Issuu

RON Date_____

Approved

LIFELONG LEARNING

AFTER 50

AUGUST 2021 Revisions Requested

STEVEN Date_____

MEXICAN NIGHT WITH

MISSISSIPPI VEGGIES

FRONT PORCH

MEMORIES

VERSION #______________

Approved

Revisions Requested

CHAD Date_____

Approved

Revisions Requested

FOR MEMBERS OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI

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

Affordable electricity powers quality of life by Anne Prince Most of us use electricity, either directly or indirectly, at almost all times. Because electricity is so abundant and available with the simple flip of a switch, it’s easy to take it for granted. According to the Energy Information Agency (EIA), the typical U.S. household now uses more air conditioning, appliances and consumer electronics than ever before. The average home also contains 10 or more internet-connected devices. Considering everything that is powered by electricity, it’s no wonder we occasionally might wince at our monthly bill. But keep in mind, it’s no longer just the “light bill.”

Electricity powers quality of life Electricity powers our quality of life. From the infrastructure of your home (appliances, water heater and HVAC system) to charging your smartphones, computers, TV and Wi-Fi router, your energy bill covers so much more than lighting. Today, there is more demand for electricity than ever before. At home, in schools and business, and in commercial sectors such as transportation, the need for electricity is increasing. Typically when demand goes up, so too does the price, as is the case with most goods or services, like cable or even your favorite specialty coffee. However, that’s not true with electricity. Let’s take a look at how the value of electricity compares to other common expenses. Over the last five years, the cost of rent increased 3.4%; medical care increased 2.8%; and education increased 2.2%. But the cost of electricity only increased 1%. Considering all the ways we depend on electricity, it still remains a great value. So, the next time you’re enjoying your favorite podcast, TV series or movie, consider the value of electricity and how it

Energy efficiency tip of the month Source: energy.gov

12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

enhances your quality of life. We care about you, the members we serve, and understand that electricity is more than a commodity — it’s a necessity. That’s why Central Electric will continue working hard to power your life, reliably and affordably.

Electricity remains a good value The cost of powering your home rises slowly when compared to other common expenses. Looking at price increases over the last five years, it’s easy to see electricity remains a good value! Average Annual Price Increase 2015-2020

When shopping for new light bulbs, know the difference between lumens and watts. Lumens measure the amount of light produced by the bulb. Watts measure energy consumption. Energy-saving LEDs come in a variety of colors and brightness levels and last 15-25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

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

Investing in our future by Qua’Shara Monix After 68 years in the Lyon headquarters office, the time has come to invest in a new facility. The current building is beginning to show its age in a wide variety of ways. With the rapid changes in technology and the gradual increase in workforce, meeting the membership’s needs has resulted in some overcrowding and space limitations at our offices. As we are evolving as a cooperative, we have simply outgrown our current location. Therefore, after years of careful consideration, we have concluded that it is in our best interest to expand, not only for our employees, but also for our loyal members and associates. A facility study was completed in 2017 and cited lack of room for expansion at our current location. The study indicated that Coahoma Electric should build a new facility on a larger tract of land rather than adding to or renovating our existing main structure, which dates back to 1953. Over the past five years, we have diligently reviewed our current assets and explored a variety of solutions for our needs. Every aspect of the final decision was carefully considered. Several contractors and architects were consulted and various trips to other facilities have been made in search of the right fit for us. As a result of these efforts, the board of directors selected JESCO, Inc., of Tupelo as our general contractor. JESCO is an 80-year-old company with a tremendous reputation within the construction community.

12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Everyone involved has been careful and diligent in this important decision to relocate Coahoma Electric headquarters. It has not been a hasty decision. In 2020, Coahoma Electric’s board of directors approved and acquired the rights to pursue the purchase of property approximately 7 miles from the existing headquarters in Lyon. With interest rates at record lows, we will be able to construct our new building with little increase to our debt service. Therefore, there will not be an increase in our members’ rates attributed to this new facility, nor will there be a rise in our members’ electric bills. Our new headquarters will be located at the intersection of 3355 Rudyard-Jonestown Road and Highway 61 just north of the Clarksdale/Coahoma County Airport. For those who travel in this direction, you may have noticed that work has already begun on this site. The 20 acres of land is large enough for all of our needs and any future development we can foresee. It is our desire to always be in a position to provide the best service possible to our members. With the investment we have made today, we will certainly be an asset to those we serve for years to come. The board and management team of the association continue to do what is best for its members as they oversee this exciting time in our history. The new facility will be a tremendous asset to all members and will be for many decades.

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 6, in observance of

Energy efficiency tip of the month Source: energy.gov

enhances your quality of life. We care about you, the members we serve, and understand that electricity is more than a commodity — it’s a necessity. That’s why Coahoma Electric will continue working hard to power your life, reliably and affordably.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

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

COAHOMA ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

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

Where our members have the power

Communicators: April Lollar & Merilee Sands

A message from your CEO In June, we were honored to welcome Senator Roger Wicker and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on a visit to Mississippi. The trip was the Secretary’s first since taking her position. Senator Wicker wanted to show Ms. Raimondo the hard work Mississippi cooperatives have been putting into high-speed internet systems that will serve thousands of rural residents in our state and show her the economic impact fiber systems have in rural America. Senator Wicker and Secretary Raimondo were impressed at the speed in which we’ve built a system from the ground up to serve over 2,000 of our members to date, and we were also able to impress upon them that, even with our speed of construction, it’s hard to keep up with demand. We know we’ve got lots of work to do, but we are dedicated to our mission and are bolstered each time we hear stories from CoastConnect subscribers. We will keep you posted on our efforts as construction continues and give you a state of the co-op and our subsidiary at our 2021 Annual Meeting. Registration for the meeting has officially begun. If you haven’t received your Annual Meeting notice in the mail, you will receive it soon so make sure to check your mailbox. You

can also register at www.coastepa.com or at any of our offices. There is an example of the registration card on the following pages, so take a look and let us know if you have any questions about what to do. Online and mail-in registration are available for those of you who aren’t able to join us in person on the evening of Nov. 4. The safety and health of our members and employees are top priorities for Coast Electric. Due to the surge in COVID cases in our state, we will be encouraging social distancing and masks may be required. We will continue to monitor the situation and make decisions about the meeting with the good of our community and your safety in mind. Even if you are unable, or choose not to attend for any reason, we hope you will take a few minutes to register online or send your registration back to us in the mail. Your involvement is essential to the success of our co-op.

by Ron Barnes President and CEO

New Biloxi office location Coast Electric moved to a new, permanent office location in Biloxi. The new location is on the corner of Cedar Lake Road and Popp’s Ferry Road in the former Regions Bank building. This location offers expanded office space and three drive-thru lanes to serve our members.

New location: 905 Cedar Lake Rd. Biloxi, MS 39532 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE REGISTER YOUR PROXY BY MAIL, 2021 ANNUAL2021 MEETING NOTICE 2021 ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE

ONLINE OR AT A LOCAL OFFICE ENTER TOWAYS. WIN UP TO $1,000 ENSUREENSURE YOUR VOICE IS HEARD. REGISTER YOUR PROXY ONEYOUR OFREGISTER THREE WAYS. YOUR VOICE IS HEARD. REGISTER PROXY ONE OFTOTHREE ENSURE YOUR VOICE IS HEARD. YOUR PROXY ONE THREE WAYS. INOF ELECTRICITY CREDITS. Need not be present to win.

November 4 Kiln •CEPA HQ in ins beg •Registration . at 5:00 p.m

REGISTER YOUR PROXY BY MAIL, ONLINE OR AT A LOCAL OFFICE TO ENTER TO WIN UP TO $1,000 LivestreamINthe meeting on ELECTRICITY CREDITS. DETACH YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD,DETACH YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD, FOLD AND TEAR ON DOTTED LINESFOLD AND TEAR ON DOTTED LINES

www.coastepa.com on Need not be present to win. November 4 at 6:30 p.m.

Need not be present to win. will be at the meeting to vote on your behalf. You can choose another member to vote for you or you can assign the board of directors to vote on your behalf. DETACH YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD, FOLD AND TEAR ON DOTTED LINES

DETACH YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD, FOLD AND TEAR ON DOTTED LINES

WHY SHOULD I ATTEND OR REGISTER FOR THE MEETING? At Coast Electric, we don’t have shareholders; we have members. As a member, you get to vote on the men and women who represent you on Coast Electric’s Board of Directors. That vote takes place every year at our Annual Meeting. When making a payment or reporting an outage,

ONLINE OR AT LOCAL OFFICE REGISTER YOUR PROXY BYA MAIL, TO WIN UP TO $1,000 ONLINE ORTOATENTER AINLOCAL OFFICE ELECTRICITY CREDITS. TO ENTER TO WIN UP TO $1,000 not be present to win. IN ELECTRICITYNeed CREDITS.

WHO IS RUNNING FOR THEWhen BOARD? making a payment or reporting an outage, thein three digits afterOne your member number are Members will elect directors Position in Harrison, required as shown on your bill. When making a payment or reporting an outage, WHAT ARE THEtheBENEFITS PARTICIPATING? Hancock and River current board members three digits after yourOF member number are three digits after yourPearl member number are counties. Our When making a payment or reporting anthe outage, When making a payment or reporting an outage, required as shown on your bill. the three digits after your member number arerequired as shown on your bill. the three digits after your member number are By attending or registering for our Annual Meeting, you are are running unopposed. They are: required as shown on your bill. required as shown on your bill. taking anTHE active role inPROXY your cooperative. You have a vote and a FILL OUT ATTACHED AND MAIL IT IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID REPLY ENVELOPE, TO BE RECEIVED BY OCTOBER 28. HANCOCK COUNTY – JAMES BALDREE FILL OUT THE ATTACHED PROXY AND MAIL IT IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID REPLY ENVELOPE, TO BE RECEIVED BY OCTOBER 28. voice in how your co-op does business. Attending or registering FILL OUT THE ATTACHED PROXY AND MAIL IT IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID TO BE RECEIVED BY OCTOBER 28. COUNTY – CHARLES LOPEZ Register the board ofyour directors torepresentatives elect your local board first boxREPLY and ENVELOPE, signing. •• Register your your proxy toproxy appointtotheappoint board of directors to elect local board by checking the representatives first box and signing. by checking theHARRISON When making a• payment or reporting an outage, When making a payment or reporting an outage, also gives you the opportunity to win electricity credits upof directors to to elect your local board representatives by checking the first Register your proxy to appoint the board box and signing. PEARL RIVER COUNTY – RICHARD DOSSETT the three digits after your member number are the three digits after your member number are OR OR $1,000! required asORshown on your bill. required as shown on your bill. • If you choose to have another member attend the meeting and vote on your behalf, check the second box and write the name and member number of the person representing you in HOW DO Iand REGISTER? space choose provided, then sign onanother the signature line provided. The designated member mustvote be in on attendance at the the meeting. •the If you choose toand have another member meetingthe and vote on your behalf, check the the second box and writemember the name and memberofnumber of the person representing you • theIf you to have member attend meeting your attend behalf, check second box write name and number the person representing youinin the space provided, then sign on the signature line provided. TheRegister designated member must be in attendance at theat meeting. WHAT IF I CAN’T ATTEND THE MEETING? by proxy online www.coastepa.com, at any local Signed returned without a checked box will be designated to the board of directors. Additional registration options listed on back. theproxies space provided, then sign on the signature line provided. The designated member must be in attendance at the meeting. FILL OUT THE ATTACHED PROXY AND MAIL IT IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID REPLY ENVELOPE, TO BE RECEIVED BY OCTOBER 28. returned without a checked box will be designated to the directors. Additional options listedform on back. mailed to your home. Registering your proxy allows youSigned to proxies assign someone who office orboard byofreturning theregistration registration Signed proxies returned without a checked boxofwill be designated theboard board of directors.byAdditional options listed on back. • Register your proxy to appoint the board directors to elect yourto local representatives checking theregistration first box and signing. the three digits after your member number are When making a paymentrequired or reportingas an shown outage, on your bill.

OFFICIAL PROXY OFFICIAL PROXY CHECK ONE BOX, SIGN AT THE BOTTOM AND MAIL YOUR PROXY CHECK ONE BOX, SIGN AT THE BOTTOM AND MAIL YOUR PROXY CHECK ONE BOX, SIGN AT THE BOTTOM AND MAIL YOUR PROXY IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID REPLY ENVELOPE. REPLY ENVELOPE. • If you choose to have another member attend the meeting and vote on your behalf, check the secondIN boxTHE and ENCLOSED write the namePOSTAGE-PAID and member number of the person representing you in

E L P OFFICIAL PROXY M A S

space provided, on thehereby signature lineeither: provided. The designated member must be in attendance at the meeting. The undersigned, athe member of Coast Electricthen Powersign Association, appoints, The undersigned, Coast Electric Power Association’s Board of Directors a member of Coast Electric Power Association, hereby appoints, either:

POSTAGE-PAID REPLY Signed proxies returned without a checked box will be designated toIN theTHE board ENCLOSED of directors. Additional registration options listed on back.ENVELOPE. Coast Electric Power Association’s Board of Directors

OR The undersigned, a member of Coast Electric Power Association, hereby appoints, either: APPOINTED MEMBER’S NAME (Not you) ___________________________________________________________________________ CHECK BOX, SIGN AT THE BOTTOM AND MAIL YOUR PROXY APPOINTED NAME (Not ONE you) ___________________________________________________________________________ Coast Electric Power Association’s BoardMEMBER’S of Directors APPOINTED MEMBER’S ID # (Not yours) ____________________________________________________________________________ IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID REPLY ENVELOPE.

OFFICIAL PROXY

to act as my agent and proxy to represent me, with full authority to castAPPOINTED my vote on all matters before the 2021 Annual Meeting at 6:30 p.m. on November 4, 2021, located at MEMBER’S ID #Coast (NotElectric yours) ____________________________________________________________________________ the Robert J. Occhi Headquarters Building, 18020 Hwy 603, Kiln, MS. Proxy a member and in attendance at the meeting. to actagent as mymust agentbeand proxy to represent me, with full authority to cast my vote on all matters before the 2021 Coast Electric Annual Meeting at 6:30 p.m. on November 4, 2021, located at

ORThe undersigned, a member of Coast Electric Power Association, hereby appoints, the Robert J. Occhi Headquarters Building, either: 18020 Hwy 603, Kiln, MS. Proxy agent must be a member and in attendance at the meeting.

YOUR SIGNATURE: _________________________________________________ DATE: ________________________________________

SAMPLE FORM – DO NOT FILL IN/DO NOT MAIL

Coast Electric Power Association’s Board of Directors APPOINTED MEMBER’S NAME (Not ___________________________________________________________________________ Member Name or Joint Member, Sequential Number YOURyou) SIGNATURE: _________________________________________________ DATE: ________________________________________ Your proxy must be received by October 28, 2021. Member Name or Joint Member, Sequential Number

Your proxy must be received by October 28, 2021.

OR MEMBER’S ID # (Not yours) ____________________________________________________________________________ SAMPLE FORM – DO NOT FILL IN/DO NOT MAIL APPOINTED to act as my agent and proxy to represent me, with full authority to cast my vote on all matters before the 2021 Coast Electric Annual Meeting at 6:30 p.m. on November 4, 2021, located at APPOINTED MEMBER’S NAME (Not you) ___________________________________________________________________________ the Robert J. Occhi Headquarters Building, 18020 Hwy 603, Kiln, MS. Proxy agent must be a member and in attendance at the meeting. APPOINTED MEMBER’S ID # (Not yours) ____________________________________________________________________________

SAMPLE FORM – DO NOT FILL IN/DO NOT MAIL SAMPLE FORM – DO NOT FILL IN/DO NOT MAIL DATE: YOUR SIGNATURE: _________________________________________________ to act as my agent and proxy to represent me, with full authority to cast my vote on all matters before the 2021 Coast Electric________________________________________ Annual Meeting at 6:30 p.m. on November 4, 2021, located at

Robert J. Occhi Headquarters Building, 18020 Hwy 603, Kiln, MS. Proxy agent must be a member and in attendance at the meeting. MembertheName or Joint Member, Sequential Number Your proxy must be received by October 28, 2021. YOUR SIGNATURE: _________________________________________________ DATE: ________________________________________

•

Register your proxy Name to appoint board of directors to elect your local board representatives by checkingYour theproxy first boxmust andbe signing. Member or the Joint Member, Sequential Number received by October 28, 2021.

OR •

If you choose to have another member attend the meeting and vote on your behalf, check the second box and write the name and member number of the person representing you in the space provided, then sign on the signature line provided. The designated member must be in attendance at the meeting. AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

Coast Electric, CoBank donate funds to Dolly Parton Imagination Library Coast Electric, in partnership with CoBank, a national cooperative bank that serves utilities in rural America, has made a $10,000 donation to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a program administered locally by the United Way of South Mississippi. CoBank’s Sharing Success program allows member organizations like Coast Electric to receive matching funds for local charitable organizations. “We applied for the matching funds through CoBank to make a difference for the children in Hancock, Harrison and Pearl River counties,” said Coast Electric’s Director of Community Development Janell Nolan. “Besides the educational component of this program, there is a community component that lets these children and their families know they are cared for,” Nolan said. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library serves more than 1,100 children in our community. “The Imagination Library program means so much to so many families,” said United Way of South Mississippi CEO Kathy Springer. “When children are able to recognize sight words and letters and sounds, and develop a love for reading,

Cooperative Competes awards funds to Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission

they are ahead of the curve when they get to pre-K or Kindergarten.” Springer said the annual cost of offering the Dolly Parton Imagination Library is $40,000. “Education and learning is an expensive endeavor, and we want to do our part to put books in the hands of children and families,” said Springer. One of Coast Electric’s operating principles is showing concern for the communities the cooperative serves. To learn more about Coast Electric and its community efforts, visit www.coastepa.com. For information about the United Way of South Mississippi and its programs like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, visit https://www.unitedwaysm.org/.

Coast Electric donated $10,000 to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a program administered locally by the United Way of South Mississippi. The co-op was able to make the donation through a matching funds grant program called Sharing Success in partnership with CoBank.

Reduce Your Use Contest

Coast Electric Power Association presented Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission with a $9,000 grant for site development at Port Bienville Industrial Park. The grant was awarded through the Cooperative Energy’s Cooperative Competes program to be used for geotechnical surveys at Port Bienville Site 6.

Coast Electric President and CEO Ron Barnes and Vice President of Western Division Operations and Economic Development Guy Johnson presented the award to Commission President Derek Necaise and CEO Bill Cotter. “Economic development is a team effort,” Cotter said. “We appreciate the support of Coast Electric as we work together to grow opportunities and make Hancock County the best place to live.” 14 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Coast Electric wants you to reduce your energy use and see savings on your monthly energy costs. Each month, you will have an opportunity to register to win a prize that will help you reduce the energy consumption in your home. To help you manage your use and save, we are giving away LED bulbs for your home. All you have to do is 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 Kenneth Burlette, the winner of our June Reduce Your Use prize!

Commerce Secretary sees “Mississippi miracle” of rural broadband by Cathy Cash Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo got an up-close view of the “Mississippi miracle” when she visited an electric cooperative leading the charge for delivering the fastest broadband to the state’s most rural communities. “Mississippi is one of the poorest states for a broadband buildout — especially its rural areas — but in three to four years it will be an entire gigabit state, really because of cooperatives,” said Ron Barnes, president and CEO of Coast Electric Power Association based in Kiln. “It really is akin to a miracle.” Raimondo traveled to the Mississippi Gulf Coast on June 25 as the guest of Roger Wicker, the state’s senior senator and the top-ranking Republican on the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. She made a special request to see rural broadband development, and Coast Electric was ready to show her around. Barnes and several Coast Electric and CoastConnect President and CEO Ron co-op staff Barnes gives Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo a deep dive welcomed into the co-op’s broadband build, which currently includes about 1,000 miles of fiber and connections to 1,700 homes Raimondo and and businesses. Wicker to the Picayune office, the current hub of broadband activity. CoastConnect launched in June 2020 and hooked up its first customer in November. Since the Mississippi Broadband Enabling Act of 2019, 18 of the state’s 25 electric distribution co-ops have committed to serve the unserved with symmetrical gigabit internet access. About $1 billion in COVID-19 relief funds to the state are helping these fiber networks get built. Coast Electric has laid 1,000 miles of fiber and connected about 1,700 consumers. The six-phase, $150 million project will eventually serve 30,000 homes and businesses with 4,500 miles of fiber. “Initially, we wanted to build out in six years. Now we’re on pace to build out in four years,” Barnes said. “Where we started and where we are in less than a year is part of the ‘Mississippi miracle.’ We are doing it so quickly and in the throes of a pandemic.” Consumer-member Ashley Shuck told the secretary and the senator how the co-op’s reliable and affordable broadband has allowed her to return to her ancestral farm and raise her

children while she works remotely. “Her story resonated and, I think, the secretary could really understand the value of what we’re doing,” said Barnes. He then guided Raimondo and Wicker on a short walk to a construction trailer where planning for the broadband project takes place. The walls are covered in maps of planned service areas, locations for equipment and other data. Federal dollars from the CARES Act and the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund helped spur deployment, and the co-op also has received loans from CoBank. Barnes hopes Raimondo relays to President Joe Biden how co-ops are delivering broadband to unserved areas like they did with electricity more than 80 years ago and the importance of more funding to reach remote communities. “What makes an electric co-op special is we really, truly do care about serving our community,” he said. “We felt so honored and blessed to be able to tell our story of great success. We are getting the job done, but we still need financial support.” Coast Electric is one of nearly 200 electric co-ops across 39 states involved in retail broadband solutions to help close the digital divide. Cathy Cash is a staff writer for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Senator Roger Wicker talks to Coast Electric member and CoastConnect subscriber Ashley Shuck about how high-speed internet service has allowed her the opportunity to work from home in Pearl River County.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 15

After two attempts at hosting our annual Glow Run to benefit the American Cancer Society, this summer’s seemingly endless rain and the hazards it caused on the course led us to cancel the event. We would still like to thank all of our race sponsors and partners as well as all of the runners who so generously donated to the American Cancer Society’s Hancock County Relay for Life event.

Event sponsors » » » » »

Hollywood Casino Hancock Whitney Keesler Federal Credit Union Mayley’s Pest Control Southern Printing

Starting Line Sponsors » Colonial Life » Pathway Wealth Management

Water Station Sponsors » Beech’s Well Service » Glenn Crane and Rigging

Special thanks » Hancock County Board of Supervisors

» The Hancock County Roads and Maintenance beach crew

» » » » »

The City of Bay St. Louis Diva Timing Services Walmart Kentwood Springs Our participants and the American Cancer Society

Even though the race was cancelled, this fun crew came to pick up their race packets and show off their amazing glow! They are the winners of the costume contest, winning a $50 gift card to Creole Creamery. They are, from left, Summer Short, Amelia Meyers, Dana Tarter, Hannah Cox and Julie Anne Hall.

16 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Revisions Requested

UNDERSTANDING

Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 17

Revisions Requested Approved

STEVEN Date_____ Revisions Requested

Power surges are brief overvoltage spikes that can damage electronic equipment within your home or business. Most electronics are designed to handle small variations in voltage. Surges can be caused by internal sources, like HVAC systems with variable frequency drives, or external sources, like lightning and damage to power lines and transformers. Mississippi’s electric cooperatives encourage all members to install surge protective devices (such as surge protector power strips) to safeguard your sensitive electronics. If you’re experiencing frequent surges in your home or business and you believe the cause is internal, contact a qualified electrician to inspect your electrical system.

Power blinks are also brief service interruptions, but they’re typically caused by a fault (short circuit) on a power line or a protective device that’s working in reaction to the fault. Faults can occur through a variety of instances, like squirrels, birds or other small animals contacting an energized power line; tree branches touching a power line; or lightning and other similar events. In fact, when it comes to power disruptions caused by critters, squirrels reign supreme. In 2019 alone, squirrels were responsible for more than 1,200 outages. Any of the events Faults can occur noted above can cause your power to through a variety of blink, but you may instances, like squirrels, also experience a brief birds or other small interruption when animals contacting an protective devices that energized power line; act like circuit breakers tree branches touching are working to detect a power line; or the fault. Believe it or not, these brief lightning and other power blinks caused similar events. by protective devices are actually good because that means the equipment is working as it should to prevent a prolonged outage. Regardless of the cause, co-op crews will be on their way to inspect the damage and make necessary repairs after a power outage. And you can help too! Any time you experience repeated disruptions to your electric service, please call your electric co-op.

Approved

What’s a power surge?

What’s a power blink?

RON Date_____

by Abby Berry Have you ever noticed your lights blink during a thunderstorm? Or perhaps you’ve noticed a blinking microwave clock when you arrive home. When this happens, you’ve likely experienced a brief disruption to your electric service, which could result from a power surge or blink. While the symptoms of surges and blinks can appear similar, what’s happening behind the scenes can be quite different.

VERSION #______________

Lightning strikes can cause faults (short circuits) on power lines, which can cause your lights to blink. Photo Credit: Pat Gaines

CHAD Date_____

Approved

AND

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

DE LightSpeed to deliver high-quality voice services for Delta Electric members DE LightSpeed, the wholly owned fiber broadband subsidiary of Delta Electric Power Association, is excited to announce the launch of its affordable and reliable Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone service for homes and small businesses. The voice offering complements DE LightSpeed’s fiber internet service with crystal-clear, HD-quality sound. Voice service plans include unlimited local and long-distance calling to the U.S. and Canada, along with common calling features such as call forwarding, three-way calling, voice mail to email and others. Available VoIP phone service plans are:

Residential Bundle with DE Lightspeed Internet Small Business or Residential Additional line (Limit 2 lines) Small Business Bundle with DE Lightspeed Internet Residential or Small Business Standalone Voice Service For convenience, customers can usually transfer, or port, an existing phone number to the new service. Unlike many other VoIP services, DE LightSpeed calls may be completed over the public telephone switched network, which results in a higher quality, more clear call than traditional VoIP calls. “Even with the broad availability of wireless phones, we’ve found that many of our residents don’t want to give up their

land line, home phone,” Delta Electric General Manager David O’Bryan said. “Voice over IP provides a way for us to offer a home phone to them reliably and conveniently. It’s a natural extension of services to our members as we continue to find ways to meet their communications needs.”

Please contact DE LightSpeed at 662-477-1975 or info@delightspeed.coop to inquire about and/or sign up for voice services. *Monthly charge. Sales taxes along with regulatory and 911 fees are not included. **Monthly charge. Sales taxes along with regulatory and 911 fees are not included. There is a $100 installation fee with standalone voice service.

12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

$29.99* $20.99* $39.99* $54.75**

incandescent bulbs.

Affordable electricity powers quality of life

The cost of powering your home rises slowly when compared to other common expenses. Looking at price increases over the last five years, it’s easy to see electricity remains a good value! Average Annual Price Increase 2015-2020

Revisions Requested

Electricity powers our quality of life. From the infrastructure of your home (appliances, water heater and HVAC system) to charging your smartphones, computers, TV and Wi-Fi router, your energy bill covers so much more than lighting. Today, there is more demand for electricity than ever before. At home, in schools and business, and in commercial sectors such as transportation, the need for electricity is increasing. Typically when demand goes up, so too does the price, as is the case with most goods or services, like cable or even your favorite specialty coffee. However, that’s not true with electricity. Let’s take a look at how the value of electricity compares to other common expenses. Over the last five years, the cost of rent increased 3.4%; medical care increased 2.8% and education increased 2.2%. But the cost of electricity only increased 1%. Considering all the ways we depend on electricity, it still remains a great value. So, the next time you’re enjoying your favorite podcast, TV series or movie, consider the value of electricity and how it

Electricity remains a good value

Approved

Electricity powers quality of life

enhances your quality of life. We care about you, the members we serve, and understand that electricity is more than a commodity — it’s a necessity. That’s why Delta Electric will continue working hard to power your life, reliably and affordably.

RON Date_____

by Anne Prince Most of us use electricity, either directly or indirectly, at almost all times. Because electricity is so abundant and available with the simple flip of a switch, it’s easy to take it for granted. According to the Energy Information Agency (EIA), the typical U.S. household now uses more air conditioning, appliances and consumer electronics than ever before. The average home also contains 10 or more internet-connected devices. Considering everything that is powered by electricity, it’s no wonder we occasionally might wince at our monthly bill. But keep in mind, it’s no longer just the “light bill.”

CHAD Date_____

brightness levels and last 15-25 times longer than

Revisions Requested

Energy-saving LEDs come in a variety of colors and

Approved

Revisions Requested

by the bulb. Watts measure energy consumption.

Approved

Source: energy.gov

lumens and watts. Lumens measure the amount of light produced

STEVEN Date_____

tip of the month

When shopping for new light bulbs, know the difference between

Three options to pre-register for fiber internet service

DELightSpeed.coop 662-477-1975 or info@delightspeed.coop AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

VERSION #______________

Energy efficiency

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

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

@DixieEPA

@dixie_electric

Where do you get your energy advice? As the temperature begins to rise outside, so do electric bills. It is important to remember you have a trusted energy advisor. As your local electric cooperative, our goal is to help members use electric energy wisely and save on their power bills. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to save on your electric bill during the summer months.

Look for the ENERGY STAR symbol When shopping for appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR symbol. Remember, every appliance comes with two price tags: the purchase price and the cost of operating the product. When you purchase an ENERGY STAR product, you can reduce the amount of energy used without sacrificing your preferred performance.

Use your ceiling fan Your homes’ heating and cooling account for 50 to 70% of your energy use each month. While ceiling fans don’t actually lower the temperature in the room, they do help everyone within the room feel cooler, allowing you to turn your thermostat up a few degrees. Remember to turn ceiling fans off when you leave the room to save energy.

2021 CREDENTIALS AND ELECTIONS COMMITTEE MEMBERS Margaret Boyd F. M. “Harry” Harrington Charles A. “Andy” Dial Ben Cole Barbara McLaurin Charlotte Doherty Silas Lynn “B. J.” Cooley The Credentials and Elections Committee verifies candidate qualifications for Dixie Electric’s board of director elections and oversees the voting process. 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Use our energy calculators At dixieepa.com, we offer several energy calculators to help our members save on their monthly electric bill. These calculators will ask the necessary questions to give specific advice on lowering your energy bill, as no two homes use energy the same. From appliances to lighting, our free energy calculators will assist you in calculating the electrical cost of your home. Dixie Electric is a community-focused organization that works to efficiently deliver affordable, reliable and safe energy to our members, and we want to be your trusted energy advisor. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have about your electric service or bill. Here at Dixie Electric, your membership matters.

by Randy Smith General Manager

There’s so many easy payment options

It’s easy as: 1 Pay online at dixieepa.com. 2 Use the SmartHub app. the payment kiosk at our local 3 Visit offices 24/7. Flip over your bill stub and use the bar code at the kiosk for quick and easy service.

for your business Locally owned businesses are the backbone of our community. With summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to make sure your building is equipped for maximum energy savings. • LED lighting for your business allows you to maintain your preferred brightness levels while keeping energy costs low. And don’t forget about your outdoor lighting options as well as timers for automatic, overnight shutoff. • Check any refrigeration to ensure it runs optimally and keeps items cool without setting the thermostat lower than necessary. Keep up with regular maintenance and freon refills to ensure safe and longerlasting inventory. • Electric motor-driven systems account for about 25% of all commercial energy use. For larger operations, variable speed drives may be necessary to optimize your energy consumption. • Unplug all unnecessary or unused appliances and electronic equipment. Many of these devices continue to draw power even when they are turned off. Advanced power strips are a smart, low-cost upgrade. • Make sure your HVAC system is sized correctly for your business space. If it is not, this could lead to inefficient operation or insufficient cooling. Dixie Electric’s energy advisors can help you evaluate your existing system. These tips can help you lower your energy use while keeping your operations humming. Dixie Electric knows that your bottom line is important when making these business operations decisions. As your local electric cooperative, we are happy to support you. Visit dixieepa.com and click on Energy Solutions for tips and guidance.

DIXIE ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 6, in observance of Servicemen will remain on duty. Please call 888-465-9209 or use the SmartHub app to report outages. AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

Awarding Youth Leadership st For more than 30 years, Dixie Electric has participated in the national Youth Leadership Program. This program begins by selecting students to represent Dixie Electric at a statewide Youth Leadership workshop and a weeklong tour of Washington, D.C. Unfortunately, like many other events, these programs were cancelled due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to maintain this program at a local level, Dixie Electric’s Youth Leadership Program was adapted to limit social interaction, awarding scholarships instead of the

annual workshop and Youth Tour to Washington, D.C. Twenty-four high school juniors creatively submitted a video application, and out-of-town judges selected 11 finalists to formally interview on March 31. These finalists can be seen on page 15. Dixie Electric awarded $2,500 scholarships to the top three candidates from the interview process. The 2021 scholarship winners are Anson Chennault from Petal High School, Jaylynn Conner from Wayne County High School and Neeley Robertson from Laurel Christian School. Congratulations to our winners!

Anson Chennault Anson Chennault, the son of Ryan and Julia Chennault and Stacey Chennault, is a student at Petal High School. He is involved in Speech and Debate, Beta Club, National Honor Society, History Bowl, STEM team and Quiz Bowl team. He also reads school announcements over the intercom. His hobbies are reading, fishing, scouting, camping and exercising.

Jaylynn Conner Jaylynn Conner lives in Wayne County with her parents Corey and Jessica Conner. At Wayne County High School, she is involved in Show Choir, HOSA, Beta Club and Student Council. Her hobby is collecting records. She has more than 70 albums.

Neeley Robertson Neeley Robertson from Ellisville is the daughter of Joe Michael and Jennifer Robertson. At Laurel Christian School, she is the Speech and Debate captain. She is involved in the Key Club, National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta club. She enjoys theatre, singing, public speaking, community service, fitness, writing and church activities. She was recently named Jones County Distinguished Young Woman. 14 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

ip students differently for 2021 2021 Youth Leadership Finalists

Brock Brabham

Emily Byrd

Shae Graham

Kalli Husband

Wayne Academy

Seminary High School

Northeast Jones High School

Laurel High School

Kadin Johnston

Allie McMahon

Diver Purvis

Nicole Welch

Wayne Academy

West Jones High School

South Jones High School

West Jones High School

Attention Participate in the Youth Leadership Program If you are an 11th grader served by Dixie Electric Power Association, make this year memorable by participating in the 2022 Leadership Workshop in Jackson, Miss. and tour of Washington, D.C. See your guidance counselor. Homeschool students, call 601-425-2535 for more information.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 15

Co-op Connections

Business Spotlight In Waynesboro — M.S. Gatlin Building Supply

Keep the heat where it belongs by cooking outdoors! Keeping the summer heat out of your house will help you save energy and give your kitchen appliances a break. Are you planning a Labor Day barbeque? Upgrade your outdoor grill with a Big Green Egg from M.S. Gatlin Building Supply in Waynesboro. The Big Green Egg is a kamado-style ceramic charcoal barbecue cooker that is versatile by acting as a grill, oven or smoker. M.S. Gatlin Building Supply is located at 57 Woodard Switch Road in Waynesboro.

Bring your Co-op Connections card or present the app and receive $50 off a large Big Green Egg.

Dixie Electric’s charity golf tournament Four-man scramble • Thursday, Sept. 30 Laurel Country Club Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society and local secret meals programs for kids. For more information, contact Pollyanna Magee at 601-425-2535 or pollymagee@dixieepa.com.

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 • Hoy substation: North Laurel, Hoy, Moss, Shady Grove, Matthews and Springhill Road

• Petal substation: Petal, Sunrise, Hillcrest and Macedonia

• Ellisville Junction substation: Pecan Grove, Ovett and Tuckers Crossing

16 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Touch A Truck

On Friday, June 18, Dixie Electric was invited to participate in the Downtown Ellisville Farmers Market Touch-A-Truck event. Along with other participants, such as the Ellisville fire department and local farmers, Dixie Electric Apprentice Lineman Landon Martin brought the bucket truck to life by taking the bucket 50 feet in the air. Children could climb in the bucket and observe the tools necessary for a lineman to work on power lines. Communication Assistant Amanda Mills greeted each child with a balloon and their very own Dixie Electric hard hat. Everyone stopped and watched in amazement as the lineman showed how far in the air the bucket truck could go. Kids waved to him from the ground as he waved back from the bucket. We love our communities and are always glad to support local events, such as the Downtown Ellisville Farmers Market. It’s just one of the ways that your Dixie Electric membership matters.

Lending a hand to the Wayne County Animal Rescue In May of this year, Waynesboro District Supervisor Dan Wooten reached out to the Wayne County Animal Rescue regarding two abandoned puppies at a local substation. This is when Dixie Electric learned that the rescue group was in desperate need of a helping hand at their facility. On July 1, eight Dixie Electric employees volunteered at the Wayne County Animal Rescue. This crew of employees built

new kennels to house additional animals that needed a home. They were also able to use Dixie Electric equipment to dig holes, enabling the rescue center to build a privacy wall. “Helping Wayne County Animal Rescue also helps all of our members in the county with wild dogs, stray dogs and abandoned dogs, and we’re just grateful to be able to help the community,” said Dan Wooten.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 17

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.

Dog days of summer A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO The dog days of summer are the 40 days of hot, sultry summer days starting July 3 and running through August 11. They were historically the period following the heliacal rising of the star system Sirius, The Dog Star, which Greek and Roman astrology connected with heat, drought, sudden thunderstorms, lethargy, fever, mad dogs and bad luck. Most people now consider them to be the hottest, most uncomfortable part of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. My family and I recently visited the beach to enjoy a few days of rest and relaxation with our sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren. It was certainly hot and humid. We saw a few thunderstorms, but thankfully severe weather avoided us and our time together. Beginning in May, east Mississippi has experienced hot weather, and it has continued throughout the summer as well. With hot weather also comes sudden thunderstorms including wind and lightning. Almost every evening, including weekends, somewhere on the 5,712 miles of distribution lines we maintain, our personnel responds to a lightning strike that blew a fuse, a tree limb that fell on the lines, a tree that fell through the lines and tore them down and, in some instances, broken poles. Consider that 5,712 miles of power lines would reach from Meridian to San Francisco to Washington, D.C. and back to Meridian. East Mississippi Electric Power Association employees keep this many miles of line maintained and in service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the comfort of our members. When storms roll through the system and cause outages, our automated meter-reading system sends me an email detailing the number of meters interrupted. I immediately open our outage management app showing which areas are affected. I anxiously watch the trucks begin to roll in that direction and hope and pray that our folks are kept safe as they work to restore the power. As we dispatch personnel and determine

the cause of the outage, we post updates on our social media sites to help keep you informed. I know you check these sites because I enjoy reading the comments you leave for us. Almost daily I receive positive comments and feedback while at church, community meetings and standing in line at stores about our folks and how much you appreciate their efforts. Many of you know the hours they work and the weather conditions they endure to keep you comfortable in your homes, but what you may not fully realize, is the years of training it takes for these dedicated employees to grow into the professionals they have become. In addition to the physical requirements of their jobs and the weather conditions they endure, these employees complete training to ensure they know how to build and maintain a distribution system that stands up to the stress and challenges of Mother Nature while also meeting the energy needs of our members. They also must learn to quickly locate and diagnose the cause of interruptions when they occur, repair and restore the system and ensure the safety of everyone around the power lines. Life in the EMEPA family is not a short-term job. It is a longterm commitment by our employees to serve our communities and neighbors. Many of us have been serving you for most of our lives, and we look forward to serving you for many more years. It is a privilege to provide the energy needed to empower our fellow community members, and we do not take it lightly.

by Randy Carroll CEO — East Mississippi Electric Power Association

EAST MISSISSIPPI ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 6, in observance of

Crews respond to summer storms As east Mississippians, we are accustomed to pop-up thunderstorms throughout the summer months, and this summer has proved no exception. On Sunday, June 13, crews responded to widespread damage and outages as a short-lived, but powerful storm passed through our area leaving debris, fallen trees, broken poles and downed power lines in its wake. Within three days, East Mississippi Electric Power Association crews, with assistance from neighboring electric cooperatives and contractors, restored power to all members who could safely receive it.

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The work electric cooperatives do to help keep power lines separated from plant overgrowth plays a major role in service reliability.

Thank you to our electric cooperative neighbors and contractors for assisting in our outage response: 4-County Electric Power Association • Singing River Electric Cooperative • Tombigbee Electric Power Association MDR Construction • B&B Electric

EMEPA’s service area was hit by strong thunderstorms on June 13 resulting in widespread outages with dozens of broken poles, downed trees and power lines. Within three days, power was restored to all members who could safely receive it.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

Managing rights-of-way by Derrill Holly There’s more than one way to look at vegetation management. The work electric cooperatives and their contractors do to help keep electric lines and other equipment separated from plant overgrowth plays a major role in service reliability. From mowing and brush work at ground level to tree trimming near or above power lines East Mississippi Electric Power Association regularly inspect and manage the landscape in and around their equipment. Effective to prevent outages, minimize the threat of fire damage and maintain access and serviceability. Electric cooperatives have worked with local, state and federal foresters to develop integrated vegetation management practices aimed at reducing the need for chemicals, costly manual and mechanical control measures and controlled burning. These techniques establish low-growing vegetation that out-compete taller-growing species, according to experts at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA worked with utility industry associations and other federal agencies to develop Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) practices. An IVM approach can help create sustainable ecosystems such as a meadow transition habitat. The techniques, used for both roadside and cross-country rights-of-way, encourage the growth East Mississippi Electric Power Association of native plant species and increase plant diversity. They also P.O. Box 5517 or restore habitat for local and migrating wildlife, including Meridian,create MS 39302-5517 insects, birds and mammals. “Trees and other vegetation grow relentlessly,” said Randall H. Miller, a vegetation management consultant, based in Des Moines, Iowa. While weather conditions can affect seasonal activities related to right-of-way work and vegetation management, electric co-ops and other utilities regularly conduct maintenance to mitigate risks. “Vegetation management that is deferred one year has to be done in the future, and the cost accrues much faster than

inflation,” said Miller, who serves on the ROW Stewardship Council. “As biomass develops due to growth and trees encroach on, or even engulf power lines, they become increasingly more difficult and less safe to work.” While some of the work might be done with brush hogs, mowers and chain saws, electric co-ops also rely heavily upon planning, seeding and strategic plantings, often supported by their consumer-members and other stakeholders. Youth and comOfficiwith munity groups regularly work co-ops plans to enhance al No tice ofon 2021 Annual M eeting The 83r d or adapt rights-of-way toAnn support ual Meeting ofand sustain wildlife or provide the Members of held at the Eas East Mississipp t Mississippi Ele i Electric Power ctri c Pow Association will er Satur forage and habitat for migratory day, October 2,species. Association Auditorium be in Meridian, Mis 2021, at 10:00 sissippi, on a.m. for the purpos e of: 1 Re port of Direct Mississippi’s electric co-ops regularly share information and ors, Officers and Committees 2 Transactio nmanagement of Business updates on local vegetation efforts to keep the 3 Election of three Direct ors for public safe and communicate how tree and a three-plant year termgrowth trimming An online live-str eam viewing will be available for Visit EMEPA.co increases service reliability. EMEPA Member m/AnnualMeet s unable to atte ing for details. nd. Inis conindispensable nection with the “CommunicationMe tothresuccessful vegetation manelection of e Directors sch mbers have bee eduled for this n nominated to meeting, the foll serve on the Boa Bylaws of the owing Association: agement programs,” said Miller. “Members need toDirect understand rd of ors in accordanc e with the BIL L CL AY will benefit them, and that includes how vegetation management MIK E KE NN ED Kemper County Y LA RRY PA CE Clarke County education on how a vegetation management program Lauderdale Couminimizes nty the risk of tree-caused power outages.” Gloria Welch Secretary, EME PA 7/1/21 You will be eli gible to wi According to industry research, about 20-30% of all power outn a $500 electr proxy, or up to icity credit by $500 in electrici returning your ty cre dits by ages are vegetation related. Removal of tall trees and limbs near atten ding the meeting. INSTRUCTIONS power lines also reduces the risks of injuries to caused accidental Each Member is invited to particip ate in this Annual contacts with energized lines. by attendance power Meeting or proxy so tha t a quorum will to transact the be available business of the Ass ocia going tothe tion. If youtree, “It should include concept of ‘right attend, you may are not right place’ and that app oint the Board of Dire any other Mem ctors or ber of the Associa tion who at the will beunder there is no room forAnntall trees tor pro develop power lines,” said ual Mee present ting as you xy to vote accord your wishes. To ing to do this, you mus t sign and print and date on the Miller. your name proxy card atta ched to this not the card is alre ice and return it ady addressed to EMEPA. Pos . All proxies des for the tage has been Directorsmeans ignating “Planting them there those trees cannot allowed paid and nominated by the Board ofbe Directors as pro the Credentials Board of Director xy will be vote Committee and s. d for resolutions recommended to reach their full potential and will have to be either removed by the or, if retained, continually pruned to keep them clear of the You must ret urn your signe d and EMEPA’s Financia conductors,” Miller said. dated proxy or atten l Statement can d

EAST MISSISSIPPI EPA PO BOX 5517 MERIDIAN MS 39302-5517

POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE

FIRST-CLASS MAIL

PERMIT NO. 602

MERIDIAN MS

BUSINESS REPLY MAIL

PROXY CARD PRIZE DRAWING CARD

NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES

to be eligible

EMEPA 83RD ANNUAL MEETING

the meeting to win.

Due date for pro xy

be found in the Sep tember issue of Today in Mississ ippi and at your local EMEPA offic e.

return is Monday,

September 27, 2021. sign and date the card FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN a $500 electricity cre dit!

Don’t forget to

2021 PROXY

OPTION 1

I hereby appoin t the Board of Dire ctors of East Mis and proxy to rep sissippi Electri resent me at the c Power Associ Annual Meeting Meridian, Mississ ation as my age of East Mississ ippi, at 10:00 a.m nt ippi Electric Pow . on Saturday, upon all matter er Association, October 2, 202 s before the said in 1, with full author meeting or any ity to cast my vot adjournment the e Signature: ___ reof. ______

_______________ _______________ __________ Dat e: ____________ _______________ _______ _______________ _______________ _______________ ____________ OR

Printed Name: ___

EMEPA 83rd Annual Meeting Saturday, October 2, 2021 10:00 a.m. EMEPA Auditorium 2128 Highway 39 North Meridian, MS 39302

AN EMEPA MEMBER IN YOUR COUNTY IS GOING TO WIN A

OPTION 2

I do not appoint the Board of Dire ctors as my age to represent me nt and proxy but, at the Annual Mee instead, appoint ting: as my age

_______________

Representative’s Name (Must be an EME PA Member and

Signature:

_____________

_______________

Representative’s Account Number ual Meeting. Mus t NOT be a Boa rd member.)

present at the Ann

_______________

nt and proxy

_______________

______

Printed Name: ___ ____ Date: ______ _______________ _____________ _______________ _______________ _______________ CARD MUST BE ____________ SIGNED AND DA TED TO WIN AND FO R VOTE TO CO UNT. Due date for pro xy return is Monday, Septe mber 27, 2021 .

EXPANDING STUDENTS’

HORIZONS The benefits of East Mississippi Connect extend far beyond the classroom

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Students with broadband internet access are more likely to earn higher scores than those with slower service or no connection at all, according to a study released by Michigan State University in 2020. The study highlighted a strong link between education and the importance of having a reliable broadband network to make key educational resources more accessible to kids. East Mississippi Connect is working hard to bring fast and reliable broadband to the communities in east Mississippi to provide students with much-needed equal access to information, resources and more, so that they are better prepared not only for school but for their future. “Access to broadband has expanded our students’ learning experiences in ways that we never thought possible,” said Russell Keene, Southeast Lauderdale High School principal. “In the past, we had numerous families who were willing to purchase internet with no service available to our area. However, now they have complete access. “Also, our classroom instruction has expanded because students are now able to work on classwork outside of the traditional classroom and time limitations,” he said. “They can email teachers questions, access tutoring and find information for school projects that was never available in the past. “We have had both students and teachers who had to drive several miles into town to use Wi-Fi at businesses such as Walmart and McDonald’s. Broadband alleviates that burden for our community, as well as opens the door to new possibilities with new families moving to the area.“ As important as broadband access is for school-age children and teens, it does come with the need to take some care. We have a few tips to help kids stay safe while using the internet and to help them leverage it as an educational resource with endless possibilities.

INTERNET SAFETY TIPS FOR ALL AGES • Work as a family to create a list of internet rules, set parental controls at age-appropriate levels and use filtering and monitoring tools to prevent access to inappropriate content. • Supervise all web-enabled devices, and keep computers in a shared area of your home. • Advise your kids not to share any sensitive personal information or communicate with someone they don’t know.

TIPS TO HELP STUDENTS MAKE THE MOST OF THEIR CONNECTION • Check with your child’s teacher or school district to see if they offer or recommend any online educational tools or resources. • Get your child acquainted with a variety of safe and free educational websites that cover several age-appropriate subjects. For a list of the best educational websites, visit verywellfamily.com. • Another powerful tool to help kids do online research without being exposed to inappropriate content is Google’s Safe Search Kids —safesearchkids.com. • Help your child avoid distractions by setting up specific times reserved only for educational activities and homework help. • Make the most of kids’ screen time by loading your devices with fun, educational games and apps such as ABCmouse and Noggin for preschoolers and elementary-level students, or Adventure Academy and Playground Physics for middle schoolers.

Visit EastMSConnect.com to sign up for this transformative service today and enjoy all the benefits of broadband. AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 15

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

Electricity Brings Everyday Value Even though I work in the energy industry, like most people, I expect the lights to turn on when I flip the switch and the coffeemaker to work each morning. Because electricity is so abundant, we don’t think much about it. Since many of us have been spending more time at home over the past few months, we have likely been using more energy. And yet, we still expect an endless supply of power with uninterrupted service 24/7. The only time we really think about electricity is when the power goes out or perhaps when the monthly bill arrives. Given how electricity powers our modern lifestyle every day, it’s a great value, especially when compared to other common services and expenses. For example, think back to the cost of a gallon of gasoline 20 years ago. Consider the cost of groceries or a cup of your favorite specialty coffee from a few years back. In comparison, the cost of electricity has remained largely flat, unlike most other consumer goods. Like many of you, I have a cell phone to stay connected, and I subscribe to TV channels so I can enjoy more viewing options. Many of us consider these necessities for modern day life. We can see what we’re getting for our money, and we pay the price for those services. In contrast, when we use electricity, we don’t necessarily “see” all that we’re getting for our money. But considering what electricity does for us, it’s a tremendous value for our quality of life as well as our budgets. For comparison, consider that the average rent increase was nearly 4% (from 2014-2019) according to the 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index (CPI). The cost of medical care was increased 3% during this time, and education was not too far behind at 2.6%. So, where did electricity rank? According to the CPI, electricity increased by less than half a percentage point, 0.4%. The bottom line: electricity brings everyday value. In fact, 4-County Electric Power Association members, in an average year, are out of power for about two hours. Considering that electricity is something that we all use around the clock, I’m very proud of our track record. At the same time, we are striving to increase our service reliability, reduce those brief interruptions and reduce costs. We are continually working to improve our operations to ensure a smarter grid and exploring more renewable energy options where possible. 4-County provides the reliable service you expect and deserve as valued members of the co-op. And as your trusted energy advisor, we want to help you save energy and money. We recognize that the past few months have been challenging for many of our members and we’re here to help. If you have questions about your account or are looking for ways to save energy at home, please give us a call.

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

Are you grounded? GFCI outlets can help! Did you know there are different types of electrical outlets? Each are designed for different purposes; however, there is one specific type that stands high above the rest — the ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. GFCIs have saved thousands of lives and cut the number of electrocutions in half since the 1970s. GFCIs are the most efficient outlet in protecting from electrical shock. If it senses a loss of current, the outlet switches off power to that circuit. These devices can either be installed in your electrical system or built into a power cord. The third hole at the bottom of the outlet is known as the “ground” slot, and it monitors electrical currents that flow through the left “neutral” slot and the right “hot” slot on each outlet. A GFCI can react faster than a blink of an eye to any imbalance of power by immediately shutting off the electrical current. These outlets are now a requirement in all places where water could potentially come into contact with electrical products such as bathrooms, garages, outdoors and kitchens. GFCIs are not exclusive to three-prong outlets. They can be installed into standard outlets, and there are even portable devices available when installation is not practical. GFCIs should be tested at least once a month to ensure they are working effectively. The first step you need to take is to test an item, such as a lamp, that visibly powers on when plugged in. Push the “reset” button to prepare the outlet then push the “test” button. Did your lamp turn off? If it did, the GFCI is working properly. Now, hit the “reset” button once again to power it back on. If your lamp did not power off, then you should contact a certified electrician to correct the problem.

Broadband customers could get discounts FASTnet, 4-County Electric Power Association’s broadband subsidiary, is participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, providing a temporary discount on broadband services for qualifying households. The EBB is a temporary government program funded by the Federal Communications Commission to help offset the cost of broadband services for eligible households during the COVID-19 health emergency. The program offers a $50 discount per month on broadband services and associated equipment rentals. “FASTnet is opting in this program as a participating service provider to help keep our community connected in this difficult time. We’re proud to participate in the EBB program for qualifying households,” said 4-County/FASTnet CEO Brian Clark. The EBB is a short-term subsidy program. The program will end when the fund runs out of money or six months after the Department of Health and Human Services declares an end to the COVID-19 health emergency (whichever happens first).

A household is eligible if one member of the household meets at least one of the criteria below: • Qualifies for the Lifeline Program; • Receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program (including through the USDA Community. Eligibility Provision, or did so in the 2019-2020 school year); • Qualifies for SNAP, Medicaid, Veterans Benefits, or SSI; • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; • Experienced a substantial loss of income since Feb. 29, 2020, and the household had a total income in 2020 below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers; or • Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program. To qualify, visit getemergencybroadband.org, and follow the instructions. Then, let us know you are qualified by calling 1-800-431-1544.

4-County completes Prairie substation project Crews with 4-County Electric Power Association have placed the final touches on the Prairie substation project in northern Clay County. The substation’s transformer was energized June 24. The new Prairie substation replaces a now retired substation that was built during World War II. It will serve the Prairie and Happy Valley communities, other areas of northern Clay County and 4-County’s members in southern Monroe County. The site is on Hwy. 45, about seven miles north of West Point. The new substation will enhance residential and commercial reliability and address the need of a growing industrial development sector in the area. Manager of Engineering Mike Jones said he was pleased with the work displayed by cooperative crews during the year-long project. “We’re really pleased with this substation and look forward to it providing power to 4-County members for years to come. This substation will provide an ample power supply for members in the area and for future economic development,” Jones explained. AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

foundation focus

by Brad Barr Some say imagination is the product of the five senses. If that’s the case, residents of the Choctaw Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (CNRC) are now flying high — even if, at times, their bodies are not. The 60-bed center’s new and innovative Sensory Garden opened its colorful pathways June 15. It is, local officials say, a restoration of the senses. “Literally, it’s a breath of fresh air,” said CNRC Activities Director Nita Foust. The sprawling garden, annexed to the CNRC, is a landscaped area designed to stimulate all five senses: hearing, taste, smell, touch and sight. Featured around the wandering sidewalks are colorful flowers, plants, aromatics, a double-sided water feature, sound makers such as wind chimes and a standing xylophone, planting areas, birdhouses and other resources. CRNC officials believe it’s the only Sensory Garden of its kind in Mississippi. Resident response has been more than positive, Foust said. “Our residents love it. It is an outlet for them. The Sensory Garden is very soothing and relaxing. Many of them ask to go

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there every day.” CRNC resident Subrina Lambert enjoys her daily visit to the garden. “I just love it,” Lambert said of the picturesque setting. “Everything is so peaceful. I really enjoy hearing the waterfall.” The Sensory Garden is the five-year brainchild of the Choctaw Medical Foundation Board of Directors. Board members, who describe the project as a labor of love, are Mike Pearson, Donna McKay, Jim Turnipseed, Luke Jones and Deanie Graves. The group has collected quite a bit of sweat equity in the project. “The board worked tirelessly to obtain funding, research components needed for the garden, and executed the plan,” Graves said. The creative genius behind the incredible design of the Sensory Garden is Tom Cooper of C&C Landscaping. Cooper served as project manager, landscaper, contractor and electrician. The project is a wonderland for the senses, CNRC officials stress.

Wide concrete walkways intertwine between the portico (obtained through a $7,000 4-County Foundation grant) and a large gazebo. Benches are located along the walkway. An eight-foot wooden fence surrounds the garden. Funding for the project came through grants and individual donations. “Community members and others were very generous because they saw a need and understood the importance of the Sensory Garden to our community.” Therapy is a primary Sensory Garden component. “It is not just for looks,” Graves said. Research, she stressed, indicates that this type of environment helps those with dementia, Alzheimer’s and other medical conditions. Therapy options include occupational, music, horticulture, physical, cognitive and others. “We know how important it is for people to be outside in fresh air and be exposed to nature,” Graves said. “It’s a therapy goldmine.” Four garden tables (two for standing residents and two for seated residents) are located along the sidewalk. Residents care for flowers, vegetables and other plants in the raised table setting. CNRC provides special gardening tools for those with arthritis. Graves said it’s rewarding to see the smiles on residents’ faces when they enjoy the garden setting. “Their eyes and senses light up when they see birds at the feeders, hear the waterfall feature and wind chimes, touch the soil when planting and smell the specially-selected flowers/plants. They might even taste the squash they grew in the garden tables. It truly is an enchanted place.”

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 15

Sign up for Bank Draft today Get paid to make your life easier. 4-County Electric Power Association will give you $25 to pay your bill by Automatic Bank Draft. Bank Draft is easy and saves you from having to mail in your payment or driving to a Service Center each month. So do yourself — and your wallet — a favor and sign up for Bank Draft today. Members who sign up for Automatic Bank Draft will receive a $25 credit to their electric bill. To keep the credit, members must remain on the Automatic Bank Draft program for 12 consecutive months. Members who have previously been on the Bank Draft program within the past 12 months are not eligible to receive the $25 credit. For more information, visit www.4county.org or call 1-800-431-1544.

Farm workers urged to reap safely It can be an exciting and exhausting time, the culmination of a season of hard work. However, the rush to harvest can also yield tragic outcomes. Each year, dozens of farm workers are killed and hundreds are injured in accidents involving power lines and electrical equipment. “Things people see every day can fade from view and in the busyness of harvest time, it’s easy for farm workers to forget about the power lines overhead,” said Richard McCracken of the Safe Electricity Advisory Board. “But failure to notice can be a deadly oversight.” Review with all workers the farm activities that take place around power lines. Inspect the height of farm equipment to determine clearance. Keep equipment at least 10 feet away from power lines — above, below and to the side — a 360-degree rule. “Always lower grain augers before moving them, even if it’s only a few feet,” said Bob Aherin, PhD, CSP and University of Illinois Professor and Agricultural Safety and Health Program Leader. “Variables like wind, uneven ground, shifting weight or other conditions can combine to create an unexpected result. Also use extreme caution when raising the bed of a grain truck.” Operators of farm equipment or vehicles must also know what to do if the vehicles come in contact with a power line: stay on the equipment, warn others to stay away and call 911. Do not get off the equipment until the utility crew says it is safe to do so. “If the power line is energized and you step outside, touching the vehicle and ground, your body becomes the path and electrocution is the result,” Aherin said. “Even if a power line

has landed on the ground, the potential for the area nearby to be energized still exists. Stay inside the vehicle unless there’s fire or imminent risk of fire.” If this is the case, jump off the equipment with your feet together, without touching the ground and vehicle at the same time. Then, still keeping your feet together, hop to safety as you leave the area. Once you get away from the equipment, never attempt to get back on or even touch the equipment. Some electrocutions have occurred after the operator dismounts and, realizing nothing has happened, tries to get back on the equipment. It is very important that all farm workers and seasonal employees are informed of electrical hazards and trained in proper procedures to avoid injury.

For more information on farm electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org.

Farm workers should take these steps to ensure a safer harvest season: • Use care when raising augers or the bed of grain trucks around power lines. • Use a spotter when operating large machinery near power lines. Do not let the spotter touch the machinery while it is being moved anywhere near power lines. • As with any outdoor work, be careful not to raise any equipment such as ladders, poles or rods into power lines. Remember, non-metallic materials such as lumber, tree limbs, ropes and hay will conduct electricity depending on dampness, dust and dirt contamination. • Never attempt to raise or move a power line to clear a path. • Don’t use metal poles to break up bridged grain inside bins. • Know where and how to shut off the power in an emergency. • Use qualified electricians for work on drying equipment and other farm electrical systems.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Tanner Owen is a team player For Tanner Owen, a self-described “fixer” of this and that, sometimes the joy is in the journey. That adage often rings true, he said, when he tackles projects at the family shop in Scooba. “I love working with my hands and fixing things,” Tanner explained. “The process of tackling the project is fun. I’ve always been a fixer.” Currently, he is elbows deep in restoring a 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ. “It’s a lot of fun. I’m almost there.” Today, Tanner is a fixer of things at 4-County Electric Power Association. The Apprentice Lineman 4 is a member of Tim Adkins’ Corporate Center Construction Crew. Every day and every project is different, he said. “You have to develop a new strategy each day to get the job done,” Tanner explained. Prior to 4-County, the Scooba resident worked as an Apprentice Lineman for electrical contractor MDR. He joined the 4-County team in August 2020. Tanner is a graduate of East Central Community College (ECCC) where he earned an associate’s degree in liberal arts. While at ECCC, he played center for the Warriors’ basketball team. He is also a graduate of East Mississippi Community College’s (EMCC) Lineman Training Program. While at EMCC, Tanner played offensive tackle for the Lions’ football team.

Basketball or football? “Football is more of an extended sport. Basketball is a sport full of short-paced bursts. I enjoyed them both. I believe playing sports is where I developed a good work ethic and an appreciation for teamwork,” Tanner said. Tanner also likes to dip a hook in the water every now and then, making trips to the Tombigbee River in Epps, Alabama. “I love going to the river, fishing for bass, catfish and setting out jugs.” He attends Binnsville Baptist Church in Kemper County. Where did his interest in line work begin? Tanner’s brotherin-law is a longtime journeyman lineman at East Mississippi Electric Power Association. “I saw what he did and really appreciated it. I just thought I’d like to make a career of it.” His experience in teamwork comes in handy when the 4-County crews respond to power restoration efforts. “Storm work is especially challenging and rewarding,” he said. “It’s pretty special to get the lights back on for folks.” And, he stressed, it’s pretty special to work at 4-County. “It’s a family-oriented organization. Everybody is supportive of each other and has a good attitude. 4-County is a great environment.”

Directors earn national credentials

4-County Electric Power Association Directors Marty Crowder of Ackerman and Bruff Sanders of West Point have recently completed certifications through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

Crowder (serving District 5, Choctaw and Winston counties) earned his Director Gold Credential while Sanders (serving District 3, Clay and Monroe counties) earned his Credentialed Cooperative Director Certificate. Crowder has served as a co-op director since 2010. Sanders has served as a co-op director since 2020. “Our directors are diligent in their continuing education efforts,” said 4-County CEO Brian Clark. “This is a clear example of their commitment to increasing their industry knowledge and providing the best product and service to our members.” According to NRECA officials, the certifications recognize directors committed to continuing their industry education and who desire a tangible credential that demonstrates their ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duty to the best of their ability. AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 17

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Magnolia Electric Power is now offering our members a new payment option for bill payments

Magnolia Electric Power is now offering our members a new payment option for bill payments. For a minimal fee, members who want to make a payment can use the bar code found on the back of the MEP bill or on the SmartHub app to pay at four local businesses: Dollar General, Family Dollar, CVS and Walgreens. To use this feature, scan the barcode at the checkout and pay the business, just like you were making a purchase at the business. Certain limits may apply.

MAGNOLIA ELECTRIC POWER

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 6, in observance of Our business office will be closed on Monday, September 6, in observance of Labor Day. Call 601-684-4011 or use the SmartHub app to report a power outage or emergency. Linemen will be on call. 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

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Tylertown High School fans have big reasons to cheer during Anthony played basketball earlier in the season, and once the track the upcoming track season. Jordan Anthony, one of their sprinters, season began, he started breaking records immediately. In addition to has made quite an impression on the the regular season where he broke two national and world stages this year. state records at the state championships in Anthony is a rising senior at Pearl, he was invited to three large national Tylertown High School. He is an excelcompetitions sponsored by Adidas and Nike. lent student with a 3.5 grade point averThe first national meet was the Adidas Indoor age and a wide receiver for the football Nationals held Feb. 26-28, in Virginia Beach, team. He already has scouts looking at Virginia. Placing among 40 of the nation’s him for his talents on the football field, top athletes, he finished in third place with a and now he’s getting major attention speed of 6.84 in the 60-meter finals. on the track. His track coach, Myreon Next, he attended the Adidas Boost Sartin, is incredibly proud of him and Boston Games, where he competed against has pushed him to do more than he national and world champions, as well as could ever dream. Olympians. Anthony held his own winning the “I joined the track team in eighth HS 100-meter to become the Adidas Boost grade, but I wasn’t as fast then, so I was Boston Champion. He won by 5 thousandths a jumper,” said Anthony. “Then I injured of a second with a 10.45 run and proved his my hamstring in my ninth-grade year dedication to win. playing football.” Finally, Anthony attended the National After his freshman year, the COVID-19 Jordan Anthony (left) with Myreon Sartin, Tylertown High Scholastic Athletics Foundation (NSAF) School track coach. pandemic hit, and he was able to rest Outdoor Nationals presented by Nike in and heal from his injury. After a time of healing and a growth spurt, June. He won the 100-meter dash with a 10.21 time, breaking even more he came back with fierce speed and began competing this year. records. He continued to compete in the 200-meter dash, placing No. 2 in After only one year of competition, he’s made a name for himself. the nation with a 20.57 time. This has been quite a season for Anthony and Coach Sartin. Anthony is currently I can’t speak for everyone, ranked No. 2 in the 100-meter but from my perspective, in the World U18 division, and No. 3 in the 200-meter World people were all coming U18 division. He is 11-0 in the to see Jordan. People are 100-meter dash and with his already scouting him, and best time of 10.21, he is only .16 seconds from the Olympic I am so proud of him. qualifying standards. Though Anthony is making a name for himself, he remains incredibly humble. He’s very quiet, a good student, and he likes to watch cartoons in his down time. He also likes making friends with his competitors from around the country. He likes to joke that he used to get picked on at recess for being the slow kid. Coach Sartin said, “I can’t speak for everyone, but from my perspective, people were all coming to see Jordan. People are already scouting him, and I am so proud of him.” Though he has many opportunities ahead of him, Anthony would love to continue playing football and running track in college. “I really want to do both. I feel like no one has really ever done both successfully, so I’d like to pursue both sports in college, and hopefully professionally,” said Anthony. One thing is for sure, this superstar from Tylertown will continue to break records with his dedication and drive to win.

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TYLERTOWN ATHLETE

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

Managing rights-of-way From mowing and brush work at ground level to tree trimming above power lines, Monroe County Electric regularly inspects and manages the landscape near electrical equipment.

by Derrill Holly There’s more than one way to look at vegetation management. The work electric cooperatives and their contractors do to help keep electric lines and other equipment separated from plant overgrowth plays a major role in service reliability. From mowing and brush work at ground level to tree trimming near or above power lines Monroe County Electric Power Association regularly inspect and manage the landscape in and around their equipment. Effective to prevent outages, minimize the threat of fire damage and maintain access and serviceability. Electric cooperatives have worked with local, state and federal foresters to develop integrated vegetation management practices aimed at reducing the need for chemicals, costly manual and mechanical control measures and controlled burning. These techniques establish low-growing vegetation that out-compete taller-growing species, according to experts at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA worked with utility industry associations and other federal agencies to develop Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) practices. An IVM approach can help create sustainable ecosystems such as a meadow transition habitat. The techniques, used for both roadside and cross-country rights-of-way, encourage the growth of native plant species and increase plant diversity. They also create or restore habitat for local and migrating wildlife, including insects, birds and mammals. “Trees and other vegetation grow relentlessly,” said Randall H. Miller, a vegetation management consultant, based in Des Moines, Iowa. While weather conditions can affect seasonal activities related to right-of-way work and vegetation management, 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

electric co-ops and other utilities regularly conduct maintenance to mitigate risks. “Vegetation management that is deferred one year has to be done in the future, and the cost accrues much faster than inflation,” said Miller, who serves on the ROW Stewardship Council. “As biomass develops due to growth and trees encroach on, or even engulf power lines, they become increasingly more difficult and less safe to work.” While some of the work might be done with brush hogs, mowers and chain saws, electric co-ops also rely heavily upon planning, seeding and strategic plantings, often supported by their consumer-members and other stakeholders. Youth and community groups regularly work with co-ops on plans to enhance or adapt rights-of-way to support and sustain wildlife or provide forage and habitat for migratory species. Mississippi’s electric co-ops regularly share information and updates on local vegetation management efforts to keep the public safe and communicate how tree and plant growth trimming increases service reliability. (Continued next page)

The work electric cooperatives do to help keep power lines separated from plant overgrowth plays a major role in service reliability.

Energy efficiency tip of the month Source: energy.gov

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Electricity powers our quality of life. From the infrastructure of your home (appliances, water heater and HVAC system) to charging your smartphones, computers, TV and Wi-Fi router, your energy bill covers so much more than lighting. Today, there is more demand for electricity than ever before. At home, in schools and business, and in commercial sectors such as transportation, the need for electricity is increasing. Typically when demand goes up, so too does the price, as is the case with most goods or services, like cable or even your favorite specialty coffee. However, that’s not true with electricity. Let’s take a look at how the value of electricity compares to other common expenses. Over the last five years, the cost of rent increased 3.4%; medical care increased 2.8%; and education increased 2.2%. But the cost of electricity only increased 1%. Considering all the ways we depend on electricity, it still remains a great value. So, the next time you’re enjoying your favorite podcast, TV series or movie, consider the value of electricity and how it

Electricity remains a good value

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Electricity powers quality of life

enhances your quality of life. We care about you, the members we serve, and understand that electricity is more than a commodity — it’s a necessity. That’s why Monroe County Electric will continue working hard to power your life, reliably and affordably.

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caused accidental contacts with energized power lines. “It should include the concept of ‘right tree, right place’ and that there is no room for tall trees to develop under power lines,” said Miller. “Planting them there means those trees cannot be allowed to reach their full potential and will have to be either removed or, if retained, continually pruned to keep the clear of the conductors,” Miller said.

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“Communication is indispensable to successful vegetation management programs,” said Miller. “Members need to understand how vegetation management will benefit them, and that includes education on how a vegetation management program minimizes the risk of tree-caused power outages.” According to industry research, about 20% to 30% of all power outages are vegetation related. Removal of tall trees and limbs near power lines also reduces the risks of injuries to

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

NorthcentralEC

@Northcentral_EC

A message from your CEO It’s August already, and a new school year is approaching us. Nothing really defines a community better than the local school. In several days students, teachers and adults alike will rekindle friendships that went through a summer pause. Communities can often be identified by driving down local roads on Friday nights and seeing the lights illuminating not only the football field, but the community of athletes, students and parents in attendance. A return to the school year always seems to strengthen communities. At your electric cooperative, we strive to enhance the quality of life in the communities we serve. While our role as your electric service and high-speed telecommunications provider are our top priority, we continue to add value through adopting other services such as electric charging stations and community solar projects. We are currently looking for prime, strategic locations for fast-charging electric vehicle stations. As we see the demand for all-electric vehicles increase, we recognize that most charging will be done at home. These locations throughout our

community could, however, help decrease the range anxiety that some could experience if they find themselves too far away from home. If located properly and partnered correctly, a community solar project could be a low-risk, low-cost piece of our wholesale power portfolio and offer those interested in supporting renewable energy a more affordable option. Recently Northcentral held our Membership Appreciation Day. Sadly, we missed out on this annual event last year due to the pandemic. The day was a tremendous success, and the interaction reminds us of our role in the community. It’s a reminder of why we enjoy what we do. We appreciate you, the member, and our community for allowing us to serve you.

by Kevin Doddridge General Manager/CEO

SAVE THE DATE!

ANNUAL MEETING Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at 2 p.m. Northcentral Auditorium 4600 Northcentral Way Olive Branch, MS 38654 Annual report to the membership Board elections Updates on Northcentral Connect Door prizes All members are encouraged to participate!

Pre-register now for high-speed FIBER internet, served by folks you know!

northcentralconnect.com Connect with CONNECT! northcentralconnect northcentralconnect northcentral_c

Smart cooking with fiber

To highlight the advantages of fiber internet from Northcentral Connect, we have looked at gaming, entertainment and medicine. This month, we’re cooking. You’d be surprised at how many devices can connect to the Internet and make cooking easier. You may have seen “smart” refrigerators. Most of these offer the standard 20-22 cubic feet of storage and are given Energy Star ratings for energy efficiency. But did you know that some of these modern models can allow you to see inside the fridge from your smartphone? Yes, a camera right in your refrigerator in case you need to buy milk. The features of these refrigerators range from sending a daily schedule to a touch screen to even mobile notifications if someone left the door open. Look at your morning routine. First, it’s coffee, and then you may toast a bagel. You may fry up some bacon or microwave leftovers. There are “smart” variations of devices that connect to the Internet (or your digital personal assistant like Alexa, Siri or Cortana). Brands like GE, Samsung, Hamilton Beach and Revolution Cooking all offer internet-connected devices that can automate your morning routine and even make it voice-controlled. You may have the urge to start browsing for some of these devices and appliances right now. A smart kitchen sounds very enticing, but upgrades and remodels can quickly become expensive. Here are a few things you should consider before forking over the money:

Where do you spend the most time in the kitchen? This should help prioritize which appliances need to be upgraded. For some budgets, a new coffeemaker may be a good start if it saves a few minutes before heading to work. If you spend more time baking and have the budget, a smart oven that connects to your Wi-Fi may be the priority.

doesn’t connect to an iPhone? That could create an added expense that you may not have considered.

Have you shopped around enough? What happens if that new appliance is defective? How do you return it? Are you buying directly from the store or a third-party seller? These are important questions to ask when you’re spending money on a new kitchen upgrade. Trust me, I have made this mistake myself. I bought something from Amazon and ended up overlooking the fact that I was buying from a third-party seller out of Michigan. When I had to return a defective product, I had to wait longer for the seller to respond to my requests and had to repack the product, ship it, and wait three extra days for refund or replacement. Shopping around will also allow you to find the best price.

Do you have space for the new appliance? Double-check the spaces where some of your new devices will go and check the size of that appliance. Some stores will deliver those devices to you easily; but it may be on you to return it if it doesn’t fit in your kitchen.

Is this new feature going to save you time and money? Believe it or not, there is a vent hood that features a video chat, so you can teleconference with friends and even get cooking advice. The price tag on that appliance is roughly $1,100, plus the potential cost of delivery, installation and added electricity. If you’re a cook that spends hours in front of the stove, it may be worth it to you.

Do you have the necessary peripherals to go with the appliance? This is where “they” get you. Do some research on the appliance and see what compatible companion is required. For example, that new microwave may only connect to Alexa, which means you’ll need an Amazon Echo. What if that advanced Samsung refrigerator

by Justin Jaggers Media Specialist

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

brings friends, family together by Bob Bakken Ask a great chef or cook what makes a great-tasting meal extra special, and they’ll probably include talk about the ingredients. This much seasoning, a pinch of this, a dash of that, a teaspoon of this and a cup of that. They may also describe the length of time an item needs to cook, or at what temperature it has to cook. Or it may be what goes with the main dish, the side dishes, the best drink to complement the meal. So many things to consider. The attention to detail is what makes a great chef well known in the world of food. Summertime around here brings friends and families together to light up a grill, share a table of delicious food, and barbecue is usually the focus of those outdoor summer gatherings. So, what makes that barbecue meal extra special? Talk to many of the top pitmasters, and they may also share their tips about how they approach their favorite cut of meat to make the taste stand out — the rubs, the sauce, the temperature, how long to smoke it. They’ll all have their special touches that they do to make their food championship quality. Champion pitmaster and Northcentral member Heath Riles has fashioned his own style and has developed his own way of barbecue. It’s his personal touch honed over 24 years of grilling that has won him a lengthy list of championships, now up to about 74 Grand Champion titles under his name. Barbecue means a lot to Riles, who has been consistently grilling since he joined Don Moody and a local competition team in his hometown of Ashland, Mississippi as a teenager. When asked what barbecue means to Riles, he’ll talk as much about who he’s grilling for as what he’s grilling and how it’s being done. “Barbecue means a lot of things to me, but friends and family are the biggest thing,” Riles said. “It means a gathering of friends and family. That’s the most important thing and it should be in a lot of people’s lives. It’s about camaraderie, the conversation around a fire, especially a live fire, and being able to share that food with friends.” Riles got his interest in barbecue when the invitation came to be a part of that competition team in Ashland. “We went to a contest, had a lot of fun, and they told me I needed to build my own grill,” Riles explained. “So, I bought a piece of steel, built my own grill and got started. Fast forward 24 years from cooking in my hometown in a little contest they 14 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

had there. It’s been growing and growing into what it is today.” It’s grown into something really spectacular in the barbecue world. Riles has his own website, where he sells his own brand of sauces, rubs, marinades and more, all delivered right to your door. That’s if you can’t find it in your favorite store, because they’re sold at stores in much of the United States and even into Canada. More than 1,000 retail locations have Riles’ rubs, sauces, and such, with another 500 stores expected to be added by the end of this year. That’s not all. Heath Riles’ products have gone international and are now in Australia and New Zealand, across Europe, including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Puerto Rico. Riles has grilled and competed under several names during his time, but it was on the advice of a pair of top pitmasters that in 2018 he took his own name as the brand Riles uses today. “I took the advice of Sweet Baby Ray and Famous Dave Anderson, good mentor friends of mine,” Riles said. “They said I needed to change my team name to my name. Sweet Baby Ray said if I change my name, my business will double in six months. It quadrupled in two months, and it’s done nothing but grown from that.” Putting a face to the brand is one of the “old school ways” to market yourself, and in this case, it certainly worked quite well. It also means Riles takes ownership of the brand because it’s his name on the label. “I was either going to put 110 percent into it, or I don’t need to do it,” said Riles. “I’ve tried to focus all of my attention into that, and the business has grown as a reflection of that. I believe the return on my investment has been pretty good, so far.” Riles’ style of award-winning barbecue has certainly evolved over the years, adding that he learns something new most every time he lights a fire. It could be when to add a stick of wood to a wood fire to keep a constant temperature, for instance. But Riles also talks about feel, or discovering what a piece of meat should feel like when it’s done. That’s something that with patience can be developed, but over time. It’s that ability to learn what the finished product should feel like that has kept Riles among the top competition pitmasters around. “I run temperature devices in all of my meat, and I have a

good set point that I use,” he explained. “Pulled pork may be 203 degrees when it’s done. I set all of them to 200 degrees, and then I feel each one to know what it feels like. The feel is different for each one of them for what I want it to be. In competition barbecue, I’m that precise about it.” The only consideration of time should be, it’s done when it’s done. “Whether you cook it low and slow or hot and fast, it’s not by timing, but by the tenderness level,” Riles said. Competition barbecue is a passionate sport among the pitmasters and most competitors know each other, in some cases because they live in the same area. “You think of Memphis, but there’s some of the top barbecue cooks in the nation living in DeSoto County,” Riles said. “We have a lot of people here who are really skilled cooks. We’re competitors against each other, but we’re not. Barbecue has brought us together like family. That’s a lifelong friendship.” But it comes back to family and friends for the most enjoyment of barbecue, savoring the food together and the good times that always come with it. “I always loved going to family reunions and all that,” Riles said. “Everybody always cooked something different. You see the enjoyment the people get from other people’s food, and I just didn’t want to be the everyday, normal cook. Good food, good times, good friends, good family. That’s what it’s all about.”

Riles hopes his barbecue will continue to bring great taste and good times to those who enjoy his products and use his recipes to bring their own friends and families together. “I feel like food brings joy to people’s lives,” said Riles. “At this day and time, we live in a world where we need a smile on somebody’s face. You want to leave the world a better place than you found it, and you catch yourself as you get older asking yourself what’s important in life. It’s about putting a good smile on your face, having a good meal and good time.” You’ll find Riles and his vast variety of rubs, sauces, and marinades at his website, heathrilesbbq.com and at shootintheque.com. Heath Riles BBQ is also found on most all social media channels, including Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Don’t forget, though, that when you stop by, you’ll likely come away with a smile and feel good about yourself. That’s what barbecue does, after all. “Have you ever been to somebody’s cookout and left with a frown on your face?,” Riles asked. “It’s that good feeling of seeing people smile while eating my food.”

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 15

Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs | Pellet Grill This recipe, using our Garlic Jalapeno and Honey Chipotle rubs and our Tangy Vinegar Sauce, offers a unique flavor to top off these Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs that we cooked on the Traegar Pellet Grill. PREP TIME 30 mins

COOK TIME 3 hrs 30 mins

TOTAL TIME 4 hrs

SERVINGS 2 people

EQUIPMENT Traegar Pellet Grill

Grilled Scallops | Golden’s Cast Iron Cooker These grilled scallops we cook just a little bit different, in a Cast Iron skillet. We use our Garlic Butter and the Simple Citrus Rubs with these scallops, and they turned out amazing. PREP TIME 30 mins

COOK TIME 15 mins

TOTAL TIME 51 mins

RESTING TIME 6 mins

SERVINGS 2 people

EQUIPMENT Thermapen Mk4 Glass olive oil dispenser Lodge pre-seasoned cast iron griddle INGREDIENTS Scallops 1 bottle Heath Riles BBQ Garlic Butter Rub 1 bottle Heath Riles BBQ Simple Citrus Rub Olive oil 2 tbsp butter INSTRUCTIONS Get Golden’s Cast Iron Cooker (or cooker of your choice) up to 450-500 degrees. Toss scallops in olive oil. Season scallops with Heath Riles BBQ Garlic Butter Rub and then Heath Riles BBQ Simple Citrus Rub. Repeat this process on both sides. Place cast iron griddle on the grill with some olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter to get hot. Once griddle is hot, place scallops on. Once they are golden brown, flip to the other side. This should be approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Scallops are done when they reach 125-130 degrees internally.

16 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

INGREDIENTS Baby Back Ribs 2 racks Cheshire Pork Baby Back Ribs 1 bottle Heath Riles BBQ Garlic Jalapeno 1 bottle Heath Riles BBQ Honey Chipotle Rub ⅓ cup honey 1 bottle Heath Riles Tangy Vinegar Sauce 3 each limes juiced 1 each green onion for garnish Rib Glaze ⅓ cup Heath Riles Tangy Vinegar Sauce 1 lime juiced 1 tbsp minced ginger 2 tbsp minced garlic ⅓ cup honey ⅓ cup soy sauce INSTRUCTIONS Get Traeger Grill (or grill of your choice) up to 275 degrees, for this cook, we used pecan pellets. Trim ribs if you wish, remove the membrane from ribs. Season ribs with Heath Riles BBQ Garlic Jalapeño Rub on each side and then come back and season with Heath Riles BBQ Honey Chipotle Rub on each side. Allow ribs to sweat and rub to set for about 15 minutes. Place ribs on grill and allow to cook for 2 hours. Remove ribs and wrap with honey, Heath Riles BBQ Tangy Vinegar Sauce and lime. Wrap each slab individually. Place ribs back on the grill for another 2 hours while wrapped. Get your glaze ready, recipe above. Reduce ingredients down on low heat. Remove ribs from grill and allow them to sit for approximately 15 minutes. Then remove ribs from foil and glaze with sauce that you made. Return the ribs to the grill for approximately 15 minutes to set glaze. Remove ribs and allow to cool for approximately 5 minutes, top with chopped green onion if you wish!

Hot & Fast Pulled Pork | Gateway Drum

Smoked Honey Sriracha Wings

Cook this Boston Butt from Cheshire Farms on the Gateway Drum smoker use Hot and Honey Rub and wrap it in Tangy Vinegar Sauce.

| Drum Smoker

PREP TIME 30 mins

COOK TIME 4 hrs

TOTAL TIME 5 hrs 30 mins

RESTING TIME 1 hr

SERVINGS 4 people

EQUIPMENT Gateway Drum ChefAlarm Thermapen Mk4 Royal Oak Charcoal Royal Oak Tumbleweeds INGREDIENTS 1 bottle Heath Riles BBQ Hot Rub 1 bottle Heath Riles BBQ Honey Rub 1 bottle Heath Riles Tangy Vinegar Sauce 1 bottle mustard 1 Butt Cheshire Farms Boston Butt INSTRUCTIONS Get smoker of choice up to temperature, we cooked at 275 degrees. Score fat side of butt, if you choose. Coat butt with mustard or binder of choice. Season butt with a layer of Heath Riles BBQ Hot Rub and a layer of Heath Riles BBQ Honey Rub. Allow butt to rest for 15-20 minutes before placing on smoker. Place butt on smoker, we placed a ChefAlarm in our butt and set it for 130 degrees. This can vary based on bark, etc. Spin the rack on the Gateway Drum Smoker every 30-45 minutes. Once butt reaches internal temperature of 130 degrees, remove from smoker to wrap. Wrap butt with Heath Riles BBQ Tangy Vinegar Sauce and foil. Return to smoker. Continue cooking butt until an internal temperature of 203 degrees is reached. Our total cook time was 5 hours. Once internal temperature is reached, remove from smoker and allow butt to rest.

These wings are something that can’t be described. It’s a honey Sriracha flavor smoked on the Drum. PREP TIME 3 hrs

COOK TIME 50 mins

TOTAL TIME 4 hrs

RESTING TIME 10 mins

SERVINGS 2 people

INGREDIENTS 5 lbs whole chicken wings (approximately 14 wings) Olive oil Heath Riles BBQ Everyday Rub Heath Riles BBQ Honey Rub Ingredients for Sauce 1/2 cup of Heath Riles BBQ Sweet BBQ Sauce 5 tablespoons salted butter melted 1/2 cup of honey 1/4 cup of Sriracha 1 tbsp soy sauce INSTRUCTIONS Take wings out of package and dry off with a paper towel and place on a pan or rack in the refrigerator to dry off completely for 2-3 hours. Light Drum Smoker (or any smoker), bring to a temperature of 275-300 degrees. Rub wings with olive oil, coat with Heath Riles BBQ Everyday Rub (repeat this step on both sides). Coat back of wings with Heath Riles BBQ Honey Rub and allow to sit for about 5 minutes. Turn wings over and coat front of wings with Honey Rub. Place wings on the smoker for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, rotate the rack and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Flip wings over to other side, cook for 20 minutes. Start checking the temperature of your wings. You want the internal temperature to be 185 degrees at least. Take wings off and brush with sauce on both sides. Place back on the smoker for about 5 minutes.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 17

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.

Why fiber is better There’s a revolution happening at the speed of light in your community: Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) internet service is coming to Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association, and the benefits are life-changing. Pearl River Valley Electric, the same company you trust to power your home, business and school, is working as fast as we can to bring high-speed broadband service to our members through our fiber subsidiary, PearlComm Fiber. World-class fiber internet means the fastest speeds in your area for both downloads and uploads — no more delays or interruptions, even when streaming media. You’ve heard of broadband, but what does that really mean? Why is fiber internet better?

The Benefits Broadband availability across our cooperative’s service area will help close the digital divide between those who have access to advanced technology and those who don’t. Reliable high-speed internet access makes so many more things possible, including: • online teaching capabilities for effective distance learning • healthcare benefits such as telemedicine • work-from-home interoffice connectivity and videoconferencing capabilities to optimize productivity for professionals • quality of life improvements through enhanced communications with family and friends and endless entertainment options • economic development and growth from new businesses and booming real estate markets

The Technology Broadband commonly refers to high-speed internet access that is always on and faster than traditional dial-up access. Broadband fiber-optic networks can deliver voice, data, video and email services over the internet. A fiber-optic network sends and receives data at the speed of light. In addition to super-fast transmission speeds, a fiber optic network can carry an extremely high amount of data. Fiber is also more reliable than other networks because it’s less susceptible to interference and damage from lightning or weather. But how does fiber technology work? Fiber-optic systems are made up of tiny strands of glass that carry data using light waves, resulting in much faster internet speeds and better reliability than traditional copper lines. Most internet providers use fiber in their systems but use copper lines for the final connections to the home, resulting in slower speeds. Pearl River Valley Electric and fellow cooperatives believe 100% FTTH is the best, most sustainable communications choice, the gold standard. With our FTTH service, we offer “symmetrical” speeds, meaning you’ll enjoy the same high speeds whether uploading or downloading.

12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

With fiber internet, Pearl River Valley Electric members will no longer have to rely on DSL, fixed wireless or satellite internet to stay connected online. You will be able to stream high-definition media smoothly and quickly, have the data capacity to download and upload data such as files, photos and videos at super-fast speeds, and have access to the latest technological advancements and applications. You will be able to run multiple devices — such as cell phones, computers and laptops — simultaneously in your home or business without decreased download and upload speeds. There are no data caps or bandwidth throttling (intentional slowing or speeding of internet service) with our service. In addition, by connecting our electric substations and offices with fiber, Pearl River Valley Electric will create a smart grid with more automation capabilities to better serve our members. Smart grid capabilities — the standard for optimum electric infrastructure — allows our devices to communicate with each other and delivers benefits such as improved power outage response times, better load balancing, more efficient electricity delivery and others. Plus, our fiber internet service gives you affordable monthly packages with no contracts or sudden price increases. You can trust PearlComm to deliver the same affordable, reliable service and friendly support you expect for your electric service. Choose from 100 Mbps service for $54.95/ month or blazing fast 1 Gig service for $79.95/month. Fiber internet from PearlComm Fiber is worth the wait. Don’t get locked into bad service by signing a contract with another provider. Follow our Facebook page, Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association, for the latest information and construction updates.

Members to receive nearly

$4.1 million in capital credit returns Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association is pleased to once again announce that members will be receiving annual patronage capital refunds in August. Patronage capital, or capital credits, represents members’ investment in their not-forprofit electric cooperative. Each year, rates are set so that the Association has enough funding to operate throughout the year, and any year-end revenue above the cost of providing electric service is assigned to members as margins based on their share of electricity use. A portion of those margins is then returned to members each August. This year, Pearl River Valley Electric’s board of directors has authorized $4.1 million be returned to members. In addition, our wholesale power provider Cooperative Energy, which is a cooperative owned by PRVEPA and 10 other electric power associations, also returns capital credits. Those credits, totaling $938,088, will be returned to applicable PRVEPA members, increasing the total amount returned for 2020 to $5,038,088. “Capital credit refunds are one of the advantages of being a member of a cooperative,” said Matthew Ware, CEO/general manager.

“Our members share in the cost of doing business and benefit from any returns as well.” While investor-owned utilities return a portion of any profits back to their investors, electric cooperatives assign margins to memberconsumers as capital credits and pay them when the co-op’s financial condition permits. “Conservative management of our money by our Board of Directors has helped keep our Association financially sound,” Ware continued. “We have returned capital credits for 58 years, totaling nearly $63 million overall. Members receive a share of the patronage refunds based on their annual electric use. Each qualifying active member will receive their refund as credit applied to their power bill mailed in August. For inactive members who qualify, checks will be mailed in September. In addition to annual patronage refunds for members, Pearl River Valley Electric also offers discounted capital credit refunds to the estates of deceased members and to former members. A total of more than $16.3 million has been distributed overall through these programs, including more than $824,000 in 2020.

Applications for Round Up for Education program due August 13, 2021 • Applications are available at PRVEPA offices and at www.prvepa.com. • Completed applications must be postmarked or emailed by August 13. • 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. AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

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

and other heavy equipment during routine trimming, electric cooperatives also rely on members to spot areas for potential trouble, such as dead trees. PEPA Right-of-Way Manager Johnny Wilder said, “We want our members to understand how vegetation management benefits them. It’s important to know that a vegetation management program can lessen safety issues and power outages caused by trees.” According to industry research, about 20–30% of all power outages are vegetation related. Removal of tall trees and limbs near power lines also reduces the risks of injuries caused by accidental contacts with energized power lines. Pontotoc Electric offers a brochure called “Trees and Power Lines Do Not Mix” that is free to members. The brochure provides information to help customers plant the right tree in the right place. If you’d like more information, stop by our office at 12 South Main Street in Pontotoc or 129 South Newberger Street in Bruce.

Tree Planting Chart

No-Planting Zone 15 feet from center of pole outward for a 30-foot zone

Remember to plan for the growth of the tree you plant.

Power Line Right of Way

Trees planted at 50 feet Trees planted at 35 feet Trees planted at 25 feet

Area 3 - Large trees 40-45 feet from lines

Oak, Elm, Hickory, Maple, Pine, Sweet Gum, Poplar, Sycamore

Area 2 - Medium trees 35 feet from lines

Bradford Pear, Magnolia, Ornamental Cherry, Fir, Spruce

Area 1 - Small trees 25 feet from lines

WARNING

Dogwood, Redbud, Crepe Myrtle, Crabapple, Japanese Maple, Holly

A large tree that reaches into the No-Planting Zone as it matures will have to be trimmed by Pontotoc Electric.

Street’s Chocolate Cake

Betty Armstrong, PEPA Retiree

Claude Jones, PEPA Retiree, and Ann

1 pkg. German chocolate cake mix 1 box powdered sugar 8 oz. cream cheese, softened

2 sticks margarine 4 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla

Mix cake mix, 2 eggs and 1 stick melted margarine. Press in 9 x 13 pan. Cream 8 oz. cream cheese, 1 stick margarine, 2 eggs and vanilla. Add to powdered sugar and put on top of cake mixture. Bake at 350 degrees until cake is set (40 -50 minutes or longer if needed). Do not dry out.

Cake: 1 stick butter 1 cup hot water 2 cups sugar ½ cup buttermilk 2 cups plain flour 1 tsp. soda Frosting: 1 stick real butter 3 tbsp. cocoa 1 box confectioner’s sugar

Banana Pudding

½ cup Crisco 1 tsp. vanilla 3 tbsp. cocoa 2 eggs 1 tsp. cinnamon

6 tbsp. milk 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup chopped pecans

Kathy Colbert, Collection Assistant/Receptionist 1 ½ cups sugar 3 egg yolks 2 cups water (or milk) ½ cup flour

2 cups milk 1 tsp. vanilla 1 bag of vanilla wafers 5 ripe bananas

Mix thoroughly and cook until thick. Pour over layer of bananas and layer of vanilla wafers and repeat. If desired, top with meringue and broil until golden. (This recipe belonged to my grandmother, Ma Walker).

Cake: Sift together sugar and flour. Mix and set aside. Put in sauce pan: butter, Crisco and hot water. Bring to boil and pour over sugar and flour mixture. Stir together and add buttermilk and soda (mixed), 2 eggs (slightly beaten), cinnamon and vanilla. Makes a thin batter. Cook in 11 x 16 pan at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. Frosting: Melt butter, cocoa and milk. Bring to boil. Remove from heat and add confectioner’s sugar, nuts and vanilla. Pour over cake while hot.

Lemon Cookies

Energy efficiency tip of the month Source: energy.gov

When shopping for new light bulbs, know the difference between lumens and watts. Lumens measure the amount of light produced by the bulb. Watts measure energy consumption. Energy-saving LEDs come

Karen Laprade, Plant Accounting Clerk Cake: 1 box lemon cake mix 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice

1 egg, slightly beaten ½ cup vegetable oil

Glaze: 1 ½ cups powdered sugar

Fresh lemon juice

Cake: Mix ingredients and roll dough into balls about the size of a walnut. Place on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes for a soft, chewy cookie or a little longer for a crispy cookie. Frosting: Mix ingredients and spread on top of cooled cookies. Makes 2 dozen large cookies.

in a variety of colors and brightness levels and last 15-25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

BRIAN HUGHEY

Bringing power and energy services to local communities

Public Relations Specialist

LORRI FREEMAN, APR

STEPHANIE CHISHOLM

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

www.singingriver.com

@singingriverelectric

Manager of Public Relations

@SRECooperative

The power of education programs for those entering college, sponsor a youth leadership program for high school juniors, and participate in the Pathways to Possibilities Career Fair to help local middle school students explore job fields and potential careers. Our engineers and linemen visit elementary classrooms across the service territory showing the importance of safety. While our in-person interaction with students and educators was minimized last year due to the pandemic, we are hopeful things return to normal this year. The real impact is interaction. Whether it’s an employee coaching a sports team, working with the school PTA or purchasing items during the holidays to support a classroom, we want our local students and teachers to know we care. We all know education is vital to the economic growth and well-being of the communities where we live and work. I ask you to join us, if you aren’t already doing so, in supporting our schools and teachers through volunteering or helping in some way. Our students deserve nothing less than the best education we can provide them.

Supporting education in our local communities

singingriver.com/my-community 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Public Relations Assistant

SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

I’m sure many of you have children or grandchildren eager to begin the new school year. Thoughts likely include the anticipation of meeting new Brian Hughey teachers, seeing old General Manager friends, making new & CEO friends, and even the excitement of buying new school supplies. For some of us, including myself, it may be the anxiety of sending a child off to college for the first time. Local teachers and administrators have been busy for weeks preparing for the big day. These special individuals play a critical role in the development of our children and grandchildren and need the support of the community. We all play a role in our local school’s success. It’s more than slowing down in the school zones; it’s about being involved in the schools and communities we love. Singing River Electric understands this and is committed to the schools in our communities. We contribute to local chambers of commerce scholarship

AMANDA PARKER

General Manager & CEO

@singingriverelectric

Energy Tips

Jeff Gray Energy Services Representative gray@singingriver.com

Preventing infiltration Infiltration or outside air leaking into your home can make your home miserable in the summer and impact your energy use significantly. The air you paid to cool inside can escape outside through cracks and crevasses. This causes your air conditioner to operate at longer intervals, raising your power bill. It can also increase humidity in your home resulting in discomfort. The same can happen in the winter as heated air escapes and cold air enters causing the heating system to run longer and your electric bills to rise. There are several things you can do to prevent infiltration in your home: • Make sure exterior doors are sealed with weather stripping and a good threshold seal. A door sweep can be added if leaks are detected under the door. • Caulk around all exterior windows. You can seal any exterior holes (plumbing or electrical, etc.) with foam sealant such as Great Stuff. • Heater closets in homes should be sealed inside the top. Gas heater closets must be left open for ventilation. • Homes built off-the-ground should have skirting around the bottom to stop airflow under the home. Visit singingriver.com/ways-to-save for more energy-saving tips.

FAQ

Q A

Great News!

When can I sign up for fiber service?

Faster internet is coming!

We are currently in the pilot phase. The pilot areas are scheduled to receive fiber between October 2021 and early January 2022. SRE’s board of directors will be monitoring the expressed interests inside and outside of the pilot areas, as well as signups in the pilot areas to determine the success of the pilot program and if expansion is needed and where to go next.

Free installation during the pilot period (no contract, no data caps, no equipment fees)

Super-fast speeds: 100 Mbps and 1 Gbps (up and down)

Priced as low as $59.95

(includes modem, router and managed Wi-Fi)

Is this an introductory offer that will spike in price?

No. Our fiber packages are $59.95 for 100 Mbps and $84.95 for 1 Gbps. The prices include free installation, free modem and router, free managed Wi-Fi, no contracts, no equipment fees and no datause limits.

Q A

Why is fiber better than tradition internet service?

Fiber high-speed internet is lightning fast. You really have to try it to believe it. It is also symmetrical, which means the same upload and download speeds. You can easily use multiple devices at once.

Where can I get updates about SR Connect fiber service?

Visit singingriverconnect. com to submit your information and express an interest in SR Connect fiber service. You will then be on our e-newsletter list. You can also keep reading about it in this Today in Mississippi magazine and join our social conversations on Facebook and Instagram at SingingRiverConnect and SRConnectMS on Twitter.

Express an interest in lightning-fast fiber service TODAY at singingriverconnect.com!

No contracts. No data caps. No equipment fees.

singingriverconnect.com 877-272-6611

Search your address at singingriverconnect.com to express your interest in service.

Three pilot areas covering SRE members in ﬁve counties. SR Connect’s three pilot projects represent Singing River Electric’s three geographical districts, and will reach fiber subscribers in five southeast Mississippi counties. The areas were chosen because they are mostly unserved or underserved for fiber and because they are located along the fiber ring being constructed connecting all SRE offices and substations. This is an inital effort. Fiber expansion depends on the success of these pilots and results are promising so far. Whether you are inside or outside of a pilot project, please search your address and input information to express an interest. We will use this and other data to determine where to expand once that decision is made.

PILOT AREA #1

PILOT AREA #2

PILOT AREA #3

crews restore power following Tropical Storm Claudette Tropical Storm Claudette was a weak tropical storm that hit our area early Saturday, June 19, 2021. The storm brought heavy rain and spawned a tornado in northeast Jackson County that caused damage along State Line Road. One weird fact about the storm is that it did not form a well-defined circulation until it made landfall in Louisiana. It gained tropical storm strength just prior to landfall.

Supporting South Mississippi wildlife conservation

SRE NHN Grant beneﬁts South Coast Outdoors NHN Community Grants Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN) Community Grants help Singing River Electric merge efforts with the hard work of those within our communities. Since the program’s inception in 2001, $317,174.15 has been awarded to local non-profits in local communities.

South Mississippi’s declining wood duck population will soon be on the rise thanks to a $2,500 Singing River Electric Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Grant to South Coast Outdoors. The funds will be used to construct wooden nesting boxes made from weatherresistant mahogany and stainless steel hardware. The South Coast team will record the use of the boxes during nesting season as well as log the number of hatchlings. “Our Wood Duck Habitat Recovery Program began in 2016 in partnership with the Pascagoula Wildlife Management Area,” explained Trey Wright, project leader. “Our goal is to ensure that there are proper nesting sites for both migratory and local wood ducks.”

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.

How is my power restored?

In order to restore power to many people quickly, utilities follow a standard restoration plan. First, transmission lines that carry highvoltage electricity to substations are checked for damage, while other employees scout storm-affected areas to assess damage. Employees are pre-assigned areas to speed restoration. Hospitals are given high priority when possible, and restorations work outward from the substations towards your home. For more information, see the Storm Ready Fact Sheet available at singingriver.com/storm-and-outage.

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.

Revisions Requested

UNDERSTANDING

Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives.

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 17

Revisions Requested Approved

STEVEN Date_____ Revisions Requested

Approved

What’s a power surge?

What’s a power blink?

RON Date_____

VERSION #______________

Lightning strikes can cause faults (short circuits) on power lines, which can cause your lights to blink. Photo Credit: Pat Gaines

CHAD Date_____

Approved

AND

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

EDUCATION IS A POWERFUL THING As the husband, son, and son-in-law of educators and the father of three, I have seen firsthand how teachers make a tremendous impact on the lives of their students. I know that I am not alone in that because we’ve all witnessed the difference teachers make in our lives and the lives of our families. Mississippi’s educators are a group of truly incredible people who do what they do because they have a passion for education and teaching our children. Southern Pine is tremendously grateful for the teachers who shaped our lives and the teachers currently shaping our children’s lives. The last school year was a huge challenge for teachers and students across the country. Still, I believe Mississippi’s teachers were exceptional in rising to the challenge and creating new and different learning environments where our children continued to thrive. We are thankful to the faculty and staff of the schools in our counties. As we were all battling this pandemic in different ways, they were helping our children through it every day, all the while still teaching.

12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

I am a firm believer in the power of education, and I know it can lift people and help them create the future they want. Through education, people can live their dreams no matter what they may be. Southern Pine is here to help in several ways. Whether it is through our adopt-a-school program, Cooperative University, safety demonstrations, or donations of time or money, Southern Pine is dedicated to supporting the students in the counties we serve. Investing in our children’s education is something we can all agree will pay great dividends in the future. As school starts this year, I encourage all our members to seek out ways to support their local schools. There are so many ways to help through volunteering your time and energy, supporting their needs financially, praying for a successful school year, or simply teaching your children the value of education and the value of their teachers. I pray for our children, teachers, and administrators and hope the 2021-2022 school year is a great one.

by Chris K. Rhodes President / CEO Southern Pine Electric

Christopher Isaiah Goss and William Mason

2021 YOUTH SCHOLARS

Southern Pine Electric proudly sponsors two high school juniors each year to attend the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s Youth Leadership Conference in Jackson. In previous years, they met with state legislators and toured the capital. Typically the conference is followed by the Youth Tour, held in Washington, D.C., where students from across the country join them. Due to the pandemic, neither the Youth Leadership Conference nor the Youth Tour took place. However, there is some excellent news for these two young men. Each will receive a scholarship in place of the activities they didn’t get to attend. The scholarships will be awarded at the 2021 Annual Membership Meeting in November. Isaiah and William were among 26 students who attended Cooperative University held at Southern Pine Electric’s headquarters. These young men were selected through an application and interview process. They possess the qualities and characteristics to be future leaders of our membership area and our state. Isaiah Goss, son of Christopher Brian and Amanda Goss, is a senior at Morton High School. He is active in the One A’Chord Show Chior, Beta Club, tennis team, sport shooting team, and served as junior class president. Isaiah serves on the Faith Tabernacle Worship Center praise team and the youth sign language Christopher Isaiah Goss team. Isaiah plans to Morton High School attend medical school focusing on pediatric orthopedic surgery after completing a bachelor’s degree and a minor in political science. He works seasonally with Yogi on the Lake and lives with his family in Pulaski. William Mason, son of Donald and Cynthia Mason, lives in Raleigh and is a senior at Raleigh High School. He is active in the high school band, Beta Club, Raleigh HS Mathletes, and plays tennis. William has served as a class officer and

won numerous band awards throughout his high school career. In addition, he’s been on the President’s List for the past three years. He currently works at Chick-fil-A in Brandon and is planning to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. Congratulations, Isaiah and William. We look forward to seeing what you accomplish, and we know you both have bright futures ahead.

William Mason Raleigh High School

2021 Youth Scholars

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ANNOUNCES NEW STUDENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM AT SOUTHERN PINE ELECTRIC

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Agnes the Agave – Worth the Wait Wayne and Beverly Johnson, longtime Southern Pine members, were given a tiny little agave plant by a family friend. At that time, it would fit in the palm of a hand, but here we are 18 years later and the agave plant that has fondly been named Agnes has reached 34 feet tall with its first bloom ever. “We were told many times over the years that she wouldn’t mature here. Well, Agnes has been a blessing to us through these stressful times,” said Beverly. “We have photographed her every morning since we noticed something different on April 10 and she grew almost 18 inches in three days!”

Struggling with health issues, Wayne has looked to Agnes for inspiration. With no idea what the blooms would look like, the couple has excitedly watched every day. “We hope everyone that has shared this once in a lifetime experience with us has wonderful memories of Agnes our Agave,” Beverly said. Beverly and Wayne wanted to share this with the Southern Pine family because Agnes the Agave has certainly put on a beautiful show for everyone.

Southern Pine Hosts Member Circle Event in Covington County Southern Pine Electric hosted a Member Circle event at Woodland Trails in Collins Tuesday, June 8, 2021, for members, elected officials and first responders. The casual event was an opportunity for Southern Pine to hear from some of our members, answer questions and discuss various topics related to electric power distribution. Drummonds McAlpin, vice president of administration, spoke with members about Southern Pine’s dedication to members and the cooperative difference. Mike Kennedy, Taylorsville district manager, discussed the steps in a significant outage restoration, and Jan Collins, vice president of communications, reviewed the history of Southern Pine Electric. Several other Southern Pine employees took part in the event and met with members throughout the evening. The night concluded with a safety demonstration led by Jamie Arender, safety coordinator, Shay Sanford, journeyman lineman and Rusty Blakeney, serviceman. Southern Pine Electric will be hosting Member Circle events in each of the 11 counties it serves in the coming months. AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 15

METER SHOP: PROGRESS AND DEDICATION Metering is an integral part of the operations of Southern Pine Electric. Over the past decade metering has taken on many different forms, but one thing remains true — the metering technicians are dedicated and ready to tackle any new technology. Years ago, metering was reliant upon the simplistic meters purchased through companies that preprogrammed the meters. Today the meters are so much more complex. The meters that Southern Pine uses today are programmed by the meter technicians who undergo extensive training on programming meters. The field technicians are skilled in meter setting and meter programming. The meter is the measuring instrument of the kilowatt hours used per resident. Members are billed based on kilowatt hours of electricity used, so the meter must be exact to serve our members with an accurate reading translating to an accurate bill.

The new smart meters used by Southern Pine Electric today are unique in the way that they can help predict future needs for lines and services. These smart meters are finetuned for ultimate precision and accuracy. With the multitude of Southern Pine Electric consumer accounts, the meter shop takes pride in the intense effort and training required to assure all meters are set, programmed and working properly. We are proud to be a part of the team at Southern Pine and working together, we bring the power to you.

Josh Lang, Meterman, 1st Class; Mike Cook, Apprentice Meterman; Mark Cassell, Metering Supervisor; Cole Avera, Meterman, 1st Class and Dennis Ainsworth, Meterman, 1st Class.

16 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT:

JOSH LANG

Josh Lang is no stranger to hard work. Growing up he worked in his family’s chicken houses from the time he could walk and then, as a teenager he worked with his granddaddy in the construction business. Our members reap the benefits of the strong work ethic that was ingrained in him from an early age. As a meterman, 1st class, Josh works at the Taylorsville Headquarters. “I’m in a position that allows me to not only work in the field using my education, but also enables me to make a difference in a way that is rewarding,” Josh said. “My coworkers and I are a great team, and we have a bond that goes beyond the typical workplace. We have each other’s backs, and I can’t imagine working anywhere else.” As dedicated to Southern Pine as Josh is, he has a more important calling. At only 33 years old, he celebrated his 20th year of ministry this year. The son of a pastor, Josh was called to the ministry at 13 and has been sharing God’s message ever since and says he has been truly blessed. “I’m most thankful for my relationship with the Lord. I’m thankful for my wife and my children who are a gift from Him,” said Josh. He served as the pastor of Pine Bluff Baptist Church in Newton for eight years, and he is currently pastor at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Hillsboro. He and his wife of 11 years, Rebecca, have three children, Lana, 10, Mabry, 7, and Dillon, 4. They live in Forest about a mile from where he grew up. When he is not at Southern Pine, Josh loves spending time with his family and his church family. He enjoys fishing with the family, working on anything that needs attention around the house, going on cruises with Rebecca, and taking family vacations to the Gulf or the Smokies whenever he can. Josh is grateful for Southern Pine and plans to retire here. “Southern Pine has been my home for over a decade,” he said. “It’s difficult to say that I have one favorite memory because I have many, but my favorite memories are all the same. It is the happy and grateful faces of members when their power has been restored. Besides my family, they are the reason I do what I do.” He also said he feels blessed be employed when there are so many people who are out of work.

“I’m in a position that allows me to not only work in the field using my education, but also enables me to make a difference in a way that is rewarding...”

AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 17

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

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Southwest Electric

Southwest Electric now offers a way to pay your bill at a store near you. All you need is your barcode and cash to cover your bill and the $1.50 fee. The barcode can be found in the SmartHub app or on the back of your bill. Each account has a unique barcode. • Take your barcode to a participating retail store such as Dollar General, Family Dollar, Walgreens or CVS. • Have the cashier scan the barcode. • Tell the cashier how much you want to pay on your bill, and they will add the $1.50 fee. • The payment will post to your account immediately. This is one of many ways we make it easy for our Members to make payments.

Questions? Visit southwestelectric.coop or call us at 800-287-8564.

August is Back to School Month! Best wishes to all our mini-members and parents for a wonderful school year! 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

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Close your blinds or curtains to prevent the sun’s rays from warming your home.

Summer Energy Efficiency

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Summer Energy Efficiency The Department of Energy recommends keeping your thermostat set at 78 degrees during the summer. To save even more on your cooling costs, turn your thermostat up a few degrees if you are away for more than two hours.

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Copiah County

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Osmose Utilities Services is inspecting poles in the shaded area indicated on the map through September. If you live in this area, you may see their trucks and crews near our poles. Inspecting, treating and replacing poles helps us stay ahead of issues and improve our system. If you have any questions, contact us at 800-287-8564.

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Southwest Electric conducting pole inspections

twincoepa.com @twincoepa

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

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

Twin County to hold Annual Meeting on September 21 Twin County Electric Power Association is making plans to hold its Annual Meeting of Members on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at its main campus in Hollandale. More information regarding Twin County’s 2021 Annual Meeting will also appear in the September edition of Today in Mississippi. The primary purposes of the Annual Meeting are to elect three Directors, to hear and receive reports from Twin County’s Directors and Officers and to transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting. Pursuant to Twin County’s By-laws, any fifteen Members in Good Standing as of the Record Date may nominate a Member in Good Standing to run for Twin County’s Board of Directors using a form provided by Twin County and filed at Twin County’s Hollandale office not less than forty-five days prior to date of the Annual Meeting. All persons nominated to run for Twin County’s Board of Directors are required to submit a questionnaire and consent to a criminal background check simultaneously with the filing of their petition. The Record Date for determining the Members in Good Standing eligible to be nominated to serve as Directors, to sign petitions and to vote at the Annual Meeting was July 20, 2021, and the deadline for submitting Petitions will be August 6, 2021 by 5:00 p.m. Any Member of Twin County may obtain a complete copy of its By-laws at Twin County’s offices in Hollandale, Belzoni, Rolling Fork or Greenville, or by visiting www.twincoepa.com.

SUNFLOWER COUNTY

Leland

LEFLORE COUNTY

Greenville

Inverness

Isola

WASHINGTON COUNTY

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Belzoni Hollandale

HUMPHREYS COUNTY HOLMES COUNTY

Rollingfork

Louise SHARKEY COUNTY

Mayersville

ISSAQUENA COUNTY

Cary

TWIN COUNTY EPA

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MAIN OFFICE BRANCH OFFICES SUBSTATIONS

WARREN COUNTY

TWIN COUNTY ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

WILL BE CLOSED Monday, September 6, in observance of

For after-hours outages, call 866-897-7250. 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Mark your calendars for the 2021 Sam Chatmon Blues Festival and 5K Run in Hollandale.

September 25, 2021

Information will be posted on the Sam Chatmon Blues Festival Facebook page.

Twin County congratulates Mississippi Delta catfish farmers for being leaders in this industry. May this year bring back the normal we’ve all missed.

Energy efficiency tip of the month Source: energy.gov

Change your HVAC filters, make sure there is one foot of clearance around your outside unit, turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room! AUGUST 2021 | TODAY 13

TWITTER

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

VISIT US ONLINE @ WWW.YAZOOVALLEY.COM

Customizing boats for water lovers by Dennis McFee People raised on the water often become fishermen, game wardens, marine biologists or even lifeguards, but Kenny Smith took a different route. After studying welding at Holmes Community College, he decided to combine his newly found skills and love for the water to build custom boats. Li’l Shinky’s Custom Boats can be found right off Highway 49 in Little Yazoo. In addition to building custom boats, they also make modifications, repairs and other aluminum projects. But wait, there’s more! You can also get a custom paint job by 12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

Kenny’s father Kenneth “Ken” Smith Jr., retired long-time leader at Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association. Ken’s passion for art and fabrication was the perfect complement to Kenny’s boat building. The father and son operation started from the ground up with their own bare hands. The duo has built or customized dozens of boats since they’ve started. “One of the hardest parts about building boats is taking a

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Outdoors could use at events for those with special needs. These individuals could ride in the boat without having to leave their wheelchair but for Kenny that wasn’t good enough. Kenny wanted to allow those with special needs the opportunity to actually catch a fish. Currently, they are working on special devices and reels to allow them that experience. Kenny also has a sweet spot for the first boat he built. “I kind of just sat there in awe and disbelief,” said Kenny. “Like wow, I really just built a boat!” Boats aren’t the only thing that comes out of Li’l Shinky’s. Pretty much anything that deals with aluminum welding, including two all-aluminum dog boxes that were donated to the Wildlife Extravaganza. If you stop by the shop, you’ll more than likely find Kenny working on a boat and Ken doing an airbrush job or practicing the lost art of hand-painting pinstriping on a truck. You can get a true fully customized boat at Li’l Shinky’s. Stop by 310 Addison Road in Yazoo City, or call 662-590-6822 for more information.

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project you’ve just finished and having to sink it, a requirement by the U.S. Coast Guard to test the flotation,” says Kenny. To build a boat from the ground up takes a few months. In between building boats, most of the work done at Li’l Shinky’s is boat repair and modifications. “The modification requests can get wild but that’s why we’re here to deliver on those unusual requests and make the customer happy,” said Ken. One of their favorite projects was a boat for Hope Outdoors, a non-profit organization whose mission is to offer renewed hope to those with special needs through meaningful outdoor experiences with like individuals. The Smiths encountered Hope Outdoors at their booth at Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza where Kenny noticed a lot of highly engaged participants in wheelchairs. “I’ve always wanted to do one thing that contributed to society,” said Kenny. “This was it!” Kenny decided he could build a boat where a person in a wheelchair could ride along with a standing adult. Kenny approached the booth and offered to build a boat that Hope

The cost of powering your home rises slowly when compared to other common expenses. Looking at price increases over the last five years, it’s easy to see electricity remains a good value!

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Electricity powers our quality of life. From the infrastructure of your home (appliances, water heater and HVAC system) to charging your smartphones, computers, TV and Wi-Fi router, your energy bill covers so much more than lighting. Today, there is more demand for electricity than ever before. At home, in schools and business, and in commercial sectors such as transportation, the need for electricity is increasing. Typically when demand goes up, so too does the price, as is the case with most goods or services, like cable or even your favorite specialty coffee. However, that’s not true with electricity. Let’s take a look at how the value of electricity compares to other common expenses. Over the last five years, the cost of rent increased 3.4%; medical care increased 2.8%; and education increased 2.2%. But the cost of electricity only increased 1%. Considering all the ways we depend on electricity, it still remains a great value. So, the next time you’re enjoying your favorite podcast, TV series or movie, consider the value of electricity and how it

Electricity remains a good value

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Electricity powers quality of life

enhances your quality of life. We care about you, the members we serve, and understand that electricity is more than a commodity — it’s a necessity. That’s why Yazoo Valley Electric will continue working hard to power your life, reliably and affordably.

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Affordable electricity powers quality of life