Today in Mississippi February 2026 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

Capitol: Co-op to

COOPERATIVE YOUTH LEADERS

COLLEGE BASKETBALL’S STAR FROM THE SOUTH

MARDI GRAS SLOW COOKERS

Grant awarded for marketing of Port Bienville, Ignition Park in Hancock County

Cooperative Energy, together with the 11 Member distribution cooperatives it serves, announced recently the award of two Cooperative Competes grants to the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission to assist with the production of marketing for Port Bienville Site No.1 and Ignition Park.

Port Bienville Site No.1 will be a prime, pad-ready parcel located within Port Bienville Industrial Park. The site is directly served by Port Bienville Shortline Railroad and has proximity to U.S. Highway 90 and Interstate 10. The port’s shallow-draft barge canal is suitable for industries requiring flexible, cost-effective logistics. With the commission extending water and sewer utilities to the site, Site No.1 is well-positioned to support heavy manufacturing, logistics, and processing operations. Importantly, all due diligence and environmental studies have been completed for Site No. 1, and the site has earned Bronze Level Designation through CSX’s Select Site Program.

Ignition Park is a newly re-branded, pad-ready industrial development located at Stennis International Airport in Hancock County. After years of infrastructure development, site preparation, and permitting, the commission has now poised to transition into marketing phase for the park. Ignition Park represents a long-term public investment in Mississippi’s economic future, with more than $11.6 million in infrastructure improvements already secured.

The two $10,000 Cooperative Competes grants will be used to assist with production videos that will use aerial drone footage, animated site graphics, infographics, and text overlays to communicate key information such as available sites, infrastructure details, regional connectivity, and workforce strengths. With no voiceover narration, the video will be clean, accessible, and versatile across all

digital platforms including trade shows, prospect outreach, social media, and economic development websites.

In 2023 and 2024, Port Bienville and the Ignition Park enrolled into the Cooperative Energy SiteInvest program, making it eligible for Cooperative Competes grant funds.

The Cooperative Competes initiative is aimed at increasing community competitiveness and encouraging economic growth. A component of the initiative allows economic development organizations to apply for grant funds to support industrial property, workforce, or community development efforts throughout Mississippi.

U.S. House passes reform bills to boost affordable power

The House has passed two significant permitting reform bills that would help protect affordable power nationwide by reducing delays for electric cooperatives making crucial improvements to their systems.

“Federal environmental permitting has become increasingly complex, unpredictable and unworkable over time,” said NRECA CEO Jim Matheson. “It interferes with co-op efforts to maintain the infrastructure that is essential to keeping the lights on and build new infrastructure to meet growing demand. These hurdles delay critical projects and can significantly increase costs for electric co-op consumers.”

The bills passed by the House offer solutions to those problems, Matheson said.

House members voted 221-196 on Dec. 18 to approve the bipartisan Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development (SPEED) Act, which would streamline the requirements imposed by the National Environmental Policy Act

on electric co-ops applying for federal permits to build new generation, transmission and distribution capacity, strengthen existing systems or perform crucial maintenance work.

The bill’s lead sponsors say it would shorten permitting timelines and reduce the frequency of “frivolous litigation” that stymies construction of vital infrastructure.

In another important change, co-ops would no longer have to go through the NEPA review process every time they get federal grants or other types of funding for an improvement project.

The House also voted 221-205 on Dec. 11 to pass the Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act.

The NRECA-supported bill would improve permitting under the Clean Water Act by cutting red tape and providing greater regulatory certainty for co-ops that obtain permits.

Both bills must still be passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Donald Trump. — NRECA

“Improving the quality of life for all those we touch.”

IT’S COLD, BUT THERE ARE HOT WAYS TO SAVE MONEY

Like many of you, I enjoy doing projects around the house. Before I start, I usually ask myself some questions. What do I want to accomplish? What materials do I need? And if the work involves weatherization, will it really help me save money on my electric bill?

Generally, the answer to that last question is a resounding “yes.” Even small energy e ciency measures will save money. For a small investment (the cost of an outlet and switch plate insulator kit or some weatherstripping), you can begin to drastically improve comfort around your residence.

What areas should you focus on? Start with the basics: applying weather stripping and caulk around doors and windows; replacing traditional incandescent light bulbs with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) light bulbs; and insulating your water heater. Then look at some bigger expenditures: adding insulation to your attic, installing a programmable thermostat, and sealing ductwork. You can ﬁnd even more ways to save on our 4-County webpage under Energy Savings.

At 4-County Electric Power Association, we’re committed to doing everything possible to keep your electric bills a ordable.

And we’re controlling costs through innovation — our energy e ciency programs are just one way we can help you manage your energy use.

Consumers can learn more about how to make their homes more energy e cient, and qualify for incentives by scheduling a home energy audit by a 4-County marketing specialist. We can also provide an energy e ciency presentation for your organization. Call 4-County at 662-327-8900 for more information. Ask for the marketing department. You can also download 4-County’s app to help you manage your bill and your energy use and put savings in the palm of your hand.

CEO/General Manager by Brian Clark

FASTnet celebrates ﬁve years

by Brad Barr

FASTnet recently celebrated ﬁve years of providing area folks with quality, a ordable high-speed broadband.

The story began with the Shannon family in western Clay County. Roy and Mary Shannon were the 4-County Electric Power Association subsidary’s ﬁrst customers. Today, FASTnet has nearly 22,000 customers and serves ﬁber internet service across 4-County’s service area and has expanded into Macon and West Point.

The Shannons continue to enjoy FASTnet. “It works beautifully,” said Mary Shannon. “We have no problems with it. We stream everything. When people come visit, they hook up immediately. It’s the only way we can have good service in our area.”

“This is a monumental time for FASTnet and its customers,” said 4-County CEO Brian Clark. “We’re really excited about the FASTnet journey and for the access we’re providing to high-speed internet. We’re looking forward to the months and years ahead.”

Fast, reliable, quality. These three adjectives embody the FASTnet brand, according to Clark. “Our goal is and has always been to live up to the FASTnet name,” Clark said.

Members with questions or comments about broadband can call 1-800-431-1544 or email broadband@4county.org.

Veteran 4-County employees retire

by Brad Barr

Longtime 4-County employees Junior Eads, Gina Beaird, Jimmie Daniels, Karen Smith, and Eddie Pennington retired recently after serving the cooperative for a combined nearly 143 years.

For most of 4-County’s membership, these employees have been co-op mainstays and frequent faces of the cooperative.

4-County CEO Brian Clark said the quintet has been instrumental in the co-op’s success story. “Placing a value on the impact these employees have had on 4-County is hard to explain. Su ce it to say, they have, individually and collectively, helped the co-op achieve a goal of service excellence. They are much appreciated and will be missed. Each is leaving big shoes to ﬁll. We wish them all the very best in their retirement endeavors,” Clark said.

Junior joined 4-County in 1987 as a laborer. He has worked as a groundman, equipment operator, senior equipment operator, rightsof -way maintenance trimmer, rights-of-way foreman, and, most recently, as a marketing specialist.

Jimmie joined 4-County in 1996 as a rights-of-way trimmer 3. He also served as a vehicle mechanic, staking engineer 2, staking engineer 1, district service coordinator, and, most recently, as manager of consumer services/system security.

Gina joined 4-County in 1994 as an executive secretary in the public relations/marketing department. She has also worked as an executive secretary in the human resources and training department, a human resources and training administrator, and, most recently, as a human resources assistant/beneﬁts coordinator.

Karen joined 4-County in 2001 as a cashier/accounting clerk. She has also served as an accounts payable clerk, and, most recently, as senior accounts payable clerk.

Eddie joined 4-County in 2007 as a ﬂeet management supervisor and worked in that position until his retirement.

Employees celebrated the group’s valuable years of service in ceremonies and luncheons held recently.

New employees join co-op team

by Brad Barr

Liz Hankins and Tyler Miles have joined the 4-County/FASTnet team.

A Columbus resident, Liz comes to 4-County from the pharmacy ﬁeld. She will serve 4-County/FASTnet as a member service representative. Liz has an associate’s degree from Northeast Mississippi Community College. She has two grown children and one grandchild. Her hobbies include travel and spending time with her family.

A native of Noxapater, Tyler has joined 4-County as a pre-apprentice lineman. Prior to 4-County, Tyler worked for an electric contracting company. He is a graduate of the East Mississippi Community College Lineman Training Program. He is a veteran of the U. S. Army. In his spare time, Tyler enjoys ﬁshing.

Welcome to the 4-County/FASTnet team, Liz and Tyler!

Liz Hankins

Eddie Pennington

Gina Beaird Jimmie Daniels Junior Eads

Karen Smith

Tyler Miles

KNOW YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

A listing of elected o cials, along with their addresses, is being provided for the convenience of readers who wish to contact them.

U.S. SENATORS ★

Roger Wicker • 555 Dirksen Senate O ce Building, Washington, D.C., 20510. 202-224-6253.

Cindy Hyde-Smith • 702 Hart Senate O ce Building, Washington, D.C., 20510. 202-224-5054.

U.S. CONGRESSMEN ★

Trent Kelly • District 1, 1005 Longworth House O ce Building, Washington, D.C. 20515. 202-225-4306.

Bennie Thompson • District 2, 2466 Rayburn House O ce Building, Washington, D.C. 20515. 202-225-5876.

Michael Guest • District 3, 230 Cannon House O ce Building, Washington, D.C. 20515. 202-225-5031.

Mike Ezell • District 4, 2349 Rayburn House O ce Building, Washington, D.C. 20515. 202-225-5772.

STATE OFFICIALS ★

Governor Tate Reeves • P.O. Box 139, Jackson, MS 39205. 601-359-3150.

Lt. Governor Delbert Hoseman • P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215. 601-359-3200.

Secretary of State Michael Watson Heber Ladner Building, 401 Mississippi St., Jackson, MS 39205. 601-359-1350.

Attorney General Lynn Fitch • Walter Sillers Building, 550 High St., Suite 1200, Jackson, MS 39201. 601-359-3680.

Treasurer David McRae • P.O. Box 138, Jackson, MS 39205. 601-359-3600.

State Auditor Shad White • P.O. Box 956, Jackson, MS 39205. 601-576-2800.

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce J. Andrew (Andy) Gipson 121 North Je erson St., Jackson, MS 39201. 601-359-1100.

Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney P.O. Box 79, Jackson, MS 39205. 601-359-3569.

2026 SESSION LEGISLATIVE

STATE SENATORS ★

Sen. Hob Bryan

District 7: Itawamba, Lee, and Monroe counties

Address: P.O. Box 75, Amory, MS 38821

Sen. Angela Turner Ford

District 16: Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee, and Oktibbeha counties

Address: P.O. Drawer 1500, West Point, MS 39773

Sen. Rod Hickman

District 32: Kemper, Lauderdale, Noxubee, and Winston counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Sen. Benjamin A. Suber

District 8: Calhoun, Chickasaw, Lafayette, Pontotoc, and Yalobusha counties

Address: P.O. Box 8, Bruce, MS 38915

STATE REPRESENTATIVES ★

Rep. Andy Boyd

District 37: Clay, Lowndes, and Monroe counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Rep. Karl Gibbs

District 36: Chickasaw, Clay, Monroe, and Oktibbeha counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Rep. Joey Hood

District 35: Choctaw, Oktibbeha, Webster, and Winston counties

Address: P.O. Box 759, Ackerman, MS 39735

Rep. Kabir Karriem

District 41: Lowndes County

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Rep. Jonathan “Jon” Lancaster

District 22: Chickasaw, Monroe, and Pontotoc counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Rep. Dana Underwood McLean

District 39: Lowndes and Monroe counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Rep. Carl L. Mickens

District 42: Kemper, Lowndes, Noxubee, and Winston counties

Address: P.O. Box 427, Brooksville, MS 39739

Rep. Loyd B. (Rob) Roberson II

District 43: Oktibbeha County

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Rep. Perry Bailey

District 23: Calhoun, Lafayette, Pontotoc, and Webster counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Rep. Cheikh Taylor

District 38: Clay, Lowndes, and Oktibbeha counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Sen. Bart Williams

District 15: Choctaw, Montgomery, Oktibbeha, and Webster counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

Sen. Charles A. (Chuck) Younger District 17: Lowndes, Monroe, and Oktibbeha counties

Address: P.O. Box 1018, Jackson, MS 39215

What’s the Bright idea? EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

by Brad Barr

Cole Bright enjoys putting the spotlight on 4-County Electric Power Association.

The co-op’s substation maintenance technician 4 acknowledges that his surname ﬁts in perfectly with the shining reputation 4-County has in the communities it serves. “We work together as a team to make sure we keep the lights bright for our members,” Cole said. “It’s a responsibility we take seriously.”

Cole began working at 4-County two years ago, following an eight-year stint as an industrial maintenance technician for Yokahoma Tire Company. He has an associate’s degree in electrical technology from East Mississippi Community College.

He grew up in the Sapa community of Webster County and continues to live there. Cole attends Maben Baptist Church.

Growing up at the family homestead, Cole enjoyed riding horses. In fact, he competed in rodeo events throughout the Southeast, often winning titles and the coveted belt buckles that come with that success. “Now, I’m just all washed up,” he said with a laugh. In all seriousness, he may have hung up his competition rodeo hat, but he has traded it in for a coach’s hat. “I still enjoy coaching up

my nieces and nephews as they compete in rodeo events. And I always enjoy riding the horses,” Cole said.

“It was a thrill, for sure,” Cole said of his rodeo experience. “The competition and camaraderie were good too.”

Today, in his spare time, Cole enjoys spending time on the river in search of the elusive catﬁsh. The avid ﬁsherman has a 53-pound catch to his credit. “I just enjoy being out on the river with my friends and family.” And I’ve only sunk one boat,” he added in jest.

He has two dogs, a Catahoula Cur, and a lab mix. “Charlene and Lily keep watch around the homeplace.”

At 4-County, Cole maintains and tests equipment related to substations. He enjoys the versatility of his job. “We’re never in the same place or doing the same thing each day. Our work extends throughout our service area. We’re continually working with di erent applications,” he said.

The co-op is a good place to work, he stressed. “I work with some good people. It’s very family oriented. I appreciate that we often open meetings with prayers. We work together as a team.”

CENTRAL ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

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

MEETING

Central Electric Power Association will hold its 89th annual membership meeting on Mar. 17 at the Carthage Coliseum on Highway 16 East in Carthage.

As pursuant to Central Electric Power Association’s bylaws and to provide each Central Electric member an opportunity to vote in a director election, the o cial ballot and proxy will be mailed to all Central Electric members the week of Feb.16.

Enclosed will be an information sheet with “how-to-vote” details along with a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope for members to return their ballot or proxy. Your o cial ballot must

be received via mail no later than March 17. The election results will be published in Today in Mississippi magazine and on the association’s website.

In accordance with the laws of Mississippi and the bylaws of the association, members will elect three directors for three-year terms: two directors from Leake County, and one director from Attala County.

Mark your calendars for March 17, and we’ll see you at the annual meeting!

Should I upgrade my appliance?

by Miranda Boutelle

Buying a new appliance can feel daunting. Before you hand over your hard-earned money, here’s how to choose an appliance that will help you save money over time.

When shopping, keep in mind that not all new appliances are high e ciency and not all old appliances are ine cient. The less e cient your current appliance, the more you will save with an upgrade. The yellow EnergyGuide label on new appliances shows the yearly energy cost, kilowatt-hour electricity use, and ENERGY STAR® logo, if certiﬁed.

Let’s look at some appliance examples to see how the costs and savings stack up.

Refrigerators have seen major e ciency improvements over the years. New refrigerators use up to 73% less energy than 1970s models and about a third less than 20-year-old models.

On a visit to my mom’s house, she proudly showed o her 1980s refrigerator she bought when her 1970s harvest gold model died. If her 80s fridge uses 2,000 kWh per year, at 14 cents per kWh, it costs $280 per year to operate. New ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerator prices start at $500 with yearly energy costs ranging from $38 to $122. If mom buys a new ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerator for $1,000 with $100 yearly energy cost — saving her $180 per year — it will pay for itself in about five and a half years.

If you intend to keep your old appliance, be sure to weigh the additional energy costs. Maximize e ciency and keep your food safe by setting your refrigerator to 37 degrees and your freezer at 0 degrees.

New ENERGY STAR-certified clothes washers and dryers are also more efficient than older models. Use the ENERGY STAR Product Finder at energystar.gov to compare products. Integrated Modified Energy Factor measures the washer’s energy efficiency. A higher number is better. Integrated Water Factor measures water efficiency. A lower number is better.

I recently bought a new washing machine when my old front-load machine died. I was considering a top-load machine. When I compared ENERGY STAR-certified top loaders to front loaders, I changed my mind. Energy Star-certified front loaders use about 50% less energy and water than top-load agitator washers and about 25% less energy and water than top-load impeller washers that don’t have an agitator.

My new washer cost $698. According to the appliance’s EnergyGuide, based on six loads of laundry a week and an electricity cost of 14 cents per kWh, the yearly energy cost is $15. Similar non-ENERGY STAR-certified models were $48 per year. Mine didn’t cost much more than non-Energy Star models and will help me save over time.

Then I had to make the decision about buying the matching dryer. My dryer was functional but had features I didn’t like. At 14 cents per kWh and running roughly six loads a week for an hour each, my old dryer used $131.04 per year.

The new matching ENERGY STAR-certified dryer cost $698 and estimates annual energy use at 607 kWh, which is $84.98 per year at 14 cents per kWh. With an estimated savings of $46 per year, the dryer would take 15 years for the savings to cover the price. That’s a long time and not worth the cost.

To improve your washer and dryer efficiency, wash in cold water, don’t over dry clothes, and clean your lint trap between every load.

Buying a new ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerator and putting the old one out in the garage won’t save energy. However, sometimes the secondary fridge or freezer allows you to save through groceries by stocking up on sales, preserving your own food, and saving gas with fewer trips to the store. It’s all a balance.

Just like the light bulbs in your home, LED televisions offer increased efficiency. ENERGY STAR-certified televisions are 34% more efficient than conventional models. If you have a working LED television, swapping to an ENERGY STAR model is more efficient but may not make up for the cost of a new TV. Instead, check the efficiency settings on your TV or buy a smart power strip that turns off other connected devices when not in use.

Whatever appliance you are upgrading or replacing, make an informed decision by comparing the cost of operation and shopping ENERGY STAR models to help lower your electric bill.

Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company.

If you’re looking for a new TV, ENERGY STAR-certified models are 34% more efficient than conventional models.

To improve the efficiency of your washer, set it to wash in cold water.

THE POWER OF WHAT’S PLUGGED IN

by Jennah Denney

Our homes are changing, and so is the electric grid. Across the country, more households are becoming “smart” and connected. From thermostats that adjust automatically to electric vehicles that charge overnight, the devices we plug in are becoming intelligent, ﬂexible, and increasingly central to how we use and even produce electricity.

For your electric cooperative, this growing network of connected devices creates new ways for co-ops and their members to work together to keep power reliable and a ordable.

What is a connected home?

A connected home is one where everyday appliances and devices can communicate with each other, you or even with your electric co-op. These could include thermostats that adjust to your patterns and preferences, water heaters that operate when electricity is cheaper, home batteries that store solar-generated power for later use, or air-source heat pumps that e ciently heat and cool your home.

Each of these tools can help you use energy more e ciently — and when they are managed e ectively, or when many homes coordinate and balance their energy use together, they can also help your co-op keep power ﬂowing reliably and a ordably for the entire community.

Behind the meter: The power you don’t see

You might have heard the phrase “behind the meter.” This simply refers to energy equipment that operates on your side of the electric meter that you own or control. This could include solar panels, battery storage systems, or connected devices like EV chargers or smart thermostats.

Individually, they may seem small, but together they can make a big di erence. If hundreds of water heaters slightly delay heating during a peak time of day (when electricity use is high), the co-op can avoid purchasing power at a higher cost, which essentially keeps rates lower for members. If home batteries store solar-generated energy during the day and release it back to the grid at night, it helps balance the overall supply and demand of electricity.

How connected devices help the grid

Each day, our electric grid must maintain a perfect balance to match the amount of electricity generated with the amount of electricity we are using — all in real time. Because electricity can’t easily be stored at scale, this balancing act is constant and complex. Connected devices give electric co-ops powerful new tools to help manage this complexity. Traditionally, electricity use was simple: ﬂip a switch and power ﬂows instantly. But today, many devices can

shift when and how they use energy, also known as load flexibility. Load flexibility allows you and your co-op to better align energy use during times when electricity is more a ordable, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

The cooperative advantage

Electric co-ops are led by the members they serve. That means co-ops can design connected home programs that work for your community, not Wall Street. Members who participate can often earn bill credits or incentives, and every member beneﬁts from lower peak costs and improved reliability.

Together, we can build a grid that’s smarter, more ﬂexible, and ready for the future that’s powered by what’s plugged in. Contact your local electric co-op or visit their website to learn more about programs for connected devices and additional ways you can save energy (and money!).

Jennah Denney writes on consumer and cooperative a airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Connected devices such as smart thermostats can help you use energy more e ciently. When many homes coordinate and balance their energy use together, connected devices can also help your co-op keep power ﬂowing reliably and a ordably for the entire community. Photo Credit: LG

by Qua’Shara Monix

February is often wrapped in the language of love. We think of hearts, kindness, compassion, and the people who matter most to us… our families, friends, coworkers, and the communities we serve. Though it is the shortest month of the year, February has a powerful way of reminding us that love is not just something we feel; it is something we show and share every day, at home, outside our homes, and in the workplace.

It is also a month that can bring ﬁerce weather. Winter storms do not always announce themselves politely. They test our patience, our preparedness, and our willingness to look out for one another. In many ways, how we respond to winter weather mirrors how we handle relationships: with intention, care, and a commitment to safety.

Showing love at home can be as simple as checking in, listening, and ensuring our loved ones are safe and warm. Outside our homes, love shows up when we look out for neighbors, especially those who may need extra help during cold weather. In the workplace, love and care are reﬂected through teamwork, clear communication, and a shared focus on safety. Making sure everyone goes home at the end of the day is key.

February reminds us that compassion doesn’t pause when conditions become di cult. In fact, it matters more. Whether we are responding to winter storms or navigating daily responsibilities, the way we treat one another can either strengthen preparedness and trust or disrupt it.

Preparing for unpredictable winter weather is more than a checklist, it is an act of kindness. As we focus on planning ahead, we reduce risk, ease stress, and protect those around us. Following safety procedures and remaining patient with one another helps create a culture where care and compassion thrive, even under pressure.

Annual meeting proxy

February’s fierce kindness: Love that prepares, protects, and prevails

Our resolutions, both personal and professional, play a role here. Choosing to be ready, courteous, and patient helps keep everyone safe and reinforces strong relationships at home and at work.

ESSENTIAL WINTER SAFETY TIPS:

As February continues, keep these important winter safety reminders in mind

• PREPARE AHEAD: Keep emergency supplies on hand, including ﬂashlights, batteries, blankets, and a way to receive weather updates.

• STAY INFORMED: Monitor forecasts and follow guidance from local authorities and Coahoma Electric Cooperative.

• SLOW DOWN: Icy roads and cold conditions require extra patience. Give yourself and others time and space.

• DRESS FOR THE WEATHER: Wear layers and appropriate protective gear when outdoors or working in cold conditions.

• LOOK OUT FOR OTHERS: Check on neighbors, coworkers, and family members, especially the elderly or those living alone. February may be brief, but its message is lasting. Love, care, and compassion are not seasonal, they are daily commitments. As we prepare for winter’s unpredictability and face challenges together, let us choose actions that reﬂect respect and responsibility. Be ready. Be courteous. Be prepared. Be patient. Be safe!! When we lead with love and preparedness, we protect not only ourselves but everyone around us. This type of protection is a powerful way to carry February’s spirit into the months ahead.

Coahoma Electric Power Association has partnered with Survey & Ballot Systems to administer the 2026 proxies. This will be a hybrid proxy. Paper proxies were mailed to all active members, and electronic proxies sent to all members with emails on ﬁle with Coahoma Electric. Proxies were scheduled to arrive by the third week of January.

Should I upgrade my appliance?

by Miranda Boutelle

Buying a new appliance can feel daunting. Before you hand over your hard-earned money, here’s how to choose an appliance that will help you save money over time.

Refrigerators have seen major e ciency improvements over the years. New refrigerators use up to 73% less energy than 1970s models and about a third less than 20-year-old models.

To improve your washer and dryer efficiency, wash in cold water, don’t over dry clothes, and clean your lint trap between every load.

Whatever appliance you are upgrading or replacing, make an informed decision by comparing the cost of operation and shopping ENERGY STAR models to help lower your electric bill.

Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company.

If you’re looking for a new TV, ENERGY STAR-certified models are 34% more efficient than conventional models.

To improve the efficiency of your washer, set it to wash in cold water.

THE POWER OF WHAT’S PLUGGED IN

by Jennah Denney

For your electric cooperative, this growing network of connected devices creates new ways for co-ops and their members to work together to keep power reliable and a ordable.

What is a connected home?

Behind the meter: The power you don’t see

How connected devices help the grid

The cooperative advantage

Jennah Denney writes on consumer and cooperative a airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

At Coast Electric and CoastConnect, we believe that listening to our members and subscribers is the foundation of exceptional service. Every year, we conduct satisfaction surveys for each company to ensure we’re meeting your expectations. This year, your feedback speaks volumes. Coast Electric and CoastConnect each earned an outstanding score of 90 on the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), placing us among the top service providers nationwide. This achievement reﬂects not only your trust in us but also the dedication of our employees who work tirelessly to serve you.

Your input matters. When you take the time to share your experiences, you help us identify what we’re doing well and where we can improve. In fact, six key areas — some of which include east of contact, keeping you informed, resolving issues quickly, and o ering convenient payment options — showed signiﬁcant improvement over last year. These gains are a direct result of listening to you and acting on what you told us.

Putting our members FIRST Share Your Blessings

A good response from your cooperative isn’t just about answering questions — it’s about anticipating needs and delivering value. Whether it’s restoring power quickly after an outage or providing ﬂexible ways to manage your account, we strive to make every interaction positive and productive. Our commitment to continuous improvement ensures that we’re not only meeting today’s expectations but preparing for tomorrow’s challenges. Thank you for your trust, your feedback and your partnership. Together, we’re building a stronger, more responsive cooperative — one that puts members ﬁrst in everything we do.

by Chris Rhodes

President and CEO

When Coast Electric members round up their bills each month, they are not only helping fund community grants for charities that make a local impact, they are also helping friends and neighbors who need temporary help with life’s necessities. Most everyone will experience a ﬁnancial setback at some point and, when they do, the Share Your Blessings fund can help. Electric use is largely impacted by weather, so extreme cold in the winter means higher bills for consumers. Heating accounts for nearly half of electric use in the winter, and when temperatures are low, heating units cycle on more often, increasing energy use and creating higher bills for members, even when they practice energy e ciency. Increases in bills cause a greater need for assistance. Members who wish to make an additional gift to Catholic Charities can visit any Coast Electric o ce or call us at 877-769-2372. All donations will be designated to help Coast Electric members. Coast Electric members in need of assistance can reach out to our partners at Catholic Charities of South Mississippi at 855-847-0555 to see if they qualify for help. Funds are distributed based on need, not religious a liation. Thanks to all of our members who participate in Operation Round Up each month. Your generous contributions make life a little brighter for our community.

Thanks for giving us high marks!

Coast Electric and CoastConnect recently received results of their 2025 member and subscriber satisfaction surveys, and consumers gave both companies overwhelmingly positive feedback! Both companies received an overall score of a 90 out of 100 on the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), putting them in the top 12 % of providers nationwide.

HIGHLIGHTS

OF THE 17 PERFORMANCE QUALITY ATTRIBUTES MEASURED... OF THE 10 PERFORMANCE QUALITY ATTRIBUTES MEASURED...

4.0 ALL 17 ATTRIBUTES SCORED ABOVE “GOOD”

HIGHEST RATED ATTRIBUTES:

SIX ATTRIBUTES INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY

4.5

12 ATTRIBUTES SCORED HIGHER THAN “EXCELLENT”

• FRIENDLY/COURTEOUS EMPLOYEES

• HIGHLY TRAINED/PROF ESSIONAL EMPLOYEES

• RESTORING POWER QUICKLY AFTER OUTAGE

• BEING EASY TO REACH • KEEPING CONSUMERS INFORMED •

• RESOLVING ISSUES • DELIVERING GOOD VALUE FOR THE MONEY •

• HAVING MEMBERS’ BEST INTERESTS AT HEART •

• CONVENIENT PAYMENT OPTIONS •

Coast Electric completed its annual member satisfaction survey, where over 590 members were asked to participate. The member responses were sent to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), a company that measures customer satisfaction across multiple industries throughout the entire United States. For 2025, Coast Electric received an ACSI score of 90, on a 100-point scale. Coast Electric’s score is higher when compared to publicly measured cooperative utility scores reported in the syndicated 2025 ACSI Energy Utility Study and places Coast Electric 16 points higher than the average investor-owned utility score of 74, as well as 15 points higher than the municipal utilities score of 75, per the industry ratings. For more information, please visit https://theacsi. org/industries/energy-utilities/.

9 WOULD RECOMMEND COASTCONNECT TO A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER ARE PROMOTERS OUT OF 10 SUBSCRIBERS

4.0 ALL 10 ATTRIBUTES SCORED ABOVE “GOOD”

8 ATTRIBUTES SCORED HIGHER THAN “EXCELLENT”

4.5

HIGHEST RATED ATTRIBUTE: FRIENDLY/COURTEOUS EMPLOYEES

CoastConnect completed its annual subscriber satisfaction survey, where over 428 subscribers were asked to participate. The subscribers’ responses were sent to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), a company that measures customer satisfaction across multiple industries throughout the entire United States. For 2025, CoastConnect received an ACSI score of 90 on a 100-point scale. 1 CoastConnect’s score is higher when compared to 2025 Fiber Internet Service Provider scores/ Non-ﬁber Internet Service Provider scores reported in the syndicated 2025 ACSI Telecommunications Study and places CoastConnect 15 points higher than the average Fiber Internet Service Provider score of 75, as well as 20 points higher than the average Non-ﬁber Internet Service Provider score of 70, per the industry ratings. For more information, please visit https://theacsi.org/industries/ telecommunications-and-information/internet-service-providers/.

Coast Electric wants you to reduce your energy use and see savings on your monthly energy costs. Each month, you will have an opportunity to register to win a prize that will help you reduce energy consumption in your home.

Congratulations to Millerree Varnado the winner of our December Reduce Your Use prize. Visit coastelectric.coop and ﬁll out our entry form. It only takes a few seconds, and you could win a prize that helps you save!

COAST ELECTRIC AND COOPERATIVE

Announce Powering Possibilities Grant Winner

Coast Electric, in partnership with Cooperative Energy, is proud to announce that Julie Berry has been selected as the 2025 Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant winner representing Coast Electric.

Berry was selected among other nominees for her 11-year commitment to supporting vulnerable children in Hancock County through her service as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Having advocated for 30 children through some of the most challenging moments of their lives, Berry also ensures their educational, emotional, and developmental needs are met with compassion and integrity. Berry’s steadfast advocacy, consistency, and deep care have left an enduring impact on the lives of countless children.

As part of this recognition, Cooperative Energy will make a $1,000 charitable donation in Berry’s name to CASA of South Mississippi, a nonproﬁt organization serving communities within the cooperative’s service area.

The Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant celebrates volunteers who embody the cooperative principle of Concern for Community. These men and women dedicate their time and talents to making a positive di erence in the lives of others. Through this program, Cooperative Energy and its 11 Member electric cooperatives honor outstanding community volunteers by awarding donations to qualifying nonproﬁt organizations selected in each cooperative’s territory.

“It’s very rewarding,” Berry said of her e orts with CASA. “We’ve got a great court system here. They are very supportive of CASA’s input in the cases. We’re trying to help the courts make decisions on these children’s futures, so it’s really important that we understand what the objectives are and that we are able to be objective and give the court facts.” Berry notes the excellent training volunteers are given as one of the reasons CASA is successful for our community’s children. She said the most rewarding part of volunteering as an advocate is seeing cases that have a conclusion that works for the families. Many of the families Berry has advocated for have stayed in touch throughout the years, allowing her to see the long-term success of CASA.

“Julie’s commitment to advocating on behalf of the coast’s most vulnerable children truly represents the cooperative spirit,” said Coast Electric Director of Community Development Janell Nolan. “We’re honored to recognize her dedication and to support CASA of South Mississippi, which shares that same mission of strengthening our communities.”

Founded on the principle of local people serving local needs, the Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant reﬂects the ongoing partnership between Cooperative Energy and its Member cooperatives, including Coast Electric, to power meaningful change beyond electricity.

“Our members and their communities inspire us,” said Christa Bishop, executive vice president and chief communications o cer for Cooperative Energy. “Through Powering Possibilities grant program, we’re proud to highlight the volunteers and organizations that power Mississippi through compassion and service.”

The donation will support CASA’s mission to advocate for South Mississippi’s abused and neglected children by supporting volunteers who promote safety, permanency and resilience, creating a community where all children thrive in safe and nurturing families.

Julie’s commitment to advocating on behalf of the coast’s most vulnerable children truly represents the cooperative spirit.

SmartTown

CoastConnect is extending the fast, reliable WiFi experience you know and love beyond your home and into the community. With SmartTown, CoastConnect subscribers will be able to enjoy a secure, authenticated WiFi connection around town, to keep you connected wherever you live, work and play.

We’re rolling out SmartTown, starting with our first responders. Providing reliable, high-speed access in the field helps our local first responders share information quickly and e ciently and keep our community safe. We’re proud to support the people who serve us every day.

As SmartTown expands, you may notice the network name “CoastConnect_SmartTown” appear on your router. It’s important to note that enabling SmartTown will not impact your connection in your home. Your personal network and devices will remain separate, secure and private. You will not see any changes in the way your service works today.

Stay tuned as CoastConnect brings next-level connectivity to the place we all call home! For more information, please visit www.CoastConnect.com/community.

Here’s how it works:

TURN YOUR CONNECTIONS INTO CASH

Sign up to be a CoastConnect Ambassador today, so you can start turning your connections into cash. It’s our way of saying thanks for spreading the word about our high-speed internet and phone service.

• Visit coastconnect.com to sign up to be a CoastConnect Ambassador.

• Once signed up, you will receive a personalized referral QR code to share with friends, family, neighbors and anybody who needs faster internet.

• When someone signs up for CoastConnect service using your referral QR code, you and the new subscriber will receive a gift card after the referred subscriber pays their ﬁrst bill.

• The more people you refer, the more you earn. It’s that easy!

Sign up to be a CoastConnect Ambassador today! You can receive $50 for each residential referral or $100 for each business referral.

Visit CoastConnect.com to learn more and start earning today.

The power surge

FACTORS DRIVING THE RISING DEMAND

Across the U.S., the demand for power is climbing at one of the fastest rates in decades. As the economy becomes more reliant on electricity, electric cooperatives are preparing to meet the challenges that skyrocketing demand brings.

The North American Reliability Corporation — the watchdog for the U.S. electric grid — recently released the 2025-2026 winter reliability assessment, which echoed other recent reports, including longer-term outlooks that expect su cient energy resources during normal conditions but potential supply shortfalls and outages under more intense weather conditions.

Extreme weather coupled with additional factors that are driving increased demand creates challenges for electric utilities, including cooperatives, in their mission to provide reliable power around the clock.

Several key factors are driving increased demand — including economic growth, expanded manufacturing, and increased electriﬁcation in transportation. Together, these trends are reshaping how much electricity we consume and how quickly co-ops must adapt to meet future needs.

One of the biggest drivers of rising demand is increased electriﬁcation. More homes and businesses are transitioning to electricity for home heating, water heating, and transportation. EVs are becoming more common on the road, and many states are o ering incentives to help consumers make the switch. Additionally, electric heat pumps are replacing traditional furnaces in many homes due to their e ciency. These transitions mean more energy use and pressure placed on our electric grid.

Economic and manufacturing growth are also contributing to higher electricity use. As businesses expand and new industries take root, especially in rural and suburban areas, the demand for reliable, high-capacity power is increasing. The resurgence of domestic manufacturing has led to major facility construction. These facilities often require substantial energy loads, and many operate continuously to keep production lines running. This growth brings jobs and investment, but it also puts new pressures on the electric grid.

Population growth and housing development are also contributing to rising demand in many regions, and everyday life is becoming more energy dependent, too. Smart appliances, connected devices, home o ces, and entertainment systems are adding to overall consumption, even as e ciency improves.

While increased demand presents new challenges for electric utilities, it also has the potential to create signiﬁcant opportunities

FOR ELECTRICITY

for co-ops and the communities they serve, such as job growth, steady revenue, and improved infrastructure. Electric co-ops are responding by planning carefully for the future — investing in grid modernization and o ering programs and services to help co-op members conserve energy. Exploring additional generation sources, strengthening transmission systems, and implementing technologies that help manage peak load are just a few of the ways co-ops are planning for increased demand. Strategic planning is critical to ensuring the grid can support everything from EV charging to large-scale manufacturing plants.

Electricity powers nearly every aspect of today’s economy, and its role will only grow stronger. As electriﬁcation accelerates, long-term planning becomes more important than ever.

Your electric co-op is ready to meet rising demand in our local communities. Through innovation, investment and collaboration, we are preparing for a more reliable and resilient energy future.

Should I upgrade my appliance?

by Miranda Boutelle

Buying a new appliance can feel daunting. Before you hand over your hard-earned money, here’s how to choose an appliance that will help you save money over time.

Let’s look at some appliance examples to see how the costs and savings stack up.

Refrigerators have seen major e ciency improvements over the years. New refrigerators use up to 73% less energy than 1970s models and about a third less than 20-year-old models.

To improve your washer and dryer efficiency, wash in cold water, don’t over dry clothes, and clean your lint trap between every load.

Whatever appliance you are upgrading or replacing, make an informed decision by comparing the cost of operation and shopping ENERGY STAR models to help lower your electric bill.

Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company.

If you’re looking for a new TV, ENERGY STAR-certified

models are 34% more efficient than conventional models.

To improve the efficiency of your washer, set it to wash in cold water.

THE POWER OF WHAT’S PLUGGED IN

by Jennah Denney

For your electric cooperative, this growing network of connected devices creates new ways for co-ops and their members to work together to keep power reliable and a ordable.

What is a connected home?

Behind the meter: The power you don’t see

How connected devices help the grid

Connected devices give electric co-ops powerful new tools to help manage this complexity. Traditionally, electricity use was simple: flip a switch and power flows instantly. But today, many devices can shift when and how they use energy, also known as load flexibility. Load flexibility allows you and your co-op to better align energy use during times when electricity is more a ordable, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

The cooperative advantage

Jennah Denney writes on consumer and cooperative a airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Photo Credit: LG

Powering through the cold

From time to time, it’s good to pause and remind our members about ways to save energy, especially during the winter months. When temperatures drop, our heating systems work harder and run longer, which leads to higher energy use — and that often results in higher bills.

It’s important to remember that your electric meter works a lot like a register on a gas pump. As you ﬁ ll up your car, the number of gallons and the cost increases as you pump fuel into your car. Your electric meter works the same way; it measures the amount of electricity your home uses and tallies it up. In much the same way that how much gas you put in your tank determines how much you pay for it, the energy you pay for is entirely determined on how much energy your home consumes. The power to manage your bill is literally in your hands.

While comfort during the cold is important, it unfortunately does come at a cost. Heating accounts for the largest portion of most members’ winter energy use, but a few small adjustments can make a noticeable di erence.

Here are a few practical ways to reduce your energy use without sacriﬁcing comfort:

• Seal up drafts. A few dollars worth of caulk or weatherstripping around doors and windows can go a long way in keeping the warm air inside and the cold air out. It’s a small investment that can make a big di erence.

• Be mindful of the thermostat. Setting your thermostat just one or two degrees lower can lead to meaningful savings over time. Consider using a programmable smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away or asleep.

• Avoid space heaters. They may seem convenient, but space heaters consume a signiﬁcant amount of electricity and can quickly increase your bill. They are intended to warm people, not rooms, and should not be used as a substitute for your central heating system.

• Let the sun help. Open curtains or blinds during the day to allow natural warmth to enter your home, and close them at night to keep that heat from escaping.

• Install a timer on your water heater. If your water heater is electric, it’s the second-largest source of energy consumption in your home during the winter months, right behind your heating unit. It runs even while you sleep to maintain the water temperature you’ve set. By installing a timer, you can prevent it from running during those overnight hours, reducing your energy use during the coldest (and most expensive) part of the day.

At Dixie Electric, we’re committed to helping our members make smart, informed choices about their energy use. We understand that comfort matters, especially during the coldest months of the year. However, by taking small steps and staying mindful of your energy habits, you can keep your home comfortable and your bill manageable.

by Randy Smith General Manager

by Amanda Mills

After nearly three decades of dedicated service, Mike Chancellor is retiring from Dixie Electric, closing a chapter on a career deﬁ ned by hard work, mentorship, and a genuine love for serving others.

Mike began his journey with Dixie Electric in July 1998 as a collector. Just two years later, he transitioned to the line crew as a groundman, laying the groundwork for a career that would span multiple roles and departments. Through determination and hard work, Mike worked his way up to become a lineman, a role in which he spent many years serving members and mentoring others. In 2019, he was promoted to his current position as a staking technician.

Those who have worked alongside Mike know his presence is hard to miss, but it’s his character that truly sets him apart.

“Mike’s stature may stand out, but it’s his heart that truly deﬁ nes him,” said Distribution Engineer Andrew Jones. “He leads with kindness, treats everyone with respect, and brings a level of warmth and sincerity that makes a lasting impact on everyone he meets.”

Throughout his career, Mike has been known not only for his knowledge but also for his willingness to teach and encourage others. General Manager Randy Smith said that mentoring has always been a deﬁ ning part of Mike’s legacy.

“Mike has always been known as Big Daddy, and it ﬁts in more ways than one,” Smith said. “He’s been a good teacher and mentor over the years, especially to the younger guys on his crews when he was a lineman. Several younger employees in the staking department have also been mentored by Mike. He’s a huge prankster with a great sense of humor, but he takes his job seriously and always does his best to provide our members with what they need.”

Smith added that Mike’s ability to connect with members has been invaluable. “When members don’t know or aren’t sure what they need, Mike patiently guides them through the process and helps them understand what they’re getting and the costs associated with it. Mike has been an asset to Dixie Electric for a long time, and we are going to miss him.”

MORE THAN A JOB Celebrating Mike Chancellor’s legacy at Dixie Electric

For Mike, the relationships he’s built over the years are what stand out most.

“The part of my job I enjoyed the most was helping and guiding people and meeting the needs of our members,” Mike said. “I’ve met so many new people while working at Dixie. Many of my coworkers and the members I’ve served have become lifelong friends.”

When asked who had the biggest impact on him throughout his career, Mike pointed to the leaders who shaped him early on. “During my time as a lineman, I learned so much from my foremen Harold Ishee, David Hayes, and Guy Shelton,” he said. “These men were knowledgeable, hardworking, and led by example.”

One of Mike’s most unforgettable experiences came during one of the most di cult times in Dixie Electric’s history — Hurricane Katrina. “Working through all the hardships and seeing the destruction Katrina brought to our area is deﬁ nitely something I’ll never forget,” Mike said. “It was truly an honor to work for a company that was helping people rebuild their lives.”

As he looks ahead to retirement, Mike said leaving won’t be easy. “Dixie Electric has been more than a job to me,” he shared. “The company, the coworkers, and the people we serve have been a huge part of my life for the last 27 years. I know I’ll miss all of it.”

Retirement, however, will give Mike the opportunity to spend more time doing what he loves. “My wife tells me I have too many hobbies,” he laughed. “I enjoy traveling, ﬁshing, hunting, and gardening, and I never seem to have enough time for everything.”

He also plans to continue giving back through volunteer work at his church. “I serve as a greeter for guest services at Journey, and meeting new people and making them feel welcome has been a huge blessing,” Mike said. “My wife and I hope to serve our church and community well with our extra time.”

As Mike Chancellor steps into retirement, Dixie Electric thanks him for 27 years of commitment, leadership, and heart. His legacy will live on through the employees he mentored, the members he served, and the countless lives he touched along the way.

at first stream Love

by Amanda Mills

February is the month of love, and for many of us, there’s nothing better than a cozy night at home with the ones we love most. Maybe that means takeout, fuzzy blankets, and a favorite movie streaming on the TV. But for others, just the word “streaming” feels overwhelming. With so many services, remotes, and apps to choose from, it can be hard to know where to even begin.

Over the years, we’ve heard countless testimonials from members who have saved a signiﬁcant amount of money by switching to streaming. Many were paying high cable bills ﬁ lled with hidden fees for channels they rarely watched. Once they made the change, they were surprised by both the simplicity and the savings.

That’s where we want to help. At Dixie Electric and DE Fastlink, we know that streaming can feel like learning a new language, but it doesn’t have to be. On our website, defastlink. net, you’ll ﬁ nd a resource called StreamNow, designed to simplify the process and make it easy to understand, no matter your comfort level with technology.

The StreamNow guide walks you through every step — from choosing your equipment to ﬁ nding the streaming services that ﬁt your household best. You’ll learn how to connect devices like Amazon Fire Sticks, Roku Sticks, and smart TVs; how to sign up for your favorite services; and how to explore live TV, on-demand, and even free streaming options.

One of the coolest features of the site is our Live TV Channel Lineup tool. Think of it as a matchmaking service, but for your television. If you’ve ever thought about cutting the cord and switching from cable but weren’t sure which service o ered your favorite channels, this tool does the searching for you. Simply type in the channels that matter most to your family, and it will show you which streaming services carry them. It’s a fast, easy way to see which service is your perfect match.

Streaming isn’t just a new way to watch, it’s a smarter, more ﬂexible option that puts the control back in your hands. You choose what you want, when you want it, and how you want to watch it. Whether you’re a movie bu , sports fan, or binge-watcher, there’s a perfect setup for every household, and StreamNow helps you ﬁ nd it.

So, this Valentine’s Day, skip the crowded restaurants and fall in love with the idea of a stay-at-home date night. Pop some popcorn, get cozy, and stream a favorite movie or show using the power of DE Fastlink ﬁber.

After all, when you have fast, reliable internet, every night can feel like movie night — and that’s something to truly love.

Scan here to learn more

Calvary Baptist Church, Petal

Richton Methodist Church First Baptist Runnelstown

These organizations have programs to help children with food insecurities in our communities.

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

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

Why power costs have increased and what it means for you

At East Mississippi Electric Power Association (EMEPA), our goal is simple: to provide reliable electricity at the lowest possible cost. As a member-owned cooperative, we work hard to manage expenses and plan carefully, so we can keep rates stable. Sometimes, though, factors outside our control a ect the cost of power for utilities across the region.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, EMEPA experienced an increase in wholesale power cost — the price we pay for electricity before it reaches your home or business. Wholesale power makes up the largest portion of your electric bill, and the biggest driver behind this increase is the rising cost of natural gas, which is widely used to generate electricity throughout the Southeast.

Natural gas prices are inﬂuenced by supply and demand. During periods of extreme heat or cold, electricity use rises, which increases demand for natural gas–fueled power plants. At the same time, U.S. natural gas is in high demand around the world, and exports can tighten supplies at home. Production challenges, pipeline constraints and weather-related disruptions can also a ect availability and pricing.

Because of these factors, members may notice a modest increase in power costs. For the average residential member, this increase amounts to about 37 cents per day, or roughly $11.47 per month. We understand that any increase matters, and we do not take this lightly.

The good news is that there are steps — both now and in the long term — that help stabilize energy costs. Expanding natural gas production and improving pipeline and storage infrastructure can help better balance supply and demand over time. Diversifying how electricity is generated also plays an important role. Using a mix of energy resources, including

Board of Directors nominations

According to Section 4.04(b) of the Bylaws of East Mississippi Electric Power Association, any 50 members acting together may nominate a qualiﬁed member to serve as director on the Board of Directors by petition. Any petition nominating a qualiﬁed member shall be submitted on a form designated and provided by the Association. Each member signing such petition shall place thereon the date of signing and the address, account number and service location of the member.

renewables and other baseload generation, reduces reliance on natural gas alone and helps limit the impact when fuel prices rise.

Energy e ciency is another key piece of the puzzle. When overall electricity use is lower — especially during peak times — less natural gas is needed to generate power. That helps control fuel costs for everyone. Utilities also rely on long-term planning tools, such as fuel hedging and power supply contracts, to help reduce exposure to short-term market swings.

EMEPA works closely with our power suppliers to support these strategies while planning carefully for the future. Our focus is always on reliability, a ordability and responsible stewardship of member dollars.

As a not-for-proﬁt cooperative, EMEPA does not make money from electricity sales. Any adjustments to power costs are made only to cover the actual cost of providing safe, dependable service. If costs go down, those savings ﬂow back to our members.

If you have questions about your bill, would like help ﬁnding ways to save energy, or need information about assistance programs, our team is always here to help. Thank you for being a valued member of EMEPA and for trusting us to power your home and community.

by Randy Carroll

Qualiﬁed nominations made by petition, if any, must be received at the principal o ce of the Association (2211 A Street, Meridian, MS 39301) on or before the second Wednesday in April. The Credentials Committee shall review and consider suggestions for nominees from members of the Association and shall review all nominations and petitions for compliance with Association Bylaws.

| FEBRUARY

CEO — East Mississippi Electric Power Association

Should I upgrade my appliance?

by Miranda Boutelle

Buying a new appliance can feel daunting. Before you hand over your hard-earned money, here’s how to choose an appliance that will help you save money over time.

Refrigerators have seen major e ciency improvements over the years. New refrigerators use up to 73% less energy than 1970s models and about a third less than 20-year-old models.

To improve your washer and dryer efficiency, wash in cold water, don’t over dry clothes, and clean your lint trap between every load.

Whatever appliance you are upgrading or replacing, make an informed decision by comparing the cost of operation and shopping ENERGY STAR models to help lower your electric bill.

Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company.

If you’re looking for a new TV, ENERGY STAR-certified models are 34% more efficient than conventional models.

To improve the efficiency of your washer, set it to wash in cold water.

Unlock the Full Power of Fiber

Now is the perfect time to maximize speed, security and convenience

February brings a welcome sense of routine after the busy holiday season. As families across East Mississippi settle into the year, many are looking for ways to make life simpler, smoother and more connected. With East Mississippi Connect’s ﬁber internet now available throughout the entire service area, every household has the opportunity to get more from technology than ever before. This month is an ideal time to explore how your ﬁber connection can elevate daily life, whether you are working, studying, streaming, gaming or managing a smart home.

Fiber internet is built for modern living. Today’s homes rely on connected devices—smart TVs, video doorbells, thermostats, tablets, laptops, gaming systems and voice-activated assistants. As these devices multiply, the demand on your Wi-Fi network grows. East MS Connect’s ﬁber network provides the bandwidth and reliability you need to power them all at once. This February, take a moment to review your home setup—router placement, device connections and Wi-Fi coverage—to ensure you are getting the strongest signal in every room.

Evolving trends

Another trend shaping 2026 is the expansion of remote work and virtual classrooms. The quality of your internet connection can influence productivity, communication and overall work performance. With symmetrical upload and download speeds, East MS Connect ensures smooth video calls, fast file sharing and frustration-free collaboration. If you experienced slowdowns before fiber service arrived, you now have access to performance that supports the demands of today’s workplace—right from your kitchen table or home o ce.

Entertainment continues to evolve, as well. Streaming platforms o er ultra-high-deﬁnition programming, online gaming grows more advanced each year and virtual reality is becoming more mainstream. These digital experiences require a sturdy, high-speed connection. East MS Connect’s ﬁber infrastructure ensures your home remains ready for the next generation of entertainment, allowing multiple family members to stream, game and browse simultaneously without bu ering or delays. It’s a level of reliability that older technologies simply cannot match.

Connections and security

February is also a good time to review digital safety habits. As the number of connected devices continues to climb, securing your home network is becoming increasingly important. East MS Connect’s ﬁber foundation o ers built-in resilience, but customers can further strengthen security through updated passwords, parental controls and router management tools. Protecting your devices helps safeguard your personal information and ensures your network runs e ciently.

Stay in touch

Finally, staying informed is key to getting the most out of your service. By visiting eastmsconnect.com, you can access helpful resources, troubleshoot issues, learn about new features and manage your account with ease. The website is your gateway to updates, tips and tools that help you use your ﬁber connection to its fullest potential.

With ﬁber now reaching every corner of the East MS Connect service area, explore what high-speed ﬁber can do for your home. The technology is in place. Now is the time to unlock its full power.

Cannot attend?

As a member, if you know you cannot attend the Annual Meeting in person, we ask that you send in your proxy.

The proxies were sent in the mail on Jan. 28 and were slated to arrive in mailboxes in early February.

“I ask that our members look for the proxies and be a part of our election process by sending in your proxies if you cannot attend the meeting,” said General Manager Darrell Smith. “It is very important that our members take part in our election process.”

For sending in your proxy, you

MEP 2026 Annual Meeting

Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant winner announced

Magnolia Electric Power, in partnership with Cooperative Energy, is proud to announce that Johanna White has been selected as Magnolia’s 2025 Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant winner.

White plays a key role with the Southwest Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center, helping provide a safe and supportive space for children in need. White volunteers her time to organize major events such as a local silent auction and the Bingo and Bubbly fundraiser, and she recently served as chair of the center’s annual fundraising event.

As part of this recognition, Cooperative Energy made a $1,000 charitable donation in White’s name to Southwest Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center, a nonproﬁt organization serving communities within the cooperative’s service area.

Through this program, Cooperative Energy and its 11 Member electric cooperatives honor outstanding community volunteers by

awarding donations to qualifying nonproﬁt organizations selected in each cooperative’s territory.

“White’s commitment to supporting southwest Mississippi’s most vulnerable children truly represents the cooperative spirit,” said Magnolia Electric Power Manager of Member Services and Communications Lucy Shell. “We are honored to recognize her dedication and to support Southwest Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center, which shares that same mission of strengthening our communities.”

Founded on the principle of local people serving local needs, the Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant reﬂects the ongoing partnership between Cooperative Energy and its Member cooperatives, including Magnolia Electric Power, to power meaningful change beyond electricity.

“Our members and their communities inspire us,” said Christa Bishop, executive vice president and chief communications o cer for Cooperative Energy. “Through the Powering Possibilities grant program, we’re proud to highlight the volunteers and organizations that power Mississippi through compassion and service.”

The donation will support victims of childhood and vulnerable adult abuse.

From left: Southwest Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center’s Nic Ricceri with Johanna White and Heather Atwood. Ricerri is accepting the $1,000 donation.

Heather Atwood presents the Cooperative Energy’s Powering Possibilities Community Service Award to Johanna White (right).

Those receiving awards for their years of service were

45 years Dennis Butler

40 years Chris Anglin

35 Years Tracy Lambert, John Lee, Mike McKenzie, and Tony Nettles

25 Years Terry Causey and Justin Thomas

20 Years Carl Fuller

FOR YOUR SERVICE

15 Years Lawrence Weems and Luis Ybarra

10 Years Kaylan Bracey, Yvonne Dillon, and Alex Fortenberry

5 Years Scotty Brown

Magnolia Electric Power employees, retirees, and board members gathered for a lunch recently to celebrate MEP employees’ service awards.

Representing 35 years are (from left) Tony Nettles and Darrell Smith.

Representing 20 years are (from left) Darrell Smith and Carl Fuller.

Representing 15 years are (from left) Darrell Smith, Lawrence Weems and Luis Ybarra

Representing 10 years are (from left) Darrell Smith, Kaylan Bracey, Alex Fortenberry, and Yvonne Dillon.

Representing 5 years are (from left) Darrell Smith and Scotty Brown.

Representing 25 years are (from left) Darrell Smith and Terry Causey. Not pictured is Justin Thomas.

Representing 35 years are (from left) Darrell Smith, John Lee, Tracy Lambert and Mike McKenzie.

Representing 40 years are (from left) Darrell Smith and Chris Anglin. Not pictured: Dennis Butler, 45 years of service.

Should I upgrade my appliance?

Buying a new appliance can feel daunting. Before you hand over your hard-earned money, here’s how to choose an appliance that will help you save money over time.

by Miranda Boutelle

Let’s look at some appliance examples to see how the costs and savings stack up.

Refrigerators have seen major e ciency improvements over the years. New refrigerators use up to 73% less energy than 1970s models and about a third less than 20-year-old models.

New ENERGY STAR-certiﬁed clothes washers and dryers are also more e cient than older models. Use the ENERGY STAR Product Finder at energystar.gov to compare products. Integrated Modiﬁed Energy Factor measures the washer’s energy e ciency. A higher number is better. Integrated Water Factor measures water e ciency. A lower number is better.

I recently bought a new washing machine when my old front-load machine died. I was considering a top-load machine. When I compared ENERGY STAR-certiﬁed top loaders to front loaders, I changed my mind. ENERGY STAR-certiﬁed front loaders use about 50% less energy and water than top-load agitator washers and about 25% less energy and water than top-load impeller washers that don’t have an agitator.

My new washer cost $698. According to the appliance’s EnergyGuide, based on six loads of laundry a week and an electricity cost of 14 cents per kWh, the yearly energy cost is $15. Similar non-ENERGY STARcertiﬁed models were $48 per year. Mine didn’t cost much more than non-ENERGY STAR models and will help me save over time.

Then I had to make the decision about buying the matching dryer. My dryer was functional but had features I didn’t like. At 14 cents per

kWh and running roughly six loads a week for an hour each, my old dryer used $131.04 per year.

The new matching ENERGY STAR-certiﬁed dryer cost $698 and estimates annual energy use at 607 kWh, which is $84.98 per year at 14 cents per kWh. With an estimated savings of $46 per year, the dryer would take 15 years for the savings to cover the price. That’s a long time and not worth the cost.

To improve your washer and dryer e ciency, wash in cold water, don’t over dry clothes, and clean your lint trap between every load.

Just like the light bulbs in your home, LED televisions o er increased e ciency. ENERGY STAR-certiﬁed televisions are 34% more e cient than conventional models. If you have a working LED television, swapping to an ENERGY STAR model is more e cient but may not make up for the cost of a new TV. Instead, check the e ciency settings on your TV or buy a smart power strip that turns o other connected devices when not in use.

Whatever appliance you are upgrading or replacing, make an informed decision by comparing the cost of operation and shopping ENERGY STAR models to help lower your electric bill.

Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company.

If you’re looking for a new TV, ENERGY STAR-certiﬁed models are 34% more e cient than conventional models.

The power surge FACTORS DRIVING THE RISING DEMAND FOR ELECTRICITY

While increased demand presents new challenges for electric utilities, it also has the potential to create signiﬁcant opportunities

Electricity powers nearly every aspect of today’s economy, and its role will only grow stronger. As electriﬁcation accelerates, long-term planning becomes more important than ever.

Your electric co-op is ready to meet rising demand in our local communities. Through innovation, investment and collaboration, we are preparing for a more reliable and resilient energy future.