CityGate News - June 2023

IN THIS ISSUE...

JUNE IS NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH and time for the start of summer fun!

Annual Membership Meeting Recap

Read about what participants learned and relive the moments that made the 2023 event one the Gas Authority's best!

Gas Authority Leaders-in-Training

See how our young leaders are engaged to make things happen for our organization and your communities Member Marketing Efforts Aim to "Provide Better"

Refreshing our marketing platform to better serve our Members and educate consumers about rebates, financing and other incentives

National Safety Month

Spotlighting PREVENTABLE injuries at work and home for better living

And more...

2023 Annual Membership Meeting Empowering Extraordinary Communities and

MUCH MORE

byRachelReaid,Manager,CorporateCultureandEventsPlanning

It is always a welcome sight to see meeting guests begin to arrive and hear the laughter and conversations of familiar voices and friendly faces Some guests arrived early for the pre-conference session which included guest speakers, Erin Kurilla, APGA, and Stephen Loftin, NGA. Erin provided a natural gas utility update from the federal perspective and shared the anti-fossil fuel sentiment that has become the language of the opposition She highlighted states that have acted for energy choice as well as natural gas bans and shared that federal litigation has recently struck down the City of Berkeley’s ban on new natural gas hookups due to a preemptive U.S. federal law. She also discussed APGA’s advocacy efforts, the PHMSA Grant Program, and APGA’s annual awards submissions for member systems. Stephen Loftin then took the podium to share the history of the Natural Gas Association of Georgia -the VOICE of the natural gas industry for Georgia He shared the main purpose of NGA is to educate the public on the facts and educate the policy makers on the issues facing the natural gas industry

Stephen shared that Georgia has the 4th largest potential among the 50 states for renewable natural gas opportunities but is currently falling behind in incentives and developments. He said we need to make changes at the regulatory and legislative levels to position Georgia to become an RNG market leader To learn more about APGA and NGA, visit their websites at: www apga org | www ngaofgeorgia org Wednesday evening ended with a perfect medley of coastal beauty and delicious food as we enjoyed fellowship, laughter, and warm conversation

Thursday’s general session opens with prayer and a “Thank You!”

Arthur Corbin, President and CEO of the Gas Authority welcomed everyone to the 2023 AMM and highlighted our meeting theme, “Empowering Extraordinary Communities”. He reminded us that for more than 35 years, the Gas Authority and its Members have been delivering natural gas services that enhance and strengthen their communities with our reliable and

affordable energy, natural gas

As is our tradition, Bill Hatcher, the Board Election Chairman, opened the general session with the pledge of allegiance followed by a prayer of gratitude for the National Day of Prayer.

Arthur recognized all our meeting sponsors for their generous sponsorships, then he presented a special service award to Howard McKinnon, retired City Manager from Town of Havana, Florida, for his leadership and service on the Gas Authority Board of Directors since 2017

Arthur began the Gas Authority Annual Review by recognizing a few employee milestone anniversaries and highlighting the new employees who have recently joined the Gas Authority team.Arthur shared that we are only as good as the team that serves the organization, and that we are maintaining momentum with 2022 being a record year!

$18 million in total Member returns, up $6 million from 2021

$3.2 million added to cash reserves

Throughput volumes reached 125.5 Bcf, up almost 15 Bcf from 2021

Record peak day deliveries were up more than 80,000 MMBtu from previous record peak day

New Member! Mulga, Alabama, joined the organization as our 82nd Member

Three prepay transactions were completed in the first quarter of 2023 adding value and natural gas supply to our Members long-term supply portfolio

Industrial & Commercial Growth – up to 30,500 MMBtu/d completed or under construction

Additional Annual Throughput – 10 to 20 Bcf this year

Arthur said, “We think service is what sets us apart and helps us to empower your communities. Through Natural Gas Connection (NGC) and our customer service programs (on-bill financing, rebates and incentives, and direct sales/customer retention), we help enhance our Members’ ability to provide service to their communities and their citizens have the opportunity to have natural gas in their homes. He concluded by sharing that the Gas Authority is focused on strategic growth and development, and “what matters is that we are working together to add value to your communities ”

Kim Becking, CEO, Momentum Mindset, was our opening keynote and gave us a thought-provoking presentation that focused on “Empowering Leaders with a Momentum Mindset ” She reminded today’s leaders that “there is no new normal, there is only what is now, and what is next ” Change and uncertainty are inevitable, so leaders must be prepared to adapt, innovate, or be left behind Her Momentum Mindset model reminded us that how we show up everyday matters, and if we want effective leadership and efficient teams, we should keep these three things in mind:

Stop – Think strategically about what’s working and what’s not. Life is to be lived not controlled, so it may be time to rethink your strategy if something is not working.

Shift – Stay grounded in your “why” and don’t shrink. Don’t stop because of fear move because of purpose!

Reframe – Build connection, collaboration, and community Connection is the heartbeat of life and leadership Lift others to R I S E (recognize, invest, support, engage & empower)

2022 Member Awards Presented

The 2022 Member Awards were presented to the Members who achieved notable success in system excellence, programs, and projects in 2022.

Congratulations to these Members for their efforts to help benefit their communities and grow their natural gas systems. (See Member Awards listing on page 4)

Natural Gas Industry Landscape Shows Strong Demand for Natural Gas

Scott Hallam, Sr Vice President, Transmission and Gulf of Mexico - Williams, closed the morning session by sharing an informative overview of the North American natural gas industry landscape Scott shared that that there is approximately 2 6 million miles of pipeline infrastructure in the U S and that the U S has abundant natural gas supplies to meet growing demand Natural gas is still the most affordable energy source averaging 2 to 3 times less than the cost of electricity based on the South Atlantic average. He explained that natural gas capacity is set to grow alongside electrification and renewables, and natural gas demand has grown at 2x the pace of pipeline capacity and nearly 5x faster than natural gas storage capacity, so there is a critical need for more pipeline infrastructure.He discussed the need for permit reform and a more efficient way to navigate the regulatory process. He concluded by sharing that Williams is focusing on immediate opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and he discussed how Members can help advocate for pipeline projects and impact reform by getting involved during FERC public comment periods

Afternoon Activities

Guests enjoyed their afternoon on the golf course, fishing, working under the shade of an umbrella, or just relaxing around the island – it was a beautiful coastal afternoon to enjoy the great outdoors Our golf tournament winners included Kyle Hamby, Todd Hardigree, Tim Franklin, and Wade Sharpe

2022 Annual Member Awards

Congratulations to the following Members for their outstanding efforts and success during 2022. These Member Awards were given during the 2023 Annual Membership Meeting.

2022 Marketing Excellence Awards

Customer Growth (less than 1,000 meters)

City of West Point

Customer Growth (1,000 - 5,000 meters)

City of Monroe

Customer Growth (5,000 – 10,000 meters)

City of Winder

Customer Growth (over 10,000 meters)

City of Lawrenceville

Customer Growth % - Roanoke Utility Board

Customer Growth & Retention

Borough of Chambersburg

2022 Natural Gas Enterprise Growth & Development Awards

Poultry Initiative | Most Houses Added

City of Commerce

Project Initiative | Housing Authority Project

City of Sylvester

Project Initiative | Labrie Group CNG Project

City of LaFayette

Project Initiative | Profile Products

Manufacturing - City of Monticello

2022 Excellence in Strategic Vision Awards

Project Initiative | Renewable Natural Gas Project

City of Eatonton

Project Initiative | Renewable Natural Gas Project

City of Dublin

Project Initiative | NGC Showroom Grand

Opening - East Central Alabama Gas District

2022 Gas System Operational Excellence Awards

Project Initiative | PHMSA Infrastructure Grant

Award - Borough of Chambersburg

Project Initiative | PHMSA Infrastructure Grant

Award - City of Hawkinsville

Project Initiative | PHMSA Infrastructure Grant

Award- City of Lawrenceville

Project Initiative | PHMSA Infrastructure Grant

Award - City of Lanett

2022 HEAT Awards – Energy Assistance to Georgia’s Families

City of Sylvester for Meter Category – less than 1,000 meters

City of Madison for Meter Category – 1,000 to 5,000 meters

City of Toccoa for Meter Category – over 5,000 meters

And a special congratulations to our 2022 Billy Gail Hersey Award recipient Johnny Thomas, City of Millen

(continued from page 3)

HEAT Awards & Billy Hersey Award Presented After Dinner

We presented the HEAT awards to Members who participate in the Heating Energy Assistance Program to help raise awareness and encourage donations for those who need a helping hand in Georgia’s communities We concluded the awards presentation by honoring Johnny Thomas from the City of Millen with the Billy Hersey award We recognized Johnny for his many years of service and dedication to his community, character, and integrity, and were proud to add Johnny to our list of honorees as “a man you can follow ” Congratulations to all our award winners! **See the Member Awards section for specific award details

Michael Frey’s Retirement Toast – We Wish Him All The Best

We shared a special moment to honor and recognize Michael Frey, Chief Operating Officer, for the Gas Authority on his upcoming retirement. Mike has been a part of the Gas Authority family for 34 years and has been a dedicated advocate for our Members, an invaluable leader for the Operations team and the entire organization We are going to miss him in our hallways, and we are sending our prayers and best wishes for his new retirement journey Congratulations and thank you, Mike, for 34 years of dedication, service, and leadership!

Kay Frances Came With Songs and Laughter

After dinner, Kay entertained us with her own unique blend of storytelling and music and reminded us that we all have stress measured in different ways, so finding humor in daily situations is a necessary mindset because laughter has a positive impact on your mind and overall health. Kay reminded us that as change happens around us – and it will -- those who handle it best approach it with optimism, an open mind, and a spirit of adventure. Identify your stress points, gather your team or family and create solutions where you can, and surround yourself with people who inspire you! She concluded by reminding us, “anytime you can, just laugh for the health of it!”

Breakfast Sessions With Our Pipelines Representatives

Friday morning began with breakfast meetings for the Members on the Southern Natural and Transco pipelines These breakfasts are a valuable part the AMM, and they provide a great opportunity for our Members to hear about the current developments and latest pipeline news affecting their natural gas systems Thank you to our friends and associates at Southern Natural and Williams for sponsoring these special breakfasts

Friday Morning Session Opens With A Discussion About Energy Solutions

Ashley Duckman, Executive Director for the Energy Solutions Center, opened the Friday morning session by showcasing the ESC and its critical role in in promoting energy efficient natural gas solutions, providing tools and resources, identifying new technologies, and developing valuable relationships and partnerships between utilities, equipment manufacturers, and customers. She explained that natural gas emits

significantly lower CO2 than all other fossil fuels, and natural gas is a major part of the solution in a low carbon energy future. She stated, “Natural gas utilities remain committed to reducing GHG, and the natural gas utility industry has already played a vital role in reducing GHG through leak detection and mitigation programs, energy efficiency programs, and by replacing coal-fired generation with combined cycle power generation ” Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) and hydrogen will play a key role in the future clean energy economy and decarbonization, and the demand for RNG is growing as industries can use this fuel to reduce emissions across their supply chain Ashley concluded by sharing that energy efficiency programs have also helped reduce carbon emissions and provide energy savings for the customer

Aaron Davis was our closing keynote and concluded the meeting with his inspirational and empowering presentation, “The Attitude of a Champion. Your Attitude. Your Choice.” Aaron shared actionable advice and encouraged us to have a “do better” attitude by stressing the importance of an Attitude over Everything mindset. A positive or negative attitude is contagious to your team and those around you, so how you respond to situations can be a gamechanger! He reminded us that it is often necessary to reassess an issue or situation by using “the 3 R’s”: Refuel, Rejuvenate, Refocus Aaron asked a thought-provoking question, “Do you still love what you do? Has your purpose changed?” He explained that purpose is the reason for your journey, and passion is the fire that lights your way He concluded by reminding us that time is non-refundable and your life’s minutes matter make them count!

2023 Annual Board Election Results

The 2023 Board Election was held at the Annual Membership Meeting, and the election results are as follows. Two incumbents were re-elected to a 3-year term: Mayor Buddy Duke, City of Adel; Mayor Kenneth Usry, City of Thomson.

Welcome to our new Board Members! We are pleased to welcome our newly elected Board Members, Mr. Shelly Berryhill and Mayor Donna McKay. They were newly elected to fill the seats vacated by Charles Shaheen & Howard McKinnon. After the Board Election, the Annual Meeting and April Board Meetings were held, and the 2023 AMM was concluded. The current slate of officers is as follows:

Todd Hardigree, Lawrenceville – Chairman

Mayor Buddy Duke, Adel – Vice Chairman

Bruce Maples, Albany – Secretary / Treasurer

Thank You to our Sponsors & Guests

To our sponsors: Your contributions help us to offer this high-quality meeting for all our Members, Customers, and guests, and we are very grateful for your support We look forward to our continuing partnerships and joint successes as we serve together

Alston & Bird ● JP Morgan ● Chapman and Cutler ● Citi ● Williams ● Sequent Energy Management ● Southern Natural Gas Company ● RBC Capital Markets ● PFM ● TD Securities ● Wells Fargo ● Rinnai ● Galloway & Lyndall ● McCarter & English ● Six One Commodities ● Shell Energy ● Gas South ● Citadel Energy Marketing ● Yanmar ● Texla Energy Management ● Bank of America ● ConocoPhillips ● ECG

A special thank you to each of our guests who attended the AMM! We hope you found the meeting to be valuable; in fact, I hope that we exceeded your expectations If you have any additional comments regarding any aspect of the Annual Membership Meeting, I would appreciate you sharing them with me. My direct number is 678-819-0924, or I can be reached via email at rreaid@gasauthority.com.

Gas Authority Marketing Makeover Aims to "Provide Better"

Marketing and marketing strategies change as the communications landscape and consumer tastes change This has never been more evident than in the "digital age" where seemingly overnight brand positions and consumer interests evolve with mere keystrokes To keep pace with what works and works best for our Member cities, the Gas Authority marketing team has launched a new marketing campaign and platform to enhance the way your consumers access the growing number of programs offered and freshening the look and feel of those programs Over the coming months you will see the "Provide Better with Natural Gas" (and "Provide Better") identity and tag lines on marketing materials deliverables In addition we are transitioning the web-based access to information about rebates, financing, and other consumer resources to the new www.ProvideBetter.com url from the Rebate Rally website.

"It was time for a change," says Nicole Graham, Manager of Marketing Programs for the Gas Authority, "It's hard to believe that we have been offering a variety of programs since 2009 when we launched the 'Great Water Heater Roundup' concept. That campaign ran for six years, and then we breathed new life into it with the 'Rebate Rally" campaign and look in 2016, and after another six years, it was just time for a fresh new look and feel. "

The campaign will educate consumers about the benefits and direct use of natural gas and be a source of information for consumer snad contractors regarding City natural gas rebates and financing options. The website is live and new branded materials are being developed and designed. If you would like more information about the new campaign or if you would like your City/System to participate in the Provide Better campaign, contact Nicole Graham at ngraham@gasauthority com or Olivia Cervi, Senior Specialist - Communications & Marketing at ocervi@gasauthority com

Gas Authority Young Leaders Poised for Success

by Yolanda Santiago White, Manager, Corporate Communications, Public Relations & Training

The Gas Authority encourages its employees to engage in training and professional development opportunities to continue to improve and better serve Members and their communities.

Congratulations are in order for Tanner Harrell, our Natural Gas Connection Business Coordinator in Southwest Georgia He graduated this spring from the Leadership Decatur County (Bainbridge, GA) program Leadership Decatur is designed to provide emerging leaders with a foundation for effective leadership in the community. Participants in the program attend multiple sessions that allow them to interact with established community leaders while enhancing their personal and professional growth and gaining awareness of current issues, community resources and the social, political, and economic needs of Decatur County. Upon graduation participants are prepared to directly impact the local community by leading by example Tanner was one of 25 qualified participants in the 2023 program Criteria for selection to the program includes demonstrating leadership capabilities in the public or private sector and a motivation to contribute further to the Bainbridge-Decatur County community

Meanwhile, Olivia Cervi, Senior Marketing and Communications Specialist, is currently enrolled in GeorgiaForward’s Young Gamechangers Program. This immersive leadership action program provides expansive, multi-faceted leadership development Fifty of Georgia’s brightest young minds are engaged to develop creative and viable recommendations for one community This year the group is tackling concerns for the City of Columbus

City officials present the class with several of their most significant challenges and receive timelines, potential funding sources, and prospective partners. The class participants tackle real community and economic development issues with colleagues from across the state, building up civic engagement tools like collaboration, compromise, and negotiation.

Young Gamechangers are civic-minded individuals with big-picture mindsets and a willingness to learn We wish Olivia all the best as she participates and look forward to sharing the success of this year’s class of Young Gamechangers

Best of Luck to Olivia Cervi, Senior Marketing and Communications Specialist, one of Georgia's Young Gamechangers making exciting things happen for the City of Columbus

CONGRATULATIONS Tanner Harrell, Natural Gas Connection Business Coordinator in Southwest Georgia -- A graduate of the Leadership Decatur County program

National Safety Month: Avoiding Preventable Injuries at Work and Home

by Yolanda Santiago White, Manager, Corporate Communications, Public Relations & Training

Each year the National Safety Council (NSC), a safety advocate, spotlights key prevention messages during the month of June as part of its National Safety Month outreach. Their goal is to create healthier, safer work and living environments for Americans. The NSC provides training and resources in various areas to create a culture of safety – in the workplace, on the roads, in our communities, and in our homes. The annual campaign typically focuses on weekly themes that rotate each year. In 2023, the NSC will be highlighting:

Emergency preparedness

Slips, trips and falls

Heat-related illness, and Hazard recognition

When it comes to emergency preparedness, the NSC and Emergency Management professionals urges the public to be prepared to be self-reliant for up to two weeks without utilities, water service, access to shopping or local services, and in some instances even without response from police, fire, or rescue. The five key steps to preparedness are being informed, having a plan, building a preparedness kit, getting involved, and identify resources to prepare now – well in advance of any potential issues.

Did you know that falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths in the US? In 2020, more than 42 thousand people died in falls at home and at work, according to the NSC. Spills, ice, snow, rain, loose mats, rugs, and stepladders are some of the common causes of slips, trips, and falls. In addition, poor lighting and clutter can cause injuries such as sprains, strains, bruises, bumps, fractures, scratches, and cuts. Be aware of your surroundings and look for these potential hazards to make your work and living environment safer.

According to Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System, heat-related illnesses fall into three categories: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Cramps are the mildest form of illness and exhibit painful muscle cramps and spasms and flushed, moist skin that occur during or after intense exercise and sweating in high heat. Heat exhaustion is more severe and results from a loss of water and electrolytes in the body. Exposure to extreme heat and excessive sweating without adequate fluids and salts can lead to the body being unable to cool itself properly. Signs of heat exhaustion include nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, weakness, and feeling faint, in addition to cramping and flushed, moist skin. Left untreated, these symptoms can progress to the most severe heat illness – heat stroke. This life-threatening ailment occurs when the body’s heat-regulating mechanisms are overwhelmed due to the excessive heat. Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention. Signs of heat stroke include feverish skin, rapid heart rate, confusion, agitation or lethargy, and in extreme cases seizures, coma, and death. Know the warning signs and take precautions to avoid exposure to extreme heat.

When it comes to reducing injuries, prevention is key and that is often the result of awareness and hazard recognition. Knowing what the potential hazards of a space are; inspecting the space and identifying these hazards; removing, as possible, labeling, or educating others about the offending hazards; and periodically repeating this process to continue to mitigate new potential hazards needs to be part of your safety culture and protocols.

We all deserve a safe and healthy place to live and work, and it really falls on all of us to do our part to look out for one another by remaining vigilant for potential hazards. Take some time this month to review your surroundings and make improvements for the welfare of everyone on your team and in your home.

“Safety has to be everyone’s responsibility… everyone needs to know that they are empowered to speak up if there’s an issue.”

– Captain Scott Kelly, Engineer, Astronaut, Naval Aviator

Lemon, Garlic and Herb Kebobs with Tzatziki Sauce

Serves 4

Ingredients (Kebobs)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

2 cloves garlic minced

1 lemon juice fresh (or 2.5 ounces)

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)

3 large chicken breasts skinless, cut into 2 inch cubes

1 green bell pepper cut into 2 inch cubes

Instructions(Kebobs)

Preparethemarinadeforthekebabsbymixingtheoliveoil,herbs, garlicandlemoninbowlwithsaltandpepper.Addthecubed chickenandallowtomarinadeatleast30minutesorideally2 hoursYoucanalsomarinadethesethenightbefore,coverand leaveinthefridgeThelongeryoumarinadethebettertheflavor

Threadthechickenontoskewersinterspersedwithgreenpepper

Note:ifusingwoodenskewerssoakinwaterfor15minutesfirst anddrytopreventburningwhencookingThisrecipemakes4 skewers.

GrillDirections:Placeonthegrillandcookonmediumheatfor1015minutes,rotatingevery2-3minutesuntilallsidesarecharred andthechickeniscookedthrough Meanwhilemakethetzatziki

Ingredients (Tzatziki)

1/2 cucumber

3/4 cup Greek yogurt

4 grams fresh dill finely chopped

4 grams fresh mint finely chopped

1 clove garlic minced

1/2 lemon (juice of ½ lemon)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1/16 teaspoon Pink Himalayan salt

Instructions(Tzatziki)

Slicethecucumberinhalflengthways,remove theseedsusingateaspoonanddiscard.

Gratetherestofthecucumberandfinelychop anybitsyoucan’tgrateTextureisimportant herePlaceinamuslincloth,fineteatowelor strongkitchenrollandsqueezeoutthewater

Addthepressedcucumbertoabowlwithallthe remainingtzatzikiingredientsandstirto combine.Optiontoreservealittleoftheoliveoil andherbstoaddtothetopforgarnish.

FinalThought

JamesDent,American

"A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawnmower is broken."

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