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FOR MEMBERS OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI

KERMIT THE FROG’S

HOME TOWN

SEPTEMBER 2021

TALES OF A

RECORD COLLECTOR

SWEET AND SPICY

FRIED CHICKEN

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

Energy efficiency by Abby Berry As a member of Central Electric Power Association, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that ‘when’ you use electricity can be just as important as ‘how much’ you use? Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes, and watch television. These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can save money on your electric energy bill by helping to keep rates lower for all our members.

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

tip of the month Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours: • Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours. • Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours. • Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle. • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. (Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or offpeak hours.) There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine. We’re here to help. Contact us if you have questions about your energy bill or for additional energy-saving tips.

Energy used for cooling and heating your home makes up the largest portion of your monthly energy bills. By combining regular equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing and thermostat settings, you can save about 30% on your energy bills while helping our environment. Source: energy.gov

Revisions Requested Approved

CHAD Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

STEVEN Date_____ Revisions Requested Approved

RON Date_____

Brian Long, general manager, presents Clemon Fortune a retirement plaque for 39 years of dedicated and outstanding service to Central Electric Power Association.

VERSION #______________

Brian Long, general manager, presents Robert Alford a retirement plaque for 34 years of dedicated and outstanding service to Central Electric Power Association.

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

by Abby Berry Agriculture is the backbone of our country, and our livelihood greatly depends on the crops provided by American farmers. In addition to being one of the most labor-intensive professions, farming is also considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S. The hard work and exhaustive labor are tough but rushing the job to save time can be extremely dangerous — even deadly — when farming near electrical equipment. Every year, we see collisions where tractors and other farming equipment accidentally collide with utility poles and power lines, causing injuries and power outages. These dangerous accidents can be avoided by looking up and around your surroundings when operating large farm machinery. If you’re preparing for harvest season, please keep the following safety tips in mind: • Maintain a 10-foot clearance around all utility equipment in all directions. • Use a spotter and deployed flags to maintain safe distances from power lines and other electrical equipment when working in the field.

In addition to being one of the most labor-intensive professions, farming is also considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S.

• If your equipment makes contact with an energized or downed power line, contact 9-1-1 immediately and remain inside the vehicle until the power line is de-energized. In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jump out of the cab (without touching it), and hop away to safety. • Consider equipment and cargo extensions of your vehicle. Lumber, hay, tree limbs, irrigation pipes and even bulk materials can conduct electricity, so keep them out of contact with electrical equipment. September 19-25 is National Farm Health and Safety Week, but practicing safety on the farm year-round yields positive results. We hope you never find yourself in a situation where farming equipment contacts power lines or poles, but if you do, we hope you’ll remember these safety tips. 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.

tip of the month Energy used for cooling by Abby Berry As a member of Coahoma County Electric Power Association, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that ‘when’ you use electricity can be just as important as ‘how much’ you use? Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes and watch television. These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can save money on your electric energy bill by helping to keep rates lower for all our members.

and heating your home Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours: • Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours. • Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours. • Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle. • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. (Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or offpeak hours.) There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine. We’re here to help. Contact us if you have questions about your energy bill or for additional energy-saving tips.

makes up the largest portion of your monthly energy bills. By combining regular equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing and thermostat settings, you can save about 30% on your energy bills while helping our environment. Source: energy.gov

Source: energy.gov

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

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

Energy efficiency

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

Here for you September is an unpredictable time of year. Hurricane season tends to get busier; fall weather seems like it will never arrive; and as I am writing this, we are seeing a large upswing in COVID cases in our state. I hope by the time this magazine arrives at your homes, numbers have decreased exponentially, but I want you to know that your electric cooperative is taking necessary precautions to make sure our workforce is ready and able to serve you, no matter the circumstances. We understand that we are a business that provides a critical service, and we don’t take that responsibility lightly. We will continue to do everything we can to make sure daily operations are not impacted. For example, we are doing virtual training for employees instead of having them gather in large groups, and will not have booths at our Annual Meeting this year. The health and safety of our employees and members are our top priority, and we will make decisions that keep everyone safe while we power our communities. For those of you who would prefer not to gather at our Annual Meeting, we’ve got alternatives for you. You can register

for the meeting by proxy online at www.coastepa.com through 10 a.m. on Oct. 28, or you can send in the proxy registration form that was mailed to your home in late July. You may also get assistance registering at any office location. For your safety, we will not have iPad stands in our lobbies like we have in the past, but our member services team is there to help. We will also be livestreaming the meeting on www.coastepa.com on Thursday, Nov. 4, so you can join us virtually. Although, please know, that if you attend virtually, you will not be able to vote virtually, so make sure you register your proxy if you aren’t able to attend in person. We appreciate you for being active participants in your local electric co-op. Without you, we can’t succeed but, together, we can do great things for our community.

by Ron Barnes President and CEO

Office closing for Labor Day Coast Electric offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 6, for Labor Day. Crews will be on call, and dispatchers will be on duty throughout the weekend. If you experience an outage, please text “Join” to 352667 if you are a first-time user, or text “Outage” if you have used the service before. You must have a mobile number associated with your account to use this feature. You can also report your outage on our CE on the Go mobile app or call 877-769-2372 to report your outage. You cannot report your outage on our social media outlets. Have a fun and safe holiday weekend! 10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

ENSURE YOUR VOICE2021 IS HEARD! ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE REGISTER YOUR PROXY ONE OF THREE WAYS ENSURE YOUR VOICE IS HEARD. REGISTER YOUR PROXY ONE OF THREE WAYS.

November 4 Kiln •CEPA HQ in ins beg n io t a r t is g e R • at 5 p . m .

Livestream the meeting on www.coastepa.com on November 4 at 6:30 p.m.

HAVE YOU REGISTERED YET?

REGISTER YOUR PROXY BY MAIL, ONLINE OR AT A LOCAL OFFICE TO ENTER TO WIN UP TO $1,000 IN ELECTRICITY CREDITS. Need not be present to win.

• Fill out and mail in the proxy registration card that was mailed to your home in late July. • Register at any Coast Electric office. For your health and safety, we will not have iPad stands in our lobbies as we have previously, but our member service reps will be happy to help walk you through the process. DETACH YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD, FOLD AND TEAR ON DOTTED LINES

If you are not able to attend our Annual Meeting on Thursday, Nov. 4, you can still participate in the meeting by registering your proxy.

IF YOU CAN ATTEND:

Come to our Robert J. Occhi Headquarters Building on IMPORTANT REMINDERS: When making a payment or reporting an outage, When making a payment or reporting an outage, Highway 603 in Kiln on Thursday, Nov. the 4.three Registration begins digits after your member number are • We will be livestreaming the meeting the threeon digitswww.coastepa.com after your member number are as shown on your required as shown on your bill. at 5 p.m., and our business meeting begins required at 6:30 p.m. Webill.will on Nov. 4 beginning at 6:30 p.m. However, although you can not have booths or refreshments at this year’s meeting and will watch the meeting virtually, you will not be able to vote virtualOUT THE ATTACHED PROXYgatherings. AND MAIL IT IN THE ENCLOSEDly. POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE, TO BE and RECEIVED OCTOBER 28. follow recommendedFILL guidelines for indoor If you areREPLY unable to attend stillBY want to participate in our • Register your proxy to appoint the board of directors to elect your local board representatives by checkingmake the first box and you signing.register election process, sure

your proxy. • Everyone who attends or registers for the meeting will be • Visit www.coastepa.com and click the “Register Here” link on a drawing $500 in credityou in • If you choose to have another member attend the meeting and vote on yourentered behalf, checkinto the second box and writetothewin name$250, and member numberorof $1,000 the person representing the red banner at the top of the page. It on only takesline a couple yourmust Coast Electric bill! the space provided, then sign the signature provided. Theof designatedon member be in attendance at the meeting. minutes to register online!

IF YOU PREFER TO REGISTER: OR

Signed proxies returned without a checked box will be designated to the board of directors. Additional registration options listed on back.

OFFICIAL PROXY Reduce Your

Use contest

CHECK ONE BOX, SIGN AT THE BOTTOM AND MAIL YOUR PROXY IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID REPLY ENVELOPE.

The undersigned, a member of Coast Electric Power Association, hereby appoints, either:

Coast Electric Power Association’s Board of Directors

Coast Electric wants you to reduce your energy use and see savings on your monthly OR energy costs. Each month, you will have an APPOINTED MEMBER’S NAME (Not you) ___________________________________________________________________________ opportunity to register to win a prize that will help you reduce the energy consumption in APPOINTED MEMBER’S ID # (Not yours) ____________________________________________________________________________ your home. 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 you manage your use and save, we the Robert J. Occhi Headquarters Building, 18020 Hwy 603, Kiln, MS. Proxy agent must be a memberTo andhelp in attendance at the meeting. are giving away LED bulbs for your home. YOUR SIGNATURE: _________________________________________________ ________________________________________ All youDATE: have to do is visit www.coastepa.com Member Name or Joint Member, Sequential Number Your be received October 28, 2021. and fill out ourproxy entrymust form. It onlyby 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!

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

Energy efficiency tip of the month As a member of Coast Electric, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that when you use electricity can be just as important as how much you use? Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes, and watch television. These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. The cost for Coast Electric to provide power is higher during these times because of the additional demand for electricity. To help offset demand and higher energy costs, Coast Electric offers the Time of Use (TOU) rate plan, a program that helps our members save if they use energy during off-peak times. When members on our TOU plan use energy during peak times, they pay more for their electric use, but when members use energy outside of peak times, they receive a significant discount for their electric use. From April through October, peak times are 3-6 p.m. Monday through Friday. From November through March, peak times are 6-8 a.m. Monday through Friday. During the spring/summer months, there

12 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

are only 15 peak hours a week and, in the fall/winter months, there are only 10 peak hours to avoid each week. During other 153-158 off-peak hours each week, costs are lower. All members can help Coast Electric save on energy costs by shifting their energy use to off-peak hours, but members on the TOU rate plan see the greatest benefit of avoiding peak hours. Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours: • Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours. • Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours. • Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle. • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or off-peak hours. There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine. We’re here to help. Contact us if you have questions about your energy bill or for additional energy-saving tips. You can also visit www.coastepa.com/my-home/ time-of-use-rates or give us at call at 877-769-2372 to learn how you can start saving with TOU.

• Bolivar County produces the largest acreage of rice. • Rice is grown in the Delta in Bolivar, Coahoma, Desoto, Humphreys, Leflore, Panola, Quitman, Sharkey, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tunica and Washington counties. • Mississippi’s rice crop is harvested in August and September.

For more about Mississippi’s rice industry, visit the Delta Rice Promotions website at http://deltaricepromotions.org/ mississippi-rice-facts/. For more about U.S.-grown rice and recipes, visit Think Rice at https://www.usarice.com/thinkrice/home.

Orange Wild Rice with Raisins and Apples INGREDIENTS 2 cups cooked wild rice/brown rice medley 1 cup raisins ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted 4 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley 2 tablespoons grated orange zest 1 Granny Smith apple, diced 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons orange juice Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In large bowl, combine the cooked rice with the rest of the ingredients. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well mixed. Pour the rice mixture into a deep baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Place the covered dish into the oven. Cook for 20 minutes or until the rice mixture is hot. Serve and enjoy! Makes about 4 servings Adapted from a recipe by Stella Lindsey, Bolivar County

Crispy Rice Peanut Butter Bites

INGREDIENTS 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats ½ cup crispy rice cereal ½ cup peanut butter or nut butter (crunchy or creamy) ½ cup honey 1⁄3 cup mini chocolate chips 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal or chia seeds (optional) Measure all ingredients into a large bowl. Mix well. Chill mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. Remove mixture from refrigerator. With your hands, roll mixture into walnut-sized balls. Store in an air-tight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator. Adapted from a recipe by Stella Lindsey, Bolivar County

Bolivar County’s annual rice appreciation event is planned for Sept. 16 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the streets of downtown Merigold. Attendees of the rice festival can taste rice dishes from local restaurants, shop with vendors, see exhibits, and enjoy music and children’s activities. A rice queen also will be announced. The event is open to the public, and admission is free.

Revisions Requested Approved

CHAD Date_____

• Value of production for rice in 2020 was $138 million.

Revisions Requested

• Approximately 170,000 acres of rice were harvested in 2020.

Approved

• Mississippi has 221 rice-producing farms.

STEVEN Date_____

• More than 12.5 million hundredweight of rice was produced in 2020.

Revisions Requested

Susan Collins-Smith is a writer for the Mississippi State University Extension .

Check out these other facts about Mississippi rice:

Approved

by Susan Collins-Smith September is rice month — a time to celebrate the versatile, nutritious grain that is one of Mississippi’s major row crops. Rice can be used to make several dishes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. Rice is a heart-healthy food, rich in 15 vitamins and minerals. Wild, brown, red and black rice are also 100% whole grain. Rice is a good choice if you need to serve guests with food allergies. It is gluten-free and is less allergenic than other grains. Mississippi ranks sixth among states that produce the most rice. The crop is one of the state’s top agricultural exports.

RON Date_____

September is rice month – a time to celebrate the versatile, nutritious grain that is one of Mississippi’s major row crops.

VERSION #______________

celebrates food, industry impact

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

In addition to being one of the most labor-intensive professions, farming is also considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S.

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

• Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours. • Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle. • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. (Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or offpeak hours.) There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine. We’re here to help. Contact us if you have questions about your energy bill or for additional energy-saving tips.

By combining regular equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing and thermostat settings, you can save about 30% on your energy bills while helping our environment.

DELightSpeed.coop 662-477-1975 or info@delightspeed.coop SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

Revisions Requested Approved

VERSION #______________

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

RON Date_____

Approved

Source: energy.gov

CHAD Date_____

• Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours.

Revisions Requested

Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours:

Approved

by Abby Berry As a Delta Electric Power Association member, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that ‘when’ you use electricity can be just as important as ‘how much’ you use? Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes and watch television. These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can save money on your electric energy bill by helping to keep rates lower for all our members.

Energy used for cooling and heating your home makes up the largest portion of your monthly energy bills.

STEVEN Date_____

tip of the month

Revisions Requested

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 dixieepa.com

@DixieElectricMS

@DixieEPA

@dixie_electric

Honoring those who power our community With Labor Day upon us, I want to express my appreciation for the great team of employees here at Dixie Electric. They, and the work they do, are extremely valuable. Our electrical system is made up of poles, wire, transformers, and other equipment, but it takes a team of highly skilled and dedicated employees to bring it all together. As you know, the past 18 months have brought about numerous changes. Just as many of you have had to do, our employees have adapted and adjusted their regular work routines and schedules due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of them have also expanded their roles and responsibilities with the addition of DE Fastlink, which provides reliable high-speed internet service. When most people think of their local electric cooperative, they immediately think of the linemen who bring them power. Linemen are vital to our business; however, numerous other employees in various areas play vital roles in bringing affordable,

reliable electricity to our members. They include member service representatives, accountants, communicators, billing specialists, information technology professionals, right-of-way personnel, dispatchers, engineers, technicians, and warehouse personnel. Labor Day is a well-deserved tribute for those who work hard, no matter what kind of work they do. This year, we’ve made significant progress in expanding high-speed internet in addition to maintaining the electrical system despite the obstacles we’ve faced. I am thankful for all our employees and the commitment and dedication they demonstrate each day to you, our members.

by Randy Smith General Manager

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 • Ellisville Junction substation: Pecan Grove, Ovett, and Tuckers Crossing • Hoy substation: North Laurel, Hoy, Moss, Shady Grove, Matthews, and Springhill Road • North Petal: Eastabuchie, Glendale, and Petal • Petal substation: Petal, Sunrise, Hillcrest, and Macedonia 10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

SHARING SUCCESS PROGRAM SPONSORING VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTS

At Dixie Electric, our mission is to power communities and empower lives. Much time and resources are spent giving back to our communities through fundraisers, economic development, blood drives, volunteering at local nonprofit organizations and community events. Volunteerism allows us to connect to our community and make it a better place. Volunteer first responders help their fellow citizens in time of need and serve their communities to make a difference. Volunteer firefighters are vital first responders. They freely serve their community with dedication and enthusiasm and gain valuable and rewarding experience in the process. Volunteer firefighters are called upon day or night to respond to instances such as fire suppression, emergency medical aid and community education. Dixie Electric recently partnered with CoBank, a mission-based cooperative lender, in their Sharing Success Program. This program allows cooperatives to apply for grants, matching the contribution of their customers to the charitable organizations of their choosing. This program enabled us to donate $2,500 to fire councils in Jones, Wayne, Forrest, and Perry counties to be distributed amongst the local volunteer fire departments. These funds will be used to purchase items that these departments need, such as take-off gear, thermal imaging cameras, and education and training materials. Electric cooperatives are deeply rooted in the communities they serve and are committed to making their communities better places to live, work and play. In the same way, Dixie Electric is grateful for organizations, such as volunteer first responders, who serve their communities through volunteerism.

General Manager Randy Smith presents a $2,500 donation to Jones County Fire Council President Lee Garrick and Fire Coordinator Kyle Brooks.

Communication Assistant Amanda Mills presents a $2,500 donation to Perry County Emergency Management Executive Director Colby Prine, District 1 Supervisor Bobby Bolton and District 2 Supervisor Kevin Shows.

Petal District Supervisor Jerry Gibson presents a $2,500 donation to Terry Fredricks with Forrest County Fire Services.

Waynesboro District Supervisor Dan Wooten presents a $2,500 donation to Wayne County Fire Chief Al Harrison and Wayne County Fire Coordinator Doug Hutto.

Aside from protecting your HVAC system from unnecessary damage, replacing a clogged air filter will also save you a significant amount of operating costs. A dirty air filter uses much more energy than a new, clean air filter, which means a much higher electricity bill for you. By keeping your air filter clean and in good condition through regular maintenance, you could potentially save up to 15 percent on utility costs. SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

ANNUAL REPORT 2021

OFFICIAL NOTICE Dixie Electric’s Annual Membership Meeting Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021

In person voting is from 10 to 10:50 a.m. on Oct. 23, 2021, at the Laurel office. The annual meeting will also be held online at dixieepa.com beginning at 11 a.m. Dear Member, The Credentials and Election Committee, made up of members of the cooperative, met on August 10, 2021, and certified the following individuals as candidates in their respective districts. The certification includes verifying the qualifications and the petitions submitted by the candidates. The following individuals were the only members who submitted the qualifying documentation:

District 3 Robert Smith

District 4 Larry Griffin, Lynwood Hightower III, Stan Pickering

District 6 Faye Bonner

Respectfully Submitted, Andy Dial, Chairman Credentials and Election Committee

To view a copy of Dixie Electric’s bylaws and/or annual meeting report, visit dixieepa.com. If you need any kind of interpreter at the Annual Membership Meeting, foreign language or sign language, please contact the communication department at (601) 425-2535 at least five days prior to the annual meeting.

District Candidates Robert Smith - District 3

Stan Pickering - District 4

Larry Griffin - District 4

Faye Bonner - District 6

Robert Smith has served on Dixie Electric’s board of directors for more than 13 years and is currently the president. Robert is retired from the Jones County Road Department. He currently serves as the chairman of the DE Fastlink board of managers. Robert and his wife, Vicki, reside in the Shelton community. They have three children and 11 grandchildren, with whom he enjoys spending time. He is an active member of Shelton Baptist Church.

Larry Griffin, from Ellisville, is retired from Cooperative Energy after a 30-year career. Larry and his wife, Debbie, attend Life Church, where he served on the board for nine years. He is an active member of the Laurel Kiwanis Club, Pat Harrison Waterway District, and the International Right of Way Association. Larry and Debbie have three children and six grandchildren.

Lynwood Hightower, III - District 4

Lynwood Hightower has been a pharmacist for 35 years, holding a license in 10 states. He is currently employed at Wallace Drugs. He and his wife, Cam, attend Highland Baptist Church, where he has taught Sunday school for 13 years. Since 1982, Lynwood has provided medical/dental mission work in Honduras. He is a 1986 graduate of the University of Mississippi. He and his wife have one child.

Stan Pickering and his wife, Brittney, own Chickfil-A on 16th avenue in Laurel. Prior to Chick-fil-A, Stan was a banker for 15 years. They are members of First Baptist Church of Laurel, where Stan serves as a deacon. He is a previous board member for the Jones County Chamber of Commerce and a previous member and president of the Kiwanis Club of Laurel. Stan and Brittney have three children.

Faye Bonner joined Dixie Electric’s board of directors in 2015. Faye is employed at the accounting firm of Bonner & Associates. She also serves as the secretary for the DE Fastlink board of managers. Faye and her husband, Redell, attend First Baptist Church of Waynesboro. They have one daughter and three grandchildren and reside in the Whistler Community in Wayne County.

ANNUAL REPORT 2021

Make voting easier with the SmartHub App

This is the first year that members can vote in our annual election through the SmartHub app.

Voting in the app is easy as 1, 2, 3!

Click the Vote Now button located in the top, right-hand corner.

Follow the instructions and submit your vote.

Only one vote per household will be counted. If you choose to vote through your SmartHub account, there is no need to return your mail ballot or proxy.

VOTE and you could WIN

500 $ 250

credit on your electric bill

Dixie Electric’s Annual Membership Meeting Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021

Dixie Electric’s office: 1863 Highway 184 Laurel, MS 39443 Voting at the Laurel office is from 10 until 10:50 a.m. Online and in-person annual meeting begins at 11 a.m.

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 13

Update DE Fastlink, LLC has made tremendous progress expanding its high-speed internet service to Dixie Electric members. In February, the Dixie Electric board of directors voted to expand DE Fastlink to the entire service territory. To carry out this decision, a fiber optic cable construction plan was created. An aggressive schedule of target dates was outlined for the remainder of 2021. Please keep in mind that these target dates are when DE Fastlink expects to begin instal-

2021

Target Map Areas that are currently eligible to sign up for DE Fastlink are shaded in yellow and green. Please note that if you previously preregistered, you will still need to complete the sign-up process once your address is eligible.

14 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

lations in an area. It takes time to reach every home that has completed the sign-up process. In-home installations are the most time-consuming phase in our seven-step construction process. Due to the tremendous amount of interest in DE Fastlink, each eligible area will take weeks, if not months, to complete. DE Fastlink is excited to link you with the fastest high-speed internet on the market from local people you’ve come to know and trust.

10” Inside Spread

13” Main Beam

Estimating a 10 inch spread is accomplished by observing a buck’s ears in the alert position. When in the alert position, the distance from ear-tip to ear-tip measures approximately 14 inches. If the OUTSIDE of each antler beam is 1 inch inside the ear-tip, the inside spread is approximately 10 inches.

To estimate a 13 inch main beam, the buck’s head must be observed from the side. If the tip of the main beam extends to the front of the eye, main beam length is approximately 13 inches.

Mississippi’s 2021-2022 DELTA ZONE

HUNTING SEASONS

A legal buck is defined as having EITHER a minimum inside spread of 12 inches OR one main beam at least 15 inches long. How to estimate a 12 inch inside spread:

How to estimate a 15 inch main beam:

12” Inside Spread

15” Main Beam

Estimating a 12 inch spread is accomplished by observing a To estimate a 15 inch main beam, the buck’s buck’s ears in the alert position. When in the alert position, head must be observed from the side. If the the distance from ear-tip to ear-tip measures approximately 15* tip of the main beam extends between the For Ifathecomplete list of hunting seasons, bag limits, inches. OUTSIDE of each antler beam reaches the ear-tip, front of the eye and the tip of the nose, main the inside spread is approximately 12 inches. (Therefore, if thewww.mdwfp.com. beam length is approximately 15 inches. and other legal restrictions, go to outside of both antler beams reach the ear tips, the buck is legal).

DEER ZONES

*Due to body size differences in the Delta Unit, ear-tip to ear-tip measurements are slightly larger compared to the other units. WHITE-TAILED

DEER

DELTA, NORTHEAST, NORTH CENTRAL, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST UNITS

BAG LIMITS ■ Antlered Buck Deer: The statewide bag limit on antlered buck deer is one (1) buck per day and three (3) per annual season. One (1) of these three (3) may have hardened antlers that do not meet the unit legal antler requirements on private land and Holly Springs National Forest. For youth hunters fifteen (15) years of age and younger, hunting on private land and authorized state and federal lands, all three (3) of the three (3) buck bag limit may be any antlered deer. Antlered buck bag limit in the North Central Deer Management Unit (DMU) is one (1) buck per day and four (4) per annual season. No antler restrictions apply to this DMU. All four bucks may have any sized hardened antlers. ■ Antlerless Deer: Private lands: The statewide annual bag limit on antlerless deer is five (5). The antlerless bag limit for private lands in the North Central DMU is ten (10) antler-less deer per season. Antlerless deer are male or female deer which do not have hardened antler above the natural hairline. Only two (2) antlerless deer may be harvested from the Southeast Unit. There is no daily bag limit on antlerless deer in the Northeast, North Central, East Central, Southwest, and Delta units. Only one (1) antlerless deer per day may be harvested in the Southeast DMU. U.S. Forest Service National Forests: The bag limit is one (1) per day, not to exceed five (5) per annual season except in the Southeast Unit, which is two (2) per annual season.

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 1 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Jan. 31

Antlerless Primitive Weapon

Nov. 8 - 19

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Spring NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 20 - 31

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

METHOD

SEASON DATES

Archery

Oct. 15 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

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

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

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

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

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

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

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

Jan. 20 - 31

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

Feb. 1 - 15

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

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

SOUTHEAST UNIT

Archery/Primitive Weapon

SEASON

LEGAL DEER

Fall Turkey DATES

BAG LIMIT

Fall turkey season is open BY PERMIT ONLY from October 15-November 15 on private lands in the following counties or portions of counties where the landowner/leaseholder completes a fall turkey hunting application to the MDWFP Jackson Office and receives tags. The fall season bag limit is two (2) turkeys, which may be of either sex. Delta Unit: Bolivar County - west of the main Mississippi River levee and those lands east of the main Mississippi River levee known as 27 Break Hunting Club; Coahoma, Desoto, Issaquena, Tunica, and Washington counties - west of the main Mississippi River levee. North Central Unit: Benton, Lafayette, Marshall, Panola, Tippah, and Union counties. Southwest Unit: Adams, Amite, Claiborne, Copiah, Hinds, Franklin, Jefferson, Lincoln, Madison, Warren, Wilkinson, and Yazoo counties.

SEASON

Spring Turkey DATES

Youth (Private and authorized state and federal public lands. Youth 15 and under)

Mar. 8 - 14

Spring

Mar. 15 - May 1

SEASON

BAG LIMIT One (1) adult gobbler or 1 gobbler with a 6-inch or longer beard per day, 3 per Spring season. Hunters 15 years of age and younger may harvest 1 gobbler of choice (any age) per day, 3 per Spring season.

Small Game SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 15 DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 24 - 30

Squirrel - Fall Season

Oct. 1 - Feb. 28

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.

Reflections of the year A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO As we move into the fall of 2021 and anticipate our upcoming 83rd Annual Meeting, I cannot help but reflect on the year we have experienced since our last annual meeting. This time last year, we were challenged by the state legislature to launch full speed into a fiber-to-the-home broadband buildout that would allow students to communicate virtually, members to work from home, and families to utilize telemedicine. In the midst of a pandemic, the challenge given was to build as much fiber as possible. We not only met the challenge but exceeded the expectations required by the CARES Act funding. At the same time, we were challenged to keep our employees safe while still providing the level of service our members expect. We adapted our work procedures to ensure we could respond to whatever situation arose with the same level of service we have provided the last 83 years. We continue to adapt to the situation to ensure we respond appropriately. For the first time in the history of East Mississippi Electric Power Association, COVID-19 forced a virtual annual meeting. Our team put the meeting together, and it went off without a flaw. We are watching closely to see what this year holds. Our plans now include both in-person and virtual attendance for this year. Of course, we will adapt to the conditions and needs we face in October. While I always enjoy seeing the many EMEPA members that attend our annual meeting, a virtual option allows members to view the meeting from the comfort and safety of their homes. It is just another way we are serving our members. Since last year’s meeting, we have successfully completed over 750 miles of fiber buildout and are approaching 2,000 customers able to utilize the service. Yes, it is just Phase 1 of our five-year plan, but we have made great progress and are committed to keep going strong. To those that have subscribed to the new service, we thank you. Your participation 10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

is vital to our continued progress in getting this service to every member who wants high-speed internet in the EMEPA service area. The challenges brought on by the pandemic also created obstacles for building the fiber lines. Fiber crews contracting COVID-19 impact the process. Material manufacturers providing our needed supplies have experienced employees out with the virus, resulting in the delayed shipment of materials and equipment. Even with these hurdles in our path, we continue to make progress. EMEPA employees experienced challenges from every direction. In addition to launching East Mississippi Connect, this year our employees responded to February’s historic ice storm, tornado and hurricane-force winds, and thunder and lightning storms, while also responding to the everyday maintenance and outage calls. While we work to maintain excellence in service and reliability, we are not immune to the COVID-19 virus. It has caused employees to be out either with the virus or taking care of family members with the virus. Through it all, the team we assembled to bring this much-needed service to our communities continues to move forward. The employees of EMEPA have shouldered additional responsibilities to ensure this monumental project succeeds in providing our communities with high-speed internet opportunities, as we also continue delivering the energy that empowers our communities.

by Randy Carroll CEO — East Mississippi Electric Power Association

by Abby Berry As a member of East Mississippi Electric Power Association, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that ‘when’ you use electricity can be just as important as ‘how much’ you use? Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes, and watch television. These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can save money on your electric energy bill by helping to keep rates lower for all our members.

Energy efficiency tip of the month

Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours: • Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours. • Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours. • Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle. • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. (Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or off- peak hours.) There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine. We’re here to help. Contact us if you have questions about your energy bill or for additional energy-saving tips.

EMEPA to hold 83rd Annual Meeting

East Mississippi Electric Power Association P.O. Box 5517 Meridian, MS 39302-5517

T h

East Mississippi Electric Power Association’s 83rd Annual Meeting of the membership will be Saturday, Oct. 2, 2021, in the Association’s Meridian Auditorium. Official notices were mailed in July. The Annual Meeting will inform members of actions taken during the past year, in addition to conducting the Association’s business and the election of three directors. Members will have the chance to win one of four $500

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

electricity prizes (one per service district) for returning their proxy by Monday, Sept. 27. Members in attendance will have the chance to win one of two $250 electricity credits or the grand prize of a $500 electricity credit. Members may choose either option but are eligible for entry into only one of the two prize drawing options. In accordance with the bylaws of East Mississippi Electric Power Association, a quorum of the membership must be represented in person or by proxy in order to conduct the business meeting and hold the election of the directors. Any member of EMEPA may obtain a complete set of bylaws by logging into their EMEPA.com account or contacting their district office in Louisville, DeKalb, Quitman, or Meridian. If you have any questions about the Annual Meeting or how to complete your proxy, please visit EMEPA.com/AnnualMeeting.

In M B

E b to g a a y a th fo B

I a M u

AN EMEPA MEMBER IN YOUR COUNTY IS GOING TO WIN A ELECTRICITY CREDIT

$500

12 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

I to

COULD BE YOU! See details inside ...

C T D M

Official Notice of 2021 Annual Meeting The 83rd Annual Meeting of the Members of East Mississippi Electric Power Association will be held at the East Mississippi Electric Power Association Auditorium in Meridian, Mississippi, on Saturday, October 2, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. for the purpose of:

Report of Directors, Officers and Committees

Financial Statement Fiscal Year Ending

June 30, 2021

2 Transaction of Business 3 Election of three Directors for a three-year term

ASSETS

An online live-stream viewing will be available for EMEPA Members unable to attend.

Visit EMEPA.com/AnnualMeeting for details.

In connection with the election of three Directors scheduled for this meeting, the following Members have been nominated to serve on the Board of Directors in accordance with the Bylaws of the Association:

BILL CLAY

Kemper County

MIKE KENNEDY Clarke County

LARRY PACE

Lauderdale County Gloria Welch Secretary, EMEPA 7/1/21

You will be eligible to win a $500 electricity credit by returning your proxy, or up to $500 in electricity credits by attending the meeting.

INSTRUCTIONS Each Member is invited to participate in this Annual Meeting by attendance or proxy so that a quorum will be available to transact the business of the Association. If you are not going to attend, you may appoint the Board of Directors or any other Member of the Association who will be present at the Annual Meeting as your proxy to vote according to your wishes. To do this, you must sign and print your name and date on the proxy card attached to this notice and return it to EMEPA. Postage has been paid and the card is already addressed. All proxies designating the Board of Directors as proxy will be voted for the Directors nominated by the Credentials Committee and for resolutions recommended by the Board of Directors.

EMEPA’s Financial Statement can be found in the September issue of Today in Mississippi and at your local EMEPA office.

You must return your signed and dated proxy or attend the meeting to be eligible to win.

Due date for proxy return is Monday, September 27, 2021.

Don’t forget to sign and date the card FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN a $500 electricity credit! OPTION 1

2021 PROXY

I hereby appoint the Board of Directors of East Mississippi Electric Power Association as my agent and proxy to represent me at the Annual Meeting of East Mississippi Electric Power Association, in Meridian, Mississippi, at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 2, 2021, with full authority to cast my vote upon all matters before the said meeting or any adjournment thereof. Signature: _________________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Printed Name: ___________________________________________________________________________

OPTION 2

I do not appoint the Board of Directors as my agent and proxy but, instead, appoint as my agent and proxy to represent me at the Annual Meeting:

___________________________________________

____________________________________

Representative’s Name

Representative’s Account Number

(Must be an EMEPA Member and present at the Annual Meeting. Must NOT be a Board member.)

Electric plant less accumulated depreciation Investments CFC capital term certificates Cash and temporary investments Other investments Accounts Receivable Customer electric bills Misc. accounts receivable Stock of materials and supplies Prepayments and current assets Deferred debits TOTAL ASSETS

148,463,308 1,398,089 7,931,734 7,672,226 3,614,924 1,230,037 5,808,325 5,487,759 39,869 181,646,271

LIABILITIES AND MARGINS Long Term debt – CoBank Long Term debt – CFC Other long term debt Post retirement obligation Notes payable Accounts payable Customer deposits Current liabilities and deferred credits

57,261,095 460,433 166,666 7,391,137 3,922,486 9,481,667 1,813,449 7,840,920

Equities Memberships & OCI Earnings reinvested in system assets

389,399 92,919,019

Total Liabilities and Margins

181,646,271

Signature: _________________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Printed Name: ___________________________________________________________________________

CARD MUST BE SIGNED AND DATED TO WIN AND FOR VOTE TO COUNT. Due date for proxy return is Monday, September 27, 2021.

THIS IS A COPY OF THE ANNUAL MEETING PROXY. OFFICIAL PROXIES WERE MAILED IN JULY AND ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT EACH EMEPA OFFICE.

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 13

CK IT DOWN

Keep your data safe Once, all you had to worry about in terms of digital security was making sure your antivirus software was up to date. Now, with the host of devices we use and their constant connection to the internet, it’s more important than ever to understand how best to keep your information safe. Below you’ll find a few tips on how to secure your specific devices, but a few best practices apply across the board: 1. Don’t open any suspicious web links, whether that’s through text, email or pop-up ads. 2. Keep your devices updated. New vulnerabilities are discovered periodically, and companies are pretty good at offering patches or security upgrades. 3. Where available, or practical, use two-step verification to access your accounts, which usually means getting a text or email to confirm your identity. Also, audit your security questions so they don’t include information that is widely available or easy to guess. IPHONE Not only is an iPhone an expensive device, but if you’re like most users, it also holds a wealth of personal information. A good way to locate your device is to activate Find My iPhone, which can help you see your phone’s location. If you know it’s lost, you can also use the service to remotely wipe it and remove personal information.

Another way to stay safe is to use a longer passcode than the traditional four-number PIN. You can also switch to an alphanumeric passcode, a combination of letters and numbers, for even more security. Consider enabling the erase data setting, which wipes your information after 10 incorrect passcode attempts. Parents of curious toddlers might wish to avoid that setting. ANDROID Android devices are a little more open to user customization than Apple’s closed system, which makes them somewhat more vulnerable. Activate Google’s Find My Device and encrypt your data. Unless you have a Google-branded phone, that option is not on by default, so change it in settings under security. Then, install a security application, such as Avast or AVG. Also, opt to download apps only from Google Play or other secure sources, such as Amazon or Samsung. COMPUTERS Security on a personal computer mostly means internet safety. Don’t install suspect software, and don’t install Google Chrome extensions from unknown providers.

You can also encrypt your information, so that if someone gains access to your secured files, they can’t be opened without a password. That feature is available on most modern operating systems. It’s also always a good idea to back up your data, either physically through an external hard drive not connected to the internet, or on the cloud, or both. ROUTERS If you use “admin” as your username and “password” as your password — stop. The most common thing people forget to do is change their router’s default login information. You may have a good password for your Wi-Fi network, but if someone can gain access to your router, it won’t matter. Also, use the WPA2 security standard for your network. If practical, you can make your Wi-Fi invisible by telling your router to stop broadcasting its name, or Service Set Identifier (SSID). Just remember what you called your network so you can manually share that with trusted devices. SMART DEVICES Use your router’s guest network feature to connect all your smart devices. If you do, even if a hacker gains access to your device, your computer, tablet, or phone will be walled off from the primary network.

Visit EastMSConnect.com to learn more about our digital security. 14 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

10” Inside Spread

13” Main Beam

To estimate a 13 inch main beam, the buck’s head must be observed from the side. If the tip of the main beam extends to the front of the eye, main beam length is approximately 13 inches.

Mississippi’s 2021-2022 DELTA ZONE

HUNTING SEASONS

A legal buck is defined as having EITHER a minimum inside spread of 12 inches OR one main beam at least 15 inches long. How to estimate a 12 inch inside spread:

How to estimate a 15 inch main beam:

12” Inside Spread

15” Main Beam

DEER ZONES

*Due to body size differences in the Delta Unit, ear-tip to ear-tip measurements are slightly larger compared to the other units. WHITE-TAILED

DEER

DELTA, NORTHEAST, NORTH CENTRAL, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST UNITS

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 1 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Jan. 31

Antlerless Primitive Weapon

Nov. 8 - 19

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Spring NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 20 - 31

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

METHOD

SEASON DATES

Archery

Oct. 15 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

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

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

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

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

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

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

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

Jan. 20 - 31

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

Feb. 1 - 15

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

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

SOUTHEAST UNIT

Archery/Primitive Weapon

SEASON

LEGAL DEER

Fall Turkey DATES

BAG LIMIT

SEASON

Spring Turkey DATES

Youth (Private and authorized state and federal public lands. Youth 15 and under)

Mar. 8 - 14

Spring

Mar. 15 - May 1

SEASON

Small Game SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 15 DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 24 - 30

Squirrel - Fall Season

Oct. 1 - Feb. 28

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

Affordable electricity powers quality of life 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 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 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 4-County Electric Power Association will continue working hard to power your life, reliably, and affordably.

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

Here’s an idea Lights out

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

Indoors

Occupancy sensors are helpful indoors, as long as they’re positioned to detect people in any corner of the room. They’re also good as task lighting — above places like a desk or kitchen sink — so you get the extra light you need while working, but you don’t forget and leave it on all night. There are two types of occupancy sensors: ultrasonic and infrared. Ultrasonic sensors detect sound; infrared sensors detect heat and motion. Timers make an empty home look occupied. If kids are still running in and out, however, timers aren’t as effective as occupancy sensors. Plug timers into a wall outlet or install them in the wall, like a light switch or thermostat. New varieties are digital. Photosensors are generally best outdoors, but new applications have found they’re also useful for LED nightlights. When an overhead light is on, the nightlight shuts off automatically.

Outdoors

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

Congratulations on your retirement

! d i e R Dale 36 years of service

Thank you for your service Buckner joins 4-County team Peyton Buckner of Columbus has joined the 4-County Electric Power Association team. He will serve as an Apprentice Lineman 4 on Eric Yarbrough’s Corporate Center Construction Crew. Prior to 4-County, Peyton worked for SEC Contractors. Peyton is a graduate of the Lineman Training Program at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. He also graduated from East Mississippi Community College with an associate’s degree. And he attended Mississippi Delta Community College where he played baseball. In his spare time, he enjoys the beach, deep sea fishing, and spending time with family and friends.

Welcome to the 4-County team, Peyton!

4-County offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 6, in observance of Labor Day. A dispatcher will be available to handle emergencies. SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

Drawıng from inspiration by Brad Barr Doodler, dawdler, daydreamer. Yes, Rocky Vaughan admits, he was that kid. “I was the kid in class that was always drawing,” Ackerman’s favorite native son said. While he managed to make good grades, Vaughan’s real magic often emerged from the graphite end of his trusty No. 2 pencil. “I wish I would have kept some of those old notebooks from school. There was some pretty good work in there,” the artist and graphic illustrator said with a grin. There may have been some “pretty good work” in those colorful spiral sketchbooks, but his best work was yet to come. “Miss Maggie,” he explains, is the latest evidence. Vaughan is the creative force behind the new Mississippi flag design. “Miss Maggie” is the endearing name he has given his red, white, blue, and gold creation. The new flag of Mississippi features a white magnolia blossom and the words, “In God We Trust.” The Commission to Redesign the Mississippi State Flag chose Vaughan’s design from hundreds of submissions, and it was approved by state referendum on June 30, 2020. State legislators pushed it through on Jan. 6, and the design became Mississippi’s official state flag on Jan. 11. It replaces the previous flag that displayed the Confederate battle insignia in the upper left hand corner. That flag was retired on June 30, 2020. The flag’s 20 white stars represent Mississippi being the 20th state to join the United States. The 21st gold star represents the Native Americans who were originally here. Vaughan started thinking about a flag re-design about eight years ago, in a hospital waiting room, eagerly anticipating the arrival of his youngest son. “I started drawing. The first thing I did was a magnolia for the center of the flag.” He went through several dozen designs. His final creation was, according to a noted vexillologist (one who studies flags) the 12 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

perfect recipe. “I think this is a true representation of the state. We’ve got good morals here, and we get along.” Flags create a perception from the outside looking in, Vaughan explained. “I really started thinking about it. The lightbulbs started going off. Perception is big in this world, so I thought there should be a change.” Vaughan lives in Ackerman with his wife, Ellie (a creative design professional working on the printing side of the industry), and their two sons: Ryder, 12, and Brody, 8. The artist is the son of Gary Vaughan, a well-known local basketball coach, teacher, and principal, and the late Beverly Vaughan, a veteran banking officer. As a child, Vaughan enjoyed sports. But much of his time was spent perched over the dining room table, armed with a sketch pad and pencil. His first artistic prowess featured cartoon caricatures of bulldogs. “Over the years, I started doing things that were more realistic.” He later attended Mississippi State University, studying design and illustration. Singing is another passion. Vaughan spent seven years as the lead vocalist for The Chillbillies, a Nashville, Tennessee-based band rich in Americana. He has tallied 20 years in the graphic design business. “I’ve got a pretty good eye. But I was an oddity in art school because

I wasn’t doing strange things.” He prefers creations that feature clean lines and are easy on the eyes. “When someone brings something to me to draw or create, I immediately start building it in my head.” Photoshop is his graphic design program, although drawing is his first choice of artistic expression. He considers his artistic vision as a God-given gift. Norman Rockwell is a favorite artist. It was a bit of a surreal moment when Vaughan found out his flag design was selected, he said. “This time last year, the flag

was a heated topic. I felt strongly about this. It made sense. Why would I get myself in the middle of this? God gave me this artistic ability to draw something that represents us all,” he said. “And I didn’t want anybody else messing it up,” he added with a laugh. He has avoided the spotlight, spurning offers for interviews from organizations like the New York Times. “I didn’t do it for the fame,” he said. Art, like life, should be balanced, Vaughan said. “You’ve just got to find the right pieces to finish the puzzle.” SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 13

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

www.MEPCoop.com

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

and Twitter

MEP retiring idle lines Did you know that when Magnolia Electric Power retires idle lines it helps our members? MEP has been retiring idle lines… well… since… forever… but stepped up the process more than two years ago after receiving a letter from RUS (Rural Utility Services). RUS, a federal agency that provides guidelines for electrical cooperatives across the United States, asked MEP to be more aggressive with retiring idle lines. There are some valid reasons for retiring these idles lines. Probably the most important to our members, is that MEP doesn’t have to patrol an idle line that has been taken down, and this allows us to restore power faster following a power outage. Before a crew can reenergize a line, they have to patrol all of the power lines in that outage. Retiring idle lines also keeps expenses down because MEP doesn’t have to maintain those lines — for example OSMOSE inspections. OSMOSE inspects each and every pole on MEP’s system. And then equipment that sits out there idle, such as the transformer in the photograph, can be reused in other places after reconditioning, and this saves on expenses.

Pike contract crew as they work to take down an idle line in Lawrence County.

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

What does it mean to take down idle power lines? Retiring idle power lines means removing all of MEP’s facilities from the property, which includes poles, wires, transformers, anchors, and meters if they are present. MEP wants our members to know if they want to keep an idle powerline on their property, that’s not a problem. “We just ask that you contact our Member Services Department and communicate with them. We also need you to have an acceptable meter installation at the location, make the application for service with Member Services, and pay a minimum bill to help cover the cost of the equipment that is on the property,” said James Jackson, who is heading up the retirement of idle lines for MEP. Since MEP has to maintain its power lines to current safety standards by both RUS and the National Electrical Safety Code, any old and idle lines, which can be retired, help both Magnolia Electric and our members.

• Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle. • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. (Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or offpeak hours.) There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine.

By combining regular equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing and thermostat settings, you can save about 30% on your energy bills while helping our environment. Source: energy.gov

Source: energy.gov

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

Approved

CHAD Date_____

energy bills.

Revisions Requested

• Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours.

portion of your monthly

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• Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours.

makes up the largest

STEVEN Date_____

Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours:

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and heating your home

Approved

by Abby Berry As a member of Magnolia Electric Power, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that ‘when’ you use electricity can be just as important as ‘how much’ you use? Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes and watch television. These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can save money on your electric energy bill by helping to keep rates lower for all our members.

RON Date_____

Energy used for cooling

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tip of the month

Revisions Requested

Energy efficiency

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

In addition to being one of the most labor-intensive professions, farming is also considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S.

• If your equipment makes contact with an energized or downed power line, contact 9-1-1 immediately and remain inside the vehicle until the power line is de-energized. In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jump out of the cab (without touching it), and hop away to safety. • Consider equipment and cargo extensions of your vehicle. Lumber, hay, tree limbs, irrigation pipes, and even bulk materials can conduct electricity, so keep them out of contact with electrical equipment. September 19-25 is National Farm Health and Safety Week, but practicing safety on the farm year-round yields positive results. We hope you never find yourself in a situation where farming equipment contacts power lines or poles, but if you do, we hope you’ll remember these safety tips. 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.

Energy efficiency tip of the month by Abby Berry As a member of Monroe County Electric Power Association, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that ‘when’ you use electricity can be just as important as ‘how much’ you use? Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes, and watch television. These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can save money on your electric energy bill by helping to keep rates lower for all our members.

Energy used for cooling and heating your home makes up the largest portion of your monthly energy bills.

Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours: • Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours.

By combining regular equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing and thermostat settings, you can save about 30% on your energy bills while helping our environment.

Source: energy.gov

ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE Monroe County Electric Power Association held its annual meeting on Tuesday, August 3, 2021. During this meeting the board of director election results were announced. The membership of MCEPA reelected Avery Duncan Jr. and Walton (Walt) Willis to the two seats in District 4. Tom Crook was reelected to the seat in District 5. There was a total of 1,613 votes returned to Franks, Franks, Wilemon, and Hagood. The board terms begin September 1, 2021 and will run for three years.

The results of the ballots are as follows: DISTRICT 4 Walton (Walt) Willis Avery Duncan Jr. Kevin Clark Steve Pyle

1,084 765 539 377

DISTRICT 5 Tom Crook Jason Sullivan Andrea Stevens

865 345 245

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

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

NorthcentralEC

@Northcentral_EC

A message from your CEO September has arrived, and hopefully the heat of August will be behind us, leaving only some higher bills to manage this month. Extreme heat, much like extreme cold, can cause multiple problems for our electric distribution system, but a strategic maintenance program helps alleviate power disruptions. The partnership that Northcentral maintains with our power supplier, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is one that assures not only reasonably priced power but reliability during extreme weather events. The nature and size of the TVA area are of great benefit. Rarely will extreme weather events affect the territory spanning from northeast Tennessee to areas of south Alabama and south Mississippi. The advantage of “wheeling” excess power from these areas to those in need is a great benefit. If an event does affect the entire region, there are interconnects with other parts of the country that provide wheeling opportunities. The diverse source of generation fuel and continued maintenance only strengthen our reliability. It’s these partnerships that allow Northcentral, and TVA to excel and exemplify that benefit of the public power model. Northcentral Connect, our high-speed internet affiliate, is continuing to grow. Please go to the Connect website and show interest if you’d like to be a part of the only locally-owned

Notice of Rate Action Northcentral Electric Cooperative’s Board of Directors voted in their June 16, 2021, meeting to adopt a retail rate increase which will result in an overall increase in revenue of 1.3%. This rate increase will become effective with the first billing on October 1, 2021. Northcentral’s rate regulator and wholesale power provider, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), has approved the recommendation by Northcentral’s management of the rate increase to meet the cooperative’s revenue requirements.

and operated high-speed telecommunications company in our community. Many are taking advantage of this opportunity to jump on our high-speed, reliable service. It’s impossible to mention “jumping” and “high-speed” without acknowledging the achievement of Byhalia’s own Erica Bougard. She certainly represented her country and community well during her participation in the 2021 Olympics heptathlon event. We are extremely proud of your performance. Stay cool and stay safe.

by Kevin Doddridge General Manager/CEO

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

northcentralconnect.com Connect with CONNECT! northcentralconnect northcentralconnect northcentral_c

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

2021 Annual Meeting and Board of Directors election The Northcentral Electric Cooperative Annual Meeting of the Members will be held at 2:00 Olive Branch p.m. on Wed., Oct. 27, 2021, in the Northcentral Electric auditorium. Besides summarizing the work of the past year, as well as highlighting Byhalla future projects, the major business task at the DESOTO MARSHALL COUNTY annual meeting is the election of three members COUNTY of the board of directors. This year, board members are to be elected Hernando Holly Springs from District 2, District 6, and District 9 of our system area. A general description of the area served in District 2 would be the area embraced within the Jan. 1, 1984, corporate limits of the TATE City of Olive Branch. District 6 generally covers COUNTY the area south and west of the new U.S. Highway 78 and east of the Coldwater River and north of Pigeon Roost Creek, except the area within the January 1, 1984, corporate limits of the City of Byhalia. District 9 represents the LAFAYETTE COUNTY area served by the cooperative in DeSoto County, which constitutes an at-large district. Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2021, to verify the candidate More detailed descriptions can be found in nominations. A list of the valid nominations will be Section 4.02 of the Northcentral Electric bylaws. posted at the Northcentral office. Current board members representing these districts are Don Members can vote either by proxy prior to the annual Dickerson of District 2, Morris Thompson of District 6, and Julie meeting, or in person by ballot at the annual meeting. Niblett of District 9. Nominations to the board of directors, Proxies will be mailed on Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021, and must whether incumbent or a new candidate, will be made by the be received in the Northcentral office no later than 2 p.m. membership. Any twenty-five (25) or more members from the on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. The Elections and Credentials district from which a director is to be elected shall make a nomCommittee will review the proxies for validation beginning ination by signing a nomination form with the nominee’s name and district stated on the form. Nomination forms can be picked at 2 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. For more details on the board of directors elections, the up from the receptionist’s desk in the Northcentral Electric Annual Meeting or the nomination process, a copy of the Administrative Building. Nominations must be completed as Northcentral Electric Cooperative bylaws can be found under required and received in the office no later than 5 p.m. on the “Cooperative” section of Northcentral’s website at Monday, Sept. 27, 2021. northcentralelectric.com. The Elections and Credentials Committee will meet

Our business office will be closed on Monday, Sept. 6, in observance of Labor Day. Dispatchers and crews will be on call throughout the holiday weekend.

Call 662.895.2151 to report an outage or to make payments.

Have a safe holiday weekend!

Get “Smart” to Save Money It’s that time of year again. The heat index reaches triple digits, the air conditioner seems like it is running non-stop, and the utility bill goes up for those that aren’t on levelized billing (a service worth checking out). I wanted to investigate energy efficiency to see how you can use Northcentral Connect’s fiber internet to possibly lower your utility bill as temperatures reach their peak. Energy efficiency is essential during this part of the year because controlling the temperature in your home accounts for roughly 32% of your annual utility costs according to Energy Star. This is where smart thermostats can help you save money. There are dozens of Wi-Fi connected smart thermostats on the market now. These allow you to monitor how much you are cooling or heating your home via your smartphone. You can also set schedules for when you run your units. Schedules can be set to resume cooling at a time you designate, so that the house is comfortable by the time you get home. Cooling during summer months is one of the biggest issues members face in their electric use. Setting a “smart” schedule can help to reduce those higher bills. Traditional thermostats typically don’t allow for schedule setting. But converting to a smart thermostat will make it a little easier in case you forget to set the temperature before you leave for the day. Accounting for 13% of your annual utility costs is water heating. Did you know that you can make your water heater “smart” without having to buy a new one? There are devices on the market that connect to your water heater and report costs and use straight to your smartphone. These devices typically cost between $150-$250 dollars, depending on the brand and age of water heater on which they are being installed. These devices can also measure the temperature that is being circulated around the house. You can then make smarter decisions about what temperature your household needs and save money if you decide to set it to a lower temperature setting. One of the simplest ways to save money on utility bills is the LED lightbulb. Now, even the lightbulbs in your house can be controlled with a wireless connection. Popular manufacturers like Philips, GE, EcoSmart, and even Amazon have lightbulbs that can connect to your wireless network and be dimmed or shut off remotely. Some of these lightbulbs can even be

12 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

controlled to turn different colors. LED bulbs are already more energy efficient than incandescent, but the power to save more money is in your hands with the ability to control them from your smartphone. Finally, you may have heard the term “energy vampire,” when it comes to electronic devices. This is something like a phone or laptop charger that still operates when it’s unplugged from your device but still plugged into the wall. It may not seem like a big charge at first; but consider how many chargers are around the house for every member of your family. In my home, I can think of about a dozen phone, laptop, and tablet chargers (yes, my five-month-old son has his own iPad too.) Smart power strips are being introduced to the market at the cost of about $24. These strips offer four to six outlets and can report directly to your smartphone with an internet connection. The app will tell you how much energy has been used, and you can remotely shut them off when not actually powering any devices. These power strips also allow you to set a schedule and only run when you are home. Some of you may be thinking that these devices are a big upfront cost to only save a little bit of money; and you may be right. But consider what you could save per day, multiply that by 30 days for your monthly bill, and it starts to add up. What’s best about these devices is it takes energy efficiency off your mind and allows for automatic savings without you having to change your daily routine. Northcentral Electric Cooperative has other tools that allow you to get energy efficiency and money saving ideas. Just visit our website at northcentralelectric.com and click on “Energy Saver.” Whether it’s calculating the cost of your appliances or our Energy Advisor, you can get some great tips to lower your use (and, in many cases, carbon footprint) as well as save on your annual utility cost.

by Justin Jaggers Media Specialist

Crispy Rice Peanut Butter Bites

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• Value of production for rice in 2020 was $138 million.

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• Approximately 170,000 acres of rice were harvested in 2020.

Approved

• Mississippi has 221 rice-producing farms.

STEVEN Date_____

• More than 12.5 million hundredweight of rice was produced in 2020.

Revisions Requested

Susan Collins-Smith is a writer for the Mississippi State University Extension .

Check out these other facts about Mississippi rice:

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September is rice month – a time to celebrate the versatile, nutritious grain that is one of Mississippi’s major row crops.

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celebrates food, industry impact

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

nemepa.org

NEMEPA

@NorthEastPower

BACK TO SCHOOL Our country has seen much adversity since the beginning of 2020. Many of the students that began college last year were met with unusual distance learning circumstances. It’s such a great feeling to see these young people returning to Oxford. Our communities in northeast Mississippi thrive from the University of Mississippi college campus. Many of our local businesses suffered through the beginning of the pandemic, some barely making it, and many having to close their doors permanently. A lot of our businesses in and around Oxford are dependent upon the student workforce. It’s a welcoming feeling to see our communities thrive once more. With Ole Miss fully back in session, with classes resuming on campus, it’s refreshing to see these young people drive activity in Oxford and return to some form of normalcy this year. The apartments and student housing are filling back up, and our electric and broadband businesses are seeing the arrival of some of our community’s best assets. Fall sports will be a welcome addition, with

Ole Miss football taking center stage. We will return to tailgating in the Grove and Oxford is full of cheerfulness once more. We are excited that our three-year broadband project seems to be coming in ahead of schedule in just two years. Though we are close and can see the finish line, we will be excited to be able to offer high-speed internet to all of our service area by the start of the next school year. Though we know we are not out of the woods completely with the COVID-19 pandemic, it is refreshing to see college life and the spirit of Oxford resume. We look forward to seeing you around our communities.

by Keith Hayward General Manager/CEO

by the numbers When NEMEPA embarked on the broadband fiber project in 2019, the initial build-out was expected to extend three years. This project continues to surpass expected target goals. The success of our broadband subsidiary would not be possible without the support of our membership. The following numbers are indicative of the progress we continue to make: • Connected more than 4,300 customers • Fiber lines have passed more than 19,000 homes that can take service • More than 1,200 miles of built fiber • Connected more than 100 businesses with high-speed internet service • Expected to come in 8-10% under budget By the time you receive this issue of Today in Mississippi, NE SPARC will be finishing circuits in West Oxford and construction will have begun in the Taylor and Waterford communities, with an expected completion date in late fall. Signups have continued to be brisk. We are at nearly a 50% take rate in some of our most rural zones, which is very good. The fiber project was proposed to take three years, and if things continue on track, we should finish in 21 months — 16 months sooner

than anticipated; and likely under budget. With the onset of COVID-19, broadband for rural areas quickly became a critical need for many families and business owners. Though there was no way to complete this entire project by the start of the 2021-22 school year, we are confident that by the start of the next semester, we will pass 25,000 homes with fiber and will not have one solitary home in our service territory that will not be able to work or distance learn remotely. This project has modernized northeast Mississippi, and we are thrilled to continue offering world class fiber optic internet to our members. Visit nesparc.com to view progress in uncompleted zones, to compare internet and voice packages, and to sign up or pre-register for service.

by Randall Abel COO/NE SPARC

New faces at North East Power and NE SPARC Our employees at North East Mississippi Electric Power Association have typically had long and successful careers at the cooperative. Our employee turnover has consistently been low due to employee job satisfaction, sense of family and pride, and great benefits for employees and their families. We

have recently hired six new employees over the last month. These new faces are a result of continuous growth, not only in our electric projects but with our fiber projects as well. Let us introduce these new employees:

Jarred Burk has joined the NEMEPA family as a mechanic. He is from Water Valley and comes to us with over two years of mechanical experience. Welcome aboard, Jarred!

Clark Pullen is the new warehouse material handler. He comes to us from Winchester where he has worked for nine years. Clark is married to Whitney, and they have two children, Harrison and Hadley. They live in Oxford. Welcome to the team, Clark!

Alec Michael is a new apprentice lineman from Oxford. Having worked with MDR Construction, an electric utility contractor, he has one year of line work experience. Alec is engaged to be married to Linsey Hebert in the fall. We are excited to welcome you, Alec!

Hunter Bishop also joins us as a fiber technician. Hunter has worked for MaxxSouth, with two years of experience with broadband installation. He lives in Oxford. We are glad to have you, Hunter!

Zach Brummett lives in Oxford and is joining our team as an apprentice lineman. Welcome to North East Power, Zach!

Matt Durham is one of our two newest fiber technicians. Matt has worked at the University of Mississippi for seven years. He lives in Oxford and is married to Rachel. They have two children, Grady and Logan. Welcome to NE SPARC, Matt!

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

Celebrating

r decades of cooperative service

by Elissa Fulton North East Mississippi Electric Power Association recently celebrated the retirement of long time employee Tracie Russell. Russell served the cooperative in every department during her 34-year career — the service department, staking and engineering, billing, and her most recent position as marketing and communications specialist. Russell was one of NEMEPA’s biggest supporters. She is a perfect example of hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude. Keith Hayward, general manager and CEO said, “Tracie began in the service department and moved through the ranks. We have worked together for many years, as she began only six months before I did. During her tenure as billing manager, she kept unbelievable records. We can always go back and find things when issues arise. When I took over as CEO, I always wanted a marketing, member and employee relations position, and Tracie naturally fit that role. She loves the brand, loves the cooperative and loves the community.” In her role as marketing and communications specialist for the co-op, Russell was tasked with member and employee relations, and she worked hard to ensure that members and employees had opportunities to be involved in their cooperative. She worked hard in the community with the Oxford Chamber of Commerce, the United Way, Salvation Army, local school districts, the University of Mississippi, and a myriad of other organizations. “Concern for Community is one of the 7 Cooperative Principles, and I truly took that to heart,” said Russell. “Keith always encouraged me to be visible in the community by partnering with the communities we serve, and I truly loved that part of my job.” Everyone that meets Russell knows her commitment to Oxford and to North East Power and the communities it serves. “Tracie was a wonderful co-worker and employee at NEMEPA. However, it was her infectious smile and positive attitude which will be most missed,” said Marlin Williams, manager of member services. “Tracie loves NEMEPA. She loves Oxford and Lafayette County. She loves life — and it shows. I was able to work closely 12 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

with Tracie during many communications, public relations, and marketing projects, and she was always excited about doing something which would benefit our members. Her dedication to NEMEPA spanned over three decades. She may be retired, but she will always be a part of our work family. I wish her nothing but the best.” Russell was also the Youth Leadership Program advisor for 29 years. “I was involved with the Youth Leadership Program for 29 of my 34 years, and it was single-handedly the most favorite part of my job. I always felt like I was really giving back to the community by giving those high school juniors the opportunity to learn. I am so thankful to our board for approving the program every year. They believe in it; I believe in it, and Keith believes in it. It was fantastic to be a part of,” Russell said. Russell’s role required her to network across Mississippi and nationwide through marketing, communications, and public relations meetings and conferences through the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi, Tennessee Valley Authority, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Her presence will also be missed among the larger network. Fortunately, though Russell is retiring from NEMEPA, she will still be involved in the cooperative community in her new role with Meridian Cooperative (formerly known as SEDC) as a key accounts manager. Meridian Cooperative is a utility software company that provides solutions for electric cooperatives and their members. “One of the major technological advances I’ve seen through my career is the implementation of our CIS system through Meridian Cooperative. It has really streamlined things for our members,” said Russell. “When I started in the service department, and when the students would move to town, we had people waiting in the lobby and in the parking lots for hours waiting to get service. Over the years, new advances in technology have given our members control of their accounts from anywhere, without having to drive to the office. I’m excited to finish my career journey with a company still in the cooperative network. And Keith has been THE BEST boss ever and as

a board member for Meridian Cooperative, he will still be my boss, and I really love that!” Russell said that broadband has really transformed the rural communities in NEMEPA’s service territory. She is excited to see what the employees at NEMEPA continue to achieve. “I am going to miss my co-workers so much,” said Russell. “There was never a day I didn’t like coming to work. North East Power was a place I was so proud to work, and I was so blessed and thankful that I worked somewhere I truly loved dearly, and this is just an end of an era for me. Some advice that I would give to the new generation of employees is: Get out there and have a positive face for the community and love what you are doing. Support North East in every possible way because it is a great career. The community loves the co-op, and if you’ll get out there and work hard and do your best, I promise you’ll have a rewarding career.” Russell will be missed by her co-workers just as much as she’ll miss them. In her new role, she will still be around Oxford cheering on electric cooperatives in every way. “I’m so excited Tracie is getting the opportunity to do something different in the last few years of her career,” said Hayward. “I’m very happy for her.” SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 13

Chicory Market

offers locally sourced, sustainable products in Oxford by Elissa Fulton In 2017, Kate Bishop and her husband John Martin decided to open a local farmers market grocery store in Oxford. The Chicory Market, located off County Road 101, has been used as a farmers market space for more than 35 years. When the couple opened the business, they expanded the original market concept to provide an array of fresh quality products for the community. Kate is originally from Oxford and John is from North Carolina. When their children were small, the couple were living with their children (now ages nine and seven) in New York, when they decided that it was time to move to a smaller community near family to raise their children. Kate was a teacher and John was working in the arts. “It’s been really great to feel like we can grow something here,” said Kate. “We have loved Oxford. When we began this adventure, we weren’t sure if it would work as a business, but the community has shown so much support. The business was really calling us, and we just took a leap.” By design, it is often difficult and expensive to eat fresh foods, so Kate and John were determined to provide a source of fresh, local foods and to grow the local food system in a more sustainable way. In addition to the fresh foods and grocery store, Chicory Market also has a kitchen and a bakery, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as sweet treats. The couple employees 20 people to work in their business, serving as a source of local employment.

The couple works with approximately 50 local food makers and farmers to provide everything from local plants, produce, dairy, meats, and seafood to bulk items, snacks, and beauty and home products. The focus has been on locally sourced foods, as well as sustainable packaging. Chicory Market also sells products from local vendors such as gelato, popsicles, and cheeses. The business has grown since opening, and this especially makes quality control and business conveniences a necessity. As one of NE SPARC’s newest customers, Kate and John are excited to have the capacity to run the registers more smoothly to ensure they can operate effectively in order to serve more customers. “All of our inventory is online, and when that freezes up, we are in trouble,” said Kate. “It’s really great to have reliable internet service. We love having the capacity to track inventory and to keep track of sales, as well as the ability to serve our community without having things fail.” Though the business is constant and keeps Kate and John busy, it’s rewarding for them to have customers come in and talk about food and to make connections. Their desire is to create an environment where everyone feels welcome. With all of the products available at Chicory Market, there’s certainly something for everyone. So, if you’re just interested in stopping by to pick up a quick bite from the kitchen, or to try the fresh ground peanut and almond butters, be sure to stop in for a visit. You won’t be disappointed!

10” Inside Spread

13” Main Beam

To estimate a 13 inch main beam, the buck’s head must be observed from the side. If the tip of the main beam extends to the front of the eye, main beam length is approximately 13 inches.

Mississippi’s 2021-2022 DELTA ZONE

HUNTING SEASONS

A legal buck is defined as having EITHER a minimum inside spread of 12 inches OR one main beam at least 15 inches long. How to estimate a 12 inch inside spread:

How to estimate a 15 inch main beam:

12” Inside Spread

15” Main Beam

DEER ZONES

*Due to body size differences in the Delta Unit, ear-tip to ear-tip measurements are slightly larger compared to the other units. WHITE-TAILED

DEER

DELTA, NORTHEAST, NORTH CENTRAL, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST UNITS

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 1 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Jan. 31

Antlerless Primitive Weapon

Nov. 8 - 19

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Spring NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 20 - 31

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

METHOD

SEASON DATES

Archery

Oct. 15 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

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

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

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

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

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

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

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

Jan. 20 - 31

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

Feb. 1 - 15

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

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

SOUTHEAST UNIT

Archery/Primitive Weapon

SEASON

LEGAL DEER

Fall Turkey DATES

BAG LIMIT

SEASON

Spring Turkey DATES

Youth (Private and authorized state and federal public lands. Youth 15 and under)

Mar. 8 - 14

Spring

Mar. 15 - May 1

SEASON

Small Game SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 15 DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 24 - 30

Squirrel - Fall Season

Oct. 1 - Feb. 28

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.

President’s Report by Hugh Gene Smith This year has been rewarding for our cooperative and the Board of Directors. In the last year, we have started PearlComm, an entirely new fiber internet company. While this subsidiary is separate from Pearl River Valley Electric, the Board was instrumental in approving its formation. Since the Mississippi Legislature passed a bill allowing electric cooperatives to consider offering broadband internet in 2019, we have investigated providing this service to our members. Fiber internet was an extremely complicated decision. Essentially, 4,700 miles of fiber optic line with an estimated cost exceeding $100 million needed to be built. We understand the need for this service, especially with more members working and attending school from home due to COVID-19. For this reason, we teamed up with Conexon, a fiber internet design and construction company, to help us develop a plan for bringing fiber internet to our service territory. While the Board of Directors voted to provide internet service, I can assure you PearlComm will have no effect on the cost of electric service. The last year has also brought economic volatility throughout our country. However, we are proud to report that Pearl River Valley Electric, now in its 83rd year, has continued its growth. While there is great economic uncertainty, we want our members to know that your Board of Directors is committed to maintain economic strength and stability for the Association.

Wholesale power costs Purchasing wholesale power accounts for nearly 68% of our overall cost of providing electric service to members. PRVEPA is a member-owner of Cooperative Energy, a generation and transmission cooperative. This arrangement ensures us of having our wholesale power delivered on a not-for-profit basis. Cooperative Energy’s strategy to generate electricity is to use a broad mix of fuels — including coal, gas, nuclear, hydro, and other renewable sources — which helps keep costs as low as possible. Finding new, cost-effective ways to meet our wholesale power needs is a continuing priority, and your PRVEPA Board will be closely watching developments throughout the industry. 10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

Economic development/Community Many of our members may not realize it, but Pearl River Valley Electric plays an important role in helping our region grow economically. Your Association is very active in promoting economic development for our 12-county service area and belongs to various economic development organizations, which are committed to bringing new businesses and helping existing ones grow. In November 2020, we, along with Cooperative Energy and the Stone County Economic Development Partnership, helped bring in Adranos, a solid rocket fuel innovator through Cooperative Energy’s Cooperative Competes grant. The $25,000 grant will aid in site preparation and existing building upgrades on the former General Dynamics campus in McHenry. The 640-acre and seven-building campus has largely sat vacant since General Dynamics ceased operations in 2012. The Cooperative Competes grant will help rehabilitate the vacant buildings for state-ofthe-art research and manufacturing. As part of its relocation to Mississippi, Adranos is making a $525,000 corporate investment and plans to create 20 new jobs. This is just one example of how your Association works to improve the economic opportunities of its members.

Annual meeting As a member of Pearl River Valley Electric, you are instrumental in the direction of our cooperative. I encourage you to be active and informed and to attend our annual membership meeting. The annual meeting gives you an opportunity to learn about the Association and to participate in its decision-making process. Our cooperative is stronger than ever before as we prepare to enter 2022. In addition, our 83-year legacy is only growing more impressive by adding PearlComm. The decision of your Board to pursue this life-changing service shows how committed we are to making Pearl River Valley Electric a positive example of what a member-owned electric cooperative can be. As president of your Association, I am proud to present this report for your consideration.

Secretary-Treasurer’s

REPORT

by Lavell Bond The Association’s records and accounts were audited by Topp, McWhorter, Harvey, PLLC, Certified Public Accountants. The report was complimentary of your general manager and staff. It also showed the records and accounts in excellent condition and that the Association is in a financially strong condition. The following is from the annual audit dated December 31, 2020: • Total electric plant increased $5,829,560, bringing the total to $182,316,636. • Assets total $260,839,235, which reflects an increase of $8,585,681 for the year. • The member-owners of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association have equity of 36.8% in the system.

Regular patronage refund Your Board of Directors is dedicated to the principle of returning patronage capital to our member-owners — in fact, we were the first electric power association in Mississippi to start paying regular patronage refunds.

This year, we refunded $4.1 million to our members. In addition, Cooperative Energy, our wholesale power provider that is a cooperative owned by PRVEPA and 10 other electric power associations, began returning capital credits in 2015. Those credits, totaling $938,088 for 2020, will be returned to applicable PRVEPA members, increasing the total amount returned to $5,038,088. We have now made patronage refunds to our memberowners for 58 years, totaling nearly $63 million. Very few electric cooperatives in the nation can surpass our record of paying patronage refunds to their members.

Patronage refunds to deceased and former members In 1988, your Board of Directors started a program where we return the accumulated patronage capital to the estates of deceased members. In addition, a program for offering discounted capital credit refunds to former members was initiated in 2016. We have returned more than $16.3 million through these programs, including $824,000 in 2020.

ANNUAL MEETING SEPTEMBER 25, 2021

All members of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association are invited to attend the annual meeting of members on Saturday, September 25, 2021. Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the National Guard Armory at 1337 Highway 98 E. Columbia, MS 39429. The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. This year’s annual meeting will adhere to CDC guidelines in place at the time of the meeting. Hand sanitizer along with masks will be provided. As a member of Pearl River Valley Electric, your participation at the annual meeting is vital. At the annual meeting members vote to elect directors, hear reports covering the operation of the Association and to transact other business that may come before the meeting.

Included on the agenda is the election of three directors to 3-year terms: District 3 - Hugh Gene Smith

District 8 - Jeff Tinnon

(Nominated by Nominating Committee)

District 6 - Matt Thomas (Nominated by Nominating Committee)

PRVEPA will award 13 attendance prizes, including a $1,000 certificate for electricity. You must be present at the meeting to be eligible for the attendance prizes. If you cannot attend the meeting, mail in your annual meeting ballot today. By returning your ballot, you are eligible for the absentee prizes. SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

General Manager’s Annual Report This year has been a year of change for all of us at Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association. In January, I began my new position as CEO/general manager for the Association. I have worked at Pearl River Valley Electric for 22 years, first as a system engineer, next as the Wiggins office district manager and eventually manager of operations for the entire Association. The electric cooperative world runs in my blood. My uncle was a general manager of a sister Mississippi cooperative, and my father was the assistant general manager at Cooperative Energy. Throughout my life those two taught me about the important role that an electric cooperative plays in the community. In addition to my family, I have also had the opportunity to see first-hand the skillful leadership that Pearl River Valley Electric has had. During my time at PRVEPA I learned valuable leadership skills from our previous general manager, Randy Wallace. He successfully guided PRVEPA into the 21st century, and I plan to continue that strong leadership while expanding on the great legacy of our Association. Over the last 18 months, the pandemic changed everything for us at Pearl River Valley Electric. I would like to personally thank our members for understanding our desire to keep our employees and the public safe with our COVID-19 protocols. As if the pandemic wasn’t enough, the beginning of 2021 started off with an ice storm in February. The ice storm brought extensive outages and damage to Pearl River Valley Electric’s infrastructure. At the height of the storm, we had over 3,500 members without power. Over the course of three days, linemen and servicemen battled through inclement weather to restore power. Most of the damage came from limbs and trees coming down on power lines. The frigid temperatures also forced our power provider, Cooperative Energy, to issue warnings regarding high electric use due to extreme low temperatures. Thankfully, temporary outages were limited and short. Thanks to everyone who helped restore power throughout our territory. FIBER INTERNET UPDATE Our biggest announcement this year was the formation of PearlComm, our fiber internet subsidiary. The pandemic spotlighted the importance of this utility and the need for greater access to it in rural areas. Previous studies had shown that it wasn’t financially feasible for us to pursue this project, however money awarded through the FCC Rural Digital Opportunity (RDOF) made it possible. In October, Pearl River Valley Electric joined the Rural Electric Consortium, a bidding entity of over 90 cooperatives to secure RDOF funds. Overall, $1.1 billion was awarded. We received over $25 million through this fund. Since our announcement in January, we have been working hard to bring this service to our members. In March, we announced the first phase of our fiber roll out which includes areas around Columbia, Foxworth and Maxie. We began putting up fiber on our poles in June with the goal of providing internet service to our first members in the third quarter of 2021. We are on pace to achieve this milestone. We expect the first phase of the project to be finished in the third quarter of 2022. If you haven’t pre-registered for internet service, please do. No commitment is required, and you will be able to receive updates on our fiber internet progress.

12 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

NEW LOOK FOR OUR COOPERATIVE You may have noticed a new logo for Pearl River Valley Electric this year. When we launched PearlComm, the decision to refresh Pearl River Valley Electric’s brand was made too. The new logo showcases our Association’s rich heritage and ties to the Pearl River located near our headquarters in Columbia. The logo was created by graphic designers from Conexon, who also helped us design the PearlComm logo for our fiber internet subsidiary. The new brand is also meant to have design elements that match PearlComm. We look forward to showcasing the new logo on everything from signage to printed materials. SYSTEM GROWTH AND IMPROVEMENT For 2020, the number of meters served by the Association increased 1.34% from 50,466 to 51,145 while our annual sales of electricity — 123,112,060 kilowatt hours (kWh) — were about 1.8% below 2019. Maintaining reliable service to our members requires continual planning and upgrading of our lines and equipment. In 2020, our crews added nearly 26 miles of new overhead and underground lines to our system, which has 6,166 miles of lines and 25 substations throughout our 12-county service area. .RIGHT-OF-WAY TRIMMING Right-of-way (ROW) trimming is an essential part of our maintenance program. Our goal is to rotate through our entire system every 10 years, which means we trim nearly 500 miles of ROW annually. This year we used a combination of trimming and cutting trees along with the application of economical and environmentally friendly herbicides. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to maintain a safe and reliable system for our members. SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND OUTAGES Pearl River Valley Electric has an excellent outage record that is well below the national average. Typically, our members experience very few outages lasting only short amounts of time, which is remarkable when you consider that electric service is a 24/7 commodity. However, despite our best efforts to provide excellent service, we are still at the mercy of severe weather, like the ice storm in February. Along with our ROW maintenance, we continue to implement a pole inspection program to change out bad poles that could possibly cause power outages. As always, over the past year we also replaced, upgraded, or retired equipment and facilities as needed. SAFETY All our employees are committed to working safely. They have adopted a full-time culture of safety and strive to work accident free each day. An effective safety program not only ensures the well-being of employees, but it also saves your Association money. Along with existing safety standards we have improved the sanitation of offices, vehicles and equipment due to COVID-19. Over the course of the pandemic, we have made personal protective equipment available to employees to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

MEMBER PROGRAMS One of the changes everyone has made due to the pandemic is the way they do business. Now more than ever, the importance of having alternate ways for our members to access their information along with being informed about important events and issues is a priority. Online Tools: We have recently renovated our website making it easier for handling your day-to-day needs. Through our website PRVEPA.com you can pay your bill, access your energy use history and report outages. In addition, we have added the ability to apply for service as well as access our levelized billing and bank draft forms. In addition, the new site houses a Help Center which contains all our information from bill payment options to energy efficiency brochures. The website’s member service portal has also received a makeover. Now called “EmPowered”, the portal is more user friendly. This is a wonderful tool for keeping up with your electricity use and payments. While our website is our flagship for communication, we also understand that much of our member’s work is done on mobile devices. We offer a mobile app that offers similar services to our website. You can access the app by searching for “PRVEPA” in your app store. It is free. You may also call us about home energy audits, advice on the proper sizing on heating and air-conditioning systems, and educational programs for civic groups and schools.

@MyPRVEPA It’s important for our members to stay informed, especially during severe weather and large-scale events like the COVID-19 pandemic. For this reason, we use our Facebook and Twitter pages to supply up-to-date information. These sites are meant to educate and inform our members about our cooperative. During large scale outages, we can update you about restoration efforts. In addition, these sites will be used to alert members to important information such as scam alerts, program and policy information and news about the positive impact your cooperative is having in the community. These sites aren’t monitored 24/7, so we ask that you refrain from posting outage notifications.

Round Up for Education

YOUTH LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Our Youth Leadership Program has been altered significantly due to COVID-19. This year, like the year before, we were forced to provide a scholarship instead of the annual trip to Washington D.C. Each year, Pearl River Valley Electric sponsors an essay contest for junior class students in high schools located within our service area. A judging committee reviews the essays and selects the winners. Normally, the winners then attend a three-day youth leadership workshop in Jackson and during the summer travel with other Mississippi students to Washington, D.C. for the week-long Youth Tour. This year’s scholarship winners were Sterling Robbins of Presbyterian Christian High School and Will Watson of Columbia Academy. We hope to get back to normal in 2022 by attending the Washington D.C. trip. In addition, we are planning to expand our Youth Leadership Program by doing a Cooperative University in October. Many cooperatives already use the Cooperative University format which entails a daylong event where students learn about electric cooperatives and the power industry. Schools in our service territory will choose two representatives to attend. We are excited to bring this new aspect of our Youth Leadership Program to you COMMITMENT TO OUR MEMBERS Pearl River Valley Electric was established in the 1930s to bring electricity and its modern conveniences to rural areas. Now with PearlComm, we are recommitting to this purpose. Please keep an eye out for future updates on our fiber rollout through our Today in Mississippi magazine, social media, and our website PRVEPA.com. It is extremely exciting and rewarding to look at the bright future for Pearl River Valley Electric and our subsidiary PearlComm. The potential for both these companies is what drew me to the position of CEO/ general manager, and I hope you find the future of our cooperative as exciting as I do.

This will be our ninth year of operating Round Up for Education, a community college scholarship program designed to encourage members and their children to continue their education. Most of our members are rounding up their bills each month, which is providing the money to fund the scholarships. Over the past eight years, more than 1,600 students have received nearly $1.4 million in scholarships to help with their education costs, and this year we have more than 180 applicants. Without doubt this program is a unique and collaborative way to improve the quality of life for hundreds of families in the communities we serve. It is an outstanding example of what can be accomplished by cooperative members working together.

by Matthew Ware CEO/General Manager

Attention Participate in the Youth Leadership Program If you are an 11th grader served by Pearl River 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 601-731-7830 for more information.

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 13

Crews to inspect PRVEPA’s power poles Pearl River Valley Electric maintains more than 6,100 miles of line and more than 100,000 power poles. Our utility poles reach into every corner of our 12-county service area and form the backbone of our infrastructure. To maintain our high level of service, our poles must be able to support the weight of power, phone, and cable lines and withstand the effects of extreme winds and weather. Over the years, power poles can become susceptible to decay and pests. As a result, they slowly deteriorate and can fall or break during high winds, 42 ) Â resulting in power outages. In addition, decayed poles can pose a safety hazard for our linemen and the public. For these reasons, Pearl River Valley Electric has developed a systematic inspection program so that every pole is inspected for decay or other damage on a regular cycle. Poles that show signs of decay or aging are treated with environmentally safe preservatives to inhibit the decaying process and prevent further deterioration. Poles that are found to be unsafe are replaced. To assist in the pole inspection and maintenance program, PRVEPA has contracted with Osmose Utilities Services, Incorporated. A nationally recognized company, Osmose has

been in the wood preserving business since the 1930s and has inspected and retreated poles for PRVEPA for over 30 years. Below is a map of the inspection areas Osmose will be working in. For a more detailed map of this year’s pole inspection areas, please visit PRVEPA.com and visit the Technical Services section of our help center.

1.25

2.5

5 Miles

Pearl River Valley EPA 2021 POLE INSPECTIONS

§ ¦ ¨ 59

11 £ ¤ 49 £ ¤ £ ¤ 49

Â ) 589

42 ) Â

§ ¦ ¨ 59

98 £ ¤ 49 £ ¤

FORREST

98 £ ¤

MARION

PERRY

LAMAR

11 £ ¤

§ ¦ ¨ 59

49 £ ¤

Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P, NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, (c)

11 OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community £ ¤

Pearl River Valley — the future is almost here with PearlComm Fiber As we work on connecting our first fiber customers this year, we also wanted to update everyone on our NEW website. In the coming weeks we will be adding all our service options for residential and businesses to PearlCommFiber.net. The new site will include features for our members to place orders and manage fiber accounts once service becomes available in your area. Right now, everyone can still go to PearlCommFiber.net 14 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

and pre-register if interested in service. This is the best way for us to get news to you quickly when fiber is ready! With PearlComm’s fiber-to-the-home network, you’ll have access to the fastest internet around. That means uninterrupted access to online resources, tools, and applications. No buffering, no delays. Plus, we offer packages that work with your budget. You can rest assured your local cooperative will deliver quality service and support that is second to none!

10” Inside Spread

13” Main Beam

To estimate a 13 inch main beam, the buck’s head must be observed from the side. If the tip of the main beam extends to the front of the eye, main beam length is approximately 13 inches.

Mississippi’s 2021-2022 DELTA ZONE

HUNTING SEASONS

A legal buck is defined as having EITHER a minimum inside spread of 12 inches OR one main beam at least 15 inches long. How to estimate a 12 inch inside spread:

How to estimate a 15 inch main beam:

12” Inside Spread

15” Main Beam

DEER ZONES

*Due to body size differences in the Delta Unit, ear-tip to ear-tip measurements are slightly larger compared to the other units. WHITE-TAILED

DEER

DELTA, NORTHEAST, NORTH CENTRAL, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST UNITS

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 1 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Jan. 31

Antlerless Primitive Weapon

Nov. 8 - 19

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Spring NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 20 - 31

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

METHOD

SEASON DATES

Archery

Oct. 15 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

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

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

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

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

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

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

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

Jan. 20 - 31

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

Feb. 1 - 15

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

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

SOUTHEAST UNIT

Archery/Primitive Weapon

SEASON

LEGAL DEER

Fall Turkey DATES

BAG LIMIT

SEASON

Spring Turkey DATES

Youth (Private and authorized state and federal public lands. Youth 15 and under)

Mar. 8 - 14

Spring

Mar. 15 - May 1

SEASON

Small Game SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 15 DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 24 - 30

Squirrel - Fall Season

Oct. 1 - Feb. 28

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

Energy efficiency tip of the month by Abby Berry As a member of Pontotoc Electric Power Association, you know how to make smart energy choices that help you save money. But did you know that ‘when’ you use electricity can be just as important as ‘how much’ you use? Throughout the day, energy use fluctuates based on consumer demand. Typically, most households use larger amounts of electricity in the morning when most people are getting ready for their day, and in the evenings when people return from work, cook dinner, wash clothes, and watch television. These times when people in our community are using more electricity at the same time are called “peak” hours. By shifting some of your energy use to hours when demand is lower, also known as off-peak hours, you can save money on your electric energy bill by helping to keep rates lower for all our members.

Here are a few easy ways you can shift energy use to off-peak hours: • Adjust your thermostat. During summer months, raise the thermostat a few degrees during peak hours. • Wash full loads of clothes in cold water during off-peak hours. • Run the dishwasher right before you go to bed, or air-dry dishes by opening the dishwasher instead of using the heated dry cycle. • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. (Try to make this a daily habit, whether during peak or offpeak hours.) There are many ways to save energy and money by making a few minor adjustments to your daily routine.

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

Enjoy these great recipes from our employees! Swiss Ham Rolls

Congo Squares

Kathy Stark, Collection Assistant/Receptionist

Michal Pennington, General Accounting Clerk

1 pkg. small pre-baked rolls 1 stick margarine, melted 1 tbsp. yellow or Dijon mustard 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 box light brown sugar 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. vanilla 2-1/2 c. self-rising flour

1 tbsp. poppy seeds 1 tbsp. dried onion flakes Swiss cheese slices Ham slices

1 six-ounce pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips 3 eggs 1 c. oil

Slice whole loaf of rolls in half lengthwise. Mix together margarine, mustard, Worcestershire, poppy seeds, and dried onion flakes. Spread on cut sides of both slices of rolls. Layer cheese and ham on bottom half and cover with top half. Wrap in aluminum foil and bake at 325 degrees for 20 minutes until very hot and cheese is melted.

Mix together light brown sugar, flour, and baking powder until most of the lumps are gone. Add eggs, vanilla, and oil, and mix together. Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips. Pour into 9 x 13 pan and cook at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Easy BLT Dip

Ranch Crackers

Mary Williamson, Collection Manager

Curtis (PEPA Retiree) and Seretha Gregory

8 oz. cream cheese 1/2 c. shredded lettuce 1 can diced tomatoes, drained 1/2 c. real bacon bits

4 sleeves saltine crackers 1 c. canola oil

Place cream cheese on microwaveable plate. Microwave on high 45 seconds to one minute, or until warmed. Top with remaining ingredients. Serve warm with crackers and fresh cut up vegetables.

Mix oil, dressing mix, and red peppers well. Half the mixture. Mix half mixture with two sleeves of crackers and the other half of the remaining mixture with the two remaining sleeves of crackers. Toss in bowl with hands. Cover bowl for two hours. Flip bowl over one turn every 15 minutes. Cover tightly.

1 pkg. dry ranch dressing mix 1 – 2 tbsp. red pepper flakes

LABOR DAY CLOSING Pontotoc Electric Power Association will be closed Monday, Sept. 6, 2021, in observance of Labor Day. To report outages or emergencies, please call 662-489-6711 (Pontotoc) or 662-983-2727 (Bruce). A Pontotoc Electric dispatcher is on duty 24 hours per day, seven days per week. SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

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

Healthcare heroes working a two-year storm

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

Public Relations Assistant

SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

As Singing River Electric employees, we know the concern that exists when natural disasters threaten the communities we serve. As we enter Brian Hughey the peak of the 2021 General Manager hurricane season, all & CEO eyes are on the Atlantic Ocean and the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Each year, tropical systems threaten our area, sometimes resulting in a direct hit. Depending on the severity of the storm, Singing River Electric’s team of employees, along with mutual aid and contract workers, may spend anywhere from one day to a couple of weeks to complete the power restoration process. This can be very demanding and exhausting for all involved. Many first responders, including line workers, have adjusted their work schedules and practices to adhere to recommendations and restrictions associated with the ongoing pandemic. With that, I want to take a moment to acknowledge another group of first responders — our medical service providers. In electric service terms,

AMANDA PARKER

General Manager & CEO

this special group is now working a two-year storm. For more than 18 months, doctors and nurses have continually treated patients infected with the COVID-19 virus, thus exposing themselves and their families to the virus. The long hours, spent by these special people, on a daily basis have affected them both physically and emotionally, and to them, we say thank you! I’m not sure what we would do without you. During this time, we also thank all first responders including our law enforcement officers, EMTs, and firefighters. We hope and pray for the well-being of each of you and your families during these trying times. The service you provide to our local communities is truly immeasurable.

@singingriverelectric

Energy Tips

Gabe Robbins Energy Services Representative robbins@singingriver.com

It’s still hot, but fall is coming As we enter into fall later this month, our temperatures still average in the mid 90s. One issue you may have staying comfortable in this heat is air leaks. They can be a huge problem when trying to cool your house efficiently. Leaks around electrical boxes, plumbing, doors, and windows can be a big player in infiltration and make your air conditioner work much harder, using more electricity. By addressing leaks and properly sealing doors with weatherstripping and using caulk or expanding foam for larger leaks, you can help prevent much of the energy loss in your home. Thermostats can also contribute to energy savings. Know that every degree above the recommended setting of 78 will save you around 10% on your cooling costs. Take safety and comfort in mind when choosing your thermostat setting, as well as price. Use ceiling fans when you are in the room to increase your comfort at a higher than usual setting. Fall days are coming. Remember, the smaller the difference between the outside and indoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling or heating costs. For more information, visit singingriver.com/ways-to-save.

SRE members will receive new bill beginning in September Contact us

Ways to contact SRE about your bill or account are clearly noted on your bill. You can also get billing and payment information by downloading the SmartHub app.

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Billing summary

This section provides the account balance. If there is a past due amount, it will be shown.

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Total due

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ummary

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Service address

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The address where SRE is providing electric service for this bill.

by Jul 8,

2021

Detail of energy charge

JOHN DO E 06/24/20 21 99999999 999999 123 ANY RO (999) 999- AD 99 RESIDENT 99 IAL 18

Page 1 of

Center

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Total amount that is due.

MEMBER NAME Bill Date: Account Number: Member ID Service Lo : Phone Nu cation: mber: Rate: Cycle:

Detail of energy charges per kilowatt hour (kWh).

Important messages

This area displays messages related directly to your SRE account or service, and other SRE messages.

Payment stub

KEEP Ple ase do

If you are paying by check, please return this stub with your payment to ensure the payment is properly credited to your account.

SEND

Page 2 of

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8 Donate to Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN) Check this box to round up your bill to the next dollar to provide emergency bill assistance to neighbors in need.

Charges:

9 Meter readings

The table shows meter data associated with this current bill.

10 Energy use and temperature chart 12 service

Comments

Mailing Addre

State

Compare current energy use to last month and last year.

Zip

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This graph shows your monthly energy use compared with the local temperature.

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12 Payment stub for comments and address correction

There is also space to update your contact information and make comments.

Here is a breakdown to help you understand your new billing statement. The new bills and billing envelopes are slightly different with a clean and simple design.

Don’t get locked into a long-term contract. Fiber construction begins in the Brewer community SR Connect begins phases 3 and 4, fiber construction and splicing, in the Brewer community beginning late August and early September 2021. The work is being done on the Brewer substation pilot project area. Plans at this time are to light up this area with fiber by mid-tolate October. The project has faced some minor slowdowns due to material delays and procuring a work permit from the U.S. Forest Service.

MDR Construction assists with make-ready construction SR Connect entered into phase 2 or make-ready construction August 1, 2021. MDR Construction is shown here in the Brewer substation area preparing to replace some poles

ahead of fiber construction. Power poles must be examined to ensure they can safely handle both the electrical and fiber equipment. Some poles are being changed out to taller poles.

Fiber is worth the wait! Your hometown team is bringing you lightning-fast FIBER. Free installation during the pilot period (no contract, no data caps)

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

Priced as low as $59.95

(includes modem, router and managed Wi-Fi)

No contracts. No data caps. No equipment fees.

singingriverconnect.com 877-272-6611

Lightning-fast ﬁber is coming! Search your address at singingriverconnect.com to express your interest in service.

SR Connect building 400-mile ﬁber ring and three ﬁber pilots SR Connect’s three fiber pilot projects are just part of the initial build out. The pilot projects are being built along with a 400-mile fiber ring that connects all Singing River Electric substations and three offices. This will place the subsidiary in a great position to build the fiber out to other areas more quickly should the board make the decision to do so. Whether you are inside or outside of a pilot area, please search your address and input information to express an interest at singingriverconnect.com. The SRE board of directors will use this and other information to determine where to expand once that decision is made.

PILOT AREA #1

PILOT AREA #2

PILOT AREA #3

Beautifying our community SRE employees clean up boat launches in Jackson County As electric cooperatives, we belong to the communities we serve. We adhere to a set of seven cooperative principles, and the seventh is concern for community. It is a part of all that we do.

SRE employees live and work in our local community, so they are always willing to volunteer and invest their time in community service. On July 30, employees spent the day picking up trash and weed eating at Jackson County’s Highway 63 and Bayou Cumbest boat launches. The local boat launches are maintained by our counties and Mississippi Wildlife Fisheries and Parks conservation officers, but they have many boat launch locations and limited resources. Other cleanups completed this year took place at Greene County’s Chickasawhay River, Leakesville Landing boat launch, and George County’s Wilkerson Ferry boat launch.

Singing River Electric is member-driven and built by the communities we serve. For more information on how we partner with our communities, visit singingriver.com/my-community or join the conversation on Facebook/Instagram (SingingRiverElectric) and Twitter (SRECooperative).

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. Our dispatchers are then able to assign your power outage for faster repairs. Download the SmartHub app at singingriver. com/smarthub.

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

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

singingriver.com

10” Inside Spread

13” Main Beam

To estimate a 13 inch main beam, the buck’s head must be observed from the side. If the tip of the main beam extends to the front of the eye, main beam length is approximately 13 inches.

Mississippi’s 2021-2022 DELTA ZONE

HUNTING SEASONS

A legal buck is defined as having EITHER a minimum inside spread of 12 inches OR one main beam at least 15 inches long. How to estimate a 12 inch inside spread:

How to estimate a 15 inch main beam:

12” Inside Spread

15” Main Beam

DEER ZONES

*Due to body size differences in the Delta Unit, ear-tip to ear-tip measurements are slightly larger compared to the other units. WHITE-TAILED

DEER

DELTA, NORTHEAST, NORTH CENTRAL, EAST CENTRAL, AND SOUTHWEST UNITS

METHOD

SEASON DATES

LEGAL DEER

Archery

Oct. 1 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Jan. 31

Antlerless Primitive Weapon

Nov. 8 - 19

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

Either-Sex on private land, open public land, and Holly Springs NF. Weapon of choice may be used on private land with appropriate license.

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Springs NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

Either-Sex on private land and Holly Spring NF. Legal Bucks only on open public land.

Archery/Primitive Weapon

Jan. 20 - 31

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

METHOD

SEASON DATES

Archery

Oct. 15 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private and open public land.

Youth Season (15 and under)

Nov. 6 - Nov. 19

Either-Sex on private lands and authorized state and federal lands.

Nov. 20 - Feb. 15

Either-Sex on private lands. On open public lands, youth must follow below legal deer criteria.

Gun (with dogs)

Nov. 20 - Dec. 1

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

Primitive Weapon

Dec. 2 - 15

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

Gun (without dogs)

Dec. 16 - 23

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

Gun (with dogs)

Dec. 24 - Jan. 19

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

Jan. 20 - 31

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

Feb. 1 - 15

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

Antlerless Deer Only on private lands.

SOUTHEAST UNIT

Archery/Primitive Weapon

SEASON

LEGAL DEER

Fall Turkey DATES

BAG LIMIT

SEASON

Spring Turkey DATES

Youth (Private and authorized state and federal public lands. Youth 15 and under)

Mar. 8 - 14

Spring

Mar. 15 - May 1

SEASON

Small Game SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 15 DATES

DAILY BAG LIMIT

Youth Squirrel*

Sept. 24 - 30

Squirrel - Fall Season

Oct. 1 - Feb. 28

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

The Faith and Dedication of Southern Pine Employees Shine Through It’s hard to believe that it has already been one year this month since I joined Southern Pine Electric. After my career at Cooperative Energy, I thought that I had something to offer Southern Pine Electric’s employees and members. My goal then and now is to provide safe, reliable, affordable electric service to our members while creating a safe, positive, and productive environment for our employees. My first mission at Southern Pine was to meet the employees and learn from them and their vastly different experiences. I wanted to get a true sense of what the employees thought to develop goals and implement Southern Pine’s future strategies. I did that. I met with every employee during my first couple of months. I gained tremendous insights into our cooperative and our employees’ dedication to the members. It has been an honor to get to know this dedicated team of professionals and use their expertise to guide me in developing our plans to work together for a sustainable and long future for Southern Pine. During an all-employee meeting, I shared with the team that I believe we should always do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do. That belief is what drives me every day in making decisions. I want each decision I make to benefit the cooperative and the members. It is also what leads every employee at Southern Pine. Doing what is right is the only way to operate a cooperative and the best way to live a life. Even with that one simple guiding principle, every year has its

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

challenges. As everyone knows, 2020 was not our typical year. With a worldwide pandemic that impacted everyone, Southern Pine worked to ensure that we continued to bring the power to the members despite what was going on around us. The employees have faced obstacles in their own lives, just as you have. Their faith and dedication have indeed shown through in the past year. When 2021 arrived, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief that maybe things could return to normal, a historic ice storm hit the southeastern United States. Southern Pine battled the elements to restore thousands of outages, and I am proud of the determination and resilience of our employees in extreme conditions. They worked tirelessly, often without power themselves, to restore our members as safely and quickly as possible. We never know what lies ahead, but we do know we can face it together. Weather patterns are changing, more storms are coming, COVID-19 is a genuine concern, but our commitment to you does not change. I look forward to many more years with Southern Pine and to serving our one goal of bringing the power to you.

by Chris K. Rhodes President / CEO Southern Pine Electric

G R

MECHANIC SHOP KEEPS US GOING

Christopher Byrd, certified mechanic; Braden Blackwell, certified mechanic; Bobby Thompson, mechanic supervisor; Kenneth Jernigan, mechanic, and John Barnes, mechanic helper

Imagine walking into a full-service mechanic shop that does everything under the sun. From oil changes and routine maintenance to fabrication and welding, to hydraulics and so much more — the Southern Pine mechanics do it all. These five men work diligently behind the scenes to keep our trucks and equipment in excellent working condition, so our linemen, servicemen, and crews can take care of you, the members. It’s no easy task to find someone who can do all the different types of mechanic work that this team does, according to Bobby Thompson, mechanic shop supervisor. “Most mechanics come out of school with knowledge of one area, but our guys have to be able to do it all,” he said. Together, the team has over 122 years’ experience and are topnotch mechanics because of that experience and their dedication to our members. According to Chad Lewis, vice president of operations, the team is excellent at what they do. “Bobby and his team have years’ of experience and have seen Southern Pine’s fleet evolve by leaps and bounds. Their experience as a team, along with their dedication, allows for Bobby and his team to achieve

continued success.” Bobby said the team works together with a common goal. “We enjoy our jobs and have fun but work hard,” said Bobby. “We have a great team and lots of experience.” It takes all five team members, working together, to ensure that the equipment is ready to use when it’s needed. The Mechanic Shop is a valuable part of the team that brings the power to you.

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT:

BOBBY THOMPSON

Mechanic Shop Supervisor Bobby Thompson has seen many changes during his 42 years at Southern Pine Electric. For 31 years, Bobby worked as a mechanic before becoming a supervisor. He and his skilled team keeps Southern Pine on the roads so we can bring the power. Bobby said that during his long career with Southern Pine, he’s had many proud moments, but one memory stands above the others. “My most heartfelt memory at Southern Pine was during a time of devastation in our community back in 2005,” he said. “Hurricane Katrina destroyed not just power lines but hurt our service area. When I saw everyone at Southern Pine come together, not just to turn the lights on, but to support each other, I knew it was a special moment.” Bobby said it was all the little things done during those days that stand out in his memories. “Southern Pine came together to do everything it took to take care of our members, and it wasn’t just about getting the lights back on, which we did in Southern Pine fashion. It was the little things. From clearing the roads to keeping our trucks running, we came together as one to overcome a lot of adversity by working as a family, and that is my proudest moment at Southern Pine,” Bobby said. Outside of Southern Pine, Bobby loves to hunt anything but mainly hunts deer, doves, and ducks, and he is a regular at car shows and racetracks. He’s also a Master Mason at the Masonic Lodge in Taylorsville. While Bobby enjoys his hobbies and his job, his true love is his family. Married to his wife, Martha, for over 47 years, the couple has built a family of boys. Their three sons, Jason, Joseph and Cody, make them proud every day, and his grandchildren are his pride and joy. Kaden, 16, Karson, 11 and Jace, 8, fill his life with love and happiness. A true Christian committed to God and his family, Bobby and his wife attend Fellowship Baptist Church in Taylorsville.

12 TODAY | AUGUST 2021

“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.”

God is Bigger than Cancer by Jan Collins It seems that the older we grow and the more people we meet, the more we hear that cancer is interrupting and taking the lives of people we know and love. This article was written from my perspective as a family member of a cancer patient, to encourage and give reassurance that you will not be on the cancer road forever. Second only to heart disease, cancer claims about 6,500 lives each year in Mississippi with 16,000 new cases reported last year. Approximately 60 percent of all cancers are preventable. Diet, physical activity, sun and environmental exposure, smoking and excess weight all contribute to reduced survival rates. Genetics play a role as well. Although rare in children, cancer is the number one cause of death from disease among children in the United States. Though we hear these facts and know statistics, the actual diagnosis of cancer for you or a loved one can knock you off your feet. The knot of dread in your stomach is a constant reminder of all the things we do not know about cancer. How does it occur? Will it kill you? What are treatment options and how long will they last? Entering the unknown medical arena of cancer causes constant worry about your family. Who will raise your children if you die? Who will pay the mortgage? How will I pay the medical bills and buy the medications? You quickly realize that there are two faces and two languages of cancer. One is the smiling face and reassuring language that you use with your family as you try to reassure and comfort them. The other is the matter-of-fact face and the language that you use with your doctors and medical staff. It is the shoot straight, explain everything, give me all the options and cut to the chase language. You learn, or at least pretend, to process a bombardment of information, keep on living your life, working, maintaining your home and kids, and kicking fear in the teeth when it comes knocking every evening during the quiet of the night.

You quickly learn not to Google cancer treatments or to read other’s stories about their journey with cancer. Though it may help some, it can also hurt. Each road is different, and you learn to walk yours as you go, on a need-to-know basis and timeline. Taking small steps and not looking too far down the road provides time for your mind and heart to process what is happening inside your body and helps to save your sanity. Independent though you may be, cancer will teach you that you cannot stand alone. You need your family, your chemo-partner, someone to bring ice chips when you are parched from radiation. You need family. But, more than that, you need God and, if you are smart, you draw closer and closer to His protection and words of comfort. The old saying that “if God puts you on a road, He gets you off that road” becomes a lifeline. You find comfort that chemo and radiation will not last forever. Cancer has no power over eternity. One way, or another, you will not be sick forever. Oddly enough, you begin to find comfort in the little things that happen each day. Flowers by the road become brighter, clouds mesmerize. Cancer takes a lot, but it gives a very clear perspective not to take anything for granted. Life does not stop for cancer. The world will keep turning. “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3 Cancer teaches you trust. When we focus on God, we know, that we will not be sick forever. We will rejoice and be healthy again. Whether here, or in heaven, we will be healed. God is faithful. “Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.” Psalm 36:5 So, as we focus on cancer awareness this month, let us remember to take a minute and pray for all the people who have received the heart-wrenching diagnosis of cancer and their families. It is a scary road but take solace that it cannot and will not last forever. God is bigger than cancer. SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 13

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

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

Southwest Electric

SWElectricCoop

sw_electric_coop

Southwest Electric

Southwest Holds 2021 Annual Meeting Thank you to all of our Members who were able to attend the 2021 Annual Meeting that was held Wednesday, August 11, in Natchez. We also would like to thank all of our Members who returned the bottom portion of their Annual Meeting Notice. We had a great return, and all names were entered for the drawing. Congratulations to Bobby Claiborne (photo at right) of Claiborne County who won the drawing for a 40” Vizio television. His name was drawn from over 1,000 Members who returned the bottom portion of the Annual Meeting Notice. Congratulations to the seven other door prize winners. We hope to see all of you next year at the 2022 Annual Meeting.

Stan Rucker, President of the Board of Directors, presided over the 2021 Annual Meeting held at Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Natchez.

Matthew Freeman of Adams County was the winner of another television.

Winner of one of two $200 bill credits was Travis Hill from Copiah County.

Joyce Smith from Franklin County was the other $200 bill credit winner.

Calvin Young from Jefferson County won a hammock and a lantern.

Pearl Wilson of Claiborne County was the winner of two foldable chairs.

Franklin County resident, David Campbell, was the winner of a Bluetooth speaker.

Wilkinson County resident, Edward Smith, was the winner of a USB charging unit.

Our office will be closed Monday, September 6, in observance of Labor Day. Dispatchers will remain on duty, and crews will be on call throughout the holiday. Use the SmartHub app or call 800-287-8564 to report an outage.

We wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday!

ctric

Capital Credit Returns This year, Southwest Electric is returning $1,573,310.57 to Members in the form of bill credits. You may have already seen a bill credit on your August bill. Southwest Electric is a Member-owned cooperative. Unlike an investor-owned utility, we do not operate to make a profit. Revenue received from Members’ bills is used to cover operating expenses and the remaining funds are invested in the utility plant. This investment called capital credit patronage is allocated to our Members’ accounts based on how much electricity they used that year. Members who use more electricity will have a bigger investment. Likewise, Members who use less will have a smaller investment. Since 1960, Southwest Electric has returned almost $31 million in patronage capital to our Members.

Linemen Advance in Lineman Apprenticeship Program Congratulations to TJ Floyd and Steven King for completing the 2nd Class Lineman level in our Lineman Apprenticeship Program. This rigorous program requires studying and testing in addition to their regular work schedule and outages. Each level in the program requires completion of 2,000 hours worked, six workbooks, a test on each workbook, a final exam covering all six workbooks, and a field proficiency test. They are now working on the last level to become 1st Class Linemen.

Ways to Pay

Do you want to ensure fast payment of your electric bill? Try using one of these payment methods. Have your barcode scanned at a participating retailer and pay your bill and the $1.50 fee in cash.

TJ Floyd – 2nd Class Lineman

Pay through the app or online with a debit/credit card or a bank account.

bill payment Visit a participating retailer with code 16381 and your account number. Pay your bill and the $1.50 fee in cash.

Steven King – 2nd Class Lineman

Set up recurring draft to automatically pay your bill from a bank account. Contact us for the form.

If you need help with any of these payment methods, call a Member Service Representative at 800-287-8564. APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

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 Annual Meeting, September 21 Twin County’s Annual Meeting of Members will be held on September 21, 2021, beginning at 2 p.m. The meeting location will be at the South Washington County Multiplex Center at 911 East Avenue North in Hollandale to provide for social distancing. All Members in good standing of Twin County as of July 20, 2021, (Record Date) will be allowed to vote at the meeting either in person or by proxy. The configuration for the meeting will comply with any and all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and orders related to the COVID pandemic. At this time, this means that all Members attending the meeting will be required to wear a face mask and are encouraged to practice social distancing. Due to the COVID pandemic and the rise of the Delta variant, Twin County encourages its Members to consider voting by proxy. A formal notice of Meeting and a proxy was mailed to all Twin County’s Members in good standing as of the Record Date (July 20, 2021.) The annual meeting will take action upon the following matters: (1) the reports of Officers, Directors, and Committees; (2) the election of three Directors; and (3) any and all other business which may legally come before the meeting, or any adjournment or adjournments thereof. Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. Proxies must be on the document provided by Twin County, signed by the Member whose name appears on the proxy, and delivered by such Member personally to one of Twin County’s offices in Hollandale, Belzoni, Rolling Fork, or Greenville, or mailed to Twin County’s office in Hollandale, Mississippi. Proxies must be received by Twin County at 5 p.m. on September 15, 2021.

SUNFLOWER COUNTY

Leland

LEFLORE COUNTY

Greenville

Inverness

Isola

WASHINGTON COUNTY

✪

Belzoni Hollandale

HUMPHREYS COUNTY HOLMES COUNTY

Rollingfork

Louise SHARKEY COUNTY

Mayersville

ISSAQUENA COUNTY

Cary

TWIN COUNTY EPA

✪

MAIN OFFICE BRANCH OFFICES SUBSTATIONS

WARREN COUNTY

Mark your calendar for September 21, 2021

Y AR

KEE

will comply with any and all federal, state and local laws, regulations and orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic. At this time, this means that all Members attending the meeting will be required to practice social distancing and wear face masks.

KEE

HE DISTA PT

NCE

10 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

YOUR M AR

K AS

Mark your calendar for September 21, 2021, for Twin County’s Annual Meeting of Members beginning at 2 p.m. at the South Washington County Multiplex Building located at 911 East Avenue North in Hollandale. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m.

NCE

The configuration STAmeeting HEforDIthe T P

You coul d receive a $100 credit on your October bill!

FLORE OUNTY

HOLMES COUNTY

EPA

How?

...It’s simple! Twin County will select four winners to each receive a $100 credit on their Twin County account. Winners will be selected from Member proxies mailed or hand delivered by the Member to one of Twin County’s offices by the deadline of Sept. 15 at 5 p.m., or Members attending the annual meeting.

Candidates running for Twin County Director: • Eugene Bell • Timothy A. (Tim) Clements * • Billy George Janous * • Norma Quinn • Cleotra Tanner • Bryan E. Thomas * * Currently serving as a Director of Twin County

Three directors will be voted on at the September 21, 2021, meeting to serve for a three-year term.

CES

John B. (Jack) Reed retires from the Twin County Board of Directors Twin County Board of Directors and employees extend much gratitude and best wishes to Jack Reed. He was a Twin County Board Member who retired at the July 20, 2021, meeting. Reed was elected to the Board on April 15, 1986. During his 35 years of service to Twin County, Reed served as the following: secretary-treasurer for nine years and president from October 2012 until his resignation in July 2021. All the best to you and your family, Mr. Reed!

What do I get for being a member of

Twin County EPA?

YOU GET

✔ Safe, dependable, affordable electric service ✔ 24 – 7 support ✔ Flexible payment options • Online payments • Smart app • Bank draft • Mail • Dropbox • In-person • Arrangements

✔ Online account viewing anytime ✔ No late fees ✔ Capital Credit retirements ✔ Voting at Annual Meeting ✔ Subscription to Today in Mississippi

Hollandale • Belzoni Rolling Fork • Greenville

662.827.2262 www.twincoepa.com

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

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.

PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS

READ DATE

determines amount of power used since the last read date.

Members can contact their local Twin County office to make an arrangement to pay their bill. (*Must be a Member of Twin County for a minimum of six months to be eligible for an arrangement)

Hollandale Belzoni Rolling Fork Greenville

662.827.2262 662.247.1909 662.873.4233 662.334.9543

BILLING DATE your account is billed for power used and mailed.

DUE DATE

DISCONNECTION

An account is eligible for disconnection 20 days from the bill date.

BILLING CYCLE

The day the bill is due. You have 10 days to make the payment before the account is delinquent.

DELINQUENT DATE

A delinquent noticed is mailed 3 days after due date.

Twin County EPA • P.O. Box 158 • Hollandale, MS 38748 12 TODAY | SEPTEMBER 2021

Crispy Rice Peanut Butter Bites

Revisions Requested Approved

CHAD Date_____

• Value of production for rice in 2020 was $138 million.

Revisions Requested

• Approximately 170,000 acres of rice were harvested in 2020.

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• Mississippi has 221 rice-producing farms.

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• More than 12.5 million hundredweight of rice was produced in 2020.

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Susan Collins-Smith is a writer for the Mississippi State University Extension .

Check out these other facts about Mississippi rice:

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September is rice month – a time to celebrate the versatile, nutritious grain that is one of Mississippi’s major row crops.

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celebrates food, industry impact

TWITTER

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

VISIT US ONLINE @ WWW.YAZOOVALLEY.COM

In addition to being one of the most labor-intensive professions, farming is also considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the U.S.

• If your equipment makes contact with an energized or downed power line, contact 9-1-1 immediately and remain inside the vehicle until the power line is de-energized. In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jump out of the cab (without touching it), and hop away to safety. • Consider equipment and cargo extensions of your vehicle. Lumber, hay, tree limbs, irrigation pipes, and even bulk materials can conduct electricity, so keep them out of contact with electrical equipment. September 19-25 is National Farm Health and Safety Week, but practicing safety on the farm year-round yields positive results. We hope you never find yourself in a situation where farming equipment contacts power lines or poles, but if you do, we hope you’ll remember these safety tips. 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.

The Annual Meeting of Members of Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association will be held Tuesday, November 9, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at the office of the Association in Yazoo City. At this meeting, two directors will be elected to serve a threeyear term each. Of the two directors to be elected, one must be a Yazoo Valley member and resident of Yazoo, Holmes, or Humphreys counties. The other director must be a Yazoo Valley member and resident of Yazoo, Holmes, Humphreys, Warren, Sharkey, or Issaquena counties. A committee to consider and make nominations for directors of the Association was appointed at an August meeting of the board of directors. Members appointed to serve on this committee are Will Jones, Rosemary Watson, Gregory Moseley, Jamie Peaster, Houston Cohea, and James T. Henry. The Committee will meet at a time and place set by the board of directors and shall prepare and post a list of nominations for board members at the main office of the Association at least thirty days before the annual meeting. Any 50 members acting together may make other nominations by petition, and the secretary shall post such nominations at the same place where the list of nominations by the Committee is posted.

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

SEPTEMBER 2021 | TODAY 11

Revisions Requested

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ANNUAL MEETING SET FOR NOVEMBER 9

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— Michael Neely, General Manager

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“We are very pleased to have Robert and Jason’s experience and expertise added to the Yazoo Valley team. Their knowledge and abilities are an asset to the association.”

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been active in the Yazoo community, serving as president of Yazoo City Rotary Club, Yazoo City Lion’s Club, and the Yazoo Chamber of Commerce. He is married to Jamie Patterson, and they have three children, James, Elsie, and Jason Jr.

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Jason Patterson

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Robert Bates

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Robert Bates recently came on board at Yazoo Valley Electric as the system engineer. Robert will be overseeing the engineering department, including staking, apparatus, system inspections, and key accounts. With an electrical engineering degree from Mississippi State University, Robert started his career in the transformer industry before working for Southern Pine Electric Cooperative in Taylorsville, as a substation engineer. Robert was self-employed for the past few years but recently came to Yazoo Valley Electric. Robert is a native Mississippian and has lived in the Laurel area for most of his life. He is married to Cyndie Bates, and they have two grown children. Jason Patterson joined Yazoo Valley Electric as the communications specialist. Prior to joining Yazoo Valley Electric, Patterson spent 20 years in the newspaper industry. He joined the staff of The Bolivar Commercial newspaper in Cleveland while studying journalism at Delta State University. He later served as the daily paper’s sports editor, and then was promoted to managing editor in 2005. In 2006, he became the managing editor of his hometown newspaper, The Yazoo Herald, and he was named the newspaper’s editor and publisher in 2011. Patterson has won over 50 first place awards for writing and photography, including two Bill Minor awards for the overall best investigative coverage and the Dan M. Phillips Freedom of Information Award. He has

Revisions Requested

New employees join Yazoo Valley