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FOR MEMBERS OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI

the art FIND in

Summit HORSES

AND THERAPY NOVEMBER

2026

THANKSGIVING

DESSERTS

A FIELD OF

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News and Notes

Central linemen first in state to participate in accredited training (Back row left to right) Central Electric Apprentice Linemen Jacob Henry, Jayden Wilder, Erik Pullin, Brewer McLain, and Brandon Felton. (Front row left to right) Central Electric Apprentice Linemen TJ Yates, Brad Hunter, Chris Robins, John Dolores, and Bryson Norman. Not pictured: Matthew Scarbrough.

Eleven Central Electric Power Association apprentice linemen were the first in the state to participate in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s (ECM) federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship Program. Although ECM’s Lineman Apprentice Program has been around since 2014, in 2019, ECM Director of Education and Apprenticeship Training Chad Crockett worked to get the program accredited by the federal government and the state. Today, the apprenticeship program is accredited by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program. There are close to 400 apprentices enrolled in the program. The 11 Central employees who signed the apprentice agreement recently are the first to have their co-op sign the employer’s agreement with the

U.S. Department of Labor. As a result, they will receive a completion certificate from the federal agency. Crockett said the program has not changed, but the accreditation track adds the highest level of outside accreditation for the prestigious course. The 4-year program was designed to train personnel in the construction, maintenance, and operation of an electrical distribution system. The program’s training ensures future electric cooperative linemen in the state can effectively carry out overhead and underground line constriction, operations, maintenance, and restoration of service of electrical transmission, substation, and distribution systems. Crockett also said the program can count as 30 hours of community college credit toward electrical line work associate degrees.

NRECA, co-ops receive $232 million for grid upgrades Electric cooperatives have secured more than $200 million in federal funding to build and upgrade transmission infrastructure through the third round of the Department of Energy’s $10.5 billion Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program. The new round, dubbed the Speed to Power Through Accelerated Reconductoring and Other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK) initiative, will provide $87 million to a consortium made up of NRECA and five other co-ops to make transmission infrastructure improvements across a half-dozen states. Another six co-ops that were not part of the consortium were selected for $145 million in SPARK awards. “Electric cooperatives are making substantial investments to strengthen the electric grid, which is critical to providing reliable and affordable power in rural communities,” NRECA CEO Jim Matheson said. “These project funds will help co-ops get more capacity from existing transmission infrastructure while improving reliability and supporting economic growth.” The $87 million SPARK award will support the Unified Vision for Energy Resilience project. The NRECA-backed consortium is made up of five coops that will cover the remaining costs of the $174 million project: Basin Electric in Bismarck, North Dakota, Cooperative Energy in Hattiesburg, Dairyland Power Cooperative in La Crosse, Wisconsin, NW Electric Power Cooperative in Cameron, Missouri, and Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative in Dade City, Florida.

The project consists of five transmission system upgrades across Arkansas, Florida, Missouri, Mississippi, North Dakota and Wisconsin that will reduce transmission congestion and increase power transfers from low-cost generation. Overall, SPARK will support 31 grid improvement projects across 26 states with $1.9 billion in total federal funding. The SPARK awards follow two previous GRIP rounds in which NRECA-led consortia were chosen for around $200 million in federal funding for projects totaling $337 million. The WARN consortium, composed of 35 co-ops, was awarded money under GRIP’s first round for wildfire mitigation projects across the country. The second round of GRIP provided funds for the START consortium to build, rebuild, or reconductor transmission infrastructure and increase electric transfer capacity through advanced overhead conductors. Altogether, more than 80 co-ops have received at least one GRIP award across the three rounds. Federal support for co-ops through the program so far has totaled $1.3 billion for a combined DOE and co-op investment of $2.3 billion. The awards reflect NRECA’s work with co-ops across multiple administrations to ensure they could successfully compete for federal funding opportunities, protect access to critical programs and keep projects moving forward. 2026 | NOVEMBER 5

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

Giving back to communities

we serve

Concern for community is why we do what we do at 4-County Electric Power Association. Without our members in the communities we serve, there is no 4-County. We, and cooperatives across the globe, adhere to the same Seven Cooperative Principles that guide all of our decisions — from how we run the co-op, to how we engage with our local communities. Concern for community is the seventh principle, and it is one that all employees of 4-County value year round. But as we enter the holiday season, concern for community seems especially important. 4-County has a proud history of giving back. During the holidays — when many people are lighting their homes with festive decorations, or staying up late entertaining and cooking for family and friends — we are still working to provide you with the most affordable electric service. We help members keep energy use in check by providing energy efficiency tips through the use of one-on-one interactions, our website (4county.org), social media, and this publication, Today in Mississippi. We help you save driving time by providing the option to pay your bill through bank draft, online, with a mobile app, over the phone, using kiosks in the community or simply mailing your payment in. We also help keep your family safe by providing electrical safety tips — information that is especially important this time of year — through the direction of employees and our media resources. The 4-County Foundation, in another example, has given away more than $2.7 million to organizations and individuals throughout the area. So many families go without on a daily basis and struggle to make ends meet. This struggle can be especially hard during the holiday season. As a member, you can participate in our Warm Neighbors program (contact us at 662-327-8900 for more information). And check out our Toy Drive boxes this month in the Corporate Center and Starkville office. Our employees volunteer at area organizations throughout the year, strengthening our communities. No matter how great or small the act, every time we give back, we help our communities. We know that our members are stepping up, too. If you’re looking for volunteer options, ask around in your local communities. It’s a great time of year to lend a helping hand. You’ll be glad you did. And, last, but certainly not least. Thank you for your patience as we battled outages in the aftermath of the remnants of Hurricane Isaias sweeping through our area. Our guys took care of business here and then made their way to help a sister co-op in Alabama. That’s the cooperative way!

Are you a FASTnet fan?

Share your testimonial and you could win a 65-inch television. Scan the QR code for more information.

by Brian Clark CEO/General Manager

2026 | NOVEMBER

Drop off a toy

s a m t s i r h C e k a m ghter bri

by Brad Barr 4-County Electric Power Association and FASTnet are encouraging members and customers to help make Christmas better and brighter for area children by taking part in their annual Toy Drive. Drop-off boxes will be located in 4-County offices through Dec. 17. The co-op is asking its members, employees and the general public to drop off a new, unwrapped toy in one of the boxes located in the 4-County office nearest you. Collected toys will be delivered to the Salvation Army who will distribute toys throughout the 4-County service area. Last year, employees and members dug deep and collected nearly 300 toys for distribution in 4-County’s service area. Again, the deadline for dropping off toys is Dec. 17. Call Brad Barr at 1-800-431-1544 for more information about the annual Toy Drive project. (Note: Special arrangements to pick up toy donations can also be made by calling Brad.).

4-COUNTY’S ANNUAL

Toy Drive DROPOFF LOCATIONS:

4COUNTY OFFICES DEADLINE:

DEC. 17

Fill a Bucket fills a need by Brad Barr

Help make things a little easier for area families during the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays by collecting food items for The Giving Hands Food Pantry. How can you help? Employees and members can bring food items (canned goods, boxed items and pull-tab items) to 4-County offices Nov. 19 and place them in the collection utility bucket. “The Fill a Bucket program will fill a big need in area communities,” said 4-County CEO Brian Clark. For more information, call 4-County’s Marketing Department at 1-800-431-1544. 16 NOVEMBER | 2026

DEADLINE

NOV. 19

Foundation puts spotlight on theatre by Brad Barr Lights, camera, action! The Golden Triangle Theatre (GTT) is lighting the way for young artists to succeed, thanks to a recent grant from the 4-County Foundation. GTT used the $10,000 grant to purchase a cyclorama, which is a large backdrop (including lights) used for effects and scenic atmosphere., according to GTT Executive & Artistic Director Garrett Torbert. “This grant from the 4-County Foundation allows us to create more professional-quality theatrical productions,” Torbert said. “The grant also funded tools that we have already used to build scenery for this season’s shows.” Housed at 1815 Military Road in the old Columbus Lee High School, GTT offers a variety of community plays and musicals, Theatre Academy classes for children and teens, summer theatre camps, private music lessons, and adult classes. ”We also offer sensory-friendly performances and a growing technical theatre track that provides practical experience in theatrical design and construction,” Torbert explained. New Hope High School’s Emma Williams, a 2026 4-County Youth Leadership delegate, is a member of the GTT group. “GTT to me means home,” the rising senior said. “It has provided me a place to be my full self and not be ashamed

if I mess up. It allows me to do what I love with people I love,” she added. Upcoming GTT performances include Seussical Kids, Nov. 21, and Little Women The Musical, Dec. 4-6. For more information on GTT, its programs and upcoming performances, visit www.goldentriangletheatre.com. Torbert said support from organizations like the 4-County Foundation are a must for the shows to go on. “The 4-County Foundation’s investment has helped us improve our production capabilities and expand opportunities for students to learn both onstage and behind the scenes,” he added. “We are grateful for the foundation’s continued belief in our mission and in the value of the arts throughout the Golden Triangle.” 4-County believes in helping the communities it serves. That’s why the cooperative launched the 4-County Foundation, a community service program. Since February 2015, participating 4-County members’ utility bills have been rounded up to the nearest dollar; a $125.78 bill, for example, becomes $126. Now, that’s an average of only 49 cents per member, per month. That may not seem like much. But when you multiply those contributions by the thousands of member participants, that’s a lot of pennies! For more information on the 4-County Foundation, call 1-800-431-1544. 2026 | NOVEMBER

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Talking turkey with Aubrey Long by Brad Barr Sometimes, Aubrey Long hangs out with a bunch of turkeys. Judy, Curtis and Timmy don’t cause a lot of problems, however. Aubrey’s wife, Bryana, is even ok with the gang getting together and talking a little turkey. “”We have some free-range turkeys on our place. The original thought was to harvest them. But, my wife wouldn’t let me,” Aubrey said with a laugh. “Then, we named them.” Tydus, the silver labrador, and Marlee, the high-maintenance Goldendoodle, round out the crew at the Long homestead in the Chester Community of Choctaw County. The setting is five acres of peace, quiet (with the occasional gobble), and fun. “We enjoy it,” the 4-County apprentice lineman 3 said. Aubrey split time growing up in Vardaman and Starkville. He enjoyed hunting and playing sports. “I developed some good bonds with the teams I played on. There was a true camaraderie I was fortunate to have been a part of,” he stressed. That same type of camaraderie exists at 4-County, Aubrey said. “We work together as a team, and we watch out for each other,” he added. Aubrey began his 4-County career in January 2025, after serving three years as a lineman with an area municipal utility. He is a 18 NOVEMBER | 2026

a graduate of East Mississippi Community College’s Lineman Training Program. His instructor there was Chuck Cotton, a retired 4-County journeyman lineman. Aubrey also has an associate’s degree from Holmes Community College. He and Bryana enjoy riding side-by-side utility vehicles on the backroads and trails of north Mississippi. They are members of Chester Baptist Church. The team at 4-County provides Aubrey with a home away from home. “We’re all like family. I look forward to coming to work each day, trying to perfect my craft and helping the 4-County team. I learn something new every day,” he said. Why choose a career as a lineman? His friend, 4-County Journeyman Lineman Brandon Smith, encouraged him to give it a try. “He asked me if I was scared of heights. I said no. And here I am today,” Aubrey said. 4-County has brought plenty of opportunities to the table, he added. “A lot of doors have been opened for me and I appreciate. We have what we need as a team.”

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

ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

OF MISSISSIPPI

2 0 2 6

Cooperative

Youth Leaders LOCAL DELEGATES SELECTED FOR 2026 COOPERATIVE YOUTH LEADERS PROGRAM Four area high school juniors were recently selected through an interview process to represent Central Electric Power Association during an upcoming statewide leadership workshop in Jackson and the annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., next summer. Now in its 40th year, the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s Cooperative Youth Leaders program is an enjoyable educational experience that makes a lasting impact on participants. The Cooperative Youth Leaders program allows delegates across Mississippi to learn, grow, and gain experience. Delegates LEARN the value of the cooperative business model, specifically the impact that electric cooperatives have on their lives and communities. Participants GROW in their leadership qualities through team-building exercises as well as expanding their communication skills, confidence, and courage in decision making. Our group will get to EXPERIENCE the democratic process at state and federal levels by visiting the Mississippi and U.S. capital cities.

CENTRAL ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION CONGRATULATES THESE DELEGATES!

JOELY KATE ADKINS Joely Kate Adkins is the daughter of Lin and Krissy Lepard and Gordon and Cynthia Adkins. She attends Union High School. After graduation, Joely Kate plans to pursue a degree in pharmacy.

EDEN NGUYEN Eden Nguyen is the daughter of Thien and Jennifer Nguyen. She attends Carthage Christian Academy. After graduation, Eden plans to pursue a career in sonography.

KAYLEE HUTCHINSON Kaylee Hutchinson is the daughter of Danny and Mindy Hutchinson. She attends Neshoba Central High School. After graduation, Kaylee plans to become an orthodontist.

MICHAEL STEWART Michael Stewart is the son of Tim Stewart and Susan Stewart. He attends Sebastopol Attendance Center. After graduation, Michael plans to continue his football career at the collegiate level while pursuing a college degree. 2026 | NOVEMBER

H O L I D AY E V E N T S

2026 Schedule LEAKE COUNTY NOV. 8

Walnut Grove’s Community Stew beginning 5:30 p.m.

NOV. 15

Christmas Open House 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

DEC. 3

Carthage Christmas Parade beginning 6 p.m.

DEC. 4

Walnut Grove Christmas Parade 6 p.m.

DEC. 15

Jingle and Mingle beginning 6 p.m.

NESHOBA COUNTY

RANKIN COUNTY DEC. 3

Chili Cook-Off & Grand Lighting of Winners Circle Park 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. — Flowood, MS 39232

SCOTT COUNTY DEC. 4

Forest Christmas Parade beginning 6 p.m.

DEC. 5

Downtown Forest Christmas Market 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Cocoa & Lights 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. kids event — Palace Theater Downtown Forest Park 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

NOV. 29

Lighting of the Tree & Union Gospel Night 6 p.m. — Main Street & Bank Street in Union, MS

DEC. 5

Union Christmas Parade 6 p.m. — Main Street & Bank Street, Union

16 NOVEMBER | 2026

Please contact your local Chamber of Commerce to confirm all events.

CENTRAL LINEMEN FIRST IN STATE to participate in accredited training Left: John Dolores. Right: Bryson Norman and Chad Crockett, ECM director of education and apprenticeship training.

Eleven Central Electric Power Association apprentice linemen were the first in the state to participate in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s (ECM) federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship Program. Although ECM’s Lineman Apprentice Program has been around since 2014, in 2019, ECM Director of Education and Apprenticeship Training Chad Crockett worked to get the program accredited by the federal government and the state. Today, the apprenticeship program is accredited by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program. There are close to 400 apprentices enrolled in the program. The 11 Central employees who signed the apprentice agreement recently are the first where their co-op signed the employer’s agreement with the U.S. Department of Labor. As a result, they will receive a completion certificate from the federal agency.

Crockett said the program has not changed, but the accreditation track adds the highest level of outside accreditation for the prestigious course. The 4-year program was designed to train personnel in the construction, maintenance, and operation of an electrical distribution system. The program’s training ensures future electric cooperative linemen in the state can effectively carry out overhead and underground line constriction, operations, maintenance, and restoration of service of electrical transmission, substation, and distribution systems. Crockett also said the program can count as 30 hours of community college credit toward electrical line work associate degrees.

Central Electric Power Association is thankful for you! Central Electric’s office will be closed Nov. 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.

To report an outage, please visit centralepa.com and click on Report An Outage, call 601-267-3043, or text the word OUT to 866-846-5671 if you are enrolled in the outage texting service. A dispatcher is on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

THANK YOU, veterans! We thank those who have served our nation to preserve the freedom we hold so dear. V E T E R A N S D AY • N O V E M B E R 11

Electric co-ops urge caution during controlled burns

As the harvest season ends and many farmers prepare their fields for the next season, remember to exercise caution when conducting controlled burns near utility poles.

Mississippi farmers play an essential role in keeping communities across our state thriving, and we appreciate their hard work and dedication throughout the year. As the harvest season comes to a close and fields are prepared for the year ahead, we are reminding farmers to exercise safety when conducting controlled burns near utility poles and other electrical equipment. Over the next few months, many farmers will conduct controlled burns to clear crop stubble and weeds and prepare fields for spring planting. While controlled burns are an effective way to manage agricultural land, they can also pose serious risks to nearby utility poles, power lines and other electrical equipment. Mississippi’s electric cooperatives urge farm workers to use extreme caution when planning and conducting burns near electrical infrastructure. Every year, utility poles are damaged during controlled burns in fields, along roadsides and in ditches. The danger is compounded by the delayed visibility of pole damage after the fire has passed. Most wooden utility poles are treated with chemical preservatives, including creosote, to protect them from decay. When exposed to fire, the pole can sustain hidden damage. Embers can become lodged in cracks or other openings and continue burning inside the wood long after the flames have disappeared. In some cases, a utility pole can burn from the inside out and collapse hours or even days after a controlled burn has ended. A damaged utility pole can create a dangerous situation for farm workers, co-op crews, and the public. Repairing or replacing a utility pole can be expensive and time-consuming. More importantly, a weakened pole can fall unexpectedly, potentially bringing power lines down with it. Depending on the location and extent of the damage, a single compromised pole can result in power outages affecting homes, farms, and entire communities. 18 NOVEMBER | 2026

Controlled burns are an important part of managing many agricultural operations, but they should be conducted safely.

• Create firebreaks. Clear vegetation and other combustible materials around the area to keep the fire contained. • Have water and firefighting equipment nearby. Be prepared to respond if the fire moves beyond the intended burn area. • Monitor the fire until it is completely extinguished. Never assume a fire is out simply because flames are no longer visible. • Inspect nearby utility poles after the burn. If a pole is actively burning, call the fire department. If a pole appears scorched, damaged or otherwise compromised, contact your electric cooperative. Never attempt to repair electrical equipment yourself.

Controlled burns are an important part of managing many agricultural operations, but they should be conducted safely. If you have questions about how a planned burn could affect nearby electrical equipment, contact your electric co-op before you begin. The state’s electric cooperatives appreciate everyone doing their part to protect themselves, their neighbors, and the electrical infrastructure that helps power Mississippi’s communities every day.

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

Electric co-ops urge caution during controlled burns Mississippi farmers play an essential role in keeping communities across our state thriving, and we appreciate their hard work and dedication throughout the year. As the harvest season comes to a close and fields are prepared for the year ahead, we are reminding farmers to exercise safety when conducting controlled burns near utility poles and other electrical equipment. Over the next few months, many farmers will conduct controlled burns to clear crop stubble and weeds and prepare fields for spring planting. While controlled burns are an effective way to manage agricultural land, they can also pose serious risks to nearby utility poles, power lines and other electrical equipment. Mississippi’s electric cooperatives urge farm workers to use extreme caution when planning and conducting burns near electrical infrastructure. Every year, utility poles are damaged during controlled burns in fields, along roadsides and in ditches. The danger is compounded by the delayed visibility of pole damage after the fire has passed. Most wooden utility poles are treated with chemical preservatives, including creosote, to protect them from decay. When exposed to fire, the pole can sustain hidden damage. Embers can become lodged in cracks or other openings and continue burning inside the wood long after the flames have disappeared. In some cases, a utility pole can burn from the inside out and collapse hours or even days after a controlled burn has ended. A damaged utility pole can create a dangerous situation for farm workers, co-op crews, and the public. Repairing or replacing a utility pole can be expensive and time-consuming. More importantly, a weakened pole can fall unexpectedly, potentially bringing power lines down with it. Depending on the location and extent of the damage, a single compromised pole can result in power outages affecting homes, farms, and entire communities.

As the harvest season ends and many farmers prepare their fields for the next season, remember to exercise caution when conducting controlled burns near utility poles.

Farmers planning controlled burns should keep the following safety measures in mind: • Maintain a safe distance from utility equipment. Avoid burning directly beneath or near utility poles, guy wires, transformers, and other electrical equipment. • Monitor the weather. Avoid burning during dry, windy conditions when flames and embers can spread quickly. • Create firebreaks. Clear vegetation and other combustible materials around the area to keep the fire contained. • Have water and firefighting equipment nearby. Be prepared to respond if the fire moves beyond the intended burn area. • Monitor the fire until it is completely extinguished. Never assume a fire is out simply because flames are no longer visible. • Inspect nearby utility poles after the burn. If a pole is actively burning, call the fire department. If a pole appears scorched, damaged or otherwise compromised, contact your electric cooperative. Never attempt to repair electrical equipment yourself.

HAPPY from Coahoma Electric Power Association! We will be closed Thursday, Nov. 26, and Friday, Nov. 27, in observance of Thanksgiving Day. We will reopen on Monday, Nov. 30, 2026.

Bylaws outline procedure for Annual Meeting Coahoma Electric Power Association will hold its Annual Meeting of the Membership at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 11, 2027, at Coahoma Electric’s Headquarters multipurpose room at 3355 Rudyard-Jonestown Rd, Coahoma, MS 38617. This new location is approximately 1 mile north of Coahoma County Airport on Highway 61. The following is an excerpt from the association’s bylaws pertaining to the Annual Meeting of the Membership.

ARTICLE III

Meeting of Members • Section 3.01. Annual Meeting. For the purposes of electing Directors, hearing and passing upon reports covering the previous fiscal year, and transacting such other business as may properly come before the meeting, the annual meeting of the Members shall be held on the second Thursday of February of each year, at such place in Coahoma County, Mississippi, and beginning at such hour, as the Board of Directors shall, from year to year, fix; PROVIDED, that, for cause sufficient, the Board of Directors may fix a different date for such annual meeting not more than thirty (30) days prior or subsequent to the day otherwise established for such meeting. Failure to hold the annual meeting at the designated time and place shall not work a forfeiture or dissolution of the Association. • Section 3.02. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Members may be called by a majority of the Board of Directors, or upon written petition submitted to the Board of Directors signed by at least three hundred (300) Members; any such petition(s) shall be submitted on forms provided by the Association, and the same shall be signed, completed and verified in the same manner as are petitions submitted under Section 4.04 of these Bylaws. Special meetings shall be held at such place within Coahoma County, Mississippi, on such date, and at such hour as the Board of Directors shall fix and determine, and the Association’s Secretary shall cause notice of any such meetings to be given as hereinafter provided. • Section 3.03. Notice of Members’ Meetings. Written or printed notice stating the place, day and hour of the meeting and, in the case of a special meeting or of an annual meeting at which business requiring special notice is to be transacted, the purpose or purposes of the meeting shall be delivered to each Member not less than fifteen (15) days nor more than thirty (30) days prior to the date of the meeting, either personally, by mail, or electronically, by or at the direction of the Association’s Secretary, or by the directors or members calling the meeting. Written notice of any meeting at which the Association’s certificate of incorporation will be voted on by the Members must be sent to the Members at least thirty (30) days prior

16 NOVEMBER | 2026

to the date of the meeting, and shall identify and describe the purpose of the amendment. If Directors are to be elected at such meeting, the notice of Members’ meeting shall include a statement of the members of the Board of Directors to be elected as provided in Section 4.04. Unless specified in such notice of meeting, no matter may be acted upon at such meeting. If mailed, such notice shall be deemed to be delivered when deposited in the United States mail, addressed to the Member at his or her address as it appears on the records of the Association, with postage thereon prepaid. The failure of any Member to receive such notice shall not invalidate any action which may be taken by the Members at any such meeting. • Section 3.04. Quorum. Three hundred (300) Members shall constitute a quorum at any regular or special meeting of Members. This number shall be arrived at by adding the number of Members present in person at the meeting to the number of Members represented at that meeting by valid proxies filed as provided by these Bylaws. If less than a quorum is present at any meeting of Members, the officer of the Association who is presiding at the meeting may, at the time stated in the notice and without a motion, declare the meeting adjourned and closed or he may hold the meeting open for not longer than thirty (30) minutes to see if a quorum is present within that time; and the meeting shall automatically be adjourned and closed if a quorum shall not be present at the end of said thirty (30) minute period. The Members present at a meeting at which a quorum is not present shall not have the power to take any kind of action, including, but not by way of limitations, adjourning said meeting to another time or place. • Section 3.05. Voting. Each Member who is not in a status of suspension, as provided for in Section 2.01, shall be entitled to only one vote upon each matter submitted to a vote at any meeting of the Members. A Member may vote at any such meeting either in person or by proxy. At a meeting of the Members where Directors are to be elected, all Members present in person or by proxy may cast one (1) vote for each Director to be elected; each Member may vote his or her own vote plus those proxies executed in such Member’s favor, pursuant to Section 3.06 and 3.07 of these Bylaws. Voting by Members other than Members who are natural persons shall be allowed upon the presentation to the

Association, prior to or upon registration at each Member meeting, of satisfactory evidence entitling the person presenting same to vote. At all meetings of the Members, all questions shall be decided by a majority of the Members voting thereon, except as otherwise provided by law or by the Association’s Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws or any amendment(s) thereto. Members may not cumulate their votes.

lost, stolen, or destroyed, the Association shall furnish such Member with a replacement proxy form upon request, provided that the Member executes a revocation of the lost, stolen or destroyed form, to be witnessed by an employee of the Association. Blank proxy forms will not be distributed in bulk to any Member. Designation of proxies shall be upon forms prescribed by the Board of Directors and furnished by the Association and no other forms shall be recognized or accepted.

• Section 3.06. Proxies. At all meetings of the Members, a Member may vote by proxy ARTICLE IV executed in writing and signed by the Member, subject to the provisions hereinafter set forth, provided, however, any Member • Section 4.04. Committee on Nominations. intending to vote by proxy must file the executed proxy at the (a) It shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to appoint, no less Association’s headquarters by the close of business on the later of than forty (40) calendar days nor more than ninety (90) calendar the Monday preceding the annual or special meeting or three (3) days before the date of the meeting of the Members at which business days prior to such meeting. A Member may personally Directors are to be elected, a Committee on Nominations consisting deliver his or her proxy to the said of not less than five (5) nor more than offices of the Association or mail the eleven (11) Members who shall be proxy by United States Mail, postage selected with consideration being given prepaid, addressed to the Secretary, to provide geographic representation Coahoma Electric Power Association, of the Association’s service area. No P. O. Box 188, Lyon, Mississippi, 38645. existing Association employees, agents, COAHOMA ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION If the proxy is sent by mail, the date of officers, Directors or known candidates its receipt in the Association’s office for Director, and close relatives (as at the above address shall be its filing hereinafter defined) or members of the date. The proxy must have entered same household of existing association thereon the name and account number employees, agents, officers, Directors or Thursday, Feb. 11, 2027 of the member appointed to vote the known candidates for Director may serve at 10 a.m. proxy. No proxy shall be voted at any on such committee. The Committee Coahoma Electric’s Headquarters • Coahoma, MS meeting of the Members unless it shall on Nominations shall receive and Members of Coahoma EPA’s designate the particular meeting at consider any suggestion as to nominees which it is to be voted, and no proxy submitted by Members. The Committee Committee on Nominations shall be voted at any meeting other on Nominations shall meet at a time Reggie Hibbler Harvey B. Rodgers Jr. than the one so designated, or any and place set by the Board of Directors. Hamp Bass Dina Wilson adjournment of such meeting. No The Committee on Nominations shall Robert A. Boyce Tommy Sides proxy shall be voted by anyone except prepare and post at the principal office William Peal a Member. A Member may appoint any of the Association at least thirty-five (35) other individual Member to vote his calendar days before the meeting a list of or her proxy, or a Member may appoint the individual members of nominations for Directors. The Secretary must mail with the notice the Board of Directors, collectively, to vote said proxy. No Member of the meeting or separately a statement of the number of Directors shall vote as proxy for more than fifty (50) Members at any meeting to be elected and the names and addresses of the candidates of the Members. In the event an individual Member is appointed to nominated by the Committee on Nominations. vote as proxy for more than fifty (50) other Members, such proxies (b) Nominations By Petition. Any fifty (50) Members acting together in excess of fifty (50) shall be assigned to the Board of Directors for may make a nomination by petition and the Secretary shall post such voting; and the proxies so assigned and those proxies appointing nomination at the same place where the list of nominations by the the individual members of the Board of Directors shall be voted Committee on Nominations is posted. Any petition for nomination according to the will of a majority of the Board of Directors. The shall be submitted on a form designated and provided by the presence of a Member at a meeting of the Members shall revoke a Association. Each Member signing such petition shall place thereon proxy theretofore executed by that Member, and such Member shall the date of signing, address and account number of the Member. The be entitled to vote at such meeting in the same manner and with the Secretary shall mail with the notice of the meeting or separately a same effect as if the proxy had not been executed. In case of a joint statement of the number of board members to be elected and the membership, a proxy may be executed by either spouse. The timely names of candidates nominated by the committees and the names presence of either spouse at a meeting of the Members shall revoke a of candidates nominated by petition, if any. Nominations made by proxy theretofore executed by either of them and such joint Member petition, if any, received by the close of business at least 90 calendar (or Members) shall be entitled to vote at such meeting in the same days before the annual meeting shall be included on the official ballot. manner and with the same effect as if a proxy had not been executed. No petition may contain more than one nominee. A standard proxy form shall be used which identifies the Member (c) Notwithstanding anything in this Section, failure to comply by name and Member number, in order to assure authenticity and with any of the provisions of this Section shall not affect in any facilitate the tabulation of votes. If the proxy form of a Member is manner whatsoever the validity of any election of Directors.

Notice to Members

ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS

2026 | NOVEMBER

Maximize System Performance Minimize Energy Waste Whether your heating and cooling system is brand new or 10 years old, regular maintenance can help your system run efﬁciently, keep energy costs in check, and extend its life. •

Check your air filter and replace it as recommended. A dirty filter can re-strict airflow and make your system work harder.

•

Keep return and supply vents clear of furniture, rugs and other obstructions. Dust them regularly.

Outdoor Unit Care

•

Keep leaves, grass and other debris at least 2 feet away from the outdoor unit.

•

Gently rinse dirty condenser coils with a garden hose, following your manufacturer’s recommendations.

Proactive Service

•

Schedule professional tune-ups in spring for cooling and fall for heating.

•

Have ductwork checked for leaks or disconnected sections, and seal leaks with mastic or foil-backed tape.

Thermostat Smarts

•

Adjust your thermostat when you’re asleep or away. In summer, set it a little higher; in winter, a little lower.

•

Consider a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically manage temperatures and save energy.

Filter Care

Every 2-3 months

Once or twice a year

Twice a year

Year-round

A little maintenance can go a long way. Contact your electric co-op if you have questions about home energy use. Photo Credit: Lennox

WWW.COASTELECTRIC.COOP

Powering your life, connecting your future Communicators: April Lollar and Sarah Belk

Grateful for

November has a way of reminding us to slow down and reflect on what matters most. As Thanksgiving approaches, I’m especially grateful for the people and communities we have the privilege to serve. At Coast Electric and CoastConnect, our purpose is simple: to power and connect lives. But that purpose extends far beyond providing reliable electricity and high-speed internet service. It means being part of the communities we serve and looking for meaningful ways to make them stronger. The cooperative difference has always been rooted in people helping people. You see that spirit when our employees volunteer their time, when we support local schools and community organizations, and when programs like Operation Round Up turn the generosity of our members into assistance for neighbors in need. You see it in the partnerships we build and the investments we make to help the places we call home thrive. Community outreach isn’t something we do simply because it’s expected of us. It’s part of who we are.

THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE We live here. We work here. We raise our families here. And whether we’re powering a home, connecting a business or lending a hand to a local organization, we know that our success is directly connected to the success of our communities. This Thanksgiving, I hope you’ll join us in celebrating the people who make our communities special, and I hope you will look for opportunities to lend a hand. From all of us at Coast Electric and CoastConnect, thank you for allowing us to serve you. We wish you and your family a safe, happy and meaningful Thanksgiving.

by Chris Rhodes President and CEO

ANNUAL MEETING REGISTRATION

Join us for our Annual Meeting and Member Appreciation Night Thursday, Nov. 5, at the Coast Electric Robert J. Occhi Headquarters on Hwy. 603 in Kiln. Registration begins at 5 p.m., and the business meeting will be called to order at 6 p.m. Everyone who attends will be registered to win up to $1,000 in electricity credits from Coast Electric! We will also have a drawing for those in attendance and those registered for the meeting by proxy for a Ford F150, recently retired from the Coast Electric fleet. We hope to see you there! Can’t make it? Visit www.coastelectric.coop to watch a livestream of the event. Please note that only those in attendance at the meeting or those who registered by proxy can participate in the election process.

2026 | NOVEMBER

Coast Electric wants you to reduce your energy use and see savings on your energy costs. Each month, you will have an opportunity to register to win a prize that will help you reduce energy consumption in your home. All you have to do is fill out the entry form on coastelectric.coop or scan the QR code to enter. It only takes a few seconds, and you could win a prize that helps you save.

Congratulations to Brenda Gonzalez, the winner

CONTEST

of our September Reduce Your Use prize!

Donation to Dolly’s Imagination Library

In September, the Library Foundation of Hancock County made a commitment to match up to $30,000 in donations to the foundation to fund the county’s Dolly Parton Imagination Library program. Coast Electric kicked off the month-long effort with a $5,000 donation. The Imagination Library provides free books to children who are registered for the program from birth to four years old. The program, launched by Dolly in 1995, has since put books into the hands of more than three million children in five countries, with a goal of supporting children and their dreams. Locally, the United Way of South Mississippi works with community partners like library systems and Coast Electric to raise funds for the program. To learn more about the Imagination Library and signing your child up for books, visit unitedwaysm.org/dolly-partons-imagination-library or hcls.info.

Coast Electric kicked off a month-long fundraising effort for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program in Hancock County with a $5,000 donation. From left: United Way of South Mississippi CEO Kathy Springer, Coast Electric Director of Community Development Janell Nolan, Hancock County Library System Executive Director John Brdecka, Library Foundation President Sally Isaacs and Coast Electric Community Development Specialist Ana Brett.

Coast Electric safety team works with

a new generation of line workers

Coast Electric’s safety team and line workers led a live-line demonstration for students in the Pearl River Community College (PRCC) Utility Lineman Technology program this fall. The safety trailer demonstration was designed to show students the importance of safety around electric power lines and the importance of using personal protective equipment. Supporting the PRCC program is not only important for the future of Coast Electric’s workforce, it’s personal for co-op employees who are also graduates of the program. Coast Electric Safety Coordinator Chase Holmes was a graduate of the program’s second class in 2009. “Being able to come back and provide knowledge and field experience here is really rewarding," Holmes said. “It means a lot coming out here to see the effects of what happens if we don’t do what we’re taught in the field,” said PRCC Lineman student Jeremy Korn. “Being out here shows how working as a crew makes a big difference in the field.” After the demonstration and a climbing contest for the students, Coast Electric employees shared their real-world experiences with future line workers and spoke with students about careers in the electric utility industry. Coast Electric’s vehicle maintenance and maintenance departments provided a delicious lunch for the students and instructors. Programs like PRCC’s Utility Lineman Technology program are vital to Coast Electric because they help prepare the next generation of skilled line workers who will safely and reliably serve the cooperative’s members. By supporting hands-on training opportunities, Coast Electric strengthens the local workforce pipeline and helps ensure dependable service for our communities for years to come.

OPERATION ROUND UP

SPOTLIGHT We are proud to highlight Operation Round Up grant recipients to show our members what their spare change is doing to help our communities thrive. It may not seem like much, but when we all do a little, it makes a big difference! This month, we are featuring the Boy’s & Girl’s Club of the Gulf Coast. The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs is to give children and teenagers a safe, positive and engaging environment, and to allow them to participate in programs that prepare them for a successful future. The organization reaches more than 6,300 young residents in our communities each year. One of the ways the clubs fulfill their mission is by introducing students to hands-on learning in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). “We're very thankful for the funds that were given by Coast Electric for Operation Round Up,” Hancock County Boys & Girls

Club Unit Director Wanda Hillard said. “We use those funds for STEM projects to let our kids have hands-on experiences with robotics and a NASA camp. “Operation Round Up shows the incredible impact our members can make when they work together to support local organizations,” said Coast Electric Director of Community Development Janell Nolan. “Because of the support of our members, more than 1,000 students had an opportunity to participate in hands-on STEM learning. Opportunities like this can make a difference for students now and may even help guide their education and career goals in the future.” To learn more about the Boys & Girls Club of the Gulf Coast and the programs they offer youth in our area, visit bgcguldcoast.org.

2026 | NOVEMBER

27,000 SUBSCRIBERS

Connected and Celebrated CoastConnect has reached 27,000 subscribers! Because of your support, we’re growing and connecting our community every day. Here are some of the things our subscribers have to say about CoastConnect’s service.

“We’ve been CoastConnect customers for five years, and we couldn’t be happier. We love supporting a local company that truly cares about its customers. The service has always been fast, reliable and dependable, and whenever we’ve needed help, their local team has been there for us. It’s great knowing we can count on CoastConnect to keep us connected.” — Norman Tyner

“We’ve been with CoastConnect for two years, and the experience has been outstanding. The service has been dependable from day one, and it’s reassuring to know that there’s a local team that’s always ready to help. Fast, reliable internet and great customer service have made all the difference. We highly recommend CoastConnect to anyone looking for a provider that truly values its customers.” — Errian Graham

“We love Coast Connect at Southern Living Real Estate! With the speed and reliability of our wireless internet connection, we can best serve our clients need without fear of dropped service!” — Angela with Southern Living Real Estate

E N E R GY FA I R S Join us Friday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at McNeill Community Center (106 Library St. Carriere) for Coast Electric/CoastConnect energy fairs and sign-up events! Speak to energy experts to learn how to save and talk to fiber internet experts to sign up for high-speed internet service from a hometown team.

Coast Electric

Coast Electric’s business offices will be closed Thursday and

is thankful for you! To contact Coast Electric: YOU CAN PAY A BILL BY: • Texting us at 228-338-4644 if you have a mobile number associated with your account. • Using the CE on the Go mobile app. • Visiting a kiosk located at each of our offices. • Calling 877-769-2372 to use our automated payment system.

18 NOVEMBER | 2026

11/ 13

Friday, Nov. 26-27, for Thanksgiving. We hope you have a safe and wonderful holiday with your loved ones. Dispatchers will be on duty, and crews will be on call throughout the holiday weekend.

YOU CAN REPORT OUTAGES BY: • Texting us at 228-338-4644 if you have a mobile number associated with your account. • Using the CE on the Go mobile app. • Reporting it online: outages.coastelectric.coop • We CANNOT take outage reports on our social media accounts. Trying to report your outage on social media does not put your outage into our system or report it to dispatchers or crews.

To contact CoastConnect: • For all after-hours inquiries, CoastConnect subscribers can chat with tech support on CoastConnect.com or call 877-969-3884 and speak to our 24/7 tech support team.

Delta Electric’s 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

As the harvest season ends and many farmers prepare their fields for the next season, remember to exercise caution when conducting controlled burns near utility poles.

Lightning Speed

DElightSpeed.coop • 662-477-1975 • info@delightspeed.coop

Energy-saving recommendations

for rent s

by Miranda Boutelle

Renting a house or apartment can put you in a challenging spot when it comes to energy efficiency. Renting means that you can’t make all of the decisions about energy efficient upgrades in your home. At the same time, renters are usually responsible for paying the electric bill. That means if the home has inefficient equipment, you’re going to use — and pay for — more energy.

Typically, it is the owner’s responsibility to make energy efficiency upgrades, such as adding insulation or new heating and cooling equipment. Don’t assume they won’t make upgrades. If the home needs upgrades, just ask. I’ve had landlords let me pay for an upgrade and provided a credit on my rent to offset the cost. In a situation where you don’t have control over all the decisions, choose to focus on what you can control. The thermostat is a great place to save energy. Nudging the thermostat a few degrees closer to the outside temperature can help you save money. Adjust the settings when you aren’t home or at night when you’re sleeping. Adding thick curtains can help keep heat out in the summer and make the room feel warmer in the winter. A rug can make a cold floor feel warmer in the winter. These additions can make changing the thermostat a few degrees more comfortable. Make sure your property owner follows through with annual maintenance and HVAC filter changes. Ignoring these can lead to unnecessary energy waste. Lighting is another element you can typically control. If your home has incandescent or compact fluorescent bulbs, switch to efficient LEDs. If you don’t have the ability to change the lighting that’s installed in your home, consider using plug-in LED lighting or lamps instead. Check whether your water heater is wasting energy. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting it to 120 degrees. This keeps the water hot enough to be safely stored in the tank and prevents scalding. I recommend calling the owner or property management company to request an adjustment. 16 NOVEMBER | 2026

Adjusting your thermostat closer to the outside temperature can help you save money on your monthly electric bill.

Use a kitchen thermometer to test the water heater temperature. If it is over 120 degrees, lower the heat setting.

One of the benefits of renting is that you aren’t on the hook when equipment breaks down. If the water heater is older than 10 years or showing signs of possible failure, such as leaking, unusual noises, or discolored water, let the owner know. Upgrading to a heat pump water heater could be a great fit for your home, saving energy and preventing possible damage caused by a failed water heater. Another way to save is by finding available rebates and incentives for your home. Because renters typically pay the electric bill, a landlord doesn’t see the financial benefit of monthly energy savings. You can make it easier for them by finding opportunities for energy-efficient upgrades in your home. Your rental might be eligible for insulation, water heater, or HVAC upgrades. You might also be eligible for discounts on products that you can buy yourself, such as air purifiers, dehumidifiers, or other small home appliances. If your home has electric heat, adding either a ducted or ductless heat pump — also called a mini-split — provides more efficient heating as well as air conditioning. That’s a popular rebate offering across the country. Energy efficient upgrades could benefit the homeowner by increasing the property value or keeping a good renter from looking for another place to live. It doesn’t hurt to ask for upgraded equipment and provide information on eligible rebates or incentives. Partnering with your landlord on projects is a great opportunity to benefit both of you.

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

Thick curtains can help keep heat out in the summer and make the room feel warmer in the winter.

2026 | NOVEMBER

Check your air filter and replace it as recommended. A dirty filter can re-strict airflow and make your system work harder.

•

Keep return and supply vents clear of furniture, rugs and other obstructions. Dust them regularly.

Outdoor Unit Care

•

Keep leaves, grass and other debris at least 2 feet away from the outdoor unit.

•

Gently rinse dirty condenser coils with a garden hose, following your manufacturer’s recommendations.

Proactive Service

•

Schedule professional tune-ups in spring for cooling and fall for heating.

•

Have ductwork checked for leaks or disconnected sections, and seal leaks with mastic or foil-backed tape.

Thermostat Smarts

•

Adjust your thermostat when you’re asleep or away. In summer, set it a little higher; in winter, a little lower.

•

Consider a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically manage temperatures and save energy.

Filter Care

Every 2-3 months

Once or twice a year

Twice a year

Year-round

A little maintenance can go a long way. Contact your electric co-op if you have questions about home energy use. Photo Credit: Lennox

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

dixieepa.com | defastlink.net | 601-425-2535 dixieepa.com

@DixieElectricMS

@dixie_electric

Understanding where your energy dollars go As cooler weather begins to settle in, many of us will soon turn on the heat for the fi rst time this season. While we welcome those cooler temperatures after another brutal Mississippi summer, the colder months also tend to bring higher energy use for many households. Typically, the higher the energy use, the more likely questions are to come up when the electric bill arrives. One of the most common questions we receive from members is a simple one: “Why is my bill so high?” It is a fair question. When a bill is higher than you expected, you want to understand why. One way of looking at it is to compare your electric meter to the cash register at the grocery store. When you fi ll your cart and head to the checkout, the register tallies everything you have purchased. Your electric meter works in much the same way. It records the amount of electricity used at your home or business, and that energy use is reflected on your monthly bill. The difference is that at the grocery store, you can see every item going into your cart. Electricity is not nearly as visible. You may not realize how much energy your heating system is using, what an older appliance is costing you, or how changes in your daily routine are affecting your overall consumption. That is why understanding where your energy dollars are going is so important. The more you know about how your home uses energy, the more control you have over your use, and ultimately, your bill. Using the SmartHub is a great way to keep an eye on your daily energy use instead of waiting until the end of the billing cycle to see the total. Watching your energy use as the weather changes can help you begin connecting what is happening inside and outside your home with what you see on your bill. The app helps you “see” what’s going into your cart. Another resource I encourage our members to take advantage of is the collection of free online energy calculators available on

Dixie Electric is thankful for you!

our website. These tools are designed to help take some of the mystery out of energy use. One of the most useful is our Home Energy Audit. By entering information about your home and the way you use energy, the audit can help you better understand where your energy dollars are going and identify areas where changes could potentially make a difference.

Scan here with your phone to visit our website and take advantage of our free online energy calculators! I especially encourage you to use these tools before the coldest days of winter arrive. Heating a home can account for a significant portion of winter energy use, and small differences in thermostat settings, weather, insulation, equipment, and household habits can add up. At Dixie Electric, we want to do more than deliver electricity to your home. We want to give you information and resources that help you make informed decisions about how you use it. We cannot control how cold this winter will be, but we can help you better understand how your home uses energy. Sometimes, having the answer to “why?” is the best place to start.

by Randy Smith General Manager

Our offices will be closed on Nov. 26 and 27 to observe the Thanksgiving holiday.

Powering Possibilities A life built around helping others by Caroline Sellers For Kimberlee “Kim” Duckworth, helping others has never been about recognition. It is simply a way of life — and it is that heart for service that has earned her the title of Dixie Electric’s 2026 Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant winner. The Powering Possibilities grant recognizes a local volunteer who goes above and beyond to make their community a better place to live. As this year’s recipient, Duckworth received $1,000 to donate to the charity of her choice, selecting United Way of the Pine Belt Region, where she has spent countless hours volunteering. Betsy Ivey, executive director of the United Way of the Pine Belt Region, nominated Duckworth and said she knew immediately who deserved the recognition. “I’m certain that she’s the most selfless person that I know,” Ivey said. “I literally have never seen anyone give of themselves as much as Kim does and wants absolutely no recognition for it whatsoever.” At 64, retirement has simply given Duckworth more opportunities to serve. With a talent for mechanical work and appliance repair, she frequently helps those who may not be able to afford repairs or replacements themselves. She also volunteers in her community, checks on neighbors in need, and has a soft spot for rescue animals. Duckworth credits her mother with teaching her the importance of caring for others.

“We always had someone different at our house because she’d take them in if they didn’t have a place to go for the night or if they were hungry,” Duckworth recalled. “So, I learned that from her.” That lesson continues to guide her today. “It could always be me that needs the help,” Duckworth said, “and I would want someone to treat me the same way that I try to treat someone else.” It is a simple philosophy that has quietly touched countless lives, and one that embodies the spirit of Powering Possibilities.

Scan here for a video that tells you more about our 2026 winner and Powering Possibilities

The Foster Backpack Program

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS DRAWING Tickets are $25 each. Buy four tickets for $100 and receive a fifth bonus ticket! • First drawing will be Tuesday, Dec. 1, and continue each weekday through Wednesday, Dec. 16. • Only 500 tickets will be sold. • Winning tickets will stay in the drawing, allowing the opportunity to win multiple days. • Tickets can be purchased from any Dixie Electric employee or office location.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

Outdoor Fire Pit with cooker $120 Outdoor Patio Propane Heater $140 601 Sports Gift Card $150 Ring Outdoor Cameras (4-pack) $200 Lowe’s Gift Card $200 Pit Boss Tailgating Grill $240 Roomba 115X Vacuum & Mop Combo $250 Yeti Hopper Cooler (Charcoal) $300 Academy Gift Card $300 Turtlebox Cub Outdoor Speaker (tan) $330 HP 14” Laptop Computer $450 Roku 65-in Smart TV $500

On each day of Christmas... Winners will be announced each day on Facebook @DixieElectricMS.

Sponsored by Dixie Electric Power Association. Proceeds benefit the Foster Backpack Program. Contact your local Dixie Electric office to purchase a ticket. Laurel: 601-425-2535

Petal: 601-583-1131

Waynesboro: 601-735-2072

The lamp that lit a

legacy

I see the lamp, and in my mind, I can see him on the porch with her inside, smiling or laughing.

by Amanda Mills Some family heirlooms are valuable because of what they are. Others are valuable because of the stories they carry. For Glenda Broadway of Ovett, one rose-pink ceramic lamp is much more than something that once lit a room. It is a connection to her grandparents, her childhood, and a time when electricity was still changing life in rural communities like Sweetwater. Glenda’s grandparents, Gomez and Sallie Robinson — known to their family as Papa Mez and Mama Sallie — lived in a wooden house on River Road in the Sweetwater community. Glenda remembers the water well out front, the large yellow rose bushes beside the house, and the wide hallway just inside the front door. She remembers her grandparents, too. Papa Mez was quiet, often sitting on the porch watching whoever happened to be around. Mama Sallie was just the opposite: happy, talkative, and often smiling or laughing. She quilted and crocheted, and her living room was where Glenda first remembers seeing quilting frames hanging from the ceiling. In the front bedroom sat the lamp. As a child, Glenda thought it was beautiful, but she knew better than to touch it. The room was generally reserved for family visiting from Texas, and the lamp remained safely inside. Its story began years earlier, around the time Dixie Electric brought electricity to the Sweetwater community. Glenda does not know the exact year, but the story was passed down through her family. To mark the arrival of electricity in their area, Slaughter Grocery, a local store, held a drawing and gave away prizes. As luck would have it, Papa Mez won the lamp. Today, electricity is such an ordinary part of our lives that it can be difficult to imagine a time when turning on a light was something worth celebrating. For rural families, however, the arrival of electricity represented a transformation in everyday life. For the Robinson family, one reminder of that moment remained in their home for decades. When her grandparents passed away, Glenda knew there was one thing she wanted to keep. “I wanted the lamp simply for the memory,” she said. “I see the lamp, and in my mind, I can see him on the porch with her inside, smiling or laughing.” Eventually, Glenda knew the lamp and its story would need to be passed along again. Her daughter, Melanie Hall, is Dixie Electric’s human resources administrative assistant. “When my mom told me about the lamp, I knew I wanted it without seeing it,” Melanie said. “Knowing that it belonged to my great-grandparents makes it more than just an old lamp. It represents a piece of family history.” Melanie never had the opportunity to know Papa Mez and Mama Sallie; both died when she was a baby. Today, she has a unique connection to them through her work for the same cooperative that brought electricity to their Sweetwater community generations ago. “What makes this story more special is that I get to be a part of the same cooperative that brought something important to their lives,” Melanie said. “This lamp represents family, history, and the cooperative’s lasting impact.” The lamp still works. Its original shade remains in place, and today, it has found another home. It sits in Melanie’s office at Dixie Electric. One day, it will be passed down again, along with the story of Papa Mez and Mama Sallie, a small community called Sweetwater, and the day a simple lamp became part of a family’s history.

2026 | NOVEMBER

THANKSGIVING RECIPES Thanksgiving has a way of bringing people together, and often, some of our favorite memories are made around the table. This year, we asked Dixie Electric employees to share a few of the recipes that have become part of their own Thanksgiving traditions. From longtime family favorites to dishes everyone looks forward to each year, we hope you’ll enjoy adding a little taste of the Dixie Electric family to your own holiday table. Follow our social media channels for even more recipes from our employees this month.

Pineapple Casserole Amanda Mills, Communications Manager 1½ sticks margarine 2 cans chunk pineapple, drained 1 cup sugar 5 tbsp flour 2 cups grated cheddar cheese 1 stack pack of ritz crackers, crushed Melt butter in a casserole dish, swirl around sides to coat, then pour off remaining butter and reserve. Put drained pineapple in a casserole dish. Mix together the sugar and flour and sprinkle over the pineapple. Top with cheese, then with crushed Ritz. Pour remaining butter over the top. Bake 350 degrees until hot for 35-40 minutes.

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Caroline Sellers, Digital Communications Specialist 8 potatoes 8 ounces sour cream 8 ounce block cream cheese 1 stick of butter Shredded cheddar cheese for topping Salt & pepper to taste Boil water, add peeled potatoes, and cook until soft. Remove from water and add cooked potatoes to large mixing bowl. Mash up potatoes. Add sour cream, cream cheese, butter, salt and pepper to potatoes. Mix really well. Add mixture to casserole dish, top with shredded cheese. Bake at 350 degrees until heated through, and cheese is melted.

Dana's 44 Magnum Beans Dana Powell IT Manager 2 bags of Camellia Brand large lima beans 128 ounces chicken broth 2 large onions, chopped 1-3 ham bones 4 heaping tablespoons of McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning 1 tablespoon of salt ½ cup Knorr Shelf Stable Granulated Chicken Bouillon Wash and pick out rocks and bad-looking beans. Soak overnight in the refrigerator in the 26-Quart Roaster Oven tub with 2 inches of water above the beans. The next day, pour off all the water. Put the tub in the roaster oven. Fill with 128 oz of chicken broth. Add chopped onions. Add 1 to 3 ham bones, or 1 ham bone and 3 large packs of diced ham or sausage. Add McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning. Add 1 tablespoon of table salt. Use 1/2 cup chicken bouillon and 8 cups of water and mix well until the beans are covered with about 1 inch of broth. Stir and cook at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Then, turn the cooker to 250 degrees and cook until the beans are soft. This could be 2 to 6 hours, depending on the age of the beans. Serve with cornbread.

Sweet Potato Dumplings Dan Wooten, Waynesboro District Manager 8 sweet potato patties (yam patties) 2 tubes (16) refrigerated crescent rolls 1½ sticks (12 tablespoons) butter 1½ cups granulated sugar ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1½ cups water 1 tablespoon corn starch Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grab a 9x13-inch glass baking dish and set it aside. Glass dishes work best for even heat distribution. Cut each frozen sweet potato patty in half using a sharp knife. This recipe requires at least 8 whole patties (yielding 16 halves). Cutting while still frozen makes the process easier. Remove crescent dough from the 2 tubes and roll out. Separate along the perforated edge to create 16 triangles. Place one sweet potato half in the center of each triangle and roll the crescent dough around it, starting at the wide end and rolling toward the point. Place seam side down in the baking dish. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1½ sticks (12 tablespoons) butter until bubbly. Add the 1½ cups granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Stir well to combine all ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk together 1½ cups water and 1 tablespoon corn starch until the corn starch is fully dissolved. Add this slurry to the butter mixture and stir until smooth and combined. Pour the sugar mixture evenly over all the prepared dumplings in the baking dish. The sauce will rise slightly as it heats Place the dumplings in the preheated oven at 350 degrees and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the dumplings are golden brown, and some of the liquid has been absorbed.

Bread Pudding Drew Walters, Staking Technician 2 cups milk Drizzle cream sauce 1½ cups sugar ingredients 3 large eggs 1 cup sugar 1 stick butter, melted 1 stick butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups heavy cream 1 teaspoon cinnamon to taste 1 teaspoon nutmeg to taste 10 regular-sized hamburger buns Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly butter an 8-x-11-inch baking pan or 10-inch cast iron skillet with a rack in the middle. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Slowly whisk in the butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. If you like the flavor of nutmeg, you can add a few more shakes. Tear a bun into approximately 1-inch pieces and add to the wet mixture. Repeat, using half of the buns. Mash the buns with a spoon into the wet mixture until moistened. Tear the remaining buns and add to the mixture. Mash until combined, but don't mash them so much that the mixture turns to mush. The bread should be completely moistened, with some bun pieces still retaining most of their shape. Add more cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired. Scrape the mixture into the baking pan. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the pudding is sponge-like and springs back when touched in the middle. Feel free to make a judgment call on the baking time. You don't want it to bake completely through like a cake; remember it's bread pudding. You can err on the side of not cooking the pudding quite as long, because it will set up a little more after it cools. Drizzle or drench with whiskey cream sauce. Serve warm or at room temperature. Combine all the ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and boil for 1 minute. Serve warm over the bread pudding.

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.

THE

holidays ARE here A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

As Thanksgiving approaches, our home begins to fill with the familiar bustle of the season. We clean, plan meals and make room for family traveling to Meridian. Before long, the house will be full of conversation, laughter and children finding their way into every room. We will remember loved ones who have gone to be with our Lord, welcome new additions to the family and catch up with relatives we do not see often enough. The meals begin before Thanksgiving Day and continue until the last visitor heads home. Then we put away the extra chairs and turn our attention to Christmas. The gathering may be smaller, but we still put thought into the gifts we choose, the food we share and the time we spend together. Why do we plan so carefully? Because preparation gives us more time to enjoy the people around our table. Knowing where everyone will sleep and what we will serve at each meal helps us welcome them with fewer distractions. At EMEPA, planning serves a similar purpose. Our employees look ahead to the needs of the homes, businesses and communities we serve across nearly 5,800 miles of electric line. That work takes dedicated employees who are educated and trained to look one, five and 10 years down the road. They study where demand is growing, decide which facilities will need attention and turn those plans into improvements our crews can build. They also maintain equipment and keep rights-of-way clear, so our system is ready for daily demands and the extra activity the holidays bring.

HAPPY

East Mississippi Connect is part of that work, too. What was a new undertaking when I wrote about it in 2021 has grown into a network of almost 4,000 miles of fiber serving 17,800 subscribers. Building and maintaining that network requires the same willingness to prepare for tomorrow while serving people today. Those connections help families share moments across the miles and give our communities more ways to learn, work and grow. Planning also means having people ready when something goes wrong. Storms and accidents do not take a holiday. If service is interrupted on Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s Day, EMEPA employees may leave their own celebrations to help restore it. I am grateful for their skill and dedication, and for the families who support them. Serving this cooperative is more than a job for many of us; it is a calling. As you gather with family and friends this holiday season, I hope you can set aside the preparations and enjoy the moments you planned. Thank you for allowing the EMEPA team to serve you. We wish you a joyful Thanksgiving, a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

by Randy Carroll CEO — East Mississippi Electric Power Association

Thanksgiving

FROM EAST MISSISSIPPI ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

We will be closed Thursday, Nov. 26, and Friday Nov. 27. A dispatcher will be on duty.

BY C OMM UNI TY Electricity connects us to the cooperative, but our connection to one another goes much deeper. As a member-owned cooperative, EMEPA is part of the communities we serve. We live here, work here and raise our families here. That connection gives us a firsthand understanding of the people and places that make east Mississippi home and inspires us to invest in the infrastructure that powers our communities and the people who make them strong. Through the cooperative principle of Concern for Community, EMEPA and its members continue to find ways to make a difference, support one another and create opportunities for the future.

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS Through our Volunteer Fire Department Donation Program, members contributed $39,920 in 2026 to support local volunteer fire departments with equipment and training. Since 1998, members have contributed more than $1.3 million to help protect the communities we call home. Our annual Shoot for a Cure fundraiser brought employees, members and community partners together to raise $41,000 for the Baptist Anderson Cancer Center Patient Benevolence Fund and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

INVESTING IN THE NEXT GENERATION Through the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Cooperative Youth Leaders Program, EMEPA sponsored five local students to experience cooperative leadership and represent our service area in Washington, D.C. We also awarded five scholarships through the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Foundation to help local graduates pursue their educational goals. EMEPA continues to support educators through the Golden Apple Awards and partnerships that provide resources for STEM education and workforce development. In 2026, EMEPA and its partnership with Tennessee Valley Authority supported the Winston-Louisville Career and Technology Center with a $14,000 grant to expand workforce development and training.

16 NOVEMBER | 2026

SHOWING UP FOR OUR COMMUNITIES Throughout the year, EMEPA employees volunteered with organizations and events throughout our service area, including Mississippi Children’s MuseumMeridian, United Way of East Mississippi and State Games of Mississippi. In March, EMEPA was proud to serve as the presenting sponsor of the NAS Meridian Wings Over Meridian Blue Angels Air Show, which brought thousands of visitors from across the region. As the power provider for Naval Air Station Meridian, we are proud to support the base and its role in our local economy and national defense. We also bring our expertise into local classrooms, providing electrical safety and energy efficiency education.

RETURNING VALUE TO MEMBERS

CONNECTED BY COMMUNITY

The cooperative difference is rooted in ownership. In 2026, EMEPA’s Board of Directors approved the retirement of $2.2 million in capital credits, returning value to the members who helped build and sustain the cooperative. Capital credits demonstrate what member ownership means: the cooperative belongs to the communities it serves, and our members share in its success.

From supporting a volunteer firefighter to investing in a student’s future, from lending a hand at a community event to returning value to our members, the connections we build make the cooperative difference possible. We are proud to serve the communities that have supported EMEPA for generations and continue building connections that will carry them forward for generations to come.

EMEPA CELEBRATES 88 YEARS AT A N N UA L ME E TING East Mississippi Electric Power Association recently celebrated 88 years of service during its Annual Meeting in Meridian. CEO Randy Carroll highlighted the cooperative’s growth, praised the dedication of EMEPA’s team, and thanked members for their continued support. Members re-elected Ches Brewer (Clarke County), Mike Fuller (Winston County), Lindsey Keene (Lauderdale County) and Gloria Welch (North System At-Large) to three-year terms on the Board of Directors, reflecting the co-op’s democratic governance. Members in attendance were entered to win electricity bill credits, with prizes ranging from $250 to $500.

Attendance Drawing Winners: • $250: Earline Hopson and Bennie Ford, both of Lauderdale County • $500: Frederic Read of Lauderdale County

Proxy Drawing Winners ($500 each): Clarkco Services (Clarke County), Paytin Pierce (Lauderdale County), Gayle Templeton (Kemper County), Fannie Lou Thedford (Winston County) 2026 | NOVEMBER

MORE THAN INTERNET:

Connecting Your Whole Home your fingertips. Through the app, you can manage connected devices, access parental controls, view network usage and easily and quickly make changes to your Wi-Fi from your smartphone.

A reliable internet connection is at the center of today’s connected home, but staying connected involves more than speed alone. From managing your home Wi-Fi to making a phone call or getting help when you need it, the right services can make technology simpler for everyone in your household.

Another Way to Stay Connected

That’s why East Mississippi Connect offers more than fiber internet. With fast fiber, managed Wi-Fi, Digital Voice phone service and friendly, local support, our subscribers have access to services designed to keep their homes connected.

Fiber Built for Everyday Life

East Mississippi Connect delivers fiber-to-the-home internet. Subscribers can choose from internet plans with symmetrical upload and download speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gig, giving households the capacity to stream, work from home, game, video chat, use smart home technology and connect multiple devices at the same time. And with no data caps or throttling, you can use your connection for the things that matter without worrying about how much data you’re using.

Wi-Fi Made Easier

A strong internet connection is only part of the experience. East Mississippi Connect internet plans also include managed Wi-Fi, helping subscribers get more from their home network. With managed Wi-Fi, East Mississippi Connect can help set up, maintain and troubleshoot your wireless network. Subscribers also have access to the EMC WiFi app, which puts network management right at

For households that want a home phone, East Mississippi Connect also offers Digital Voice. Digital Voice uses East Mississippi Connect’s fiber connection to provide phone service with features designed for today’s needs. Residential Digital Voice can be added to EMC internet service, and a voiceonly option is also available. It’s another way East Mississippi Connect gives subscribers choices when deciding how they want to stay connected.

Local Support When You Need It

Behind all of these services is something equally important—local support. East Mississippi Connect is your local fiber service provider, with a team that serves the same East Mississippi communities you call home. Whether you have a question about your service, need technical assistance or want help finding the right option for your household, support is close by.

Fiber internet. Managed Wi-Fi. Digital Voice. Local support.

East Mississippi Connect is more than internet. It’s a complete connection designed around the way you live. See everything East Mississippi Connect has to offer. Visit eastmsconnect.com to explore services and check availability in your area.

To learn more about EMC’s fiber internet, visit EastMSConnect.com 18 NOVEMBER | 2026

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 844-975-2742

4 leaders chosen as MEP delegates In a two-day event that began with a Cooperative University and concluded with an interview session, four students out of 29 high school juniors were chosen to represent Magnolia Electric Power as delegates in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s Cooperative Leaders Workshop in Jackson in February and on the Youth Tour of Washington, D.C. trip in June. Twenty-nine students were invited to attend the local program. After the first day at Cooperative University where the students were judged on leadership skills, 11 students moved forward to an interview round. "The 29 nominees who began the program were selected by their school counselors from schools in the Magnolia Electric Power service area,” said Lucy Shell, Magnolia Electric manager of communications. “Fifty percent of the participant’s score comes from Cooperative University and the other 50% comes from their interview held the second day,” she said. Following the interview process, four students scored high and were selected as delegates to attend the Mississippi’s Cooperative Leaders Workshop in Jackson and the trip to Washington, D.C.

The four delegates selected were Hadin Campbell of West Lincoln, Anna King of Enterprise, Presley Miller of Parklane, and Shimeer Smith of Salem. Campbell, King, Miller, and Smith will represent Magnolia Electric Power on both trips and have a chance to compete to be a delegate for the National Youth Leadership Council and win a $2,500 scholarship. During the Jackson workshop, students will tour the Mississippi State Capitol, meet with legislators, and visit the legislative galleries. They will learn about electric cooperatives, hear dynamic speakers, and take part in several group exercises aimed at building cooperation, trust, and leadership skills. Then, Campbell, King, Miller, and Smith will travel to Washington, D.C. in June to tour the nation’s capital. A nominee is chosen by their school counselor based on leadership qualities and community service. Also, a nominee’s parents or guardians must be a member of Magnolia Electric Power. “Each year, we tell our nominees that they should know that they are already winners when they walk in the MEP door because they were chosen by their schools as leaders in their communities,” Shell said. “Their dedication and commitment to make the world better is already being noticed.”

Hadin Campbell

Anna King

Presley Miller

Shimeer Smith

West Lincoln High School

Enterprise Attendance Center

Parklane Academy

Salem High School

Gracie Bounds

Addy Emfinger

Aubrianna Grace Hill

Destiney Porter

Cate Schaff

Anderson Smith

Mason Wilson

Columbia Academy

West Lincoln High School

Salem High School

Bogue Chitto High School

Amite School Center

Bogue Chitto High School

Parklane Academy

2026 | NOVEMBER

Cooperative

University

learn about leadership and the cooperative business model A time to

Magnolia Electric Power welcomed 27 young leaders from across MEP’s service area competing for two trips — one to a leadership workshop in Jackson and a second trip that includes a week-long, all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. The MEP Cooperative Youth Leaders program invited 29 nominees to MEP headquarters for the event that was held Oct. 1 and 2. Twenty-seven students, along with their parents and a few school officials, attended the event. “Cooperative University is a one-day program which included a Cooperative Youth Leaders program overview, a presentation on Magnolia Electric Power operations, a meet-a-lineman session, a get-toknow-you experience, and a talk from our state lawmakers,” said MEP Manager of Communications Lucy Shell. “We also included a learning session on how electricity gets to your home with our ‘Generation and Transmission’ talk followed by a hands-on building activity.” “The program is geared to teach the future leaders of our local communities a little bit about the cooperative business model and work on some of their leadership skills,” Shell said. “We try to bring education along with fun leadership games to the students who attend.” “We were excited to have two of our state legislators take time from their busy schedules to come and talk with our students,” Shell said. State Senators Jason Barrett and Gary Brumfield spoke to the students and allowed them to ask questions and then answered them. Magnolia Electric’s 16 NOVEMBER | 2026

area House of Representatives lawmakers were unable to attend due to several different committee meetings in Jackson. The group had lunch, and both legislators were able to join the students. Lunch was followed by more leadership training, a chance to meet with linemen, and then tour the cooperative’s operations department. The tour gave the students a chance to see MEP’s newest technology. Other speakers at the event were Shell, former MEP Lineman and Manager of Safety Scott Weeks, MEP Manager of Engineering Perry Clark, MEP Engineer Alyssa Cooper, and Chris Alexander, the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s assistant vice president of member and youth engagement. The students who attended Cooperative University were Addy Emfinger, Anderson Smith, Anna King, Ashlyn Lambert, Aubrianna Grace Hill, Ava Kate Bairfield, Cate Schaff, Christian Eisert, Daniel Jackson Jr., Destiney Porter, Emma Julianne Williams, Ethan Lizondro, Gracie Bounds, Hadin Campbell, Jazmin Baker, Jmysia “Angel’Lik” Morris, Jonah Rutland, Kenzie Wolf, Linley Reid, Lovely Jane Unahan, Maddox Bradley Martin, Marie Woodall, Mason Wilson, Presley Miller, Shimeer Smith, Tamia Anderson, and Tucker Eldridge. Parents of the school nominees and school counselors and officials are also invited to attend the day. The students were judged during the event and at the conclusion of the event, 11 students moved forward to an interview round.

2026 | NOVEMBER

A Tylertown Christmas tradition shines again

This year, Christmas in the Park celebrates its 28th season. Once again turning Holmes Water Park in Tylertown into a sparkling Christmas wonderland filled with thousands of lights and colorful holiday displays. The 40-plus-acre park, nestled along the east bank of Magee’s Creek near downtown, began its transformation in early October. It takes five to six weeks of hard work to decorate the park with a massive assortment of brightly lit displays that the organizers affectionately describe as a “gazillion lights.” And for many families, the fun begins before Thanksgiving. On Friday and Saturday, Nov. 20-21, the Christmas Craft Show and Bazaar at the Southwest Events Center will offer shoppers a chance to find unique Christmas gifts while getting an early peek at the lights in the adjacent park. Tractor-pulled wagon rides will wind through the beautifully decorated park from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. both nights. Rides are $5, with children 12 and under admitted for $2. Tickets can be purchased at the bazaar. The bazaar, open from 3 to 9 p.m., is free, as is parking. Visitors can browse handmade crafts and holiday goodies or stop for a drink or snack from the Salem Stars Dance Team. Then, on Thanksgiving Eve, Nov. 25, the park officially opens with the popular walking tour, from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under. Parking is free, and visitors enter and park at the Southwest Events Center on Hwy. 48 East. On Thanksgiving night, Nov. 26, the lights take on a different kind of magic as families begin the Christmas in the Park driving tour. The display opens at dusk and continues nightly, weather permitting, through New Year’s Eve, closing at 8:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for passenger vehicles, $10 for commercial vans, and $20 for buses. All vehicles enter through the park gate on Old

MEP supporting

December is here, and if you find any toys on sale, be sure to buy an extra one for the Toys for Tots drive. MEP will again be supporting Toys for Tots this Christmas, and we are asking our members to help us collect toys for the children. Members can drop toys off in a donation box in the lobby at Magnolia Electric Power. If you want to participate, please leave an unwrapped toy in the donation box from now until Dec. 11, and we will see that it gets to the proper people. There are no restrictions on the toys.

Hwy. 98 East at the Magee’s Creek Bridge and drive at their own pace which typically takes around 20 minutes. What began as a grass roots community holiday display has grown into a regional tradition, bringing thousands of visitors each year. Yet perhaps the most important part of Christmas in the Park is that it remains a community effort. The 28th celebration is organized and manned by volunteers working to create a holiday experience enjoyed by generations of local families and visitors. And the Christmas spirit continues into December with Tylertown’s Country Christmas Craft Show, set for Friday, Dec. 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at “The Shanty.” The rustic former feed mill is located at 116 S. Railroad Ave., behind the Coffee Caboose near Centennial Square. As with the November bazaar, the craft show on Dec. 11-12 provides plenty of possibilities for Christmas giving, from custom jewelry and crochet to metalwork, paintings, woodcrafts, stained glass, engraving, locally made jellies and preserves, baked goods, candies, soaps and other handcrafted treasures. No admission is charged to the public, and the parking is free. For Tylertown, Christmas in the Park is more than a collection of lights. It is a holiday tradition built by neighbors, volunteers and families — and one that continues to bring an affordable extra sparkle to the Christmas season. Christmas in the Park is one of the many wonderful events held in Tylertown annually that falls under the umbrella of the Walthall County Chamber of Commerce. Just like Tylertown’s Christmas Parade themed “Small Town, Big Christmas” that will light up downtown on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at 5:30 p.m.. For more information, visit walthallchamber.com, facebook.com/walthallchamber, or call 601-876-2680.

HAPPY

Thanksgiving

Magnolia Electric's business office will be closed Nov. 26-27 for Thanksgiving. A dispatcher will be on duty, and our linemen will be on call. Should you have an outage, please call in at 601-684-4011 or report it by SmartHub.

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

As the harvest season ends and many farmers prepare their fields for the next season, remember to exercise caution when conducting controlled burns near utility poles.

Controlled burns are an important part of managing many agricultural operations, but they should be conducted safely.

Energy-saving recommendations

for rent s

by Miranda Boutelle

Adjusting your thermostat closer to the outside temperature can help you save money on your monthly electric bill.

Use a kitchen thermometer to test the water heater temperature. If it is over 120 degrees, lower the heat setting.

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

Thick curtains can help keep heat out in the summer and make the room feel warmer in the winter.

2026 | NOVEMBER

Check your air filter and replace it as recommended. A dirty filter can re-strict airflow and make your system work harder.

•

Keep return and supply vents clear of furniture, rugs and other obstructions. Dust them regularly.

Outdoor Unit Care

•

Keep leaves, grass and other debris at least 2 feet away from the outdoor unit.

•

Gently rinse dirty condenser coils with a garden hose, following your manufacturer’s recommendations.

Proactive Service

•

Schedule professional tune-ups in spring for cooling and fall for heating.

•

Have ductwork checked for leaks or disconnected sections, and seal leaks with mastic or foil-backed tape.

Thermostat Smarts

•

Adjust your thermostat when you’re asleep or away. In summer, set it a little higher; in winter, a little lower.

•

Consider a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically manage temperatures and save energy.

Filter Care

Every 2-3 months

Once or twice a year

Twice a year

Year-round

A little maintenance can go a long way. Contact your electric co-op if you have questions about home energy use. Photo Credit: Lennox

North East Mississippi ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

For more information about Today in Mississippi, contact Sarah Brooke Bishop at 662-234-6331.

nemepa.org

NEMEPA

@NorthEastPower

Make plans to attend the

2026 ANNUAL MEETING Join North East Mississippi Electric Power Association for its annual meeting on Dec. 12 at 1 p.m. in the NEMEPA auditorium at 1389 Cooperative Way. The meeting offers members an opportunity to hear updates on North East Power and NE SPARC and learn the results of the board of directors election. Attendees will also have a chance to win prizes awarded during the meeting. Members may participate in the election by submitting a ballot or proxy online through a link emailed to the email addresses on file. Paper ballots and proxies will remain available, but we encourage members to use the online option to avoid potential postal delays. Your official meeting notice, ballot and proxy will be sent approximately 30 days before the meeting. All returned ballots will be eligible for a prize. Unable to join us in person? A recording of the meeting will be available the following week. Visit our website or follow our social media pages for details on how to watch.

Thanksgiving OFFICE CLOSURES North East Mississippi Electric Power Association and NE SPARC offices will be closed Thursday, Nov. 26, and Friday, Nov. 27, for the Thanksgiving holiday. NORTH EAST POWER • Access your account at nemepa.org or through our app. To report a power outage, call 662-234-6331 and select 1, use our website or app, or text “OUTAGE” to 352667. NE SPARC • Access your account at nesparc.com. For technical support or to report a fiber outage, call 1-833-NESPARC. While our offices are closed, our teams remain ready to assist you if needed.

We wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

2026 | NOVEMBER

BRIGHT IDEAS GRANTS

BRING CL ASSROOM PROJECTS TO LIFE Creative classroom ideas are becoming a reality for local teachers thanks to Bright Ideas grants from North East Mississippi Electric Power Association and NE SPARC. Ten educators across the North East Power and NE SPARC service territory were selected for grants through an independent review of their online applications. These educators secured funds for their creative and innovative classroom projects serving hundreds of students. “The Bright Ideas Grant is a small way North East Power gives back to our community,” said Sarah Brooke Bishop, communications and marketing manager for North East Power. “We’re proud to help local educators bring ideas to life and give students more opportunities to learn.” The Bright Ideas program awards grants of up to $500 to area public school teachers serving pre-K through 12th grade. Projects in all classroom subjects are eligible. Teachers with a bright idea simply submit an online form when applications are open.

THIS YEAR’S RECIPIENTS INCLUDE Rivers Gainspoletti Oxford High School

Anna Grace Robinson Lafayette High School

Brandi Cooper West Union Attendance Center

Misty Vineyard D.T. Cox Elementary School

Emily Norwood Lafayette Middle and High Schools

Jenna Jackson Lafayette Upper Elementary School

Camisha Johnson-Wallace Bramlett Elementary School

Mary Catherine Porter Lafayette Elementary School

Audrey Pritchard Central Elementary School

Kelly Charette Oxford High School

Applications for the 2027 Bright Ideas grants will open in July 2027. For more information, visit www.nemepa.org/community/bright-ideas. 16 NOVEMBER | 2026

NOW TIME to prepare for IS THE

winter weather

After experiencing Winter Storm Fern earlier this year, we’re all more aware of the challenges winter weather can bring. As we head into the colder season, the best time to prepare is now — before a storm is in the forecast.

While we hope to avoid extreme winter weather this season, North East Mississippi Electric Power Association encourages members to use this time to review emergency plans, replenish supplies, and prepare their homes. Taking these steps today can help keep your family safe and better prepared if extreme weather arrives.

Stock up on essentials

Build an emergency kit with enough supplies to support your household for several days. Include drinking water, nonperishable foods, a manual can opener, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and necessary medications. Remember supplies for infants, pets, and family members with special needs. Keep everything in an accessible location so you can access it if needed.

Plan for a power outage

Unfortunately, during winter months, ice accumulation can cause power outages. Charge phones and portable battery packs before a storm and keep a batterypowered radio available for updates. Have extra blankets and warm clothing ready. If someone in your household relies on electrically powered medical equipment, arrange a backup power source and identify a safe place to go if an outage lasts longer than your backup supply. Before winter weather arrives, familiarize yourself with North East Power’s outage reporting options. Call 662-234-6331 and select 1, report online at nemepa.org or through our app, or text “OUTAGE” to 352667. Knowing these options in advance can help you report an outage quickly.

Use generators and heat sources safely

Portable generators must operate outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents. Never run a generator inside a home or garage, even with the doors open. If you plan to connect a generator to your home’s electrical system, have a qualified electrician install the proper transfer equipment. An improperly connected generator can send electricity back onto power lines, putting our linemen and others at risk of serious injury or death. Use battery-powered or battery-backup carbon monoxide detectors, and never use a gas oven, charcoal grill, or camping stove to heat your home. If your home becomes too cold, seek a safe, warm place to stay.

Prepare your home and vehicle

Before freezing weather arrives, take steps to protect exposed pipes and reduce drafts around doors and windows. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Locate your main water shutoff valve. Create an emergency kit for your vehicle with blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and a phone charger just in case you have to travel. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full.

Stay informed and connected

Monitor local forecasts and North East Power’s social media as conditions change. Keep important phone numbers handy, and make a plan to check on older relatives, neighbors, and others who may need assistance. Discuss where your family will go and how you will stay in touch if staying home becomes unsafe.

While we hope you won’t need to put your emergency plans into action, preparing now can help protect your family and reduce stress if winter weather arrives. A stocked emergency kit and a clear household plan are practical steps every member can take this season. If a storm does come, North East Power will be here to support our members, provide updates, and work safely to restore power as quickly as possible.

2026 | NOVEMBER

Connecting students to career opportunities North East Mississippi Electric Power Association and NE SPARC hosted a booth at the annual LOU College & Career Fair in September at the Lafayette County Arena. The event brought together more than 2,000 high school students from 23 schools across North Mississippi to explore opportunities for their futures. Our team enjoyed sharing how we serve local communities through dependable electric service and high-speed fiber internet.

Students visiting our booth learned about the variety of careers that support this work, including linework, fiber installation, engineering, customer service, accounting, communications, and more. We are always excited to connect with students and help them explore how their skills and interests could lead to a rewarding career.

Take your connection outside with Your favorite outdoor spaces just got more connected. NE SPARC’s new Outdoor WiFi add-on extends your reliable, high-speed connection beyond your walls, bringing strong coverage to your patio, porch, pool, deck, or yard. Whether you’re streaming a movie under the stars, watching the big game on the back porch, or playing music by the pool, Outdoor WiFi lets you enjoy the outdoors with the same dependable service you already trust from NE SPARC. The Outdoor WiFi add-on is available for $15 per month, with a $100 one-time installation fee. It’s a simple way to bring next-generation WiFi coverage to more of the places you love spending time. To sign up for Outdoor WiFi, call 662-238-3159 and take your connection outside. 18 NOVEMBER | 2026

1950-2025

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

NorthcentralEC

@Northcentral_EC

A spirit of service October was a busy month at your electric cooperative and provided several opportunities to celebrate what makes Northcentral and the cooperative model special. Northcentral’s 76th annual meeting was a success as reports were presented on the financial and operational status of your cooperative as well as projections for the upcoming year. We also enjoyed visiting with many of our members during our annual Member Appreciation Day. Thank you to everyone who took part in these events. We also celebrated Co-op Month in October. While electric cooperatives benefit the communities they serve by investing locally, the cooperation among cooperatives is also an important part of who we are. Whether it’s storm restoration, aggregation of services, or knowledge sharing, electric cooperatives share and receive benefits from the more than 900 electric cooperatives throughout the U.S. As we move into November, our focus turns from celebrating the cooperative spirit to recognizing another

HAPPY

important example of service. On Nov. 11, we honor the men and women who have served in our nation’s armed forces. Veterans Day began as Armistice Day following the end of World War I, honoring those who served and sacrificed for our country. The name was later changed to Veterans Day to recognize veterans of all conflicts. While Nov. 11 provides a special opportunity to recognize their service, our veterans deserve our respect and gratitude throughout the year. To all who have served, thank you. Stay safe.

by Kevin Doddridge General Manager/CEO

Thanksgiving FROM

We will be closed Nov. 26 and 27. A dispatcher will be on duty.

Please call 662-895-2151 to report outages or manage your account. 2026 | NOVEMBER

HONORING

OUR VETERANS

DAVID BRANSON

United States Marine Corps

JACOB DANIEL

United States Marine Corps

ZACH DIAS

We offer our heartfelt gratitude to all of those who have served our country. A special thank you goes out to our Northcentral Electric and Northcentral Connect veterans.

United States Marine Corps Reserve

BOBBY JOHNSON United States Army

CLIFF LAUDERDALE United States Army

PETE NELSON

United States Army Reserve

DONTRELL STROMAN United States Army

COOPERATIVE UNIVERSITY • COOPERATIVE LEADERS WORKSHOP YOUTH TOUR OF WASHINGTON D.C.

Calling all 11th graders served by northcentral electric, make this year memorable

by participating in the 2027 cooperative leaders workshop and youth tour of washington, d.c.

scan here to apply application deadline

november 15

FOR INFORMATION SEE YOUR GUIDANCE COUNSELOR OR CALL DEE RUSSUM AT NORTHCENTRAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE AT 662.932.3451.

15 years of dedicated service After 15 years of service at Northcentral Electric Cooperative, Facilities Coordinator Alfred Bledsoe retired, closing a chapter defined by hard work and lasting friendships. When Bledsoe thinks back to his first day at Northcentral, he remembers the greetings, introductions, and new faces. By his last day, many of those once-unfamiliar faces had become some of his closest friends. “The people I met became some of my closest friends,” Bledsoe said. “Northcentral became my second family.” Throughout his career, Bledsoe enjoyed working with coworkers and vendors while helping keep Northcentral’s facilities and dayto-day operations running smoothly. Along the way, he also gained a greater understanding and appreciation for the business. “I really enjoyed working at Northcentral,” he said. “I learned a lot about the energy industry.” If he could offer his younger self one piece of advice on that first day, Bledsoe said he would take a little more time to absorb his surroundings and learn from the people and experiences around him. It is a perspective gained from a career spent growing into his role and building relationships along the way. As he closes this chapter, Bledsoe hopes his coworkers remember him simply as someone who was happy, hardworking, and dedicated. Retirement will bring a different pace and plenty to look forward to. Bledsoe plans to enjoy life, travel, and, most importantly, spend more time with his family.

While his daily routine at Northcentral may have come to an end, the friendships and memories made throughout his career will remain. Thank you, Alfred, for 15 years of dedicated service to the cooperative and our members.

22026 026 OLIVE OLIVE BRANCH BRANCH CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS PARADE PPAARADE

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24/7 Network Security Business Wi-Fi Management 1 Static IP Address

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CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL FOR CALL FOR MORE MORE INFORMATION INFORMATION 662.932.3500 662.932.3500 662.932.3500

VISIT OUR WEBSITE VISIT VISIT OUR OUR WEBSITE WEBSITE NORTHCENTRALCONNECT.COM NORTHCENTRALCONNECT.COM NORTHCENTRALCONNECT.COM

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.

PRVEPA

Annual Meeting

Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association held its annual meeting at its headquarters in Columbia on Sept. 26, 2026. 147 members were in attendance to conduct cooperative business, including the election of four directors to threeyear terms. The following directors were elected: District 2 • Adam Bass District 5 • B. F. Hudson, Jr. District 7 • Davis Wingo At Large • Leslie Peters At the conclusion of the business meeting, prize drawings were held, with winners receiving credits on their upcoming power bills.

In person winners:

$100 Prizes

$1000 Prize Carolyn Soniat

$750 Prize

$500 Prize

Jacqueline Huber

John Murret

Left photo L – R: James Davis, Paul Stogner, Sharon McGowan, Mildred Peters, and Mavis McGill Right photo L – R: Bridget Newson, Katie Gathright, Sharon Merritt, Fred Riley, and Clifton Hebert

Absentee prize winners: $1,000 $750 $500 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100

DAVID LEE SANETHER ARMSTRONG MELISSA GEVERD DEBBIE VOGT MARY CULPEPPER KATHLEEN SPEER KATHERINE CLARK MICHELL BREELAND ESTER SIMS TERRY THOMAS ROBERT BRYAN PATRICIA FOX CASEY TRAVIS KIM LOWERY MARGARETTE SPEIGHTS FERN FILLINGANE IONA BAUCUM BARBARA MARELLA

$100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50

JOHNNY BARNETT BARBARA DEDEAUX FRANCIS KALASOSKI JOSEPHINE MANESS CHRISTOPHER ROBINSON CRYSTAL SINGLEY LINDA ROGERS NAN DAVIS DORIS COOK JACOB BAUGHMAN JOSHUA MOREE KENT BANKS JAMES WILLETTE LYNN LOTT JUDY DICK ANTHONY HARVEY STEPHANIE STRINGER JOYCE DEDEAUX

$50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50 $50

HARRY REGAN RONNIE ROBERTSON JAMES WEBB DON BILBO MOISE WALKER ROSEITA JEFFERSON MARY BROOM JERRY KNIGHT DAY BARLOW NOEL ELLSBERRY MARY PARKER CLARA SHAFER RAY STEVENS JOHN FARVE JOHN CHANDLER JOSEPH JOHNSON LESLIE BOZEMAN

2026 | NOVEMBER

2026 PRVEPA Round Up for Education Program

2026 PRVEPA

Round Up for Education Program

Community Colleges Students Attending

Total amount: $164,000 Each recipient receives: $1,000 Total recipients: 164

Copiah Lincoln Community College Jon Cobb

East Central Community College Judah Stout

SHS

Jones College Dawson Baum Hayden Boyd Ayla Elliott Laila Holloway Mack Hutson Nicholas Mascagni Kailyn McBride Samuel Nicholas Dylan Nicholas Darrin Robbins Ella Robertson Tatum Russell Emily Seals Avery Walters

Meridian

Allie Jameson

SHS George County HS SHS

Pearl River Community College Sum

Hinds Community College Robert Fairley Melvin Jones Jennifer Martin Kaden Smith Porter Williamson

Kathryn Warden Dennis Whittington Brayden Williams

SHS OG WM Lum LCS

OG Sum Sum CHS Home OG SHS OG OG Sum Sum Sum OG Home

Sum

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

Elijah Barnett Gateway Christian Acad. Josiah Beamon SHS Anna Kate Beech SHS Kolton Brookins SHS Brayden Brown SHS Joseph Cain SHS Jadon Easterling Home Charles Evans CA Caden Freeman SHS Jakson Gates SHS Cardarius Griffin SHS Chimere Haley SHS Merek Harder SHS Kyler Herrington SHS Bailey Hicks SHS Makayla McMurphy SHS Ava Nelson SHS Jathan Nix SHS Mitchell Osbon SHS Anna Robinson PHS Kaylee Ryals CHS Landon Seal SHS Kelsey Sims OG Cela Strickland SHS Ada Taylor SHS Chloe Tucker SHS

16 NOVEMBER | 2026

Sikoi Abram Braxton Albritton Amilya Alexander D’Najah Allen Tijaona Allen Sydney Anderson Ashten Applewhite Jaydrian Barnes Salem Blackwell Mallorie Blocker Mallory Boyte Presley Branch Ashleigh Breland Taylor Breland Caydance Brumfield Katilyn Bryant Chelsey Burnside Jakob Byas Nyasia Cain William Cain Hayden Caulfield Ciara Conerly Breyanna Crockett Jaime Daniels Mia Daniels Ethan Davis Cadence Dickens Kylie Dickinson Isabella Dubose Wesley Dulin Miley Dunaway Ryder Earls Adlee Eubanks Roslyn Flowers Hagen Forbes Cole Ford Samuel Fulmer Lupita Galvez Natalie George Nylasia Green Landon Hartfield Jason Hawkins Landon Holman Jade Holmes Abby Hunt Caleb Hunt Charles Hurst Makaylei Jackson Shakiya Johnson Anassia Johnson Kyan Johnson Carsyn Kelley Landon Knight Aubrey Ladner Jacob Lambert Robert Lawler

WM WM WM EM EM CHS Jeff Davis WM OG WM FCAHS CA OG CA WM OG Lum CHS CHS PHS OG WM FCAHS EM EM PHS SHS CHS FCAHS PHS WM CA OG EM WM PHS Woodlawn Prep FCAHS PHS WM PHS Sum WM OG Sum SHS CHS EM WM WM EM FCAHS Lum SHS Poplarville PHS

Anna Grace Lee Madalyn Lee Hailey Legion Shayla Lewis Montana Love Yasmine Magee Katelee Martin Lily McClatchey Jaden McKenzie Laken McKenzie Audrey McNabb Donovan Miller Jackson Miller Clair Mulherin Baylee Parrett Carter Pennington Janielyn Pigott Hallie Pittman RonJarius Pittman Joseph Potin Jaley Raynes Preston Rose Laidan Sanders Logan Scott Carson Smith Samuel Smith Peyton Smith Maggie Smith Caydence Smith Lawson Soberoski Katharine Spacht Jackson Speir Harley Sterling Kylie Stewart Taylor Stringer Kady Stringer Isabella Stringer Sarah Sumlin Tristan Taylor Zariah Thompson Jaci Thompson Juliana Valdez David Walker Korbin Ward Dylan Warnsley Dillon Weatherford Keltey Whaley Alaysha Wilks Emily Williams Kacey Williams Ma’Lysia Young Cheyenne Young Jackson Walker

PHS CA PHS WM Poplarville WM WM PHS Sum Sum OG WM CHS OG WM CA PHS CA WM OG WM PHS WM PHS FCAHS WM Poplarville CA CA PHS SHS CA OG Sum WM WM CA Sum OG WM CHS FCAHS PHS PHS OG PHS WM FCAHS WM OG OG PHS PHS

Southwest Mississippi Community College Larkin Foxworth Elizabeth Pittman Tripp Richards Ryne Stevens

Tylertown HS WM Sum OG

Pearl River....................................................... 109 Gulf Coast .........................................................29 Jones....................................................................14 Hinds ......................................................................5 Southwest Miss. ................................................ 4 Copiah-Lincoln ....................................................1 Meridian .................................................................1 East Central ..........................................................1

High Schools Recipients Attending Stone (SHS)......................................................29 Sumrall (Sum)...................................................14 Purvis (PHS) .....................................................20 West Marion (WM) ........................................29 Oak Grove (OG) .............................................. 22 Forrest County AHS (FCAHS) .................... 8 Columbia (CHS) ................................................ 9 East Marion (EM)...............................................7 Columbia Academy (CA) .............................. 11 Lamar Christian (LCS) ......................................1 Lumberton (Lum) .............................................3 Homeschool ........................................................3 Poplarville ............................................................3 Tylertown High School .....................................1 George County High School ..........................1 Gateway Chrisitan Academy .........................1 Jeff Davis County High School .....................1 Woodlawn Prep ..................................................1

2013-2026 Students’ Community College Pearl River CC ............................................1,487 Miss. Gulf Coast CC .................................... 543 Jones College ............................................... 456 Southwest Miss CC ........................................83 Hinds CC ............................................................34 East Central ....................................................... 21 Other ................................................................... 72 Total ......................................................2696

2013-2026 Students’ High Schools Stone HS ...........................................................517 Oak Grove HS ................................................347 Purvis HS ..........................................................321 Sumrall HS ......................................................267 Forrest County AHS ................................... 254 West Marion HS ........................................... 249 Columbia HS ...................................................152 Columbia Academy .......................................151 East Marion HS .............................................. 136 Lamar Christian...............................................65 Other .................................................................237 Total ......................................................2696

Yearly Totals 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 Total

Students 164 178 185 144 187 187 175 214 253 241 217 207 172 172 2696

Awards

$1000 $800 $800 $650 $500 $500 $500 $500 $725 $800 $935 $975 $1000 $963 $2,048,081

2026 Round Up for Education

scholarships awarded Over the past 14 years, Pearl River Valley Electric’s Round Up for Education Scholarship program has helped nearly 2,700 students achieve higher education. This fall, 164 students throughout Pearl River Valley Electric’s 12-county service area will receive scholarships to help them begin their college journey. Each student will receive a total of $1,000 in scholarship funds, distributed in two installments — $500 for the fall semester and $500 for the spring semester — thanks to the generosity of our members. In the program’s 14 years, 2,696 students have now received scholarships. Pearl River Valley Electric’s Round Up for Education program is funded by members who round their bills up to the nearest dollar each month. Scholarships are available to members who participate in the program, as well as for their spouses or dependent children who are enrolled as freshmen this fall.

OFFICE CLOSURE

“Our members are the reason this program is possible,” said CEO/General Manager Matthew Ware. “When we all come together and give a little each month, those small contributions add up to something meaningful. Together, we’re helping provide students with opportunities they may not otherwise have.” Scholarship recipients this year include 109 students attending Pearl River Community College, 29 at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, 14 at Jones College, and 12 students enrolled at five other state community colleges. Overall, students came from 18 different high schools and home school programs. Round Up for Education funds collected after Aug. 1 go toward next year’s scholarships. Applications for 2027 scholarships will be available beginning this month.

All Pearl River Valley Electric offices will be closed on Nov. 13, 2026, for an employee enrichment program. A dispatcher will be on duty.

HAPPY Thanksgiving from Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association!

We will be closed Nov. 26 and 27. A dispatcher will be on duty.

Check your air filter and replace it as recommended. A dirty filter can re-strict airflow and make your system work harder.

•

Keep return and supply vents clear of furniture, rugs and other obstructions. Dust them regularly.

Outdoor Unit Care

•

Keep leaves, grass and other debris at least 2 feet away from the outdoor unit.

•

Gently rinse dirty condenser coils with a garden hose, following your manufacturer’s recommendations.

Proactive Service

•

Schedule professional tune-ups in spring for cooling and fall for heating.

•

Have ductwork checked for leaks or disconnected sections, and seal leaks with mastic or foil-backed tape.

Thermostat Smarts

•

Adjust your thermostat when you’re asleep or away. In summer, set it a little higher; in winter, a little lower.

•

Consider a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically manage temperatures and save energy.

Filter Care

Every 2-3 months

Once or twice a year

Twice a year

Year-round

A little maintenance can go a long way. Contact your electric co-op if you have questions about home energy use. Photo Credit: Lennox

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

PEPA gives back through collection of pantry staples Peanut butter and jelly are a classic combination, but if someone is hungry, they can be lifesaving. Beginning on National Food Bank Day, Sept.4 and running throughout the month of September, PEPA’s employees took donations of the pantry staples at their offices in Pontotoc and Bruce. To make the peanut butter and jelly drive a little more appealing, PEPA’s resident “PB and Jay” (Collections Manager Mary Williamson and Collections Assistant/Receptionist Charlotte Ledbetter) once again “raced” to the finish line in a fun Facebook video to encourage members to give. Why peanut butter and jelly? Not only is it an easy meal that even children can prepare for themselves, it’s also a nutrientdense food rich in healthy fats, protein, vitamins and minerals. Combine it with jelly, and it’s a tasty way to have a meal on a tight budget.

Food insecurity means people don't have enough to eat and don't know where their next meal will come from. PEPA Human Resources Manager Jennifer Johnson said Mississippi has one of the highest rates of food insecurity in the United States. PEPA has a goal to take on a project like this every year. This is the second year the co-op has collected peanut butter and jelly. In the past, they’ve had school backpack drives and collected items for overnight bags for children going into foster care. “We feel so blessed to be a part of our communities. We try to do something each year that can be a blessing to those who need it,” Johnson said. At the time of publication, the drive was ending, and the donations were headed to food pantries in Pontotoc and Bruce.

PEPA’s customer portal grows to

10,000 USERS PEPA celebrated reaching 10,000 customer portal users recently. General Manager Frankie Moorman and a group of office employees commemorated the day with a Facebook video.

2026 | NOVEMBER

Warm plates

to fight chilly days Cooler temps are the perfect time to enjoy comfort food! Give these a try the next time you want a satisfying meal on a cool evening. 16 NOVEMBER | 2026

Cheesy Sausage and Potatoes 1 ½ 1 ¾ 1 1 1 1

pound smoked sausage of a white onion, chopped bag of shredded hashbrowns (26 ounces) cup sour cream can cream of chicken soup cup Mexican blend cheese, shredded teaspoon onion powder teaspoon Cajun seasoning Pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 375. In a skillet, cook sausage and onion until browned. Add the rest of the ingredients and combine well. Place in a greased baking dish and cook uncovered for 45 minutes.

Easy Yeast Rolls 1 ¼ 3 ¾ 1

teaspoon sugar cup butter, melted cups biscuit mix, divided cup warm water (98 – 105 degrees) package dry active yeast (1/4 ounce)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Dissolve yeast in water. Put the 2 ½ cups of biscuit mix in a large bowl; stir in the sugar. Add the yeast mixture, stirring vigorously. Sprinkle the work surface generously with the remaining ½ to 1 cup biscuit mix. Turn the dough out onto the surface and knead well, 15 to 20 times. Shape the dough as desired. (I shape heaping tablespoons of dough into balls.) Place on a lightly greased baking sheet, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour. Just before putting into the oven, brush rolls with melted butter. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush the rolls again with melted butter while they’re hot. Makes about 15 rolls.

Apple Dumplings 2 cans crescent rolls 2 Granny Smith apples 2 sticks butter 1 ½ cups sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 7 ounces lemon lime soda

Ground Beef Cobbler 1½ pounds lean ground beef 4 tablespoons melted butter 1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (11.36 ounces) 2 cups milk 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables 1 cup chicken broth or beef broth 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)

Peel and core apples. Cut each apple into 8 slices. Roll each apple slice in a section of crescent rolls. Place in a 9 x 13 buttered pan. Then melt butter, add sugar, and barely stir. Add vanilla and pour the entire mixture over apples. Pour soda all around edges of apples. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess liquid or fat. Spread the melted butter over the bottom of a 9 x 13 casserole dish. Place the ground beef and frozen vegetables evenly over the butter. Whisk together the biscuit mix, including the spice packet, and two cups of milk. There may be some lumps, but that is okay. Pour the mixture over the beef and veggies. Do not mix. Whisk together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Pour mixture over the casserole. Do not mix. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until the sides are bubbling and the top starts to brown. Let sit 5-15 minutes to set, then serve.

2026 | NOVEMBER

Lineman

PROMOTIONS Because of their hard work and tenacity, three Pontotoc Electric Power Association linemen moved up in the apprenticeship program. Larkin Gillespie moved to year two, and Eli Hatcher and Richard Hernandez moved to year three. The apprenticeship program is a combination of skills training, book work, and on-the-job training. Each level takes about a year to complete.

Congratulations to our linemen!

Left to right: Larkin Gillespie, Eli Hatcher, and Richard Hernandez

HAPPY

THANKSGIVING from Pontotoc Electric Power Association! Our offices will be closed Nov. 26 and 27.

A dispatcher for PEPA will be on duty for outages or emergencies. Please call 662-489-6711 (Pontotoc) or 662-983-2727 (Bruce).

18 NOVEMBER | 2026

singingriver.com • contactus@singingriver.com • Singing River Electric is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

MORE THAN CUSTOMERS… SINGING RIVER ELECTRIC MEMBERS

More than $3.5 million in capital credits being retired to Singing River Electric members There are many benefits of being a member of an electric cooperative, and a major benefit is the retirement of capital credits. Singing River Electric Cooperative’s board of directors recently approved a retirement of $2 million in Singing River Electric capital credits to our membership; this represents capital credits for the year 2000. Our generation and transmission cooperative, Cooperative Energy, also returns capital credits to Singing River Electric members; they are returning $1.5 million in capital credits to our membership for the year 1996 and a portion of the year 2009. What does this mean for Singing River Electric members? As a member, you have a share in the earnings of your not-for-profit electric cooperative. Singing River Electric’s rate revenue is used to operate, make payments on loans, and make improvements to the electric system. Any remaining revenue is allocated to the members in the form of capital credits. The amount of capital credits assigned to a member is based on the amount of electricity used during a particular year. When funding is available, Singing River Electric’s board of directors can approve retiring a portion of a member's capital credits in the form of a bill credit or check; the same applies for Cooperative Energy. As always, this year’s retirement is dependent on potential tropical storms or hurricanes through the remainder of this year’s storm season. How do I get capital credits? Singing River Electric members during the years 1996, 2000, and 2009, with an account that is still active and receiving a monthly

COOPERATIVE PRINCIPLE NO. 3

MEMBERS' ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION billing statement will automatically receive either a bill credit or a check depending on the credit amount. These members do not need to fill out any paperwork to receive their capital credits. Previous Singing River Electric members who had an account during the specified years but no longer have an active account can visit our website at singingriver.com or call any Singing River Electric office between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31 to receive instructions and download the necessary paperwork to claim their capital credits. Completed documentation must be returned to Singing River Electric’s Lucedale office by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 31, 2026. We hope these returned capital credits help you and your family this holiday season. On behalf of our board and employees, I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving.

by Brian Hughey General Manager and CEO

Energy-Efficiency

TIPS

Gabe Robbins

Field Services Representative robbins@singingriver.com

singingriver.com/ways-to-save

Take action as cold weather and the holidays approach As cooler weather rolls in across our region, keep heating costs low by setting your thermostat to 68 degrees while home and lowering it more when you are away. On mild November days, turn your system off and open the windows to naturally cool your home and let fresh air circulate. Switch to LED holiday lighting to curb seasonal electricity use. LEDs consume 80-90% less energy than traditional light strands and last three times longer. In fact, the power required for just one 7-watt incandescent bulb can run 140 LED lights — enough for two 25-foot strands. Maximize savings by automating your holiday display with timers. Set outdoor lights to come on at dusk and power off at bedtime to eliminate late-night waste. Plug inflatable decorations into timers too to keep them from running endlessly. 2026 | NOVEMBER 15

HURRICANE ISAIAS Category 3 Hurricane Isaias brought tropical stormforce winds and rain to Singing River Electric's service area on Friday, October 9. Our linemen battled power outages throughout the afternoon and evening and into early Saturday. They cut many trees off the power lines, picked up downed lines, and replaced poles when the force of fallen trees caused them to break. While linemen braved the weather, our operators, dispatchers, and engineers tracked outages and kept linemen moving to the next location. Our member service representatives answered calls and responded to outage-related messages. Their work behind-thescenes was crucial to the power restoration process. After restoring power to all Singing River Electric members, our 19-man crew left Sunday morning, October 11, for Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative (CHELCO), in DeFuniak Springs, Fla. CHELCO, which serves Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, and Santa Rosa counties, had around 71,000 of their 76,000 accounts without power at the start of Hurricane Isaias storm response. Singing River Electric proudly lives out Cooperation Among Cooperatives, a powerful cooperative principle in times like these.

Substation upgrades for reliability As the number of Singing River Electric members increases, our substations must be able to keep up with the current demand for electricity and have capacity for future growth. We receive electricity from our wholesale power provider Cooperative Energy at our 45 substations, adjust voltage levels so it is safe to transmit, and distribute it to member homes and businesses. Several substations are undergoing upgrades or rebuilds to provide greater reliability for our members. We’re highlighting the

construction of our new State Line substation in Greene County which will be brought online by the end of 2026. Singing River Electric is one of the few electric cooperatives in the state that builds its own substations. “Building our own is cost-effective and gives our employees a better understanding of the planning, construction, and maintenance required to keep substations operating safely and efficiently,” explained System Engineer John Rouse.

Powering Possibilities 2026 Grant Recipient Keren Kiernan Singing River Electric and Cooperative Energy congratulate Keren Kiernan on being our 2026 Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant recipient. A person who nominated Kiernan said: “Shae’s Place and Keren have helped countless kids throughout the years and led so many to Christ! She gives them help with homework, teaches them accountability, respect, and gives so much love! Keren’s all about the children and trying to make a positive and lasting change in their lives!” Kiernan founded Shae’s Place, a non-profit organization in Vancleave, in 2008. A year earlier, community members held a benefit to help with medical bills for Kiernan’s 11-year-old daughter, Shae, who sadly passed away from her illness. “The medical bills were paid, and we had $7,777 left; I prayed about what to do with it,” remembered Kiernan. She began assisting middle school students with homework while mentoring them on campus, and when they wanted a place to hang out after school, she told them to pray about it. The building on Highway 57 was donated not long after, becoming Shae’s Place where children from all walks of life can simply be kids. “I pray the kids who need to be here are here,” said Kiernan. “The miracles I’ve seen watching these kids succeed – there are so many blessings, I can’t count them. God took the ashes and created a beautiful story.” Kiernan chose Shae’s Place to receive the $1,000 donation that comes with the award and received $500 herself. "I am so grateful for this award and for all the support from everyone,” said Kiernan. “This award is also for them because together we are ‘Helping God's Children Make Good Choices... for Life.’” The Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant honors individuals who serve along with the organizations they strengthen and reflects the ongoing partnership between Singing River Electric and our wholesale power provider, Cooperative Energy, to power meaningful change beyond electricity.

Singing River Electric’s Neighbors Helping Neighbors Energy Assistance program is an easy way to help those who need assistance paying their electricity bill. Everyone needs a little help from time to time. This program is funded by the generosity of Singing River Electric members who round up their monthly electricity bill to the nearest whole dollar. For example, a bill for $150.72 rounds up to $151 — a 28¢ contribution. Donations range from 1 cent to 99 cents each month and average only $6 per year. Catholic Charities of South Mississippi uses these contributions for Singing River Electric members needing assistance.

Please consider rounding up your bill to help others by: • Clicking the Give Joy Round Up button in the SmartHub app. • Completing the online donation form at singingriver.com/give-joy. • Calling any Singing River Electric office. • Checking the NHN Energy Assistance box on your bill statement and submitting it with your payment.

singingriver.com/give-joy

Singing River Connect subscribers: You can now pay your bill and contact support through the My SR Connect App!

More convenience, all in one place.

9:41

Hi, Haylie

Your network is connected

Pay My Bill

Contact Support

People

Online

SI N G I N G RI V E R CO NNE C T.CO M 18 NOVEMBER | 2026

See All

2 online, 1 paused, 1 offline Miguel

Speed Test

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BRINGING THE POWER WWW.SOUTHERNPI NE.COOP | P.O. BOX 60 | 1 3491 H WY. 28 | TAY LORSV ILLE , MS 391 6 8 | 8 00. 231 . 524 0

Grateful for the Life We Have I have always believed that Thanksgiving comes at just the right time. By November, another year is nearly behind us. There have been good days and hard ones. We have celebrated milestones, faced disappointments and dealt with a few things we probably never saw coming. Thanksgiving gives us a chance to slow down for a little while and think about how much we have been given. I know that may be harder for some families this year. Everything seems to cost more. A trip to the grocery store takes a bigger bite out of the family budget, and filling up the gas tank costs more than we would like. Insurance, housing, and other everyday expenses add up quickly. Those challenges are real. But I have learned over the years that being grateful doesn’t mean pretending everything is easy. It means recognizing that even during difficult times, God has placed blessings all around us. And most of the important ones don’t come with a price tag. They are sitting across the dinner table from us. They are the children and grandchildren who make the house a little louder. They are the friend who calls to check on us; the coworker who has become like family or the neighbor who shows up when somebody needs a hand. It is easy to spend so much time thinking about what we don’t have that we miss what is right in front of us. I see reminders of that throughout the communities Southern Pine serves. When storms strike, neighbors help neighbors.

Churches and community organizations step in when families are struggling. Our team members leave their own homes and families to restore power to someone else’s. I see people quietly helping people all the time, usually without expecting any recognition for it. That is something I am especially thankful for. At Southern Pine, we are also thankful for the trust you place in us. We know electricity is another expense in your household budget, and we take seriously our responsibility to provide reliable service while working hard to keep it affordable. This Thanksgiving, I hope we can all spend a little less time thinking about what we wish we had and a little more time appreciating what we already have. Life isn’t perfect, and it never will be. But when we have family and friends to love, meaningful work to do, neighbors who care about one another, and faith to carry us through the hard days, we have an awful lot to be thankful for. From my family and the Southern Pine family to yours, may God bless you and your family this Thanksgiving.

by Drummonds McAlpin President/CEO Southern Pine Electric

2026 | NOVEMBER

SOUTHERN PINE TEAM MEMBERS

Recipes

for the

Pumpkin Lush

Mandy Stanley, Hattiesburg MSR

olidays H

“This is a family favorite because it is easy to make and it is a refreshing dessert. Who doesn’t love a great pumpkin recipe this time of year?” INGREDIENTS 18

sheets of cinnamon graham crackers

cup salted butter, melted

8-ounce blocks of cream cheese

2 ¼ cups of powdered sugar 1

teaspoon of vanilla

8-ounce containers of Cool Whip

Spray a 9 by 9 deep Pyrex dish and set aside. Finely crush graham cracker sheets in a food processor until they reach a coarse crumb consistency. In a large bowl, combine the graham crackers with the melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of your Pyrex dish. Freeze while you prepare the filling. In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Use a spatula to fold in 1 of the 8 ounce containers of Cool Whip. Spread the cream

16 NOVEMBER | 2026

1 ½ of 3.4-ounce boxes of instant cheesecake pudding mix 2

cans of canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)

teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

cup chopped pecans

cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust and return to the freezer. In a large bowl, combine the milk and cheesecake pudding mix. Then add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice. It is best to use a mixer. Spread the mixture over the cream cheese layer and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. When ready to serve, spread the other 8 ounce container of Cool Whip on top and garnish with pecans.

Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad

Charlotte’s Blueberry Crunch

Cindy Kahn, New Hebron MSR

Charlotte Griffin, Newton MSR

“My daddy always asks me to bring this salad to our Thanksgiving and Christmas lunch, and of course I always do. My daddy is 87, and I am so blessed to have my mom and dad still in my life. That is a true Thanksgiving and a true Christmas gift.”

INGREDIENTS 3

cups or more of fresh blueberries

1 ½ cups chopped pecans 1 ½ cups of sugar 1 ½ cups of self-rising flour 2

INGREDIENTS 2 heads fresh broccoli, diced

1 cup raisins

1 head cauliflower, chopped

½ cup mayonnaise

¾ cup sunflower seeds

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 small bag of real bacon bits

2 teaspoons white sugar

3 green onions, thinly sliced

⅛ teaspoon salt

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or glass jar. Whisk or shake with a lid until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. Taste and add a little more sugar or vinegar if you prefer it sweeter or tangier. Serve immediately over your broccoli and cauliflower salad or store it in a covered jar in the refrigerator.

sticks of butter

Spray a square Pyrex dish with cooking spray. Add the blueberries. Sprinkle in 1 cup of chopped pecans. Mix the sugar and flour well, then pour over the blueberries and pecans, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining pecans on top and cover with pats of butter. Make sure the top is completely covered with butter. Bake at 375 degrees for 30-40 minutes. Remove from the oven when the top is lightly browned and has a cake-like texture. Serve with vanilla ice cream and watch it disappear.

Hunter’s Delight Cake

Aunt Lizzy’s “Green Stuff ”

Zach Cole, New Hebron Staking Technician III

Robin Allen, Call Center MSR

INGREDIENTS 2 cups flour ¼ teaspoon salt 2 eggs ½ cup walnuts 2 cups sugar 2 teaspoons baking soda 20-ounce can crushed pineapple 1 teaspoon vanilla

ICING 1 stick butter, melted 2 cups powdered sugar 1 (8 ounce) cream cheese 1 teaspoon vanilla Mix the cake ingredients, then pour into a greased 9 by13 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. When done, punch the cake with a fork and pour the icing over while warm.

“We have had this recipe every Thanksgiving for as long as I can remember. My mom passed it down to her children. We’ve passed it down to our children. And our children’s children have helped with making these now. I’m sure it will continue to be passed down the line through many generations.” INGREDIENTS 2 cups boiling water 2 small boxes lime Jell-O 2 small boxes lemon Jell-O 15 ounces evaporated milk 16 ounces cottage cheese 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 16 ounces crushed pineapple 2 cups chopped pecans Dissolve all Jell-O in boiling water. Stir in each ingredient, one at a time. Pour into a mold or bowl and chill in the refrigerator.

2026 | NOVEMBER

YOUR VOTE

Shapes Southern Pine’s Future Southern Pine belongs to the members it serves. That is why the 2026 director elections matter. When you vote, you help choose the people who will represent members and guide the cooperative’s decisions in the years ahead. Our Board of Directors helps set Southern Pine’s policies and direction. These decisions shape how we serve members, maintain reliable electric service, and plan for the future. Voting is one of the most direct ways to take part in your cooperative. Southern Pine’s election materials should have arrived in your mailboxes and in your email in mid-October with information about the candidates and how to cast your ballot. We also hope you will join us for Southern Pine’s annual meeting on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026. This year’s theme, “Lights, Lines, & Legacy,” celebrates the work that brought electricity to

Lines, Lights & Legacy M E M B E R A P P R E C I AT I O N & ANNUAL MEETING THURSDAY NOVEMBER 12, 2026

DOORS OPEN AT 9:30 A.M. MEETING AT 11 A.M. SOUTHERN PINE ELECTRIC HEADQUARTERS

FOOD, FRIENDS, MEMBER SPOTLIGHT BOOTHS & MORE!

BRINGING THE POWER

18 NOVEMBER | 2026

our communities, the people who keep it flowing today, and the members who will shape what comes next. The annual meeting is a chance to hear from Southern Pine, ask questions, and connect with the people who power your electric service. Visit our Southern Pine booths to learn more about the cooperative and stop by the member spotlight booths to see the talents and contributions of fellow members. Covington County Hospital will offer free health assessments, and Lowe’s will be on hand to share ways to save energy and money at home. Whether you have been a member for decades or recently joined Southern Pine, your participation matters. Take time to vote in the director elections, then join us on the morning of Nov. 12. Your voice is part of Southern Pine’s legacy, and we look forward to seeing you there.

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 | Payments & Outages: 844-975-2728 southwestelectric.coop

EMPLOYEE

info@swepa.coop

Southwest Electric

sw_electric_coop

Southwest Electric

OUR VETERANS Bruce Butler, Construction Crew Foreman Sgt. Butler was called up for active duty in the Army in November 1990. He served for six months during Desert Storm and was stationed in Saudi Arabia. He returned home just four days before his wedding. Bruce has worked for Southwest Electric for 40 years as a serviceman’s helper, a lineman, a serviceman and a crew foreman. He supervises a construction crew daily and oversees the installation of new services. Bruce and his wife, Kim, have two sons.

Anthony Harris, Lineman Pvt. First Class Harris served in the Army for four years. He attended infantry school at Fort Benning before being stationed at Camp Shelby. Anthony has worked at Southwest Electric for five years. He is on a construction crew of five linemen. They install new services, change out poles, relocate services and perform general maintenance. Anthony has four children.

Jr Keller, Lead Mechanic Sgt. Keller was also called up for active duty in the Army in November 1990. He was stationed in California for six months ready to deploy to the Middle East if Operation Desert Storm escalated. Jr has worked for Southwest Electric for 38 years in the right-of-way department and the shop. He is lead mechanic, maintaining a fleet of 60 large and small trucks and 10 off-road vehicles and trailers. Jr has one son and one grandson.

Southwest Electric would like to thank all veterans for serving their country, whether during a time of peace or war.

Jonathan McCallum, Apprentice Lineman Spc. McCallum enlisted in the Army in October 2014 and served six years. Jonathan was deployed to the Middle East from 2017-2018, serving in both Kuwait and Iraq. Jonathan has worked for Southwest Electric for one month. He is on a construction crew of six linemen. Jonathan and his wife, Jalynn, have three children.

Southwest Electric is thankful for you! Our offices will be closed on Nov. 26 and 27 to observe the Thanksgiving holidays. If you experience an outage or emergency, please report it on the SmartHub app, text ‘OUT’ to 844-975-2728 or call 800-287-8564 or 601-437-3611.

Winter energy efficiency tips

Caulk windows

Seal duct work

Weather strip doors

Check attic insulation

Stop cold air from infiltrating your home by using caulk to plug holes, cracks and open seams around the exterior of your house. Either use a highquality caulk or expanding foam sealant and fill any and all airleaking gaps.

Air conditioning and heating ducts that leak air into unheated spaces can add hundreds of dollars a year to your heating and cooling bills. Properly sealed and insulated ducts increase efficiency, lower your energy bills and can often pay for themselves in energy savings.

Inspect the weather stripping around all exterior doors to ensure that it is not ripped, crushed or missing. Try closing the door and check for airleaking gaps around all four edges of the door. If you see sunlight shining through, you’ll need to seal the spaces with weather stripping.

The most effective use of insulation is in the attic. Unfortunately, most homes have either no insulation or not enough insulation in the attic. Attics are recommended to have a minimum of R-38 insulation, which is typically between 10 and 14 inches deep.

Comfort Advantage program change Southwest Electric is making changes to the Comfort Advantage Program.

16 NOVEMBER | 2026

Here’s what you need to know:

• New home construction: Rebates will no longer be available for heat pumps installed in new homes. • Existing homes: Rebates will still be available for heat pump replacements and additions in the Member’s primary residence. • Additional buildings: Heat pumps installed in detached garages, shops, barns, guest houses, or other additional structures will not qualify. • Who qualifies: The program is available only to residential Members.

New Rebate Requirements:

• Heat pumps must have a minimum efficiency rating of 16 SEER2 or 16 SEER. • Members can receive rebates for a maximum of two heat pumps. • First heat pump: $400 rebate • Second heat pump: $150 rebate • Heat pumps under 24,000 BTUs: $150 rebate each, regardless of whether it is the first or second heat pump. Please make sure your new heat pump meets these requirements before purchasing or installing it if you plan to apply for a rebate. For more information, please call our Member Services Supervisor Les Southerland at 601-437-1345.

COMMUNITY EVENTS Showing Concern for our Community At Southwest Electric, our commitment to the communities we serve goes far beyond delivering safe, reliable electricity. Concern for Community is at the heart of what we do, and we are proud to give our time, talents and resources to the people and organizations that make our communities strong. Throughout the year, Southwest Electric employees can be found supporting local schools, youth programs, community organizations, charitable causes and special events across our service area. From investing in tomorrow’s leaders to lending a helping hand when our neighbors need it most, we believe being a cooperative means being an active part of the communities we call home. These photos highlight just a few of the ways we are making a difference.

Silent auction items were donated to the 2026 Red Lick Baptist Church Fall Festival.

Poles were erected to construct a rope bridge for the Franklin County High School JROTC Program.

Four gift cards were donated to the Alexander Junior High School in Brookhaven for their student rewards program.

We were honored to take part in the funeral procession for Claiborne County Sheriff’s Deputy Terrian Bailey.

Door prizes were given to raise money for the 39th annual Golf Fun Fest at Hinds Community College. All proceeds raised help with student scholarships.

Employees supported fundraising event at the annual Camp Kamassa Golf Tournament.

Lineman Dwayne Stampley talked to students at the Jefferson County High School Career Fair.

We sponsored the Port Gibson Titans youth football team again this year.

2026 | NOVEMBER

Voter

REGISTRATION

Event

We were proud to host a voter registration drive at the Natchez Campus of Copiah-Lincoln Community College on Tuesday, Sept. 15. We helped 13 students register to vote and take an important step in participating in the civic process. A number of rural electric cooperatives in Mississippi held voter registration drives at community colleges to support the Co-ops Vote MS effort coordinated by Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi. Deputy Clerk JoAnn Lyles-Middleton from the Adams County Circuit Clerk’s office is pictured seated at the table with the student. She graciously assists our efforts each year.

FUTURE

payment change Beginning January 2027, we will no longer be accepting cash payments at our Lorman office. Checks and money orders will still be accepted at this location. All other payment options are still available.

Electronic Payment Options

Cash Payment Options

SmartHub

VanillaDirect - Retail Stores

Credit/Debit Card Draft

MoneyGram

Bank Draft

RiverHills Bank in Port Gibson

Pay by Phone You can always mail your bill stub and check or money order to P.O. Box 5, Lorman, MS 39096.

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

COMMUNITY

INVOLVEMENT OCT. 3

Time capsule opening celebration Hollandale

twincoepa.com

@twincoepa

OCTOBER

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Twin County EPA staff joined the fight against breast cancer by partnering with the local Delta Cotton Belles. In support and to build awareness, staff wore specially designed t-shirts, ribbons, pins, and even pink hair on “Pink Out” Fridays at all branch offices.

Twin County EPA was honored to join the community and leaders of Hollandale in celebrating the opening of the city’s 1976 Bicentennial Time Capsule on Saturday, Oct.3. Residents and guests gathered to remember the people, stories and moments that helped shape Hollandale, while reflecting on the past and looking ahead for the next 50 years. We were especially proud to see Vesper Bagley, former General Manager of Twin County EPA recognized as a distinguished guest. Speakers throughout the celebration highlighted the resiliency, strength, and pride that have long defined the Hollandale community. As the stories of the past were remembered, one message stood out — the greatest treasures are often not the items preserved in a time capsule, but the connections made between people, family, neighbors, and generations. We look forward to building the future together.

OCT. 29

Halloween Drive Thru Trick or Treat Kicking off with the cooler weather, Twin County EPA offices were decorated with themed individual pumpkins painted by members of the Greenville Alice Bell Garden Club. At the end of October, Twin County EPA held the annual Halloween Drive Thru Trick or Treat on Oct. 29. Staff members dressed in costume and handed out treats to all.

2026 | NOVEMBER

ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI

2027 cooperative

Youth Leaders

Twin County Electric Power Association wants to help develop the future leaders of our communities and state. That’s why we sponsor two area students in this exciting program designed for high school juniors.

CHECK IT OUT AND SEE

WHAT IT TAKES TO APPLY.

COOPERATIVE UNIVERSITY • COOPERATIVE LEADERS WORKSHOP • YOUTH TOUR IN WASHINGTON, D.C. Program goals

THREE-PART PROGRAM

Goal: The Cooperative Youth Leaders program provides an opportunity for students across Mississippi to learn, grow, and experience.

The Cooperative Youth Leaders program has three parts:

•

Students LEARN the value of the cooperative business model, speciﬁcally the impact that electric cooperatives have on their lives and communities.

•

GROW in their leadership qualities through team-building exercises as well as expanding their communication skills, conﬁdence, and courage in decision making.

•

EXPERIENCE the democratic process at state and federal levels by visiting the Mississippi and U.S. capital cities.

Twin County Electric has joined with other electric cooperatives in participating in the statewide Cooperative Leadership Program for high school juniors.

•

LEARN at Cooperative University on Nov. 17, 2026

•

GROW at the Cooperatives Leaders Workshop held at the Westin Hotel in Jackson Feb. 24-26, 2027.

•

EXPERIENCE the all-expense-paid Youth Tour of Washington, D.C. The Washington, D.C. Youth Tour is scheduled for June 19-25, 2027.

Please verify these dates before you apply. Students must be able to attend all three events. All expenses are covered by Twin County Electric.

COOPERATIVE UNIVERSITY Twin County Electric’s Cooperative University is a half-day event. Each student is expected to attend the half-day event in its entirety. The half-day will consist of speakers, games, lunch, and various demonstrations. This year’s Cooperative University will be held on Nov. 17, 2026. This fun-ﬁlled day includes the following presentations and activities: •

Students will learn about Twin County Electric and what it means to be a cooperative and why membership matters.

•

An overview of the Cooperative Youth Leaders program will allow students to see what they will experience if they’re selected to attend the Leadership Workshop held in Jackson and the Youth Tour of Washington, D.C.

YOUTH LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP

YOUTH TOUR of WASHINGTON, D.C.

Students will attend the Cooperative Leaders Workshop in Jackson, Feb. 24-26, 2027. At the Workshop, students will:

Mississippi’s student delegation joins high school juniors from across the nation at the Youth Tour of Washington, D.C.

•

Enhance their leadership skills

During the week-long trip, students:

•

Enjoy breakfast where students can meet and talk with their state senators or representatives

•

Visit numerous monuments and memorials

•

Visit the state Capitol and watch state government in action

•

Tour the Smithsonian Museums

•

Hear presentations from governmental leaders, motivational speakers, and electric cooperative professionals

•

Witness the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknowns

•

Meet Mississippi’s congressional leaders at the U.S. Capitol

•

Attend an inspirational youth rally

•

And other exciting activities and events.

how to apply The leadership program is open to high school juniors from our service counties and do not have to be a member of Twin County EPA. Each high school will select up to two students to participate in Twin County Electric’s Youth Leadership Cooperative University. Please check with your guidance counselor about how to apply for this program. •

Students must have a grade point average of a B or higher in general subjects of study or advanced studies

• It is beneﬁcial for the students to be engaged in church or community service activities. •

The student must possess the following characteristics: •

Outstanding citizenship at school and in the community

•

Solid school attendance record

•

Outgoing personality

Finally, the students representing Twin County Electric will be involved in a statewide selection process in which one student will be selected to represent Mississippi on the National Youth Leadership Council. The chosen student will be required to represent Mississippi at various meetings. More information to follow for the selected student.

Twin County Electric’s 2026-2027 Youth Tour students will ﬂy to Washington, D.C., from Jackson on Saturday, June 19, and return on Friday, June 25, 2027.

application deadline Students who are chosen by the school must turn in the ofﬁcial entry form by Nov. 10, 2026. Entry forms are available from guidance counselors. If you have any questions about the Cooperative Leaders Program, please contact Twin County Electric at 662.827.2232 or email chamilton@twincoepa.com.

cost This program is fully funded by Twin County Electric. There are no hidden costs. Twin County Electric pays for all travel, lodging, meals, educational materials, admission fees, etc.

THE 2026 COOPERATIVE YOUTH LEADERS PROGRAM

APPLICATION DEADLINE is Nov. 10.

2026 | NOVEMBER

IT’S A WRAP Annual membership meeting Our annual meeting of members was held at the Twin County Conference Center on Sept. 22 for the purpose of electing directors and hearing and approving reports covering the previous year. Thank you to those members in attendance. Congratulations to Clark Carter of the Rolling Fork service area; Kenneth Fratesi of the Greenville service area, and Jamie Murrell of the Hollandale service area who were all elected to serve 3-year terms as directors.

In addition, five members were randomly selected to each receive a $100 credit on their electricity bill for the month of October. Berlon Breazeale • Shirley Collins • Delta Point Partnership Ed Harris • Travis McHann

For those members in attendance,

Twin County EPA General Manager Leslie Holloway

Penny Eaton won a drawing for a $100 Visa gift card.

Twin County Electric and Cooperative Energy

announce grant winner

Twin County EPA, in partnership with Cooperative Energy, is proud to announce that Robert Williams has been selected as the 2026 Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant winner representing the cooperative. Robert Williams is the co-founder of Born 2 Win, an organization committed to creating opportunities and restoring hope in Hollandale. Recognizing the challenges facing local youth and families, Williams has helped build programs that provide practical support while encouraging personal growth, leadership, and spiritual development. Through initiatives such as Back 2 School with a Twist, leadership and development programs, and meaningful community partnerships, Williams has made a lasting impact on hundreds of young people and families by helping them build confidence, access valuable resources, and see greater possibilities for their future. “Robert understands that true community service goes far beyond providing resources — it means showing up, listening, encouraging others, and serving with genuine compassion. Whether responding in times of disaster, helping students prepare for a new school year through Back 2 School with a Twist, or supporting families through Born 2 Win’s outreach, Robert consistently leads by example,” Twin County General Manager Leslie Holloway said. As part of this recognition, Cooperative Energy will make a $1,000 charitable donation in Robert’s name to Born 2 Win, as this organization serves communities within the cooperative’s service area. 18 NOVEMBER | 2026

The Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant celebrates volunteers who bring the cooperative principle of Concern for Community to life. These dedicated men and women give their time, talents and energy to strengthen their communities and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Through this program, Cooperative (From left to right) Born 2 Win co-founder Robert Williams, Twin Energy and its 11 Member County EPA General Manager electric cooperatives Leslie Holloway, and Born 2 Win recognize exceptional co-founder Dolores Williams. community volunteers by providing donations to qualifying nonprofit organizations in each cooperative’s service territory. In doing so, the grant honors not only the individuals who serve, but also the organizations and communities they help make stronger. 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 Twin County EPA, to power meaningful change beyond electricity.

TWITTER

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

VISIT US ONLINE @ WWW.YAZOOVALLEY.COM

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O

Allison Hughes 2026 Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant winner Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association, in partnership with Cooperative Energy, is proud to announce that Allison Hughes has been selected as the 2026 Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant winner representing Yazoo Valley Electric. Hughes was selected among other nominees for her outstanding volunteer work, as she is a longtime advocate of foster children and other children in need in her community. She leads volunteer efforts at Christmas to get presents for local children who would otherwise go without, and she leads a backto-school drive that collects backpacks and supplies through her church, First Methodist Church of Yazoo City. She leads a Sunday School class, and she is involved in several ministries, including a prison ministry. “What is perhaps most remarkable about Allison is that she has continued to tirelessly volunteer and lead these efforts during her own health battles,” said Jason Patterson, director of communications and member services at Yazoo Valley. “Despite this, Allison is always positive and always looking to help others. She is an inspiration to many in our community.” As part of this recognition, Cooperative Energy will make a $1,000 charitable donation in Hughes’ name to First Methodist Church of Yazoo City Foster Children’s Ministry, as this organization serves communities within the cooperative’s service area. The Powering Possibilities Community Service Grant celebrates volunteers who bring the cooperative principle of Concern for Community to life. These dedicated men and women give their time, talents, and energy to strengthen their communities and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Through this program, Cooperative Energy and its 11 Member electric cooperatives recognize exceptional community volunteers by providing donations to qualifying nonprofit organizations in each cooperative’s service territory. In doing so, the grant honors not only the individuals who serve, but also the organizations and communities they help make stronger.

Allison is always positive and always looking to help others. She is an inspiration to many in our community. 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 Yazoo Valley Electric, to power meaningful change beyond electricity. “Our Members and the communities they serve inspire us every day,” said Christa Bishop, executive vice president and chief communications officer for Cooperative Energy. “Through the Powering Possibilities grant program, we have the opportunity to celebrate the people who give their time and talents to make a difference - and to support the organizations that are helping build stronger, more vibrant communities across Mississippi.” First Methodist Church of Yazoo City will receive the $1,000 donation from Yazoo Valley Electric and Cooperative Energy in October of this year. This 501(c)(3), non-profit organization supports local foster children through seasonal donation drives, volunteer support, supplying backpacks, and special outreach funds. 2026 | NOVEMBER

Energy-saving recommendations

for rent s

by Miranda Boutelle

Adjusting your thermostat closer to the outside temperature can help you save money on your monthly electric bill.

Use a kitchen thermometer to test the water heater temperature. If it is over 120 degrees, lower the heat setting.

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

Thick curtains can help keep heat out in the summer and make the room feel warmer in the winter.

2026 | NOVEMBER

Check your air filter and replace it as recommended. A dirty filter can re-strict airflow and make your system work harder.

•

Keep return and supply vents clear of furniture, rugs and other obstructions. Dust them regularly.

Outdoor Unit Care

•

Keep leaves, grass and other debris at least 2 feet away from the outdoor unit.

•

Gently rinse dirty condenser coils with a garden hose, following your manufacturer’s recommendations.

Proactive Service

•

Schedule professional tune-ups in spring for cooling and fall for heating.

•

Have ductwork checked for leaks or disconnected sections, and seal leaks with mastic or foil-backed tape.

Thermostat Smarts

•

Adjust your thermostat when you’re asleep or away. In summer, set it a little higher; in winter, a little lower.

•

Consider a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically manage temperatures and save energy.

Filter Care

Every 2-3 months

Once or twice a year

Twice a year

Year-round

A little maintenance can go a long way. Contact your electric co-op if you have questions about home energy use. Photo Credit: Lennox

My Opinion

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

Listen to your body I am sitting in my office writing this November column the day before I am scheduled to undergo heart bypass surgery. If you are reading this, the operation is behind me, went well, and I am recovering. That is not how I expected to begin a column this fall. But I am writing about it because somebody reading this may be doing exactly what I was tempted to do: explaining away a warning sign, putting off a doctor’s visit, or deciding there is simply too much going on to stop and take care of yourself. Over the past couple of years, I have worked hard to get healthier. I lost weight, paid closer attention to what I ate, and tried to make better choices. So, when I began to feel that something was not right, it would have been easy to convince myself that it could not be my heart. But I knew my body, and I knew something had changed. I pushed to get in to see the doctor, and I pushed to have the test because the feeling would not leave me alone. The test confirmed what my body had been trying to tell me: several major arteries were badly blocked, and I needed bypass surgery. Had I ignored the warning and kept going, I could have been headed toward a fatal heart attack. I had every excuse to wait my turn. Work has been demanding. Personal responsibilities have been heavy. Melissa, my wife, has been sick, and much of my attention has rightly been focused on her. There was always another meeting, another phone call, another problem that seemed more urgent than my own. Waiting would have been easier. It also might have cost me my life. One thing my doctor told me that has stayed with me: people who suffer fatal heart attacks often had warning signs they ignored. Maybe the signs seemed minor. Maybe they came and went. Maybe life was busy; someone

PS Form 3526

else needed them, or they did not want to make a fuss. We can talk ourselves out of almost anything, especially when the alternative is inconvenient or frightening. We know when something is different. We know when we are unusually tired, short of breath, or uncomfortable. We know when a familiar activity suddenly feels harder. Those signals do not always mean there is a serious problem, but they deserve our attention. If something feels wrong, say so. Call your doctor. Ask questions. If the concern continues, keep asking until you understand what is happening. This is not about panic. It is about paying attention. Getting healthier matters, but good habits do not give us permission to dismiss new symptoms. A busy schedule is not a medical opinion, and waiting your turn is not a virtue when your body is sounding an alarm. So, this month, I am asking you to do something that sounds simple but can be difficult: listen to your body. It will often tell you what it needs and when you need to act. Do not let work, pride, fear, or the needs of everyone around you persuade you to ignore it. I do not know what the next few weeks will bring, but I am grateful that I listened, grateful that I spoke up, and grateful that the problem was found before it was too late. Folks, listen to your body. It may be trying to save your life.

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications)

1. Publication Title MICHAEL CALLAHAN/TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI

2. Publication Number 354160

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ISSN 10522433

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication PO BOX 3300 RIDGELAND, MADISON, MS 39158-3300

3. Filing Date 09/30/2026

Contact Person GERALD GORDON Telephone (601) 605-8600

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9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor Publisher (Name and complete mailing address) LYDIA WALTERS PO BOX 3300 RIDGELAND, MS 39158-3300 Editor (Name and complete mailing address) STEVEN WARD PO BOX 3300 RIDGELAND, MS 39158-3300 Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address) LYDIA WALTERS PO BOX 3300 RIDGELAND, MS 39158-3300 10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.) Full Name

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11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Hoding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds. Mortgages, or Other Securities. If none, check box Full Name

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12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: X Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months Has Changed During Preceding 12 Months (Publisher must submit explanation of change with this statement) 13. Publication Title PS Form 3526, September 2007 (Page 1) MICHAEL CALLAHAN/TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI 15. Extend and Nature of Circulation

14. IssuePRIVACY Date for Circulation Data NOTICE: See ourBelow privacy policy on www.usps.com 10/01/2025

Average No. Copies Each Issue No. Copies of Single Issue During Preceding 12 Months Published Nearest to Filing Date

a. Total Numbers of Copies (Net press run) Mailed Outside County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS (1) Form 3541(include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser's proof copies, and exchange copies)

467678

456770

467678

456770

Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form b. Paid Circulation (2) 3541(include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser's proof copies, and exchange copies) (By Mail and Outside Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales the Mail) (3) Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the (4) Paid USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) c. Total Paid Distribution (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), (4)) Free or Nominal Rate Outside County Copies (1) included on PS Form 3541

467678

456770

1501

1518

d. Free or or Nominal Rate In-County Copies included on (2) Free Nominal PS Form 3541 Rate Distribution (By Mail and Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Outside the (3) Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) Mail) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (4) (Carriers or other means) e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), (4)) f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e)

1501

1518

469179

458288

g. Copies not Distributed

h. Total (Sum of 15f and 15g)

469179

458288

i. Percent Paid ((15c / 15f) times 100)

99.68 %

99.67 %

a. Paid Electronic Copies

b. Total Paid Print Copies(Line 15C) + Paid Electronic Copies

c. Total Print Distribution(Line 15F) + Paid Electronic Copies

0.00 %

16. If total circulation includes electronic copies, report that circulation on lines below.

d. Percent Paid(Both Print and Electronic Copies)

I Certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (Electronic and Print) are paid above a nominal price. 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership X If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed

Publication not required.

in the 11/01/2026 issue of this publication. 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner Title Lydia Walters

Date Vice President of Communication

09/30/2026 10:33:42 AM

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties). PS Form 3526, September 2007 (Page 2)

PRIVACY NOTICE: See our privacy policy on www.usps.com

by Michael Callahan Executive Vice President/CEO Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

Minnie the cat lives in Winston County and is a member of East Mississippi EPA. She likes zoomies, making dough, and foot-long meatball marinara subs.

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