pro league that toured all over Mexico. He later went Torrance Holmes created this decorative piece on to coach basketball for for the family’s dining room using old boards children who did not know and Styrofoam.

Pontotoc Electric participates in North Pontotoc Elementary Community Helper Day

ABOVE: Right-of-Way Trimmer/Laborer Ben Bond walks away from the truck as Rightof-Way Trimmer/ Laborer Corie Lucroy prepares to give a kindergarten teacher an aerial view from the raised bucket.

RIGHT: Students watch the bucket used in line work and tree trimming by the crews at Pontotoc Electric as it climbs higher in the air.

Providing assistance after Laura’s destruction A third crew from Pontotoc Electric headed to DeRidder, La. in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 20. The group assisted with power recovery efforts for customers of Beauregard Electric after Hurricane Laura struck the area in late August 2020. Left to right: Apprentice Lineman Jimmy Moore, Collector/ Meterman Billy Jack Stewart, General Foreman James Elzie, Lineman Cody Laster, Apprentice Lineman Walker Westmoreland, Apprentice Lineman Caleb Park, and Staking Technician Richard Morgan.

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

how to play the game, or who might not have had a chance to play otherwise. His creativity ramped up significantly during his senior year in high school, he said. “I felt a nudging to spend more time in my Bible like I did on the basketball court. I was obedient to that, and that’s when things started really happening with my art. I started cutting designs in hair and drawing. I won several art contests. After Holmes and wife This string art project was put together for Buwana met and started display in a barber shop Holmes and his family recently opened. raising a family, he looked for opportunities to use his gifts to excite and amaze his children. Buwana recalled a particular memory that stood out. “When we lived in Florida and the kids were younger, Torrance made décor for all their walls. They had a whole room full of Styrofoam structures.” Buwana has also been the recipient of Holmes’ handmade crafts. “One of my favorite movies is “Up.” Torrance made a house like the one from the movie and attached balloons to it. He surprised me with it as an anniversary gift. It’s very special to me.” No matter what he’s working on next or when the request comes to him, one thing is certain: Holmes believes his gifts are from God. “I’m a server and a believer. He puts the right people around me, and I have the ability to help them or make their day better.” For more information about the creative projects of Torrance Holmes, check out his Facebook page at JEZZ Balloons & MORE.

16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

At Pontotoc Electric, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thankful for our employees and their dedication to serving our members. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

Happy Thanksgiving

from Pontotoc Electric Power Association Our oďŹ&#x192;ces will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. For outages or emergencies, please call (662) 489-3211 (Pontotoc) or 662-983-2727 (Bruce). A Pontotoc Electric dispatcher is on duty 24-hours per day, seven days per week.

Honey Bun Cake

Squash Dressing

Don and Sandy Patterson

Kathy Stark

Retiree (Don)

Collections Assistant/Receptionist

1 pkg. yellow cake mix 1-1/3 cup milk 3/4 cup vegetable oil

1 cup brown sugar 4 eggs 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, oil, eggs, and milk. Stir by hand approximately 50 strokes, or until large lumps are gone. Pour half of batter into an ungreased 9 x 13 glass baking dish. Combine brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle over batter in the cake pan. Spoon the other half of the batter into the cake pan, covering the brown sugar and cinnamon. Twirl the cake with a butter knife or icing knife until it looks like a honey bun. Bake in preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Frost cake while it is still hot. Serve warm. Icing: 2 cups powdered sugar 2 tbsp vanilla 4 tbsp milk In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. 18 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

2 cups squash, cooked 2 eggs 2 pkgs. Jiffy cornbread mix

salt, pepper, and sage to taste 1 stick margarine

Make cornbread according to package directions, then crumble. Mix all ingredients together and bake at 350 degrees for approximately 30-35 minutes.

by Megan Tate Born four months premature, I was placed on 100% oxygen The next day I stayed in bed. I felt awful. By now my for the first several months after birth because my lungs were headache had morphed into a full-blown migraine. underdeveloped. This resulted in retinopathy of prematurity. The next morning when I awoke, I stood up and walked As a child, I dealt with limited vision in my right eye and none into the bathroom, flipping the light switch as I had done in my left. I had friends who suffered from glaucoma and I a million times before. was aware that it could lead to blindness and that it could be It clicked on, but it was still dark. painful. But that’s all I knew. What are the chances, I thought? Mentally, I counted the For most of my life I had limited vision. I could see well number of bulbs in my head. There were two sets located enough to walk around unassisted most of the time and I above the his and hers sinks. Eight of them. What were the could see images to a certain degree. What I saw best, chances all eight had blown overnight? however, was bright colors. Without turning around, I called out to my husband. While learning web design, I discov“Baby, the lights in the bathroom ered I could change the entirety of my are blown,” I said. “They were working computer screen to one solid color, yesterday.” allowing me to tour the spectrum of “No, they’re not,” he said from his My prayer is that Christ will use the rainbow. Little did I know that while position over my shoulder. “They’re on.” my story to help others, that it I was looking at all those beautiful That was the start of a journey that I will strengthen my ministry and shades, I was taking snapshots of them never could have prepared for, one that I that I can be a beacon for him. in my mind for future reference. God find hard to accept and one that I ask God was preparing me for the road that was ahead. daily to change. I just can’t accept that I might be blind for the In the winter of 2013, I noticed that I didn’t seem to be seerest of my life. And I can’t acknowledge that I may never see ing things as well as before. I chalked it up to poor lighting, my those beautiful colors again outside of the snapshots Christ finicky eyes and contrast. I even went to my eye specialist who made sure were stored in my head. said my eyes looked just as they always had. My eye pressure That morning when I walked into my eye doctor’s office, was perfect, and my retina looked flat and stable. In essence, my heart was pounding. there was no medical reason for my decreased vision. But I I was diagnosed with what I would later come to know as knew something wasn’t right. I could no longer see those acute open-angle glaucoma; a glaucoma that creeps on you colors on the computer screen like I once had. like a beast, stealing your sight without warning or apology. One evening in late January 2014, about two weeks before According to my doctor, my once flat retina had also partialmy 25th birthday, my husband and I had settled in to watch ly detached. a movie. By nature, I am an optimistic person. I have a let’s-fix-it attiI usually worked on a jigsaw puzzle while we watched. tude. But three glaucoma surgeries later and more than six But that night I wasn’t feeling well. I sat on the couch instead and a half years of prayers and hopeful thinking and I am still of at the kitchen table and leaned against the couch. blind. I hold on to my faith that there is a reason for everything, I had a persistent headache, something that wasn’t even if I can’t understand what that reason is. completely unheard of for me. My prayer is that Christ will use my story to help others, As the movie progressed, my headache worsened. We that it will strengthen my ministry and that I can be a beacon turned off the TV and I jumped in the shower, letting the for him. So, I keep myself busy. I sing, I write, I take care of hot water massage my throbbing temples. my home and my beautiful fluffy orange tabby as well as the For me, seeing halos, or noodles as I had called them amazing man who has become my eyes. since I was a little girl, was a common occurrence. So, when Megan Tate, a Northcentral Electric Cooperative member, I closed my eyes, noodles flashed across my eyes. They were is a gospel singer. Her music is online at iTunes and Amazon. annoying, but harmless. You can also follow her on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ megantatemusic. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 19

MY GLAUCOMA STORY

BRIAN HUGHEY

Bringing power and energy services to local communities For more information, call 601-947-4211 or 228-497-1313.

www.singingriver.com

@singingriverelectric

General Manager & CEO AMANDA PARKER LORRI FREEMAN, APR Public Relations Specialist Manager of Public Relations SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

@singingriverelectric

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

SRE to retire over $4.2 M in capital credits There are many benefits of being a member of an electric cooperative. One benefit is the retirement Brian Hughey of capital General Manager credits. & CEO Singing River Electric Cooperative’s board of directors approved a retirement this year of more than $4.2 million in SRE capital credits to the membership. This represents capital credits for the years 1993 and 1994. An additional $700,622 of other capital credits will be returned to members for the year 1990. What does this mean for the members? As a member, you have a share in the earnings of your electric cooperative. Singing River Electric’s rate revenue is used to operate, make payments on loans and make improvements to the electric system. Any remaining revenue is allocated to the members in the form of capital credits. The amount of capital credits assigned to a member is based on the amount of 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

electricity purchased during a particular year. When funding is available, Singing River Electric’s board of directors can approve retiring a portion of the member’s capital credits. How do I get capital credits? Members during the years 1993 and 1994, with an account that is still active, will automatically receive either a bill credit or check based on their credit amount. These members do not have to fill out any paperwork. The checks will be mailed and bill credits applied during the month of December. Previous members who had an account from 1993 and 1994, but no longer have an active account, can visit singingriver.com or call any SRE office between Oct.1 - Dec. 31 to receive instructions and download the necessary paperwork to claim their capital credits. Completed documentation must be returned to the Singing River Electric Lucedale office by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020. We hope these returned capital credits help you and your family during this holiday season. Lastly, on behalf of our board and employees, we want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving.

@SRECooperative

Energy Tips

Jeff Gray Energy Services Representative gray@singingriver.com

Tips for winter heating Winter is right around the corner. Remember to monitor your electric heating, which is often the highest cost on your electric bill. What you should do depends on the kind of heating unit you have. Electric space heaters are not recommended unless you have no other heating option. However, if necessary to heat a small space, remember to keep safety in mind and turn off the unit when not needed. Space heaters do have thermostats, but they will rarely turn off and can be expensive to operate. A traditional electric furnace can also be costly to operate in the winter. Most electric furnaces will use around $1 of electricity per hour of run time. Considering units can run several hours per day, especially during extreme or sustained cold, your energy costs can add up quickly. Tips include programming your thermostat to go down a few degrees during the day when no one is home or at night while you are sleeping. You can also open curtains during the day to take advantage of free radiant heat from the sun. Heat pumps heat your home about three and a half times more efficiently than an electric furnace. A heat pump is designed to maintain the temperature in your home, so leave it programmed and do not turn it off and on in the winter. Set it to a desired temperature and leave it. If you must adjust the thermostat, only make minor adjustments. Adjusting the temperature more than two degrees or more can engage the emergency heating mode resulting in lost savings that would have been gained from operating in heat pump mode. For more information, visit singingriver.com/ways-to-save.

Understanding Capital Credits If you receive your electricity from a local cooperative, you are a member-owner. That means you are entitled to certain benefits, including the allocation of capital credits.

Q. Can I obtain a deceased member’s capital credits? A. Yes. Surviving family members may download Check the NHN Energy Assistance paperwork from singingriver.com to request box at the top of your bill. capital credits for a deceased relative.

Capital credits are not the only member benefits: • Reliable electric service provided at cost. • More than 80 year heritage of local community support and development.

Check the NHN Energy Assistance box at the top of your bill.

• Control of your electric co-op. Governed

1 2 serve on the board of directors.

Find out more:

Four easy ways to round up:

Go online with your computer at singingriver.com/give-joy

Call any SRE office and request to participate. Once enrolled, the billed amount will “round up” to the next whole dollar.

Check the NHN Energy Assistance box at the top of your bill.

Access my Account

Check the NHN Energy Assistance box at the top of your bill.

Four easy ways to round up:

Go online with your computer at singingriver.com/give-joy

Call any SRE office and request to participate. Once enrolled, the billed amount will “round up” to the next whole dollar.

Four easy ways to round up:

Go online with your computer at singingriver.com/give-joy

Call any SRE office and request to participate. Once enrolled, the billed amount will “round up” to the next whole dollar.

“

Jennifer Williams Catholic Charities of South Mississip

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doesn’toffi help anyone. When Call anytheythatSRE ce and come in for assistance, we set do budget education..” requestgoalstoandparticipate. Once enrolled, the billed amount will “round up” to the next whole dollar. Jennifer Williams Catholic Charities of South Mississippi

singingriver.com/capital-credits @SingingRiverElectric

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Jennifer Williams Catholic Charities of South Mississippi

Call any SRE office and request to participate. Once enrolled, the billed amount will “round up” to the next whole dollar.

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doesn’t help anyone. When Go online with theythatcome in for assistance, we set goals your computer at and do budget education..” singingriver.com/give-joy

Four easy ways to round up:

by your neighbors, member-owners, who Check the NHN Energy Assistance box at the top of your bill.

Four easy ways to round up:

“

Q. Are capital credits returned every year? A. Each year the board of directors will decide whether to retire capital credits. There may be years when the cooperative is not able to distribute capital credits because of certain economic conditions and other factors such as major storm damage.

Q. What happens to a member’s capital credits if the member moves away? A. Capital credits are maintained on record and can still be returned to a member when those credits are retired by the local board of directors. Members who move away may download paperwork from singingriver.com to request capital credits if they were members during the years being retired.

“

Q. How do members earn capital credits? A. When you signed up for electrical service from the cooperative, you became a member. Each member is allocated capital credits based on how much energy the member purchases from the cooperative.

Q. How are capital credits returned? A. Either by a check mailed to members, or in the form of a credit on the electric bill, based on the credit amount.

“

Q. What are capital credits? A. Singing River Electric’s rate revenue is used to operate, make payments on loans and make improvements to the electric system. Any remaining revenue is allocated to the members in the form of capital credits.

@SRECooperative

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

by Nancy Jo Maples “I scream. You scream. We all scream for ice cream,” especially when it’s from Havens Down Home Creamery. This place takes ice cream from the cow to the cone. For Preston and Kristen Havens and their four children, farming is a family affair. Their venture began in 2011 hand-milking one cow because their daughter Presley was intolerant to store-bought milk. That Jersey produced three gallons a day, more than they could drink. They shared excess with neighbors soon realizing they needed more cows to meet the demand. They built a dairy barn with electric milkers and started milking commercially January 2016. “We intended to start with seven cows, but bought 13. That’s 30 gallons a day. Preston was afraid we wouldn’t be able to sell that much. However, that hasn’t been the case. Instead, our concern jumped to finding enough cows to feed people,” Kristen said. Today the Havens milk 32 cows producing 115 gallons a day. Their milk is slowly pasteurized at 145 degrees for 30 minutes, but is not homogenized. Homogenization permanently mixes fat content into the milk’s body eliminating the cream line characteristic of fresh-from-the-farm milk. Keeping milk at its natural state allows it to be whole, packed with nutrients and more easily digested. Their business started with and still markets cream line milk, chocolate milk, buttermilk, cheeses and packaged grass-fed beef onsite and at select stores. Yet their 2018 ice cream venture caused sales to soar. Their signature trailer picturing a happy cow can be spotted at festivals and roadside setups throughout southeast Mississippi. Often, you’ll notice the customer line before the trailer as lines can be 40 people deep. “We’ve had people wait in line an hour or more,” Kristen said. Havens’ ice cream originally offered five flavors — sweet cream (vanilla), peach, strawberry, chocolate and salted caramel with pecan pralines, their best seller. Today they carry 48 flavors and make 360 gallons a week. A consumer of Singing River Electric, the Havens plan to build a store and processing plant nearer 16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

the road as their backyard gets congested during afternoon ice cream sales. They sell from their backyard, 121 Havens Dairy Road, 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. Sunday through Friday, March until October, and Thursday, Friday and Sunday in winter months. Follow their Facebook page, Havens Down Home Creamery, to find postings of set-ups in Gautier, Lucedale, Leakesville, Hurley and TannerWilliams. The children — Tanner, 16, Presley, 13, Ty, 8, and Paisley, 6 — are homeschooled each morning and pitch in for chores after lunch. Before school starts Kristen and Preston have already milked, dealt with managerial paperwork and cooked breakfast. After lunch everybody pitches in feeding calves and chickens, labeling milk products, herding cows, etc. The list of chores is endless, thus the need for their half dozen employees. The Havens eat, breathe and drink dairy life, literally. Their milk barn sits 50 yards behind their home in George County’s Brushy Creek Community. On any given day you’ll not only find calves roaming in the backyard, but also chickens, guineas, dogs and a cat named Danny. Cows graze on seasonal grasses only eating grains during milking. None receive hormones, steroids or antibiotics. They’re milked four at a time, twice a day at 5 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Milking takes an hour and a half. Most are Jersey or Jersey-Holstein personalized with names like Betty Lou and Lucy, a trait Preston learned from his grandfather, R.B. Havens, who himself milked for 52 years nearby. “This is Preston’s dream,” Kristen said. “He grew up following his grandfather’s footsteps.” It may have been Preston’s dream, but it has become Kristen’s passion. She says it’s taught their children more than she could have imagined. “It’s not a job. It’s a lifestyle,” she said. “Would I do it again? Absolutely!” Award-winning journalist Nancy Jo Maples has written about Mississippi people and places for three decades. Contact her at nancyjomaples@aol.com.

SRE members vote to amend Certificate of Incorporation Singing River Electric Cooperative members voted by 96% to amend the co-op’s Certificate of Incorporation and allow SRE to potentially provide both electric and highspeed internet or broadband services on Friday, Oct. 9, at the Lucedale office. “We ask now for your patience as the board carefully considers this vote, their research and the wise counsel of our experienced consultants to make a decision by the end of the year on whether to provide broadband fiber service,” said Singing River Electric CEO and General Manager Brian Hughey.

The results of the board’s decision on broadband will be released in the member magazine publication, Today in Mississippi, which is mailed to members the first week of every month. For more information about SRE’s research and a Q&A about broadband, visit singingriver.com/broadband. To see video and additional photos of the specialcalled meeting, visit SRE’s Facebook or Instagram page at Singing River Electric or the Twitter page at SRECooperative.

BROADBAND VOTE AND MEETING EARLY VOTING WINNERS

$500

Grand Prize Winner R. Welford — Lucedale

$250

Winners:

A. Sandoval — Ocean Springs M. Skinner — Lucedale L. Stokes — Gautier Richton Church of God — Richton M. Furr — Vancleave D. Stewart — Leakesville K. Papa — Ocean Springs M. Motes, Jr. — Ocean Springs Winners have been notified, and checks were received by mail. Congratulations and thank you!

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

Supporting financial education NHN Community Grants Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN) Community Grants help Singing River Electric merge efforts with the hard work of those within our communities. Since the program’s inception in 2001, $297,836 has been awarded to local non-profits in local communities.

SRE NHN Grant assists Jackson County Civic Action Committee Jackson County Civic Action Committee received a $2,500 Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN) Community Grant to purchase six flip-top nesting tables and 12 stacking chairs for their new Financial Counseling and Education Center. According to Jackson County Civic Action Committee Executive Director Diann Payne, the three main subject areas covered during trainings are credit as an asset, student loan debt and college financing, and retirement and social security. Clients also attend sessions to learn how to save money and plan for episodic emergencies, such as car repairs and illnesses. The goal is to give clients the resources to make informed financial decisions.

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

Happy Thanksgiving from Singing River Electric Our oﬃces will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.

and servicemen will be available for outages and emergencies 18 TODAY | NOVEMBER Dispatchers 2020

MY GLAUCOMA STORY

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

“The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section-gang, a football ﬁeld, in an army, or in an ofﬁce.” Dwight Eisenhower As the new President and CEO at Southern Pine, this is the first message to the members that I have written. What better way to start than during the season of Thanksgiving, because I certainly am grateful for the opportunity to serve you. Southern Pine Electric has a long-standing tradition of providing reliable and affordable electricity and that mission has never changed. What I have witnessed since joining the Southern Pine family is the dedication of the men and women who bring the power to you every day. Each person on our team plays an important role in accomplishing the mission and goals to better serve you. Titles do not matter much to me; what is more important than a title is a person’s integrity, character, and work ethic. I believe everyone is here to do a job and the only difference between me and any other employee is that we have different responsibilities and tasks to perform. If I do not do my job, Southern Pine suffers. I do not care if an employee is part of the janitorial staff, the engineering staff, the line crew, in the accounting department or even the CEO. If any one of us does not do our job to the best of our abilities, then Southern Pine will not be all that it should be and neither will the service to you, our members. We are only human, and we will make mistakes, but most of the time we will get it right. When I joined the team in September, I spoke to everyone

about my vision for Southern Pine and it is a simple one. Members come first in everything we do, and we are going to do the right thing simply because it is the right thing to do. If we follow these two rules, there is nothing that can stop us from meeting our mission with integrity and honor. Southern Pine will continue to bring the power to you safely, reliably and affordably, just as we have for over 82 years. As I begin this journey with all of you, I am honored and humbled by the faith the Board of Directors has in me and I promise to always do my best to live by our two rules — members first and do the right thing because it is the right thing to do. I may stumble along the way, but I have no doubt in my mind that the wonderful employees of Southern Pine will always be there to help. We are a team committed to working together to bring you the power and a team grateful for the blessings and opportunities we share.

by Chris K. Rhodes President / CEO Southern Pine Electric

MEMBERS CAN ALWAYS REACH US Communications & Public Relations: voice@southernpine.coop

Hattiesburg Branch: kmoseley@southernpine.coop

Newton District: jbaucum@southernpine.coop

For speciﬁcations, rates, building requirements: engineering@southernpine.coop

New Hebron District: bwilliamson@southernpine.coop

Taylorsville District: clewis@southernpine.coop

Member Services: info@southernpine.coop

Brandon District: emitchell@southernpine.coop

14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

Revisions Requested Approved

CHAD Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

STEVEN Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

So many things have changed due to COVID-19 restrictions, including the way we must host our annual membership meeting. Rather than holding our traditional, in-person meeting, the 2020 membership meeting will be streamed online for the safety of our members and employees. While we will certainly miss seeing our members this year, plans are already underway for the 2021 meeting that will be bigger and better than ever. The 2020 Membership Meeting will be streamed online at 2 p.m. Thursday, November 12. Members may visit www.southernpine.coop or visit any of Southern Pine Electricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social media sites to view the meeting. The Committee on Nominations, pursuant to the Bylaws of the Cooperative, has nominated the following members for election as directors: (1) Charles Lowe of Copiah County; (2) Greg Sullivan of Covington County and (3) Richard Thoms of Newton County. There were no nominations by petition. Prizes, as always, will be awarded from among those who vote online or by mail. So, please exercise your right as a member and vote. Members who vote will be eligible to win $1,000 of electricity, $750 of electricity, $500 of electricity, $250 of electricity and a grand prize of a retired Southern Pine Electric pick-up truck. Winners will be notified immediately after the meeting. Directors, employees, committee members, and members of their immediate household are not eligible for prizes. Proxies must be turned in by November 9 at 5 p.m.

RON Date_____

2020 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING TO BE STREAMED ONLINE

VERSION #______________

G R

NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

MEET SOUTHERN PINE EMPLOYEE:

KEITH PHILLIPS

Keith Phillips is a soft-spoken man. But if you take the time to listen, he has a lot to say. His humility comes across with ease as he quietly serves the members of Southern Pine Electric, just as he has done for 41 years. Keith started his career with Southern Pine working on the right-of-way crew, clearing brush and “climbing trees” as he says. He’s been here through a lot of changes and probably the best change to him is the advancement of technologies that make his work a little less back breaking. “When I started working with the underground crew, we had to dig our holes by hand with a post hole digger. Now, thankfully, the equipment does a lot of that work,” Keith said. From climbing trees to digging holes by hand, for over 41 years, Keith has done a great deal of work to serve our members and make sure they have the electric service they need. Since 1998, Keith has served as construction supervisor. According to Eddie Mitchell, Brandon District Manager, Keith is the go-to guy for underground construction. “With over 20 years experience, Keith is our underground specialist. He specializes in construction, maintenance, and power restoration for our underground utilities,” Eddie said. “Keith is a dedicated and committed worker, striving to provide excellence in underground power to Southern Pine and he’s an outstanding leader,” he added. Keith said it’s hard to come up with a single memory of what is best about working at Southern Pine because over the years there have been so many great things. “The best feeling is after a major outage when all the power is restored. That just feels

“Southern Pine is a good place to work, and I’ve worked hard, made a good living.” Keith Phillips great,” he said. “Southern Pine is a good place to work, and I’ve worked hard and made a good living and the work has always been steady,” Keith added. Even though Keith loves working at Southern Pine, he is really looking forward to retiring in the next few years to focus more on hunting and fishing at his camp house at Eagle Lake. While it may be difficult for him to come up with a single best memory at Southern Pine, Keith has no problem coming up with his best memory outside of work. He beams with pride as he talks of going to China in 1997 to pick up his daughter, Kelli. He and his wife, Glenda, adopted Kelli when she was a 1-year-old and he said she is his proudest accomplishment. He cannot help but smile when speaking of her, and you can see the love and pride in his eyes when he does. That little 1-year-old who flew across the world with her new parents is now a 24-year-old graduate of Mississippi College with a master’s degree in accounting. Keith and Glenda live in Polkville and are members of Crossroads Baptist Church in Pelahatchie. His parents live near him, and he counts that as a major blessing because his wife, daughter and parents are the most important people in the world to Keith. As soft-spoken and humble as he is, that comes through loud and clear.

16 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

THE BLUEBERRY PEACE FARM

When Thomas and Benita Brown decided to embark on the journey of opening a wedding venue, they took a leap of faith that it was the right decision and the right location. It certainly has not always been easy, but through dedication and planning it has become a success and even folks from other cities and states are coming to the small city of Magee to get married at The Blueberry Peace Farm. Thomas, who grew up in Magee, and Benita, who grew up in D’Lo, both knew that most people in the area had to go to Hattiesburg or Jackson to find a good wedding venue. “Our beginnings in the wedding industry started seven years ago when Brown Plan-It, our wedding planning business, originated,” Benita said. “After having success traveling all over Mississippi, we decided that we would build a venue in our hometown; especially since there was a need for one in that area. We noticed that there were not any venues between Jackson and Hattiesburg, so it was perfect for the city of Magee.” With experience as wedding planners, Benita and Thomas envisioned and created the ideal wedding setting, both indoors and outdoors. A visit to The Blueberry Peace Farm brings a feeling of calm and peace as you first lay eyes on the outdoor chapel nestled against the beautiful pond, so the name is quite fitting. The unique name is part of the charm. “We were trying to think of the perfect name and were struggling coming up with something.

Then we went to the property one day and there it was — on an old, rickety fence post was a sign that read ‘The Blueberry Peace Farm’ and we knew that was it,” Benita said. The property still has some blueberry bushes remaining in tribute to the history of the property. When construction was complete, the Browns knew exactly how they wanted to celebrate. The inaugural event held at The Blueberry Peace Farm was their own wedding vows renewal ceremony. After their renewal ceremony, the business started to grow as people heard of this idyllic venue with the unusual name. They began getting more and more bookings and they were both pleased with the growth. Then the pandemic occurred. “The COVID-19 restrictions really took a toll,” said Benita. “Just like everything else, bookings slowed way down.” As fewer gatherings were occurring, many people had smaller weddings or postponed weddings, but the Browns are optimistic about the future with no plans of stopping. This beautiful wedding venue is set on 20 acres of land and features two ponds and a 7,750-square-foot blue barn. The barn features a bridal suite, dressing room, prep kitchen and covered porches. As lovely as the barn is, the true star of the property is the outdoor chapel set on the edge of the pond. It is an ideal setting, created with faith and determination, that these Southern Pine members envisioned. For a better look at The Blueberry Peace Farm, visit blueberrypeacefarm.com. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 17

What Has 2020 Taught Us About Thankfulness? by Jan Collins Few, if any of us, will forget 2020 and the disruption caused by COVID-19. The virus and the many restrictions put in place to keep us safe caused anxiety levels to rise for many of us and it has been a disheartening time. Our nation has lost so many and so much, yet abundant blessings abound. Babies who were longed for have been born. People have recovered from illnesses. Families reconnected. Sweethearts got married and life marched on. It has been a year of reflection and a time to contemplate our history and the future. I suspect each of us will have some meaningful stories to tell our babies and grandchildren about the Mighty Winds of 2020, some of which will be sad as we said goodbye to loved ones and friends attacked by this virus. What stories will we tell of the good created during the turbulent times? As the year is finally drawing to close, my hope is that we can find strength in commonalities that bind us all together rather than separate us. What will that look like in the stories we tell? Over the past many months, I have been thinking a lot about the story many of us learned as children. A story with great lessons whether you are a Christian or not about the commonalities that all people

18 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

share regardless of race, religion, or ancestry. The story begins when Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. As Jesus entered a village, 10 lepers approached Him. These men were not bad people, they just had a horrible disease that is still predominately incurable even today. They were locked away in a colony outside the parameters of the village. Alone, isolated from their families, others looked down on the poor souls, believing that some horrible sin in their lives had caused the vile disease. Many were beggars rejected by their families and they were ridiculed and shamed outside the colony. Leper rules were stringently upheld, to the point of stoning, if a leper failed to yell â&#x20AC;&#x153;unclean person, unclean personâ&#x20AC;? when near others. The story continues with the sore-ridden men calling out for Jesus to have mercy on them. When He saw them, He had compassion and told them to go show themselves to the priest. Miraculously, as they went, they were healed. Looking down at their hands, they saw unblemished, clear skin. Feeling their face, the open boils were completely gone. The bone-jarring pain down their back and hips was gone.

We cannot fathom the pure joy and happiness they felt. They would no longer be isolated from their loved ones! Death was no longer clutching them fiercely with his icy fingers. The taste of bile and fear that was constantly with them, immediately vanished. Here, we have always been taught that 10 men were healed. Ten men were leaving that dusty road and that rotting colony behind them. Nine of them barreled away. One, a bedraggled Samaritan, felt the overwhelming urge to turn back and offer his praises and thanks loudly. This is the point in the story that I have been thinking most about as I often wonder why only one solitary man felt the need to give thanks and praise. If we have been spared, or cured, would we be counted with the nine or with the one? I am sure all nine had very good reasons for rushing away quickly. Was it to rush back to their families? Were they bitter for being struck with leprosy and all the horrors that come with it? Did they think the priest cured them? We will never know why they chose not to give thanks for that most wonderful gift. Luke concludes the story by telling us that Jesus asked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this

Justin and Vanessa Estes

foreigner?â&#x20AC;? We are left to conclude that He was disappointed in the lack of gratitude of the nine men who did not take the time to give thanks. Interestingly, the Old German word for thank [thangle] means to think. Because these men did not stop and think, they walked away without acknowledging how pitiful they were before they were healed. Life, as they knew it, had been taken away by leprosy. They asked for mercy, it was granted, and they chose to run away as quickly as they could. I must ask myself if I am really any different than those nine men? How many times do I get up in the morning and return to my bed after a day of work, food on the table, and clothes on my back without giving thanks? How many sunrises and sunsets do I take for granted? Paved roads, water from a faucet, clean sheets, pretty towns, medical services, flowers in the field, birds in the air and the list goes on and on. Are we grateful? Are we destined to keep repeating the same mistakes, never learning from those gone before us? I have resolved to not say anything else negative about 2020. I am blessed. I am grateful. I am thankful. That is the lesson that I will carry with me and the story I will tell about 2020. She may have worn us down, but she did not win.

Little Miss Lauren Lee White

The Jasper Family

What Are You Thankful For? NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 19

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

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

Southwest Electric

Hurricane Delta Restoration Efforts • 21,503 Members without power Saturday morning after the storm • 15,211 Members with power restored by Tuesday morning • 6 substations down due to transmission line failure

• 175+ broken poles and crossarms • 500+ outages due to downed trees • 87 full-time employees dedicated to serving our Members

• 54 bucket trucks • 53 pickup trucks • 20 digger derricks • 10 track machines

SWElectricCoop

sw_electric_coop

by the numbers

Assistance

6th Cooperative Principle — Cooperation Among Cooperatives • 8 Mississippi cooperatives sent 123 linemen • 32 contract crew employees helped with restoration efforts

Hurricane Delta made landfall on Friday, Oct. 9, in Louisiana. The storm severely affected our nine-county service area. Southwest Electric appreciates our Members’ patience as we worked as quickly and safely as possible to restore power after this storm.

Hurricane Delta rips through southwest Mississippi Hurricane Delta caused extensive damage to southwest Mislineworkers repairing damage and restoring power. Finally, on sissippi and Southwest Electric’s nine-county system. At 10:30 Wednesday morning, another cooperative sent 12 lineworkers. a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10, we had 21,503 Southwest personnel found over 175 meters without power. Given the fact that broken poles and cross-arms. The number we have 25,500 meters, that is 85% of our of broken poles surpassed the damage we system without power. The heavy rain that sustained during Hurricane Katrina. Immefell thru Oct. 8, along with the strong wind diately after Hurricane Delta, six substations gusts from the hurricane, made conditions were not receiving power due to damage to ripe for large trees to fall across roads and transmission lines into the substations. After on power lines. The first task for Southwest those repairs were made, we concentrated Repairing storm damage in Wilkinson County was to assess damage, but we also worked on the main feeder lines coming out of the alongside the Mississippi Department of substations. We methodically worked on Transportation and the counties to clear the biggest power lines to restore power to roads and help residents who were trapped as many Members as possible in the various in their driveways. communities. Southwest immediately requested ad“Every Member and every meter is ditional help from contractors and sister important to us,” said Kevin Bonds, CEO. cooperatives around Mississippi. Contract Storm damage in Adams County “We started preparing a week before the companies were able to provide 32 employees to assist on storm by ordering additional poles and other material, reservSaturday. By Sunday morning, three sister cooperatives sent 61 ing hotel rooms for other crews and purchasing food to feed lineworkers. By Sunday evening, three more cooperatives sent all of the lineworkers we knew we were going to need. It takes 37 additional lineworkers. By mid-Monday, another cooperative an army of people to restore power after a hurricane and I am sent 13 lineworkers. Including Southwest personnel, we had 206 extremely proud of our employees.” 14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

Providing Assistance to Baldwin EMC Two crews headed out early on the morning of September 17, to Summerdale, Alabama, to assist Baldwin EMC with power restoration. Hurricane Sally knocked out power to over 78,000 of the 80,000 meters they serve. The crews worked long, hard hours and slept in military-style bunk beds in a semi-trailer for 10 days until they were released to return safely home. Cooperation among cooperatives is one of our founding principles. We were honored to answer the call for assistance. Pictured from left to right: TJ Floyd, Bruce Butler (Crew Leader), Kelton Carr, Nick Delaughter, Braden Smith, Cory Alderman, Dillon Griffin, Justin Morgan, Jake Knight, Micah Gandy (Crew Leader)

EMPLOYEES

Bruce Butler, Construction Crew Foreman Bruce has worked for Southwest Electric for 34 years as a Servicemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Helper, a Lineman, a Serviceman and a Crew Foreman. He supervises a construction crew daily and oversees the installation of new services. Bruce and his wife, Kim, have two sons.

Eddie Cole, Dispatcher Eddie has been with Southwest Electric for three months. He takes calls, dispatches crews to repair power outages and monitors the entire distribution system. Eddie and his wife, Julia, have one son, one daughter and one granddaughter.

Jr Keller, Lead Mechanic Jr has worked for Southwest Electric for 32 years in the right-ofway department and the shop. He is Lead Mechanic maintaining a fleet of 55 large and small trucks and 10 off-road vehicles and trailers. Jr and his wife, Trudy, have one son and one grandson. Bruce and Jr were called up for active duty in the Army in November 1990. They served six months for our country during Desert Storm. Bruce was stationed in Saudi Arabia and returned just four days before his wedding. Jr was stationed in California ready to deploy to the Middle East if the war escalated. Eddie was in the Army in 1992 and 1993 stationed at Forts Knox, Lee and Stewart. He drove a 10-ton diesel truck that was used to refuel a battalion of tanks and received specialized training in Germany and California.

Happy Thanksgiving from Southwest Electric Our oďŹ&#x192;ce will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. If you experience an outage or other emergency, please report it on the SmartHub app or call 800-287-8564. Dispatchers will remain on duty and crews will be on call throughout the holiday.

Southwest Electric would like to thank Bruce, Eddie, Jr and all veterans in our service area for serving their country, whether during peace or war. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

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

Four ways to in the kitchen by Abby Berry Ah, the kitchen. It’s undeniably one of power strip for convenient control. the most-loved rooms in our homes. It’s Help large appliances work less. There where we gather with family and friends are small ways you can help your larger for our favorite meals and memories. kitchen appliances run more efficiently. For But like most of us, you probably aren’t example, keep range-top burners clean from thinking about saving energy when you’re spills and fallen foods so they’ll reflect heat planning that perfect dish. Here are four better. When it’s time to put leftovers in the ways you can save energy in the kitchen refrigerator, make sure the food is covered with minimal effort. and allow it to cool down first. That way, the When possible, cook with smaller fridge doesn’t have to work harder to cool appliances. Using smaller kitchen warm food. appliances, like slow cookers, toaster Use your dishwasher efficiently. Only run ovens and convection ovens is more full loads, and avoid using the “rinse hold” When it’s time to do the dishes, remember to run full loads. You can also save energy by allowing your dishes to air dry. energy efficient than using your function on your machine for just a few dirty Photo Source: Scott Van Osdol large stove or oven. According to the dishes; it uses 3-7 gallons of hot water each Department of Energy, a toaster or convection oven uses one- use. You can also save energy by letting your dishes air dry. third to one-half as much energy as a full-sized oven. If your dishwasher doesn’t have an automatic air-dry switch, Unplug appliances that draw phantom energy load. simply turn it off after the final rinse and prop the door open Halloween may be over, but it’s possible you have energy so the dishes will dry faster. vampires in your kitchen — these are the appliances that Bonus tip: The best way to save energy is to not use it. Try a draw energy even when they’re not in use, like coffee makers, tasty, no-bake dessert recipe. Your sweet tooth (and energy bill!) microwaves and toaster ovens. The Department of Energy has will thank you. estimated that one home’s energy vampires left plugged in By slightly adjusting a few of your habits in the kitchen, you’ll year-round can add up to $100-$200 in wasted energy costs. be well on your way to energy savings. Contact us to learn Unplug them when they’re not in use, or better yet, use a about additional ways you can save energy and money at home.

Happy Thanksgiving

from Twin County Electric Power

14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

The business office will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving. In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 866-897-7250.

Revisions Requested

Merlin Richardson DIRECTOR

CHAD Date_____ Approved

WASHINGTON SCHOOL

Revisions Requested

2020 YOUTH LEADERSHIP MEMBER

What you are involved in this Senior Year?

Revisions Requested

STEVEN Date_____

• Student Council, Homeroom Representative • Fellowship of Christian Students, Co-President • Rho Kappa History Honors Society, Public Relations Chair • Students Against Destructive Decisions • Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society • The Sabre Yearbook Staff • WS Varsity Soccer — MAIS All Star 2020 • WS Homecoming Senior Maid • WS Varsity Basketball • WS Varsity Cheerleading • Jackson Studio of Dance

Approved

Which college majors are on your horizon right now?

RON Date_____

• Business/Marketing • Nutrition • Communications

Do you have a favorite scripture or quote that helps keep you grounded and focused during this unusual senior year? “You have done great things. You will do great things.” I have meditated over these words from the beginning of this crazy time and into now. These words remind me to be grateful and remember the great things God has already done. Remembering those things, it gives me hope that He will be faithful to bless us like He always has! NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15

VERSION #______________

Louise Word

Approved

Twin County Electric Power Association is saddened to announce that our Director Merlin Richardson went to his heavenly home. Mr. Richardson was a true friend and champion not only for Twin County, but for many organizations and people across the Delta and Mississippi. Mr. Richardson faithfully served as a director for 12 years. He leaves a lasting legacy, and his presence will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Richardson family.

TWITTER

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

VISIT US ONLINE @ WWW.YAZOOVALLEY.COM

THE RIGHT WAY

Keeping power lines unobstructed is a joint effort by Shannon Clinton It’s not just electric cooperative employees who can keep power flowing under safe conditions to residences and businesses: homeowners also have a role. But they don’t have to climb poles or get close to electric lines; instead, they can work together with co-ops to ensure that rights-of-way are properly maintained and trees and brush don’t interfere with those lines. Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association (YVEPA) serves six Mississippi counties using 10,400 electric meters and 2,200 miles of distribution line — 2,000 miles of which are overhead and can be affected by trees and other vegetation, said Michael Neely, the co-op’s Manger of General Services. YVEPA has tree removal, trimming and herbicide in-house programs, sometimes hiring contractors to trim within a planned area, from early in the year through late summer or early fall. “We look at it that vegetation grows into the line and can create a risk to our employees and the general public,” Neely said. By law, rights-of-way must be maintained around power lines. Live vegetation can be a conductor of electricity, causing shock or even death, he explained, and falling dead trees or limbs can be dangerous to the co-op’s employees and the public. YVEPA’s Right-of-Way and Operations Coordinator Brett Cerda said, trees must be regularly trimmed both for safety and reliability: “The safety issue is we want to keep trees out of the power lines because you wouldn’t want a kid climb14 TODAY | NOVEMBER 2020

ing up in a tree, and the tree is connected to power lines. It could also be a hazard for our members, pets and animals if they touch a tree from the ground and it has contacted the power line.” Without proper maintenance, trees or branches on power lines can cause flickering lights or outages, and thick underbrush in a right-of-way can get in the way of crews, delaying restoration times. It’s not that members can’t beautify their property with trees at all. In fact, Neely said if trees are planted correctly, they likely won’t interfere with power lines, even if they topple during a storm. “I know members and homeowners like to have trees and we certainly encourage them to have trees,” he said. “Let’s plant the right tree in the right place.” He advised against planting trees inside the right-of-way, or at a minimum, planting trees that will not exceed 10 feet at maturity. Planting any vegetation around utility poles is frowned upon because it becomes a hazard in maintaining the poles. Trees planted about 25 feet from power lines should be a maximum of 25-feet tall, but can be 25 to 40-feet tall if they’re planted 50 feet from lines. Trees with a 40-foot or more height can be safely planted 70 feet from power lines. In this way, Neely said, a taller tree will be far enough from power lines to diminish the chance of taking them down if the tree is toppled by high winds. The basic message above all, Cerda said, is for homeowners to look overhead when landscaping or planting trees, and

not plant anything that will eventually entangle with power lines. “Whatever kind of tree or plant they’re going to plant, just imagine when that gets to be a full-grown specimen — what that’s going to look like and how that might interfere with the power lines if that’s planted too close,” he said. While homeowners have a role, Neely cautions that they shouldn’t attempt tree trimming around power lines by themselves. Electric cooperative personnel are happy to send someone out to help if you call, and can even advise where to plant trees, he said. In addition to information on YVEPA’s website and on social media, members can also get help from its member service representatives and line crews. Cerda said YVEPA often sends its members letters letting them know about upcoming trimming efforts and where to call for more information or to ask questions. Neely said letters and pamphlets are sent out to Yazoo Valley members detailing planned maintenance efforts to keep them informed before work begins. They’re always welcome to call for tree planting guidance, he added. “We strive really hard to have a cooperative effort between our landowners and our rights-of-way program,” Neely said. “Of course, I put that first and foremost — it’s paramount to have good relationships.” Shannon Clinton is a contributor for Kentucky Living Magazine.

COOPERATIVE PRINCIPLES AT WORK Yazoo Valley contributes to storm relief

Happy Thanksgiving

from Yazoo Valley Electric The business office will be closed November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.

In case of a power outage or emergency, please call 662-746-4251. Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. NOVEMBER 2020 | TODAY 15