Today in Mississippi July 2022 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

FOR MEMBERS OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI

SUPER BOWL COMES HOME THE FLYING

DUTCHMEN OF JACKSON J U LY 2 0 2 2

LIFE IS BETTER WITH

SLUGBURGERS

PICTURE THIS:

GRADUATION DAY

“Improving the quality of life for all those we touch.” BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Mike Banks, President • Marty Crowder, Vice President Bruff Sanders, Secretary/Treasurer • Bill Bell • John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr. • Johnny Johnson • Kenneth Seitz

HERE’S AN IDEA It’s no secret that consumers with a water, gas or electricity connection have long been targets for utility scams, but fraudsters have changed their tactics since the COVID-19 pandemic. As consumers became more reliant on technology for work, school and commerce, scammers noted these shifts and adapted their tactics to this changed environment. Imposter scams are the number one type of fraud reported to the Federal Trade Commission. While scam artists may come to your door posing as a utility worker who works for the “power company,” in today’s more connected world, attempts are more likely to come through an electronic device, via email, phone, or text.

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 1-800-431-1544. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, www.4county.org. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. 4-County/FASTnet will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft. If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text (“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible,

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block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, 4-County will apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. 4-County/ FASTnet employees wear easily identifiable shirts/hats/uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

Stealing electricity is illegal and dangerous In these current times of economic difficulties, many customers are concerned with their electric bills. While there are numerous ways to cut down on the amount of electricity used in a home, in some cases customers resort to trying to steal electricity. Tampering with an electric meter is both illegal and dangerous. “Those who tamper with their electric meters in an effort to reduce their power costs are stealing from their energy providers and their fellow cooperative members,” said Brian Clark, CEO/general manager at 4-County Electric Power Association. Electric meters are designed to accurately record the electricity used each month and are routinely tested. Meters are sealed for the protection of the homeowner and the energy provider. Members who break a meter seal are exposing themselves and their home to the risk of electrocution and fire. Once a meter has been tampered with, it becomes both unsafe and unstable. Interrupting the flow of electricity through a line also poses serious risk to linemen working nearby. “If members are having trouble with their bills, they should not hesitate to contact us,” Clark said. “We’re happy to help suggest energy efficient options and other ways they can reduce their usage. Tampering with meters should never be an option.”

4-County & TVA

AWARD $100,000 GRANT to Choctaw County Schools

4-County Electric Power Association recently announced that the Choctaw County School District was awarded a $100,000 grant through Tennessee Valley Authority’s School Uplift program. Students were also treated to an ice cream social. Tight budgets and aging buildings leave many schools facing a difficult decision between funding learning programs and making needed facility upgrades. TVA’s $7.3 million School Uplift program is helping 160 public schools in seven states solve that problem. School Uplift is a 12-month behavior-based energy management training program that helps public school districts make smart energy choices that improve the classroom learning environment and save money through decreased energy use. “School Uplift is another way we’ve partnered with TVA to invest in our community,” said 4-County CEO Brian Clark. “We are so excited that Choctaw County Schools earned this grant, which will enable administrators to make needed upgrades that will improve their facility and make the school more efficient and comfortable for teachers and students. The faculty, staff and students committed to making energy efficiency a priority over the last school year and earned this grant through their hard work.” Sixty schools have completed the School Uplift pilot over the past two years, competing to earn grants for building upgrades and other learning environment improvements. On average, participating schools have saved more than 10% on their annual energy bills from behavior changes alone.

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June 2

ANNUAL MEETING

a day of fellowship, fun Some 450 members of 4-County Electric Power Association attended the cooperative’s annual membership meeting June 2, at the East Mississippi Community College auditorium in Mayhew. The inperson meeting was the first in three years. The two prior co-op annual meetings were held online because of COVID-19 precautions. Those attending the event enjoyed a day full of food, fun, fellowship, and information. Registration and a health fair for members began at 9 a.m. A catfish lunch with all the fixings for members began at 10:15 a.m. The business portion of the meeting began at noon. Members viewed a variety of displays featuring 4-County/FASTnet programs, services, and equipment. Cooperative officials provided information on the goings on at 4-County and co-op subsidiary FASTnet. Officials recognized FASTnet’s recent 5,000th customer, Allen Landfair of Oktibbeha County. She was presented with a gift bag of electronics. 4-County CEO Brian Clark said there was something for everyone at the meeting. “We provided our membership with good information, elected two directors and, of course, gave away some great door prizes — including a truck,” Clark said. Michael McPherson of West Point was the winner of the 4-County surplus truck, a Ford F-150. Held in conjunction with the annual meeting, the health fair provided members the opportunity to receive a variety of healthcare screenings. In addition to the pre-meeting health fair, the business session included financial and management reports along with the election of two directors to the Association’s board of directors. Two incumbent directors were re-elected: Johnny Johnson of Columbus for District 1, Lowndes County; and Marty Crowder of Ackerman for District 5, Choctaw, and Winston counties. They will serve three-year terms.

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4-County Foundation awards

OVER $50,000

Nine area organizations received awards June 6 from the 4-County Electric Power Foundation. Over $50,600 was distributed at the meeting. Those receiving Foundation awards in June were: • Golden Triangle Theater - $6,360 for costs associated with production of

“Annie.” • Stoy-Nash VFW Post 5573 - $5,000 to upgrade kitchen & restrooms. • Starkville High School Robojackets - $4,680 for costs associated with robotics

competition. • Northeast MS Chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes - $3,500 for a

student leadership camp. • Golden Triangle Crisis Pregnancy Center - $2,248 for parenting classes. • Forge Foundation - $10,000 for workforce training. • Lowndes County VFD District 1 - $4,689 for grass firefighting equipment. • Mathiston VFD - $9,931 for battery-powered Jaws of Life. • Lowndes County VFD District 2 - $4,200 for a thermal imaging camera.

(Nearly $1.7 million distributed since February 2015) (Pictured are groups receiving recent awards)

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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Hardy is walking tall as lineman Tim Hardy is walking tall as an Apprentice Lineman 4 at 4-County Electric Power Association. The Noxubee County native is honored to stand up straight and serve the cooperative and its members. “I’m honored to be a lineman at 4-County. What we do is important,” Hardy said. Standing tall in his commitment to 4-County is certainly not a stretch of the imagination — figuratively or literally. At 6 feet, 6 inches tall, Tim draws a little attention when he walks into a room. “Being tall has its advantages,” he said. “It also has its disadvantages. You need to watch your head sometimes,” the 4-County lineman added with a smile. Tim joined the cooperative June 1, 2021. Prior to 4-County, Tim served five years as a Kemper County Sheriff’s Deputy. He is a graduate of the Mississippi Law Enforcement Academy. Tim is a certified canine handler. He continues to serve as a part-time deputy when not on call for the cooperative. And he is also a graduate of the East Mississippi Community College Lineman Training Program. He lives in Wahalak with his wife, Alicia (a surgical technician for an oral surgeon) and their two children: Ava, 8, and Paxton, 3. They attend Vibrant Church in Columbus. Tim said there are some similarities between law enforcement and line work. Both are on call and must respond to emergency situations.

Four join 4-County/ FASTnet team Four new employees have recently joined the 4-County Electric Power Association/FASTnet team. Taylor Brunson of Maben has joined the 4-County Electric Power Association team as a Vehicle Mechanic. He and his wife, Cassie (who works as the director of the therapeutic riding program at Mississippi State University) have one daughter, Bree, 5. Taylor comes to 4-County after working 13 years as a field service mechanic for Thompson Machinery. He has associate degrees in Heavy Equipment Repair and Automotive Repair from South Georgia Technical College and East Mississippi Community College, respectively. The Brunson family attends First Baptist Church of Maben. In his spare time, he

And there are others. “Both positions rely on their fellow employees to watch out for each other because of the danger involved. And both have to be able to adapt and think on your feet,” he explained. The young lineman works on Tim Adkins’ Corporate Center Construction Crew. “I enjoy seeing a project from start to finish,” Tim said. “I even appreciate the power restoration work following a storm. It feels good to get someone’s power back on.” And he stands impressed by 4-County’s commitment to quality equipment and embracing the latest advances in technology. “We’ve got what we need to get the job done.” Tim grew up on Tanner Farms in Shuqualak. His father serves as a foreman there, helping watch over about 1,000 head of cattle on the 3,000-acre plus ranch. “It was fun as a kid — a real outdoor playground,” he said. He embraces his responsibilities at home and at work. “I really enjoy spending time with my family, and 4-County has become my home away from home.”

Taylor Brunson

Blake McBrayer

enjoys spending time in the outdoors and watching Cassie and Bree barrel race. Blake McBrayer of Starkville has joined the FASTnet team as Lead Equipment Operator. Prior to FASTnet, Blake worked nine years as a district manager for Deviney Construction. He attended East Mississippi Community College and Delta State University. He is a veteran of the National Guard. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Miki, and being outdoors. Charlie Sullivan of Nettleton has joined the FASTnet team as an Install Technician. Prior to FASTnet, Charlie worked for contractor MR Communication. In his spare time, he enjoys video games, hunting, and fishing. Taylor Atkins of Columbus has joined the

Charlie Sullivan

Taylor Atkins

4-County team as an Apprentice Lineman 4 on the crew of Tim Adkins’ Corporate Center crew. Prior to 4-County, Taylor worked seven years as an Occupational Therapy Assistant at Columbus Orthopedic Clinic. He is a graduate of Mississippi State University with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. He has an associate’s degree in Occupational Therapy Assistance from Itawamba Community College. Taylor is a graduate of the East Mississippi Community College Lineman Program. He lives in Columbus with his wife, Jessica, and their two children, Reese, 11, and Waylen, 7. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, cooking, hunting, and fishing. Welcome to the 4-County/FASTnet team!

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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

It’s no secret that consumers with a water, gas, or electricity connection have long been targets for utility scams, but fraudsters have changed their tactics since the COVID-19 pandemic. As consumers became more reliant on technology for work, school, and commerce, scammers noted these shifts and adapted their tactics to this changed environment. Imposter scams are the number one type of fraud reported to the Federal Trade Commission. While scam artists may come to your door posing as a utility worker who works for the “power company,” in today’s more connected world, attempts are more likely to come through an electronic device, via email, phone, or text.

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 601-267-5671. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, centralepa.com. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us at 601-267-5671, or use the CEPA app to check the status of your account. Remember, Central Electric will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft.

HAPPY

If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text (“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, Central Electric will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Central Electric employees wear uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

Independence DAY J U LY 4 T H

Our employees will observe Independence Day and our offices will be closed Monday, July 4, for the holiday. To report an outage, please visit www.centralepa.com, and click on Report An Outage. Call 601-2673043, or text the word OUT to 866-846-5671 if you are enrolled in the outage texting service. A dispatcher is on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Timing is everything by Miranda Boutelle Remodeling is a great opportunity to take care of energy efficiency improvements by adding them to your scope of work. If your home is already under construction, take the extra step to make it more efficient. Planning for efficiency is the first step. Look at the scope of your remodeling project to see what energy efficiency upgrades you can add. There may be cost savings and convenience in tackling both at once.

Kitchen Remodel If your kitchen remodel includes new appliances, buy ENERGY STAR®-rated models. ENERGY STAR® refrigerators are about 9% more efficient than standard models, and ENERGY STAR® dishwashers save both energy and water. As for kitchen faucets, there are options available with multiple flow-rate settings. You can save water by using a lower flow rate on your faucet when washing dishes, vegetables or your hands, but you can change the setting to quickly fill a pot for cooking.

Basement Remodel This is where I find myself right now. Our basement has gone from a wide-open space with concrete walls to a nearly completed living space with a den, two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry room. We air sealed and insulated the sill plate and rim joist — the framing between the concrete foundation and the main level floor. We built and insulated walls around the basement’s perimeter, ensuring a cozy living space and a more comfortable home. We upgraded our electric storage water heater to a hybrid — or heat pump — water heater, which is 70% more efficient than a standard electric model. Also, we ran power for an electric vehicle charger while the walls were open. It is much less expensive to run the power supply while you have access.

Bathroom Remodel If you plan to remodel your bathroom, include a high-performance showerhead. Look for the WaterSense logo for showerheads, faucets and toilets, which ensures the product meets performance and water use standards. Check the fine print on your existing equipment to see how much you can save. The gallons per minute (GPM) is usually printed on showerheads and faucet aerators and the gallons per flush (GPF) is usually printed on toilets. High-performance showerheads and faucet aerators conserve water and save energy used to heat water. Using less water can lower your water bill or increase your septic system’s lifespan.

New Siding or Exterior Paint The best time to make sure your wall insulation is adequate — or to see if you have wall insulation at all — is when you replace your siding or paint the exterior of your home. Wall insulation saves on energy costs, makes your home more comfortable and reduces outside noise. Batt insulation, spray foam or foam boards are good options if you are removing the siding. If you are painting, you can have a contractor blow insulation into the wall cavities through holes cut into the siding or from inside the house. The holes are then plugged and prepped for paint.

Attic Insulation Often, remodeling requires work in the attic for new lighting or venting bath or kitchen fans. During any project that takes you into the attic, check insulation levels. Work in the attic can negatively impact attic insulation by crushing it or removing it to access work areas. If more insulation is needed, air seal and check ventilation. Also, make sure all bath and kitchen fans vent to the exterior of the house. A little planning during a remodel can go a long way toward improving your home’s energy efficiency. Remember: it’s more difficult and more expensive to go back and tackle energy efficiency projects after your space is finished. Miranda Boutelle is the director of operations and customer engagement at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company

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

Coahoma Electric will begin a new era when relocating to our new facility at 3355 Rudyard-Jonestown Road in July. Depending on how soon some final touches can be completed, the move could be as soon as July 5. For 70 years, we have been a fixture on Hopson Street in Lyon. Since our last move in 1953, many additions have been made to the facility as we have adapted to changes in our business practices. Over the years, accommodations have been made to fulfill necessary space needed to better serve our members and protect the assets of the Association. As Coahoma Electric Power Association celebrates its 85th year in 2022, we pledge to continue to serve our members with safe, relieable, and affordable electric power. Investing in this new headquarters facility is a reaffirmation of our purpose and commitment to the progress of northwest Mississippi.

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Change also brings adjustment and we are aware of the possible inconvenience to some of our members due to the relocation. Our customer service representatives are prepared to help make any transition as smooth as possible. We ask all our members to join with us in celebrating our 85 years of service and our new headquarters!

by W. Keith Hurt General Manager

Basement Remodel

New Siding or Exterior Paint

This is where I find myself right now. Our basement has gone from a wide-open space with concrete walls to a nearly completed living space with a den, two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry room. We air sealed and insulated the sill plate and rim joist — the framing between the concrete foundation and the main level floor. We built and insulated walls around the basement’s perimeter, ensuring a cozy living space and a more comfortable home. We upgraded our electric storage water heater to a hybrid — or heat pump — water heater, which is 70% more efficient than a standard electric model. Also, we ran power for an electric vehicle charger while the walls were open. It is much less expensive to run the power supply while you have access.

The best time to make sure your wall insulation is adequate — or to see if you have wall insulation at all — is when you replace your siding or paint the exterior of your home. Wall insulation saves on energy costs, makes your home more comfortable, and reduces outside noise. Batt insulation, spray foam or foam boards are good options if you are removing the siding. If you are painting, you can have a contractor blow insulation into the wall cavities through holes cut into the siding, or from inside the house. The holes are then plugged and prepped for paint.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

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, & Sarah Belk

CELEBRATING OUR

Offices Closed

July 4th

Independence Happy Independence Day! As we celebrate the birth of our great nation, I am grateful for the men and women who serve our country in the military and those who dedicate themselves to public service. Spending time to make life better for our communities is an admirable pursuit and one that co-op employees and board members support. As a business that is owned and run by the members we serve, the democratic process is an essential part of how our business operates. Registration for our Annual Meeting will begin in July so keep an eye out for information about how you can participate in your co-op’s democratic process.

Have a happy and safe

4th of July!

by Ron Barnes

Coast Electric offices will be closed Monday, July 4, for Independence Day. Dispatchers will be on duty, and crews will be on call throughout the holiday weekend. The fastest and easiest ways to report outages are using our CE on the Go app or texting 352667. If you want to text, you must have a mobile number associated with your account. You can also call 877-769-2372 to report an outage and view our live outage map on our CE on the Go app or on www.coastepa.com, so you can keep up with restoration efforts.

Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!

President and CEO

THURSDAY

NOV

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ANNUAL MEETING

Save Date THE

Save the Date! Join us Thursday, Nov. 3, at our Kiln Headquarters for our 2022 Annual Meeting. Can’t make it? We’ve got you covered. Registration via mail and online begins this month. Stay tuned to Today in Mississippi, www.coastepa.com, and our social media outlets for information.

//////////// New service

coming soon Later this summer, we will begin offering a free service that notifies members of elevated energy use. This will give you the opportunity to manage your energy use before your bill arrives. We will use data from your meter — just like the data you can view already if you log in to your account online — and weather data, so you can see what affects your consumption and develop habits that can help you save. These notifications will be sent out via email, so make sure we have your email address on file.

Nothing says fun like a day on the water. But while you’re having fun, remember that water and electricity do not mix. Here are safety tips to keep you and your family safe while in and around the water.

Water Safety Tips:

CONTEST

Coast Electric wants you to reduce your energy use and see savings on your energy costs. Each month, you will have an opportunity to register to win a prize that will help you reduce energy consumption in your home. Simply visit www.coastepa.com and fill out our entry form. It only takes a few seconds, and you could win a prize that helps you save!

Congratulations to Steven Sherwood, the winner of our May Reduce Your Use prize!

•

Keep electrical appliances away from water.

•

Do not use household extension cords near water.

•

Always use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) around pools, piers and docks.

•

Docks and boats can have electrical sources.

•

Never swim near a dock or a boat while it’s running.

•

Watch for overhead lines when in a boat with tall masts or antennas.

•

Know where main breakers are in case of emergency.

•

Frequently inspect electrical systems near pools or docks and on boats.

•

Be aware, everywhere. Keep your eyes open for any electrical hazards.

•

Obey “No Swimming” signs.

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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

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 662-453-6352. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, deltaepa.com. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us at 662-453-6352, or use the Delta EPA app to check the status of your account. Remember, Delta Electric will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft. If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam

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attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text (“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, Delta Electric will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Delta Electric employees wear uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

by David O’Bryan General Manager

New Siding or Exterior Paint The best time to make sure your wall insulation is adequate — or to see if you have wall insulation at all — is when you replace your siding or paint the exterior of your home. Wall insulation saves on energy costs, makes your home more comfortable, and reduces outside noise. Batt insulation, spray foam or foam boards are good options if you are removing siding. If you are painting, you can have a contractor blow insulation into the wall cavities through holes cut into siding, or from inside the house. The holes are then plugged and prepped for paint.

Three options to pre-register for fiber internet service and voice services

DELightSpeed.coop 662-477-1975 or info@delightspeed.coop JULY 2022 | 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 dixieepa.com

@DixieElectricMS

@DixieEPA

@dixie_electric

The importance of being prepared Hurricane season begins each year on June 1 and doesn’t end until November 30, and this year could be another active one. Although hurricanes do not happen as frequently as other natural disasters, like tornadoes, they can be far more destructive. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help protect your family, home, or business from hurricane damage.

Plan Ahead Preparing for a significant storm event, such as a hurricane, begins with planning in advance. Unlike a tornado, hurricanes typically come with an advanced warning. Every home should have an emergency kit stocked with basic supplies that will last at least three days. Please refer to the graphic below for examples of essential items that should be located in an emergency kit. In the event you do not feel safe in your own home, research local storm shelters in advance to know where to go in the event of an impending storm.

Prepare Your Home When a hurricane is approaching your community, there are several steps you can take to better prepare your home before impact. Some of these steps include bringing outdoor furniture inside, securing all other outdoor items, creating an inventory of items in your home, filling bathtubs with extra water, and covering windows when possible.

This will help you stay current on the status of the storm and any evacuation notices. In the event of prolonged power outages, we will also provide daily information on restoration efforts and progress. We encourage you to follow Dixie Electric on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the most up-to-date outage information. In addition to these tips, I would also like to encourage you to check on your elderly or disabled neighbors to assist them in their preparation efforts. Additional preparedness tips are available at prepared.dixieepa.com. We may not be able to prevent a hurricane from affecting our area, but we can help you prepare for such an event. By preparing before the season begins, you can reduce the storm’s impact on your family, home, or business. As always, we are making our preparations here at Dixie Electric and will be ready to respond.

Stay Informed It is important to stay tuned to local radio and television stations, The Weather Channel, and the National Hurricane Center for risk information in your area. If you lose power, tune in to a local or NOAA radio station using the battery-powered radio in your emergency kit.

by Randy Smith General Manager

Build an emergency kit that can sustain you and your family for 3-5 days. Basic supplies Cell phone charger Flash light Extra batteries First aid kit Whistle Battery-powered weather radio Cash and change Waterproof container Can opener

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Nonperishable food Beans Canned fruit Canned vegetables Dried meats/jerky Pasta Rice

Water 1 gallon per person per day

Important documents Birth certificates Insurance cards Social security cards Bank/credit card numbers Wills House inventory photos Titles (cars, boats, etc.) Phone number list Prescriptions

Spotted in the community:

Market on Court

On Friday, June 3, employees from Dixie Electric and DE Fastlink participated in the Market on Court event in Ellisville, sponsored by the City of Ellisville and The Ellis Club. Apprentice Lineman Wesley Jones interacted with children by showing them the tools he uses every day to “keep the lights on.” Once an hour, Jones took a ride in the bucket as kids looked on in amazement. Children were each given balloons and their very own Dixie Electric hard hat, and they took turns having their photo taken with Jones in their matching hard hats. “This is our second year to participate in this event, and it is always well attended,” said Communication Specialist Amanda Mills. “We enjoy connecting with our community through local events, and it is always fun to watch children interact with our linemen.” Members of the DE Fastlink team were also present to answer questions from the community about service availability, prices, and packaging. “Our community is very excited that we are bringing high-speed internet to their area,” said Communications Administrative Assistant Melanie Driskell. “We were glad to be on-site to answer questions about DE Fastlink.” Dixie Electric enjoys being more than just a local energy provider; they are a cornerstone to the communities they serve.

Notice of Dixie Electric’s

Director Qualification period Candidates seeking election to represent Districts 1 and 5 on the board of directors for Dixie Electric must visit Dixie Electric’s headquarters office at 1863 Highway 184, Laurel, Miss., and obtain a Director Qualification Packet during normal business hours between June 1 and July 29. Please contact Mitzi Walley at 601-425-2535 or dixieelectric@dixieepa.com to set up a time. The forms and petitions in the packet must be completed and returned by close of business on

Friday, July 29, 2022.

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

Clearing projects underway South Hoy: Laurel, Soso, Calhoun, Moss, Shady Grove Highway 588: Ellisville, Lowery Creek, Sandhill, Oak Bowery West Laurel: Ellisville, Calhoun, Soso, Buffalo Hill, Pendorff, Big Creek Lynn Ray Rd: Eastabuchie, Glendale, Union, Morriston, Macedonia Whistler: Whistler, Strengthford, Pleasant Grove, Beat Four West Moselle: Moselle, Oak Bowery, Pine Grove, Airport

Spraying notice Clara: Clara, Big Creek, Waynesboro

ENERGY FAIRS offer tips on inexpensive ways to save energy by Amanda Mills Learning a little can save a lot. After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Dixie Electric was excited to resume hosting Energy Fairs to share ideas on how to save energy and lower one's power bill. LED Lucy, Touchstone Energy’s mascot, was also on-site to greet customers as they entered the store to encourage them to visit the Energy Fair. Dixie Electric employees spent time with community members, offering tips and inexpensive ways to save energy. For example, changing five 60-watt incandescent light bulbs to LEDs can save $30 per year in electric energy costs, according to the ENERGY STAR light bulb calculator. Lighting is just one of the booths offered at the Energy Fairs. Other tables at the Energy Fairs included information on water heater blankets, caulk, weather stripping, coil cleaner, and energy use by small appliances. Members of Dixie Electric also learned about SmartHub. SmartHub is an app or online tool at dixieepa.com; it offers free online bill pay for members to pay their electric bills, easy power outage reporting from any smartphone, and provides information on a home's daily

energy use. DE Fastlink subscribers can also use SmartHub to manage their Wi-Fi services. The fairs were held at Lowe’s in Laurel and Petal, Gatlin’s Building Supply in Waynesboro, and at the Community Action Day in Waynesboro. More than 200 people attended the fairs and received information on easy-to-do projects around the home and the online energy savings calculators, which are available at dixieepa.com. Dixie Electric's employees also presented the Energy Fair information to participants of the Foster Grandparent program in Jones County. Also featured at the Energy Fairs was Comfort Advantage, Dixie Electric's home construction program that offers incentives for energy efficiency building. Comfort Advantage removes the guesswork when deciding on a new home's insulation, lighting, and appliances. There are also cash incentives for existing homes where an electric furnace, gas, or heat pump under a 10 SEER rating is converted to an energy-efficient heat pump. For more information on Comfort Advantage or other energy efficiency programs and information, visit dixieepa.com or give Dixie Electric a call at 601-425-2535.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 17

with Co-op Connections by Amanda Mills Breakaway RV, LLC, located right off of I-59 in Sandersville, Miss., is your one-stop shop for all things concerning RV maintenance. Sarah and Vern Reeves recently took ownership of the business in June 2022, but have worked for the company for more than 12 years. “The Lord sent me to this job 12 years ago, and the previous owner offered me a secretarial position,” said Sarah. “My husband and I have lived in the Sharon community our entire lives and are proud to call it home.” Although they don’t sell RVs, Breakaway RV specializes in RV repair and maintenance. They offer roof repair and replacements, A/C repair, appliances, insurance estimates, extended warranties, and part replacements. “We are family-owned and operated, and we pride ourselves on quality customer service,” said Sarah. “We are also the only camper repair shop in Jones County.” A few parts that Breakaway RV keeps in stock year-round are sewer hoses, electrical parts, vent lids, and necessary parts for maintenance. “The best advice we give our customers is to check your roof every three months for cracks in the sealant,” said Sarah. “We request that you contact us to schedule an appointment for repairs and estimates, but our shop is open Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m.” You can reach Breakaway RV by calling 601-428-1180 or 601-428-1127, or by following them on Facebook, @breakawaycampers. Present your Co-op Connections card and receive 10 percent off an in-stock part or a free roof inspection.

to ask your home inspector Are you in the market to purchase a new home? Many factors go into buying a home, and the energy efficiency of a home should be at the top of your list! It can be difficult for a buyer to know how efficient a home is when viewing the listing online or taking a tour. But your home inspector can help you identify potential energy costs and energy-efficiency upgrades. Some homes may already be efficient, while other homes may need improvements. There’s nothing wrong with buying an inefficient home, but you will want to know what you’re getting into and that you can afford the energy costs once you get the keys. Here are five questions to ask your home inspector:

What is the condition of the electrical panel and wiring throughout the home? A panel upgrade or rewiring can be a costly endeavor. An older panel and wiring aren’t inefficient, but it can delay or make some energyefficiency projects more expensive. In some cases, older wiring will need to be replaced before insulation can be added. Make sure the panel can accommodate any new appliances you might want to add, such as air conditioning or an electric vehicle charger.

How old is the HVAC system, and how efficient is it? Has it been maintained? The typical lifespan of an HVAC system is 15 to 25 years. As the largest energy user and often the most expensive equipment in the home, you will want to know the energy, maintenance, and replacement costs. If the HVAC system is old, consider the cost for a replacement.

How old is the water heater? The lifespan of a storage water heater is about 10 years. The cost to replace a water heater ranges from $400 to $3,600, depending on the unit type and installation costs. If an older water heater is in a finished space or on a second floor, replace it before it fails and potentially causes water damage.

What are the levels and conditions of insulation in the attic, walls, and floor? Insulation is one of the easiest and most beneficial energy-efficiency upgrades you can make. It isn’t as pretty as new countertops, but it can make a home more comfortable, waste less energy, and reduce outdoor noise. To cut down on drafts and make insulation more effective, air seal before insulating. Seal cracks, gaps, or holes in the walls, floors, ceiling, and framing between heated and unheated spaces. If your new home needs insulation and air sealing, make this your efficiency priority. The sooner you do it, the more energy you will save over time.

Are there any extras in this home that will increase my utility bills? Any motors in the home or on the property should be assesed, including pumps for wells and septic systems. When it comes to extras, remember life luxuries aren’t free. You will want to be able to afford the cost of operating amenities, such as pools, hot tubs, and saunas.

Additional considerations You can request the home’s utility bills for the previous two years from the seller or real estate agent. Your bill will not be the same due to your personal energy habits, but this information will give you an estimate of the home’s energy costs. When buying a home that checks all your boxes, ask your home inspector the right efficiency questions. Understanding the condition of appliances, features, and building materials can save you from hidden surprises in your home and on your first utility bill.

JULY 2022 | 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.

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

Vision for community success Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows approximately 20% Lesson four — remain flexible and able to adjust to new challenges and of new businesses fail during the first two years of being open, 45% demands. We saw numerous challenges posed over these 24 months. within the first five years, and 65% fail before 10 years have passed. Legislative, regulatory, legal, supply chain, and labor have placed new Only 25% of new businesses can make it to 15 years or more. demands on our project. Our EMEPA and EMC teams approached these As East Mississippi Connect was formed, I thought a lot about what challenges with the same determination I have seen used on the electric it takes to get a new company up and running, as well as what it takes system to address and solve issues quickly and efficiently. to make it successful for the future. Many of the lessons learned from In a new business, experts also warn against expanding too quickly. working with my dad and uncle in a small business in Quitman still You never want to outrun the demand for your product. You are the apply. We are now 24 months into building reason we have been so successful in this arena. East Mississippi Electric Power Association’s You pushed us to get fiber out to communities fiber internet subsidiary, East Mississippi as quickly as possible. The FCC’s Rural Digital EMEPA built its reputation on Connect (EMC). Opportunity Fund grant allows us to build at The first and foremost lesson is to give your being a reliable, responsive, and a rapid pace and secure the remaining capital consumers what they want. You told us you community-focused organization. to build. Your continued use of the broadband wanted broadband access in our communities. and phone services will make this a success for Even with all the added You wanted to be able to enhance children’s years to come. responsibility of building a fiber educational opportunities with online resources. Finally, never forget what is important. You wanted access to telemedicine. You wanted EMEPA built its reputation on being a network, we have not lost our to be able to work from home and communicate reliable, responsive, and community-focused focus on the electric service with others in our state, region, nation, and organization. Even with all the added to our members. across the world. responsibility of building a fiber network, we Lesson number two — you must have a solid have not lost our focus on the electric service and realistic plan. We put together a plan to construct almost 4,000 to our members. We continue to build new electric services every day, miles of fiber across our entire service territory within a 60-month maintain over 5,700 miles of electric distribution lines, and restore period. In just 24 months (40% of the timeline) over 1,900 miles of power with every storm. fiber (49% of the distance) is complete. Over 4,100 subscribers are Our mission remains, deliver services that empower lives with a connected to fiber with more than 13,400 homes having availability to vision to build pathways for community success. high-speed fiber. Third, choose your partners and suppliers wisely. EMEPA and EMC sought partnerships to ensure this project succeeded financially and operationally. We secured over $44.6 million in grant funds from the State of Mississippi and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to offset the $133 million project cost. We chose project by Randy Carroll managers, contractors, material suppliers, and support personnel to CEO — East Mississippi Electric Power Association maximize our potential for success.

14 TODAY | JULY 2022

Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Foundation scholarships awarded The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Foundation provides scholarships to the children of Mississippi cooperative employees that are qualifying high school seniors enrolled full time at accredited institutions for the following fall semester. Additionally, Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Foundation Transfer Scholarships are available to the children of Mississippi cooperative employees who attended a community college or vocational school and transfer to a university to continue their education. Pictured are Josh Wooten and John Malone from TVA, scholarship recipient Eli Rigdon, his father and EMEPA Warehouse Materials Handler Jeff Rigdon, and EMEPA CEO Randy Carroll.

2022 ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS:

Rigdon awarded power distributors scholarship

• MAX HODGINS, son of Accounting Supervisor Amy Hodgins

Eli Rigdon of Union was awarded a $4,000 college scholarship from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). TVA’s Power PLAY Scholarship Association rewards students for academic and community service excellence. Through this scholarship program, TVA and East Mississippi Electric Power Association aim to support its recipients in becoming tomorrow’s guiding light by investing their time and talent in community development, personal growth, and team accomplishments. TVA and distributors of TVA power created the scholarship program in 1995 for the children of distributors’ employees to encourage students to excel and to recognize the strength of the partnerships between TVA and its distributors. Scholarship recipients are selected by a panel of college professors from across the Tennessee Valley.

EMEPA 84

ANNUAL MEETING

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1

• ELI RIGDON, son of Warehouse Materials Handler Jeff Rigdon • MICAIAH SUMRALL, daughter of Member Services Representative Shawana Sumrall

2022 ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI FOUNDATION TRANSFER SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS: • LUKE HEDGPETH, son of Director of Accounting and Finance Kevin Hedgpeth

• KAITLIN DRAKE, daughter of Member Services Representative Hynesia Cole-Drake

Mark your calendar and plan to join us Saturday, Oct. 1, for East Mississippi Electric Power Association’s 84th Annual Meeting at 10 a.m. at EMEPA’s Meridian Auditorium. Be on the lookout for official notices and proxy cards with your chance to win a $500 electricity credit arriving in your mailbox this month.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 601-581-8600. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, emepa.com. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us at 601-581-8600, or use the EMEPA app to check the status of your account. Remember, EMEPA will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft.

16 TODAY | JULY 2022

If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text (“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, EMEPA will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. EMEPA employees wear uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

OUR NETWORK

continues to grow

Phase

In Service • Vimville • Bonita • Cleveland • DeKalb • Townsend

East Mississippi Connect is eliminating the digital divide with affordable high-speed internet service.

Phase

East Mississippi Electric Power Association is expanding access to lightning-fast and reliable internet service to rural areas in what is the largest economic development program in state history.

In Service • Clarkdale • Handle • Quitman

Bringing high-speed internet to our community happens in multiple phases.

Phase

In 2020 and 2021, East MS Connect was able to connect its Phase 1 subscribers to this life-changing service. These members now have access to essential telehealth services and can work and learn at home with ease. They can make and receive crystal-clear digital calls, stream seamlessly and so much more, thanks to the speed and reliability of this fiber-tothe-home network.

Phase

Now, East MS Connect is well into Phase 2. The areas of Clarkdale, Handle, and Quitman now have high-speed East MS Connect fiber internet access, and construction in the areas of Briarwood and Kewanee is underway. “We are excited about the progress we have made. Our crews have hung more than 1,900 miles of fiber and provided over 4,100 members with high-speed fiber internet,” EMEPA CEO Randy Carroll says. “Our crews have changed over 2,734 poles to provide the necessary and safe infrastructure for high-speed internet. We will not stop until every member receives this much-needed service.”

4,100

Connections installed

1,530 Miles of fiber built

Providing reliable fiber-to-the-home internet takes time, but fiber is worth the wait. To learn more, or to preregister for service, visit EastMSConnect.com.

Phase

In Progress • Briarwood • Kewanee

Target 2023 • Blackwater • Louisville • Noxapater • Lost Gap

Target 2024 • King Road • Collinsville • Bond

Target 2025 • Scooba • Carmichael • Nancy

2,734 Number of poles changed

*EMEPA regularly tests the poles on its systems but before more heavy equipment is added, poles are assessed and replaced if necessary.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 17

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

www.MEPCoop.com

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

Spread the Always ready to help local organizations, Magnolia Electric Power is working with an organization through our generation and transmission cooperative to help feed people across the state of Mississippi, including some food pantries in our local area. Cooperative Energy, headquartered in Hattiesburg, MS and who MEP purchases electric power through, is partnering with Extra Table for their Everyone Eats program. According to Extra Table Executive Director Martha Allen, “Our mission is to fundraise to purchase healthy, shelf stable foods for our partnering food pantries. We are a statewide nonprofit that is currently providing food monthly to 57 food pantries across the state of Mississippi.” Allen continued, “And during the month of July, Cooperative Energy is providing Extra Table with the resources to purchase the necessary food for all 57 food pantries!” “Understand, this is HUGE — as the Power of 12, you are providing almost 350,000 meals to those hungry across Mississippi! This means quality meals and good food that families are proud to put on the dinner table,” she said. “Not only does this partnership feed the entire state for one month, but it also allows all of MEP the opportunity to educate their staff and communities about food insecurity and how Extra Table fights hunger differently,” she said. “Food is a basic human right, and we want to do everything in our power to ensure everyone eats in Mississippi. With your help, we can tell the Extra Table story and make a difference in the fight against hunger.”

and Twitter

love

“Working together to accomplish a few things ahead of July is going to make this partnership extremely organized, fun, and impactful!” she said. Not only will MEP be providing some photos and video to Allen in support of the drive, but Allen has challenged each of the 11 members of Cooperative Energy to a peanut butter drive. MEP has accepted the challenge, and employees will be collecting jars of peanut butter the first two weeks of July. We want to extend the invitation to any of our MEP members that would like to drop a jar of peanut butter off at the cooperative. According to Allen, peanut butter is like gold to their pantries.

Why should you donate a jar of peanut butter? • It is versatile. Peanut butter can be eaten any time of the day — breakfast, lunch, or dinner. • Due to it’s protein content and long shelf life, peanut butter is an ideal food to help the hungry. • Coupled with more than 30 essential vitamins and nutrients, peanuts are considered a superfood.

Extra Table is located at 3904 Hardy Street, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39402. You can email Martha Allen at martha@extratable.org or call the office at 601-264-0672. Visit extratable.org to donate or learn more about their feeding programs. 14 TODAY | JULY 2022

Scams continue to occur across America Electric cooperatives battle a host of unique consumer fraud tactics across the nation. Remember if the pitch sounds too good to be true, it is probably a scam. The following story includes the newest ways scammers are working their dishonesty across the nation.

In Centuria, Wisconsin A consumer-member of Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative got a call from someone claiming to be from the co-op. The caller told her she’d overpaid on her utility bill, and to get the refund she was due, she’d need to provide her financial information. It’s an innovation by fraudsters that flips the script on the typical utility scam. “Instead of threatening members with disconnection for nonpayment, this claims the member overpaid and is being contacted for being a good member,” says Joan O’ Fallon, director of communications at the co-op headquartered in Centuria, Wisconsin. For scammers, it’s all about offering an incentive and creating a sense of urgency. “They’re savvy, and their pitches are so believable that victims feel pressured, rushed, and convinced that they’re the real deal,” says Monica Martinez, executive director of Utilities United Against Scams (UUAS), a consortium of more than 150 utilities and their respective trade associations. “There are many ways to do this, and scammers are changing their methods all the time.” Luckily, the Polk-Burnett EC member was not fooled. “She called the co-op to confirm her suspicion,” O’Fallon says.

In Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Abby Bell, a communications specialist at Cloverland Electric Cooperative in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, says the scams they see are almost always structured to prey on their most vulnerable consumers. “Sadly, our older members seem to be specifically targeted,” she says. “Over the past two years, callers have demanded immediate payment, threatened to shut off service, or offered rewards to members for loyalty. They change tactics every few months. They’re pretty intelligent.”

‘More and More Sophisticated’ Lately, utility scammers are adapting their tactics to capitalize on consumer vulnerabilities created by the COVID-19 pandemic, mainly a surge in Americans’ dependence on internet communications for things like school, work, and commerce. “People are changing their habits and are more willing to use technology to do more things like online banking,” Martinez says. “And with that comes technology that makes scammers more and more sophisticated. Martinez says the more immediate nature of internet transactions can sometimes cloud the judgment of a potential victim.

“During a phone call, it’s easier to have those opportunities to stop, wait, and verify,” she says. “Doing things more remotely removes those points to stop and pause. Before, it was, ‘Go to the store and purchase a gift card and call back.’ We’ve heard instances where the scammer was helping the person on the phone download an app and telling them how to pay.” Scammers are also increasing their use of social media to expand their reach. “It’s easy to manufacture a fake persona, or scammers can hack into an existing profile to get ‘friends’ and to deceive them,” according to a recent report from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Fraud Spike FTC numbers show that consumer fraud in general did spike during the past two years. In 2021, about one-fourth of all reported fraud losses stemmed from scams originating on social media; $770 million in total losses. Of those who reported losing money to fraud in 2021, more than 95,000 indicated they were first contacted on social media.

In Sundance, Wyoming A member of Powder River Energy Corp. recently reported an email from a sham power provider trying to lure a member into paying to switch their electric company. The co-op’s cybersecurity team was able to track the email’s domain to a business in Dublin, Ohio, and the originating company to a posh address in Sunrise, Florida. “From what they could tell, the company was at a residence with a very nice pool,” says Tim Velder, a marketing communication specialist at the Sundance, Wyoming-based co-op.

Online Payment Systems Targeted The pandemic also has boosted the popularity of online payment systems like PayPal, Cash App, and Zelle. But as always, the conveniences that those apps offer have downsides. Scammers will often demand payment through those platforms, but while the companies have processes for reporting a potential fraud, “it doesn’t always mean that when you make a report, you will be refunded your money,” Martinez says. Even worse, she says, person-to-person transactions “happen instantaneously, and they often cannot be canceled.” A knowledgeable consumer, she says, is the best way to fight fraud. No one knows when or how a scammer will appear, so it’s important for utility members/ consumers to understand the types of threats that are out there and to remember that anyone can be targeted at any time.

It’s no secret that consumers with a water, gas, or electricity connection have long been targets for utility scams, but fraudsters have changed their tactics in the last couple of years. As consumers became more reliant on technology for work, school, and commerce, scammers noted these shifts and adapted their tactics to this changed environment. Imposter scams are the number one type of fraud reported to the Federal Trade Commission. In today’s more connected world, attempts are more likely to come through an electronic device, via email, phone, or text.

Common Types of Scams • A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us at 601-684-4011, or use the MEP SmartHub app to check the status of your account. Remember, Magnolia Electric will never attempt to demand immediate payment.

• Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft. If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text (“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, Magnolia Electric will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Be Alert! • Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person who requests banking or other personal information.

• Be cautious who you let into your home and never let anyone in that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Magnolia Electric employees wear uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come to your home, our employees are professionals.

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

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 662-256-2962. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, monroecountyelectric.com. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us at 662-256-2962, or use the MCEPA app to check the status of your account. Remember, Monroe County Electric will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft. If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text

14 TODAY | JULY 2022

(“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, Monroe County Electric will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Monroe County Electric employees wear uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

by Barry Rowland General Manager

New Siding or Exterior Paint The best time to make sure your wall insulation is adequate — or to see if you have wall insulation at all — is when you replace your siding or paint the exterior of your home. Wall insulation saves on energy costs, makes your home more comfortable, and reduces outside noise. Batt insulation, spray foam or foam boards are good options if you are removing the siding. If you are painting, you can have a contractor blow insulation into the wall cavities through holes cut into the siding, or from inside the house. The holes are then plugged and prepped for paint.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

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

NorthcentralEC

@Northcentral_EC

Those summer days... In 1969, Sly Stone wrote of “those summer days” in his hit, “Hot Fun in the Summertime.” Those summer days have arrived. Mid-June saw temperatures approaching 100 degrees. During this extreme heat, please take measures to conserve energy as you are able. Be careful when outside. Northcentral continues to attempt to provide the maintenance and capital upgrades to meet these high demands, but supply chain and inflated prices are inhibiting the process. Through Northcentral’s partnership with TVA, reliability from the TVA transmission grid has been steady, but not something to be taken for granted. Summer also often brings scattered afternoon thunderstorms. The locations of these storms are often unpredictable, but using our recently updated Outage Management System (OMS), we can identify problem areas, repair damages, and restore power as soon as possible. The summer months are a great time to get caught up on our planned projects. Vegetation growth combined with new electric/ fiber construction translates to a heavy workload for our tree

trimming crews. Trimming is progressing, but regretfully debris removal has not. We realize the inconvenience this causes for those in our community and are working aggressively to remedy it. Making progress on projects that enhance system reliability, provide high-speed internet, as well as accommodate solar and electric vehicle charging projects is cumbersome in these complex supply chain, inflationary times. Northcentral remains, however, committed to remedying these issues as needed to provide services to enhance the quality of life to our community. Be safe. Stay cool.

by Kevin Doddridge General Manager/CEO

Northcentral Electric Cooperative is proud to host:

Byhalia Area Chamber Main Street Membership Luncheon with keynote speaker

Kevin Doddridge, CEO/General Manager Northcentral Electric Cooperative Northcentral Connect

Thursday, July 28, 2022 4600 Northcentral Way, Olive Branch, MS For more information, call 662-838-8127 14 TODAY | JULY 2022

Now installing services in Ingrams Mill and areas around Byhalia and Watson!

northcentralconnect.com Connect with CONNECT! northcentralconnect northcentralconnect northcentral_c

Bellipanni graduates from the Management Internship Program Michael Bellipanni has completed an intensive program in electric utility management with the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The Robert I. Kabat Management Internship Program (MIP) is a series of workshops offered by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association in conjunction with the University of Wisconsin. The program guides participants through all facets of the electric utility industry, including the many changes occurring around the nation. MIP participants go through three 10-day sessions at the University of Wisconsin-Madison designed to challenge and educate in new, innovative management techniques. Participants leave with a better understanding of what consumers want and how to ensure they get it. By also covering the unique principles that govern the operations of electric cooperatives, the program helps the co-op analyze other business ventures it may want to enter as well as enhancing the core organization. MIP is the most exclusive management development program in the nation for electric cooperatives, as only rural electric cooperative CEOs and top-level management participate. This allows greater emphasis of study on management and leadership challenges and the aspects of consumer-ownership that cooperatives enjoy. Participants focus on member value as part of day-to-day decision making.

Bellipanni has been with the cooperative nine years, serving as its Director of Marketing and Business Development for both Northcentral Electric and Northcentral Connect.

Rounds completes Leadership DeSoto We are proud to announce that Ja’Brece Rounds, Fiber Services Coordinator for Northcentral Connect, has graduated with the 2021-2022 class of Leadership DeSoto. Leadership DeSoto is a program coordinated by the DeSoto County Economic Development Council to inform future leaders of the needs and challenges facing DeSoto County and inspire them to utilize the resources available to them to make a difference. For over thirty years, Leadership DeSoto has helped leaders become involved in community service and improve the quality of life in DeSoto County. Candidates are nominated by organizations, employers, or individuals and must complete a lengthy application process. A selection committee then chooses participants based on the candidate’s community involvement, leadership capabilities, and potential in their respective

fields. The selection committee will choose no more than thirty men and women. Leadership DeSoto is a seven-month program that gives participants insight into the resources of the community by offering sessions in Leadership, Economics, Education, Legislative, Healthcare, Local Government (city, state, and county), and Community Service. Participants also engage in a group project to address issues and needs facing our community. This opportunity allows participants a hands-on experience in making a difference. Ja’Brece and his small group chose a worthy community service project – to help improve conditions and services offered by the Hernando Animal Shelter. The group helped organize a “Donate, Walk, Play” adoption event at the Hernando Farmer’s Market and assisted with kennel improvements on-site. Rounds joined Northcentral Electric Cooperative as a Billing Analyst in 2017. In early 2020, he was chosen to coordinate subscriber service efforts for Northcentral’s fiber internet affiliate, Northcentral Connect. If you would like more information on Leadership DeSoto, please visit desotocounty.com.

Northcentral announces date for 2022 Annual Meeting We are pleased to announce that the annual Northcentral Electric Cooperative Membership Meeting will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, in our auditorium located at 4600 Northcentral Way in Olive Branch. In addition to a review of the cooperative’s performance over the previous fiscal year, a major component of the Annual Meeting is the election of three members of the Board of Directors.

This year, board members are to be elected from Districts 3, 5, and 7 of the service area. A general description of the areas served in those districts, as well as board qualifications and nomination procedures, can be found in Article IV of Northcentral’s bylaws, can be viewed in person at the Northcentral office or on our website at northcentralelectric.com.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 662-895-2151. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, northcentralelectric.com. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us at 662-895-2151, or use the Northcentral app to check the status of your account. Remember, Northcentral Electric will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft.

16 TODAY | JULY 2022

If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text (“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, Northcentral Electric will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Northcentral Electric employees wear uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

ASYMMETRICAL SHAPE One half of the mole does not look like the other half. by Susan Collins-Smith It is hard to resist soaking up the sun’s rays in the summertime, but it’s important to take proper precautions. “Most people don’t know tanned skin is damaged skin,” said David Buys, Mississippi State University health specialist. “That golden brown is actually an injury in the top layer of your skin.” That damage can lead to burns, cataracts, skin cancer, premature aging, less immunity to illness, and macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in adults. To avoid these damaging effects, people who spend time outdoors, even on cloudy days, should always take steps to protect themselves from the ultraviolet A and B light — or UVA and UVB. These two spectrums of light damage the skin and eyes.

BORDER Sun damage can progress into skin cancer in some cases. Buys urges people to learn how to recognize the signs of three types of skin cancer related to sun damage: basal cell, squamous cell, and malignant melanoma. “Knowing how to spot these cancers early can lead to timely, effective treatment,” said Buys. “Check the skin all over your body once a month. Look for fleshy bumps that bleed, scab over and heal in cycles; scaley patches of skin; and moles that appear suddenly or begin to grow and change color. “Melanoma is the most severe form of skin cancer and the one most likely to spread to other parts of the body,” he said. Susan Collins-Smith is a writer with the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

• Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor — or SPF — of 30 or higher. Look for water-resistant formulas, and apply as directed. Reapplication is recommended after at least two hours and after sweating or swimming.

The border of the mole is scalloped or poorly defined.

COLOR The colors within the mole vary. There may be shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red, or blue.

DIAMETER The mole is larger than the diameter of a pencil eraser (6 millimeters).

EVOLVING The most important factor is to know what is normal. If a mole changes color and/or size, make an appointment with a dermatologist.

• Wear broad-brimmed hats (3- to 4-inch brims) and tightly woven clothing. Clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor — or UPF — are available.

• Apply a thick layer of sunscreen, and rub it in well.

• Buy sunglasses with labels that say they block most UVA and UVB light.

• Sunscreen expires after one to two years. Replace it every year, and write the purchase date on the container.

• Use a beach umbrella, cabana, tent, or canopy for shade during extended exposure to the sun.

• Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. if possible.

• Set a timer or alarm if falling asleep in the sun is a possibility.

• Keep babies younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 17

North East Mississippi ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION For more information about Today in Mississippi, contact Sarah Brooke Bishop or Marlin Williams at 662-234-6331

nemepa.org

NEMEPA

@NorthEastPower

CEO MESSAGE

Continuing service to our members, improving the quality of life It’s hard to believe we are already over halfway through 2022. North East Mississippi Electric Power Association has been busy staying on top of issues which all of us in the utility world are facing. I am listing a couple I wanted to update you on.

Electric Vehicles (EV) There is a great deal of “buzz” going around about electric vehicles. While this does bring excitement of new sales to the industry, it also brings challenges regarding infrastructure and pricing. Think about a gas station. The power required to charge a car in less than 30 minutes is about 300 kW. If you have 10 charges at a convenience store, the capacity to supply the load is the same as a small factory or a Wal-Mart Distribution Center. Studies show 80-90% of the charging will be done at home. A class two charger in the home requires as much current as most air conditioners. And there is the issue with our residential pricing structure. If your neighbor has an EV and they charge it when our system is experiencing peak demand, you will be subsiding the charging of their car. More on this in a later issue. To better understand car charging we installed charging stations at our office. Currently, NEMEPA is providing free charging to people in our parking lot. This allows us to obtain data which will enable us to better plan for what’s coming in the future. If you own an electric vehicle, I encourage you to come by and use the charging stations. Also, NEMEPA will be purchasing an electric vehicle soon and hope to have a demonstration day for our membership.

largest concerns is the delay on getting transformers. Many of our manufacturers have had restrictions which is delaying the number of materials they are able get to build transformers. As you can imagine, this has caused a drastic shortage of them. Nobody knows what the future holds. It is very concerning, but we are staying on top of this and working to ensure NEMEPA has what it needs.

Bright Ideas Employees at North East and NE SPARC are working closely with our area schools to provide grants to teachers in a new program called Bright Ideas. I am very excited for this new program. Our youth are our biggest asset, so any time we can invest in them it benefits our community. As far as economic development and growing our communities, we need talented, educated people, and I am all for anything we can do to help in that regard. Teachers are eligible to apply when they have students who are part of a household serviced by North East Power or NE SPARC. Teachers can find out all the details on our website — NEMEPA.org. I hope we get lots of participation from our area schools. As we approach the second half of our year, all of us at NEMEPA will continue to serve our members — helping to improve the quality of life for everyone.

Supply Chain There are benefits to electric vehicles, but there are also some concerns. Another concern I have is the supply chain. If you have tried to order a product in the last 24 months, you know there are delays in delivery. In our industry, one of the

14 TODAY | JULY 2022

by Keith Hayward General Manager/CEO

UPDATE

NE SPARC begins construction in Pontotoc County

NE SPARC has begun construction in Pontotoc County to bring the fastest, most reliable fiber internet option available to Randolph, Ingomar, Toccopola, and surrounding areas. “Recently NE SPARC installed its first communication shelter at the Algoma Water Association site to serve customers along Highway 334 and Highway 9. Construction is in process for those areas with expected completion in the fall,” said Randall Abel, chief operations officer of NE SPARC. “NE SPARC contractors also have begun fiber construction in the Ingomar area with additional construction scheduled to begin along Highway 346 this summer.” Our construction crews have installed nearly 1,500 miles of fiber in the last 24 months and are well trained and dedicated. Some fiber will attach to poles owned by our friends at Pontotoc Electric. Other fiber will be buried underground along the county roadways. Burying the fiber where possible provides

a more reliable network and in the long run helps us keep down costs. Our goal is to have the network up and going in this area as quickly and safely as possible. “We are very excited that our project is 100% complete in 24 months and under budget, so now we are expanding into areas that make sense. The demand is there for people who want our service. I think we have seen what it can do to help the community and people get through COVID-19 issues, schooling issues, working from home — it just changes life,” said Keith Hayward, chief executive officer of NE SPARC. “As long as we can make it work, we will provide NE SPARC wherever it makes sense — even if they are not our members.” Anyone interested in checking to see if this phase of construction includes their home or business can visit NESPARC. com. While on the site, you can pre-register for service, so you will be notified when your zone opens.

In April, North East Mississippi Electric Power Association celebrated Lineworker Appreciation Day by hosting a lunch for our employees. Lineworker Appreciation Day started in 2013 to honor the linemen that put their lives on the line to bring power to the people. We are so thankful for each of our linemen and the hard work they exhibit each day to keep our system operating.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

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

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call Pontotoc at 662-489-3211 or Bruce at 662-983-2727. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, pepa.com. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact Pontotoc at 662-489-3211 or Bruce at 662-983-2727 to check the status of your account. Remember, Pontotoc Electric will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft.

14 TODAY | JULY 2022

If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text (“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, Pontotoc Electric will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of calls or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Pontotoc Electric employees wear uniforms. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

Enjoy these great recipes from our employees and retirees! fried green tomatoes

grape salad

Curtis (PEPA Retiree) and Seretha Gregory

Don (PEPA Retiree) and Sandy Patterson

INGREDIENTS Several green tomatoes 2 cups flour 2 cups milk

INGREDIENTS 8 oz cream cheese 8 oz sour cream 1 cup sugar

Wash and thinly slice tomatoes. Soak in milk for about 3 minutes. Drain and batter them in flour. Add desired amount of salt and pepper or Greek seasoning for added taste. While prepping tomatoes, have grease getting hot. Once grease is hot, fry tomatoes until brown.

Cream sugar and cream cheese together. Add sour cream, then add grapes and pecans. Sprinkle top with brown sugar.

2022 PEPA

1 cup pecans red and white seedless grapes brown sugar

scholarship winners

Brady Bass

Brice Deaton

Joseph Henry

Elizabeth Anne Mitchell

Hailey Rackley

Pontotoc

South Pontotoc

Caroline Speck

Jordan Stewart

John Dawson Suggs

James Cobb Thomas

Julia Weeden

North Pontotoc

Bruce

Pontotoc

North Pontotoc

Ingomar

JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

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.

PearlComm Fiber FAQ The excitement from our members about our internet sister company, PearlComm Fiber, is empowering for all of us at Pearl River Valley Electric. PearlComm Fiber has been growing dramatically over the course of the last four months and they have already connected over 500 customers. At the time this article was written, PearlComm has opened the majority of the Foxworth area and is working to launch additional areas in South Columbia and Columbia. They also have crews in the Maxie area hanging fiber in anticipation of connecting customers later this year. They tentatively anticipate finishing these Phase 1 sections by the end of 2022. While there is lots of excitement for high-speed internet, I know it can be confusing for PearlComm customers who have been longtime Pearl River Valley Electric members to understand how PearlComm Fiber operates. From paying your bill to due dates, PearlComm operates differently than Pearl River Valley Electric. Below are some frequently asked questions that many members have had regarding PearlComm Fiber. I know this article won’t answer every question, so please visit our website, pearlcommfiber.net for additional frequently asked questions. As always, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact PearlComm Fiber with any inquiries you may have.

How do I manage my account and bills? PearlComm Fiber offers you the ability to manage your account online through the customer portal. By clicking “Pay Bill” on our website, pearlcommfiber.net, you can access your bill, past invoices, and set up autopay. In addition, you can make a payment or make changes to your service by upgrading or downgrading your plan. After you have had your service installed, you will receive an email to set up a username and password for the customer portal. How do I pay my bill? Bills are emailed monthly after the first of the month. You can log into your account at pearlcommfiber.net to make a payment. You can also call 601-633-8000 and pay through our automated system. Payments will not be accepted at any Pearl River Valley Electric offices, office drive-throughs, or over the phone with a customer service representative. Customers may opt for a paper bill for a $4 charge. Is AutoPay available? Yes! You can choose autopay in PearlComm’s customer portal. By choosing autopay you will receive a $5 credit on your bill for six months. Autopay is simple to set up and will accept debit and credit cards along with checking and savings accounts.

however many days you used PearlComm Fiber in addition to your first full month’s bill. For example, if you were connected with six days left in the month, you will be charged for those six days and the next month on your bill. After your first bill, your next billing period will reflect expected monthly charges. What will happen if I am late paying my bill? We bill the first of the month and the net amount is due on the 15th of the month. If the 15th falls on a weekend or holiday, your payment will be due the next business day. If payment is not received by the due date, you will be subject to disconnection the next day. If you are on autopay, you will have money automatically drafted on the 15th or the next business day if the 15th falls on a weekend or holiday. Payment of a past due invoice is required before service is restored. A subsequent reconnect fee of $20 will be charged for each reconnection. It seems that everything is done through email, can I talk to a real person? While the set-up and the billing of your service are entirely through email, you can always talk to a real customer service representative. Our phone number is 601-633-8000. If you are experiencing technical issues, you can call us or use the email, support@pcfiber.net or the chat feature on our website, pearlcommfiber.net.

Since PearlComm Fiber is working with my electric cooperative, will I pay my internet bill with my electric bill? No. PearlComm Fiber is a subsidiary of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association and is a separate entity. Why is my first month’s bill higher than your advertised rate? PearlComm Fiber charges you ahead of time for your internet use. Depending upon when you start your service, you will be charged for

14 TODAY | JULY 2022

by Matthew Ware CEO/General Manager

FIBERINTERNET INTERNET FIBER

COPPER-BASED DSL COPPER-BASED DSL

CABLE NETWORK

Follow “PearlComm Fiber” on Facebook for the“PearlComm latest zone opening updates. Visit Follow Fiber” on Facebook www.pearlcommfiber.net for more for the latest zone opening updates. Visit information and to pre-register. www.pearlcommfiber.net for more

PearlComm Fiber Powered by Pearl River Valley Electric

information and to pre-register.

FIXED WIRELESS

JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

86 • • 85 99 • 8 9 2 11 • • 97 111 • • 110 124 • • 109 123 80 137 4 9 • 8 • • 10 65 • 2 12 79 • 3 136 9 • • 7 • 10 1 • 12 • 8 7 • 135 92 • • 149 • 106 • • 120 • 4 1 13 9 • 8 5 14 • 10 • 162 119 • • • 133 90 • 147 1 • 104 16 8 11 • • 2 • 13 • 6 • 14 • 103 160 • 117 • 174 131 • • • 145 • 159 116 • 3 0 17 • 7 13 • 4 18 • 14 8 • • 15 115 • 172 • 129 186 • 143 • 7 • 15 1 • 8 17 • • 5 12 2 18 • 9 14 • 19 • 156 • • 170 • 184 141 • 198 • 155 • 212 • 169 3 • • 18 • 7 140 4 19 • 15 11 2 • 168 • 2 • 18 • 6 3 • 19 • 15 10 7 2 • 16 • 224 181 • • • 195 • 209 3 • 166 2 0 2 • 18 3 • 4 2 • 19 • • 208 • 165 222 • 179 236 • 193 7 • 0 • 2 1 • 2 8 • 2 5 • 17 3 2 • 192 • 249 • 206 • • 220 • 34 2 8 191 • 4 5 2 0 • 2 6 • 2 19 • 2 • • 233 • 190 247 • 204 261 18 • 2 2 • 3 • 2 6 • 4 3 2 0 0 • 2 26 • 217 • 274 • 231 • 2 • 245 • 259 • 216 273 • 230 4 • 2 4 • 2 8 • 5 • 2 2 • 215 27 • 229 286 43 • 2 7 • 5 • 2 1 • 7 8 2 2 • 2 285 • 242 • 299 • 256 • • 270 27 • 284 • 241 298 55 • 2 9 • 6 • 2 3 • 8 0 • 2 4 • 2 297 • 254 • 311 • 268 • • 282 6 • 9 2 • 253 10 7 3 6 • 2 1 • 324 • 28 • • 295 52 • 6 309 • 26Fiber 23 0a major 3 8 • 2 4 • 9 • 2 8 • PearlComm is excited to celebrate milestone, its 500th 0 5 • 3 • 26 322 • 279 • 336 • 293 •Pounds • 307 1 • 2 8 3 7 5 • 2 3 2 customer! The family of Foxworth are now enjoying high-speed 3 9 • 2 • 349 • 306 • • 320 77 • 1 334 8 • 29PearlComm’s 4 5 3 0 • 3 • 19 internet due to advanced fi ber network. • 3 3 • 3 • 3 • 290 347 • 304 • 361 • 318 • faster • 332 •we have 346 “It’s so3fast, much than3anything experienced before. • 30 60 3 17 • 74 1 • 3 3 • 3 5 • 4 2 • 3 •the internet has to 4 30 359 316 movies and enjoy 373 • Now we• can stream everything 330 4 offer. • • 3 8 • 5 • 3 15 2 • 3 7 9 3 2 6 • 3 Debbie Pounds.• • 38 • 343 • said • 357 Thanks 8 371 5 • 32PearlComm,” 8 2 3 4 • 3 99 6 • 3 5 • 3 0 • • 37 • to all Pearl River 327 1 384 • 3 PearlComm is4 working to bring high-speed 398 • 355 internet 9 • 6 • 3 3 • 8 0 • 3 4 7 • 3 9 4 3 • 35Installations are currently 8 • 411 • 36 • Valley 3 Electric happening in the • • 382 • 396 53 members. 10 7 4 6 • 3 24 1 • 4 8 • 3 • www.pearlcommfi0ber.net• to see the latest map • • 395 352 Foxworth• area,3please 409 66 visit 423 • 38 4 9 • 3 8 • 0 5 • 4 6 2 • 3 2 4 • • 436 of our connection • 393 •area. 379 • 407 • 21 4 5 • 378 3 2 4 9 • 3 49 6 • 4 0 • 4 • • You can also pre-register/register by going ber.net. • 420 • 377 434 391 448 05to www.pearlcommfi • 4 • 19 • 4 3 • 3 0 • 4 9 7 • 3If you have already•pre-registered, 44 there is no need4to18do it again. • 404 • 461 • • 432 6 • 4 4 0 • 403 6 17 4 4 1 • 43 • • 402 416 430 • 444 • • 415 9 2 4 3 • 4 4 • • 8 2 4 2 4 4 • 456 • • 427 441 455 • 440

PearlComm Fiber Celebrates

500 CUSTOMER TH

Applications for Community College Scholars program due August 12, 2022 • Applications are available at PRVEPA offices and at www.prvepa.com. • Completed applications must be postmarked or emailed by August 12. • Scholarship recipients must be a PRVEPA member, spouse, or child of a member participating in the Round Up program. • Recipients must be full time (12 hours or more per semester) freshmen students enrolled in academic or career-technical programs. • Scholarship funds will be credited to each student’s college account — no checks will be issued to individuals. • Scholarships should be awarded by the end of September. Students must be enrolled in good standing at the time funds are released to the colleges.

Funded by members who are rounding up their monthly bills, these scholarships are intended to assist students who will attend a Mississippi community college as a freshman this fall.

More information is available at www.prvepa.com. 16 TODAY | JULY 2022

2 • 37 • 62

287

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 601-736-2666. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, emepa.com. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us at 601-736-2666, or use the PRVEPA app to check the status of your account. Remember, Pearl River Valley Electric will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft.

If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text (“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, Pearl River Valley Electric will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Pearl River Valley Electric employees wear uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 17

BRINGING THE POWER WWW. SOU THE RNP IN E.COOP | P.O. BOX 60 | 1349 1 H WY. 28 | TAYLO R SVIL L E, MS 39 168 | 800.231 .524 0

Happy Fourth of July Every Fourth of July, Americans join to celebrate our nation’s hard-fought independence from British rule and the birth of a new nation. It’s more than a time of celebration, though. It is also a time to remember those who have sacrificed so much protecting the freedoms we all enjoy, and a time to reflect on ways that each of us can contribute to ensuring these freedoms for our future generations. Our founders created a republican form of government that has stood the test of time. Through every trial and tribulation that our country faced, it survived, and overcame the internal and external challenges in its path. America is not perfect. In fact, the Preamble to our Constitution states, “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union…” This very statement carries the idea of continuous improvement. The idea that we as a nation will continue to evolve, grow, and learn from mistakes was written into the document that guides our country. It is our freedom that allows progress to take place.

American exceptionalism is found in our freedom. We are free to choose where and how we live. We are free to decide where and how we worship. We are free to express different ideas and beliefs, and to do all of this peacefully, and without persecution. The French political thinker and historian Alexis de Tocqueville said nearly 200 years ago, “America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.” I believe that the American people are good, and therefore, America will remain great. In order to remain great, we must all work together to move our country forward so that future generations continue to pursue those certain unalienable rights — life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I hope you all have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

by Chris K. Rhodes President/CEO Southern Pine Electric

14 TODAY | JULY 2022

Here When You Need Us On the average blue-sky day in May, Southern Pine received 602 calls between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Members call for many reasons, including checking balances, making payment arrangements, establishing new services, disconnecting current service, placing service orders, and so much more. It’s our pleasure to receive calls from our members because that is the reason we are here — to provide the best possible service to you! When storms come our way, causing outages, the call numbers increase with members reporting outages. Each call can take time, depending on the member’s needs, and we are always happy to help. Our goal is to answer each call with kindness and courtesy while taking care of whatever the need may be.

"Callin' Taylorsville Operator, won't you put me on through...."

102,273 TOTAL CALLS

87,127

TOTAL CALLS

"I gotta relay my outage on down to Southern Pine." IVR

Answered by MSR 14.6%

85.4% The new call center has undoubtedly helped us serve you more efficiently. We are constantly working to make members’ experiences the best they can be. We will be implementing a new chat feature and an app for mobile devices in the coming months. Southern Pine is here to bring the power to our members with the timely, friendly, and helpful service you deserve. We always look forward to hearing from you, so please let us know how we’re doing by emailing info@southernpine.coop.

are handled by our easy-to-use IVR system.

HOW WE HANDLE SO MANY CALLS Answered by Automated Service 85.4%

Our automated telephone system offers a quick and easy way to take care of most day-to-day items with a few presses of your phone's keypad.

14,346 MSR

A member service representative from our call center, or one of the district offices, takes your call. Occasionally, you will speak to the dispatcher.

"Hurry up, won't you put them on the line."

With so many calls, wait times can get long but we are working hard to make sure each call is answered in a timely manner. Remember that for everyday items like paying your bill or reporting an outage, you can skip the line by using your MyPower account, or by using our convenient texting system. By texting, you can report your outage with one word, and you are all done!

HELP US BRING THE POWER OF COMMUNICATION!

JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

MEET YOUR DIRECTOR:

STACI L. RHODES

Southern Pine’s board of directors, management and employees are pleased to have Dr. Staci L. Rhodes join their team as the first female board member. A native of Pelahatchie, Rhodes earned her doctorate of veterinary medicine degree in 1993 and is co-owner of Crooked Creek Animal Hospital which opened in 1999. She and her husband, Kurt, have three children, Trevor, Peyton, and Trey. An experienced veterinarian, Rhodes is hardworking and diligent in bringing innovative veterinary medicine to Mississippi. As a successful businessperson, she provides competitive, quality employment for employees, along with training programs and financial incentives that support them and their families. Along with her family, Rhodes places community service at the top of her list to support not only her customers and business but also promotes all of Mississippi. Some of the ways she gives back to the people she serves are by providing programs for schools, stray animal adoptions, pet therapy, and offering internships for MSU-CVM students. At Southern Pine, she immediately embarked on director education classes and has spent hours learning the ins and outs of a rural distribution cooperative. Conservative and financially adept, she is a good steward of all resources, and easily puts the members first in each of her decisions. Rhodes, along with the other directors, gives freely of her time and personal resources to help co-op members and to support employee programs at Southern Pine. As an active member of Mississippi Farm Bureau, Rhodes has made trips to Washington, D.C. to meet with legislators concerning policies that may affect Mississippi farmers and Southern Pine members. An advocate for rural Mississippi, she continuously looks for ways to help keep family farms working and keep our youth in the state. She is active in her church and community and serves on numerous boards and committees that help promote Southern Pine members, support area development, and provide opportunities for young people across the region. In addition to her work here at home, Rhodes works with CVM veterinarians to supervise teams of veterinary staff and students that provide large and small animal health services, and education for foreign countries such as Haiti and Honduras. This service exemplifies her commitment to providing the best services available to rural Mississippians, their livestock, and domestic animals, all of which promotes Southern Pine, family farms, and the Mississippi way of life.

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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT:

JOSHUA KEYES

A valuable member of the Southern Pine team, Joshua Keyes has served the members of Southern Pine for over six years as a dispatcher. When Josh joined the team, he brought more than a decade of dispatch experience. One of the first things you notice about Josh is his easy, friendly demeanor and smile. He puts anyone at ease right away, which serves our members well in stressful times during outage-causing storms. A dispatcher is a vital role in day-to-day electric services. Still, it’s never more critical than during significant outages. Josh dispatches servicemen and provides them with the information needed to handle and restore service to members, including outages and other problems. He constantly monitors communications in the field to know where service crews are located and uses various types of software applications to track members’ needs. When Josh is not at Southern Pine, he loves spending time with his family. He and his wife Andrea have one son, Zylon, a lineman at Mississippi Power, and one daughter, Kristen, a traveling C.N.A. He’s a proud grandfather to Daelon, 9, and Keleigh, 2. “They are smart kids, and I love spending time with them and playing,” said Josh. Josh loves to watch football and plays fantasy football every year; however, one of his favorite things is playing cornhole with family and friends. He said he gets extremely competitive and loves the competition. Josh and his family love spending time at the beach in Destin, Florida. “We all love the beach, except my wife, who’d much rather go to the mountains,” he said. “We all have fun just spending time with family and friends.” Josh said the one thing he is most thankful for is life. “I love to enjoy life. Nothing is as bad as it seems to be when you love life. I tell people to just live in the moment,” he said. He and his wife live in Summerland and are members of Pine Valley Missionary Baptist Church.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 17

Southern Pine Bylaws Outline Annual Meeting, Election to be held on Thursday, November 10, 2022 Article III: Meetings of Members Section 3.01: Annual Meeting For the purposes of electing directors, hearing and passing upon reports covering the previous fiscal year, and transacting such other business as may properly come before the meeting, the annual meeting of the members shall be held on the second Thursday of the month of November of each year, at such place in one of the counties of Mississippi within which the Cooperative serves, and beginning at such hour, as the Board of Directors shall from year to year fix; PROVIDED, that, for cause sufficient, the Board of Directors may fix a different date for such annual meeting not more than thirty (30) days prior or subsequent to the day otherwise established for such meeting in this Section. Failure to hold the annual meeting at the designated time and place shall not work a forfeiture or dissolution of the Cooperative. It shall be the responsibility of the Board of Directors to make adequate plans and preparation for the annual meeting, and to encourage attendance by the membership at these meetings.

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

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

elected in any other proper manner. Drawing by lot shall resolve, where necessary, any tie votes. If an election of directors shall not be held on the day designated for the annual meeting, a special meeting of the members may be held for the purpose of electing directors within a reasonable time thereafter. (c) No person or non-natural person as described in subsection (e) of this section shall be eligible to become or remain a director or to hold any position of trust in the Cooperative who is not an active member in good standing of the Cooperative, has not been a bona fide resident of the county from which they are to be elected for six months immediately preceding the nomination to directorship, or who is in any way employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise. (d) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a director who has been finally convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude. (e) In order to be eligible to become or remain a director of the Cooperative, a person must be a member of the Cooperative and receiving service therefrom, and not be a close relative as defined in Section 4.08 of an incumbent director, or the director being replaced. However, the operating or chief executive officer of any member which is not a natural person, such as a corporation, church, etc., or its designee, shall, notwithstanding that they do not receive service from the Cooperative, be eligible to become a director, from the county in which such member is located, if they be so designated. (1) Is in substantial permanent occupancy, direction or use of the premises

served by the Cooperative, and (2) Is a permanent resident within the county where such member is served by the Cooperative; provided further, that no more than one (1) such person may serve on the Board of Directors at the same time. (f) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a director of, or to hold any other position of trust in the Cooperative, unless such person has the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract. (g) No employee of the Cooperative shall be eligible to become or remain a director of the Cooperative. (h) Upon establishment of the fact that a nominee for director lacks eligibility under this Section or as may be provided elsewhere in these bylaws, it shall be the duty of the chair presiding at the meeting at which such nominee would be otherwise voted upon to disqualify such nominee. Upon the establishment of the fact that any person being considered for, or already holding, a directorship or other position of trust in the Cooperative lacks’ eligibility under this Section, it shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to withhold such position from such person, or to cause them to be removed therefrom. (i) Nothing in this section contained shall, or shall be construed to, affect in any manner whatsoever, the validity of any action taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors, unless such action is taken with respect to a matter which is affected by the provisions of this section and in which one or more of the directors have an intent adverse to that of the Cooperative.

Section 4.04: Committee on Nominations, Credentials and Elections (a) Committee on Nominations. It shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to appoint, at its regular August meeting of each year, a committee on nominations consisting of not less than five (5) nor more than eleven (11) members who shall be selected so as to ensure equitable geographic representation. No existing Cooperative employee, agent, officer, director, or unknown candidate for director, may serve on such

committee. The committee shall receive and consider nominees submitted by the members of the Cooperative. The submission should include the member’s name, address, account number and contact information and be mailed to the Committee on Nominations, P. O. Box 60, Taylorsville, MS, 39168. Nominations must be received by September 6, 2022. The committee shall meet at a time and place set by the Board of Directors. The committee shall prepare and post at the principal office of the Cooperative within fifteen

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

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

For more information on the November 10, 2022, Annual Membership Meeting, visit www.southernpine.coop or email the voice@southernpine.coop

www.southernpine.coop JULY 2022 | TODAY 19

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

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

Southwest Electric

SWElectricCoop

sw_electric_coop

Southwest Electric

Giving our residential Members power to choose

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

Payment Options SmartHub through the mobile app or online at southwestelectric.coop

Alternate Payment Dates

Credit/Debit Card Draft enroll through SmartHub online or the mobile app for monthly auto pay or one-time payment

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

Bank Draft one-time eCheck payment through SmartHub or call us to enroll in auto monthly bank draft

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

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

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

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Pay by Phone 24/7 Call 877-607-6973 and pay with credit/debit cards or by eCheck Pay Centers • Lorman — Southwest Electric office • Port Gibson — River Hills Bank and BankPlus DirectPay • Barcode in SmartHub or back of bill • $1.50 fee • Find nearest location in SmartHub MoneyGram • Available at Walmart and CVS stores • $1.50 fee • Receive code 16381 U.S. Mail Mail your bill stub and check or money order to P.O. Box 5, Lorman, MS 39096

Southwest Mississippi Electric Power Association

Annual Meeting

RETURN BOTTOM PORTION

Wednesday, August 10, at 10 a.m.

The annual meeting is being held for the purpose of electing directors, hearing and passing upon reports covering the previous fiscal year and transacting other such business as may come before the meeting. Look for your annual meeting notice in the mail. The bottom portion must be returned by Friday, August 5 at 4:30 p.m. Southwest Electric’s bylaws can be found at southwestelectric.coop/what-is-a-cooperative. The Nondiscrimination Statement can be found at southwestelectric.coop/nondiscrimination-statement. You can also call our office to obtain copies.

ANNUAL MEETING AT 10 A.M.

Macedonia Baptist Church Gym 1230 Macedonia Rd NW, Brookhaven

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Hurricane Season Preparation

Set your thermostat to 78 degrees.

Experts are predicting an active hurricane season this year. We can’t control the weather, but we can prepare for its impact. Take time to make a plan, build a kit to last several days and find ways to stay informed in the event of bad weather.

Setting it any lower causes your AC to run longer to cool your home. For every degree lower than 78 degrees, you increase your bill by as much as 4%.

Make a plan Visit ready.gov/plan for printable plans. Don’t forget any special family needs.

Only use fans when you are in the room. Switch ceiling fans to turn counterclockwise in the summer. Fans cool your skin, not the air.

Build a kit See recommended lists on ready.gov/kit. Make sure you have enough supplies and food to last 3-5 days.

Be informed Set your smartphone to receive emergency notifications. Consider purchasing a weather radio. JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

BRIAN HUGHEY

Bringing power and energy services to local communities

Public Relations Specialist

LORRI FREEMAN, APR

STEPHANIE CHISHOLM

Manager of Public Relations

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

@singingriverelectric

@SRECooperative

Staying engaged to strengthen our communities

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Public Relations Assistant

SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

Electric cooperatives around the world adhere to seven cooperative principles. The seventh principle, Concern for Community, is arguably the most important. Each year, your cooperative invests a significant amount of time and funding on activities that support the communities we serve. This principle is more than just a concept to our employees and board of directors. On a daily basis, the Singing River Electric team lives this principle by staying actively engaged in efforts to make our communities stronger. As a local business for more than 84 years, Singing River Electric calls the communities we serve home. After all, many of our employees and board members were born and raised in these same communities and take tremendous pride in community success. Many of you witness firsthand Singing River Electric’s efforts as we sponsor and participate in numerous local events and take an active role in economic development to help build and grow our cities, towns, and rural areas. Some examples include educating students at local schools about electric safety and careers, participating in community clean-up and beautification events, sponsoring the MS Youth Leadership Program, awarding Neighbors Helping Neighbors Grants, donating trees for Arbor Day, and volunteering for local river and boat launch clean-up events. As employees of your local electric cooperative, we value the support of our board of directors who empower our management team to carry out the seventh principle. One of the biggest decisions regarding this principle was made by our board over the past year – to provide another crucial service for our

AMANDA PARKER

General Manager & CEO

membership. We are carefully working through the challenges of expanding high-speed fiber optic internet service to our communities. For this, we continue to ask for patience from our members as this is an incredibly detailed process. With that, we are extremely excited to see this unparalleled service allow our communities to become even stronger and grow in the years to come. SRE’s board of directors, management team, and employees understand the importance of staying actively engaged when it comes to strengthening the communities we serve and will continue doing just that.

by Brian Hughey General Manager and CEO

@singingriverelectric

Energy Tips

Gabe Robbins

Energy Services Representative robbins@singingriver.com

Water heating energy savings Water heating makes up approximately 13% of your electricity bill. Here’s some information to help you use less energy where water heating is concerned. A water heater comes set by the factory at 125 degrees. By adjusting the temperature down to 120 degrees, the water will feel the same but won’t have as much cold water added. The lower temperature setting will allow the unit to cycle on and off less, meaning less run time and more cost savings. Every water heater has an Energy Factor (EF) rating which is used to calculate the efficiency of a water heater. Ratings range from 0.8 to 2.0 – the higher the rate, the higher the efficiency and savings. Solar water heaters with electrical backup installations typically have a higher factor rating. According to the Department of Energy’s formula, if a standard electric water heater’s EF is 0.92, the annual operating cost would be approximately $525. For a heat pump water heater with an EF of 2.0, the annual operating cost would be approximately $241.50 – this is less than half the cost of a standard unit. If you are in the market for a new water heater, make sure to consider the Energy Factor, size/recovery, and the fuel type. For more energy-efficiency tips, visit singingriver.com/ways-to-save or energy.gov.

More than THREE TONS of debris and trash COLLECTED from the lower Pascagoula River Singing River Electric joined Singing River Federal Credit Union to partner with Mississippi Power for the Renew Our Rivers event, removing more than three tons of debris and trash from the lower Pascagoula River on May 20. Eleven SRE employees joined 50 other volunteers to clean up the water ways. Boats launched from Little River Marina and returned throughout the day laden with old tires, paint cans, plastic bottles, and more. “We all have a responsibility to keep our waterways clean,” said SRE Right-ofway Coordinator Nick Greer. “The goal is to leave no trace, but cleanups like this one help remove the debris that inevitably happens.” Renew Our Rivers is a national award-winning environmental stewardship program. Piloted in 2005 by Mississippi Power Company, the initiative was created to clean waterways, educate the public, and raise awareness on the protection and preservation of our area’s valuable community resource. “Growing up in south Mississippi, you learn at a young age to pick up after yourself on the water and to leave it how you found it – or better,” said SRE General Manager and CEO Brian Hughey. “Trash still finds its way by flying off trucks or boats and floating down the river, so we do our part with boat launch cleanups throughout the year and by contributing to this event to protect and beautify our natural resources.”

#community

Get Prepared.

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

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

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

• Tanner Chapel Substation – Highway 612, Tanner Williams Road, Tanner Chapel Road and surrounding areas. • Wade Substation – Highway 63, Highway 614, Highway 613 and surrounding areas. • Rocky Creek Substation – Highway 98, Rocky Creek Road, Highway 63 and surrounding areas. • Frank Snell Substation – Highway 613, Highway 614, Frank Snell Road and surrounding areas. 16 TODAY | JULY 2022

Fiber Service Areas SR Connect is delivering fiber-fast internet in the following areas – call 877-272-6611 to sign up.

PERRY WAYNE AND GREENE COUNTIES Brewer community Signing up now Coming soon

Lightning-fast Fiber Internet Service

STREAM AND STAY CONNECTED TO THOSE YOU LOVE MOST Whether you want to binge watch the whole series or show off your newborn to out-of-state grandparents, we can help with incredible speeds and the level of responsive service you deserve and expect from your local electric co-op.

Ensure the safety of your family and all devices connected to your system by adding the Ultimate Wi-Fi Experience bundle (ExperienceIQ and ProtectIQ) for only $7/month!

GEORGE COUNTY The Agricola substation’s Highway 613 North and Movella feeders

Stop watch Run a speed test to verify the speed

Lock Change/reset Wi-Fi network name or password.

Signing up now Coming soon

Wi-Fi Signal Create guest password

Clock Set time limits on screen time or applications (bedtime, etc.)

Pause Button Pause internet for any device.

JACKSON COUNTY Lake O Pines, Cartersville and Daisy communities, parts of Vestry Road Signing up now Coming soon

Visit singingriverconnect.com/ signup to view full size maps.

Shield Block harmful content, threats, apps, and sites.

singingriverconnect.com Service 877-272-6611 • Tech Support 877-636-1702

Pictured are Jaci Thornton, Josie McLeod, Sydney Freeman, Caroline Holder, Riley Byrd, Sophey Errington, Keni Byrd, Kaelyn Mills, Sarah Barfield, Bailey Brewer, Ella Hester, and Mrs. Virginia Kittrell.

Supporting STEM education SRE NHN Grant helps Sand Hill School purchase drones

Concern for Community 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, $329,458.44 has been awarded to local non-profits in local communities.

Unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, offer students hands-on experience which provides a more engaging learning environment. The drone curriculum includes flight safety, basic piloting and photo skills, drone physics, rules, ethics, and real-world applications. “Students not only learn laws, regulations, and science of flying; they will also delve into advanced coding and programming concepts,” explains Virginia Kittrell, Sand Hill School Cyber Foundations and Computer Science and Engineering teacher. The $2,500 grant was used to purchase four Discover Mini Drones as well as digital courses and curricula. “These drones allow us to make abstract concepts real for our students. They can calculate distances, read graphs, and use data that they create themselves from simple flight paths—making learning relevant and fun for them,” Kittrell adds.

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

Replenish your storm supplies Now is the time, on a pretty day, to replenish your storm supplies. Purchase fresh batteries, canned goods, and water to keep in the event of a storm. Ready.gov and the Red Cross are great resources for building a basic disaster supply kit.

• singingriver.com/storm-and-outage • ready.gov • redcross.org

What is the fastest way to report an outage? Using the SmartHub mobile app can speed restoration time by directly entering your outage information into our system. Dispatch is then able to assign your power outage for faster repairs. Download the SmartHub app at singingriver.com/ smarthub.

The power of working together and how it benefits you As a member of Singing River Electric, you can take comfort in knowing that you are part of a large network of power companies that work together to provide you with affordable, reliable power. Here’s how it works:

3 1

Singing River Electric and 10 other electric cooperatives across the state are partners with another electric cooperative known as Cooperative Energy.

Cooperative Energy operates the power plants that produce electricity, as well as the transmission lines that move electricity to you.

Because these 11 cooperatives are joined as one mutual source of power, your service is more affordable and reliable than it would be if each system operated alone.

Cooperative Energy is part of MISO, an even larger network that joins it with other power companies in the U.S. and Canada. These companies work together to produce electricity for everyone from Mississippi to Manitoba at the lowest possible cost, and to make sure electricity is readily available.

JULY 2022 | TODAY 19

twincoepa.com SERVING MORE THAN 12,600 ELECTRIC METERS IN SEVEN DELTA COUNTIES

@twincoepa

Hollandale - 662-827-2262 | Belzoni - 662-247-1909 | Greenville - 662-334-9543 | Rolling Fork - 662-873-4233 | REPORT OUTAGES 866-897-7250

Common Types of Scams A scammer may claim you are overdue on your electric bill and threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t pay immediately. Whether this is done in-person, by phone, text, or email, the scammers want to scare you into immediate payment, so you don’t have time to think clearly. If this happens over the phone, simply hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 662-827-2262. Our phone number can also be found on your monthly bill and on our website, twincoepa.com. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us at 662-827-2262, or use the Twin Co EPA app to check the status of your account. Remember, Twin County Electric will never attempt to demand immediate payment after just one notice. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy. All you have to do is click or press a button to initiate the process. If you proceed, you will be prompted to provide banking or other personal information. Instead of money going into your bank account, the scammers can drain your account and use personal information such as a social security number for identity theft. If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the phone number to prevent future robocalls. If this scam attempt occurs via email (known as a “phishing” attempt) or by text

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(“smishing”), do not click any links. Instead, delete it, and if possible, block the sender. If you do overpay on your energy bill, Twin County Electric will automatically apply the credit to your next billing cycle. When in doubt, contact us.

Defend Yourself Against Scams Be wary of call or texts from unknown numbers. Be suspicious of an unknown person claiming to be a utility worker who requests banking or other personal information. Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Twin County Electric employees wear uniforms and carry ID badges. When we perform work on our members’ property or come into your home, our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves. We want to help protect our community against utility scams, and you can help create the first line of defense. Please report any potential scams to us, so we can spread the word to prevent others in the community from falling victim.

by Tim Perkins General Manager

Twin County retires Capital Credits The board of directors of Twin County Electric Power Association, headquartered in Hollandale, has authorized the retirement of $2,295,538 in capital credits. As owners of an electric cooperative, Twin County’s members enjoy the benefits of the allocation of annual operating margins as capital credits. The capital credits being retired this year are the balance of the margins for 1991, 33% of the margins for 1992, 14% of the margins for 1994, 7% of the margins for 2007, 18% of the margins for 2008, 1% of the margins for 2009, and 22% of the operating margins for 2021. Twin County’s members receiving service during any or all of these years are eligible for capital credit returns based upon the dollar amount of electric service paid for that year as compared to the total electric service paid by all Twin County members.

New board member Twin County Electric Power Association is pleased to announce that Norma C. Quinn has been appointed as a member of its Board of Directors to fill the unexpired term of Billy George Janous, who recently retired. Quinn is a life-long resident of Humphreys County, graduate of Mississippi Valley State University, and has more than 40 years of banking experience. Twin County and its Board of Directors believe that Ms. Quinn will be an asset to the organization.

Tim Perkins, Twin County’s general manager stated, “Our members have faced multiple hardships over the last year along with current economic struggles. We are always glad when we’re able to retire capital credits and give that money back to our membership. This year’s checks were mailed mid-June.” Perkins added, “If Twin County does not have your current address, please contact our office and get that corrected. Also, if the account holder is deceased, a form will be provided by Twin County in order to update that account information.” Twin County Electric Power Association, an electric cooperative, is owned by the members it serves. Since 1938, we have provided safe, dependable, and affordable electric service to more than 12,500 electric meters in seven Delta counties. To learn more about Twin County, please visit www.twincoepa.com and follow us on Facebook.

TENTATIVE UPCOMING

• July 19, 2022 – “Record Date” for Twin County’s 2022 Annual Meeting. • July 20, 2022 – Petitions to run for director are available at the Hollandale office. • Aug. 15-19, 2022 – Annual meeting notices, annual reports, and proxies are mailed to all members in good standing as of the Record Date. • Sept. 14, 2022 – All proxies must be received by 5 p.m. at any of Twin County’s offices. • Sept. 20, 2022 – Twin County Annual Meeting in Hollandale beginning at 1:30 p.m. JULY 2022 | TODAY 15

TWITTER

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

VISIT US ONLINE @ WWW.YAZOOVALLEY.COM

In Memoriam

Bubba Malone Jr.

Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association honors the memory of William "Bubba" Malone Jr., who was dedicated to serving our members for nearly three decades. Bubba was a retired lineman and a member of Central Baptist Church. He is survived by his son Daniel Malone and wife Mandy, his daughter Crissie Smith and husband Walker, four grandchildren, and his brother, Joe Malone. We are thankful for his service and his friendship. We are committed to carrying on the tradition that he spent so much of his life helping build at Yazoo Valley Electric.

14 TODAY | JULY 2022

strong family

It’s good to be part of a I wasn’t in the best of spirits when I first arrived to represent Yazoo Valley Electric at the recent Touch-A-Truck event that the Junior Auxiliary sponsored at the fairgrounds. I had a long list of things that needed to be done that weekend, from yard work to cleaning up trees knocked over by recent storms. What I wanted to do even more was ignore that list and go fishing. But it didn’t take long for me to forget about all of that when I started seeing how excited all these little kids were about climbing on our digger truck. They had a million questions, and many of their parents had positive things to say about our organization. Before long I was enjoying myself so much that the whole thing seemed to just fly by. We had nearly a hundred kids climb on our truck before the day was over, but one little girl stood out immediately. She was so quiet as she walked up and ran her fingers along the Yazoo Valley logo on the side of the door that I didn’t notice her at first. I could sense that there was something different about how she was taking everything in as she walked around the truck — something special. My 10-year-old daughter Elsie was helping me keep everything organized and taking pictures. Elsie was wearing my Yazoo Valley hard hat, and she offered it to the little girl to wear for a picture. I guess Elsie also sensed that there was something special about this particular visitor because that was the only time she offered to part with the hard hat all day. Her mother and aunt walked up, and I learned why she was so interested in Yazoo Valley Raymond Thomas Electric. Her name was Ra’niya,

and she is the granddaughter of Raymond Thomas. Raymond spent more than 30 years — over half his life — working for Yazoo Valley Electric before he was struck by a sudden illness. She knew how much Yazoo Valley Electric meant to her grandfather. I tried to make sure she knew how much he meant to us. Before they left, the family made a short video of Ra’niya sitting in the truck speaking to her grandfather. Raymond couldn’t respond to those words as he was confined to a hospital bed and unable to speak. But they believed he would be able to hear it, and they believed it would make him feel good; it would be like getting a double dose of family. In that moment I thought back to some words Jimmy Wayne Pettis, another longtime employee, said in my office as I was interviewing him about his career at Yazoo Valley: “Yazoo Valley has always been like a family, and I mean that for real. You hear a lot of companies say that, but Yazoo Valley has always displayed it. We look out for each other. A lot of people preach that, but they don’t really mean it. It happens here.” Raymond was a man of few words. I’m not sure I ever heard him say that many words at once during the entire time I knew him, but judging by his granddaughter’s actions, I suspect he felt the same way. Raymond passed away in June after a long fight. His family can take much comfort in being certain that they didn’t let him leave this world without knowing how much they loved him. Being part of a strong family is one of life’s greatest blessings. He will always be a part of our Yazoo Valley family too.

by Jason Patterson Communications Specialist

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