Today in Mississippi July 2018 Local Pages

News for members of Electric Cooperatives in Mississippi

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Periodical postage (ISSN 1052 2433)

Mississippi 4 Mississippi

reading list

8 Outdoors Today: Back to Africa

14 Breaking bread

with Holy Trinity

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July 2018

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

Keep kids safe all summer

The best place for Fido this summer: indoors Your dog loves riding in the car with you and playing in the grass on warm, sunny days. But when it gets really hot, keep Fido indoors where the air conditioning can keep your best friend cool.

Like people, pets can suffer from all kinds of heatrelated problems, like heat stroke, dehydration and respiratory distress. Some days, the safest thing for them is a lazy day inside your home.

Here are five ways to keep Fluffy and Fido safe and cool this summer: 1. Put out extra bowls of water indoors and outdoors so your pets can drink as much as they need. Panting is your pets’ way of cooling down by evaporating fluids from the respiratory tract. But those fluids need replacing.

2. Water isn’t just for drinking in the summer: Letting your pets stand or play in it will help keep them cool on

hot days. Some dogs will enjoy a small plastic baby pool, but be sure to replace the water every few days to discourage mosquito breeding.

3. If you’re outdoors with your pet, stay in the shade under a big tree or an awning. Too much sun can disorient your pet and even cause heatstroke. Short-haired pets can even get sunburned if they’re in the sun for too long.

4. If you’re leaving the house without your pets, leave them indoors and leave the air conditioning on. If you’re taking them with you, NEVER leave them unattended in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. It doesn’t take long for a dog to become overheated or dehydrated enough to get sick—or even die.

5. Exercise your pets early in the cooler hours of morning or late evening. Keep them on the lawn and away from asphalt; hot pavement can burn a pet’s paws.

Keep cool in the kitchen Watermelon-Cucumber Salad 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced 4 cups diced and seeded watermelon 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and sliced 1/2 cup mint, thinly sliced 1/4 cup olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon Salt to taste Feta cheese Soak onion slices in cold water. Pat dry the watermelon and cucumber, and drain the onion; toss together in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice and salt, and toss. Top with feta cheese. Makes 4 servings.

You might not be able to keep your eyes on your children every minute this summer while they’re roaming around the neighborhood having fun. So teach them how to keep themselves safe, especially around electricity.

• The most important lesson about outdoor electrical safety is: Never touch a power line. A downed line might seem like its “dead,” but chances are good that it’s still energized. Touching it with a hand, a toy or a stick could electrocute someone.

• If a kite, balloon or another toy gets caught in an overhead power line, do not try to dislodge it by throwing shoes or other items at it. Call your electric cooperative if you must retrieve the toy.

• Stay far away from overhead power lines while flying kites or using large toys so they don’t come into contact with energized lines.

• Do not climb utility poles or trees that are close to power lines.

• Don’t post signs, balloons, ribbons or anything else on utility poles or electrical equipment.

• Stay out of electrical substations—even to rescue a pet.

Those substations house high-voltage equipment that can electrocute someone.

• Don’t touch electrical toys that are standing in a puddle or floating in a pool.

Tip of the

Month

Here’s a cool tip for your fridge!

Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in your refrigerator.

Uncovered foods release moisture, causing the compressor to work harder.

Source: energy.gov

July 2018 I Today in Mississippi

Stay cooler while saving energy Your use of indoor energy can soar with the rising temperatures. Here are five ways to take control: • Cover the windows. Half of all of the heat that enters your home during the summer comes in through the windows.

Invest in a thick shade or window film to block out the summer sun. Save up to 15 percent on your cooling bill by shading west-facing windows, which absorb the most afternoon sun. For the hottest parts of your house, consider installing an awning or planting trees in front of the window to shade the house.

• Change A/C filters.

A filter for your air conditioning system costs only dollars (about $5 for a highquality, pleated model), but can save you much more if you change it every month during the summer. Dirty air conditioning filters prevent air flow and make the air conditioning system work harder.

That means a higher bill.

• Turn the thermostat up. For every degree you turn your thermostat up during air conditioning season, you’ll save up to 2 percent on your cooling costs.

Try setting your thermostat at 78 degrees, and turn on a ceiling fan to help circulate the air.

• Use your ceiling fans.

Fans don't cool the air, but they make the air feel cooler by moving it around the room and against your skin, which creates a sort of “wind chill” effect.

When the fan is running, you can move your thermostat three to four degrees higher without noticing a difference in your comfort level.

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

Average Annual Price Increase 2012-2017 Percent

4.0

3.5%

3.5

3.3%

3.0

Your pool and electricity:

potential trouble Any conversation about swimming pool safety will revolve around drowning. But it should also address electrocution.

Although far less common than drowning, electrocution in or near a swimming pool takes the lives of a small handful of people every year. One was a 7-year-old boy who was electrocuted by a faulty pool light.

Here are a few tips for preventing electrical accidents while you’re enjoying your pool: • Keep TVs, radios and extension cords far away from the water.

• Have your pool equipment inspected and maintained every season. Faulty, malfunctioning or improperly installed equipment—like pool lights—can be hazardous.

• Have the pool inspected when it is first installed, or before you buy a new house that comes with an already-installed pool.

• Don’t do your own electrical work on your pool lights or other electrical components.

Call a licensed electrician.

• Keep electrical devices and cords at least 5 feet away from the edge of the pool.

• Supervise children and party guests who are using the pool.

• Look for signs of trouble, like flickering lights or equipment that performs erratically.

If a swimmer is twitching or unresponsive, it’s possible the water is electrified.

Make a plan in case someone gets electrocuted at the pool. You’re less likely to panic if you know exactly what to do: Turn off the power, clear the pool area without touching anything metal and call an ambulance.

Fire it up Give your A/C system a break by moving the heat and humidity of cooking to the outdoor grill.

3.0%

2.5 2.0

1.6%

Stay Hydrated

1.5 1.0 0.5 0

Rent

Cable/ Satellite TV

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

I

Education

Electricity

Thirsty or not, drink water often when you’re active outdoors. Dehydration can be deadly!

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July 2018

Keep kids safe all summer

The best place for Fido this summer: indoors Your dog loves riding in the car with you and playing in the grass on warm, sunny days. But when it gets really hot, keep Fido indoors where the air conditioning can keep your best friend cool.

Like people, pets can suffer from all kinds of heatrelated problems, like heat stroke, dehydration and respiratory distress. Some days, the safest thing for them is a lazy day inside your home.

Here are five ways to keep Fluffy and Fido safe and cool this summer: 1. Put out extra bowls of water indoors and outdoors so your pets can drink as much as they need. Panting is your pets’ way of cooling down by evaporating fluids from the respiratory tract. But those fluids need replacing.

2. Water isn’t just for drinking in the summer: Letting your pets stand or play in it will help keep them cool on

hot days. Some dogs will enjoy a small plastic baby pool, but be sure to replace the water every few days to discourage mosquito breeding.

3. If you’re outdoors with your pet, stay in the shade under a big tree or an awning. Too much sun can disorient your pet and even cause heatstroke. Short-haired pets can even get sunburned if they’re in the sun for too long.

4. If you’re leaving the house without your pets, leave them indoors and leave the air conditioning on. If you’re taking them with you, NEVER leave them unattended in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. It doesn’t take long for a dog to become overheated or dehydrated enough to get sick—or even die.

5. Exercise your pets early in the cooler hours of morning or late evening. Keep them on the lawn and away from asphalt; hot pavement can burn a pet’s paws.

Keep cool in the kitchen Watermelon-Cucumber Salad 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced 4 cups diced and seeded watermelon 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and sliced 1/2 cup mint, thinly sliced 1/4 cup olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon Salt to taste Feta cheese Soak onion slices in cold water. Pat dry the watermelon and cucumber, and drain the onion; toss together in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice and salt, and toss. Top with feta cheese. Makes 4 servings.

You might not be able to keep your eyes on your children every minute this summer while they’re roaming around the neighborhood having fun. So teach them how to keep themselves safe, especially around electricity.

• The most important lesson about outdoor electrical safety is: Never touch a power line. A downed line might seem like its “dead,” but chances are good that it’s still energized. Touching it with a hand, a toy or a stick could electrocute someone.

• If a kite, balloon or another toy gets caught in an overhead power line, do not try to dislodge it by throwing shoes or other items at it. Call your electric cooperative if you must retrieve the toy.

• Stay far away from overhead power lines while flying kites or using large toys so they don’t come into contact with energized lines.

• Do not climb utility poles or trees that are close to power lines.

• Don’t post signs, balloons, ribbons or anything else on utility poles or electrical equipment.

• Stay out of electrical substations—even to rescue a pet.

Those substations house high-voltage equipment that can electrocute someone.

• Don’t touch electrical toys that are standing in a puddle or floating in a pool.

Tip of the

Month

Here’s a cool tip for your fridge!

Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in your refrigerator.

Uncovered foods release moisture, causing the compressor to work harder.

Source: energy.gov

Pay Online!

July 2018

Stay cooler while saving energy Your use of indoor energy can soar with the rising temperatures. Here are five ways to take control: • Cover the windows. Half of all of the heat that enters your home during the summer comes in through the windows.

Invest in a thick shade or window film to block out the summer sun. Save up to 15 percent on your cooling bill by shading west-facing windows, which absorb the most afternoon sun. For the hottest parts of your house, consider installing an awning or planting trees in front of the window to shade the house.

• Change A/C filters. A filter for your air conditioning system costs only dollars (about $5 for a high-quality, pleated model), but can save you much more if you change it every month during the summer. Dirty air conditioning filters prevent air flow and make the air conditioning system work harder. That means a higher bill.

• Turn the thermostat up. For every degree you turn your thermostat up during air conditioning season, you’ll save up to 2 percent on your cooling costs. Try setting your thermostat at 78 degrees, and turn on a ceiling fan to help circulate the air.

• Use your ceiling fans.

Fans don't cool the air, but they make the air feel cooler by moving it around the room and against your skin, which creates a sort of “wind chill” effect.

When the fan is running, you can move your thermostat three to four degrees higher without noticing a difference in your comfort level.

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

Average Annual Price Increase 2012-2017 Percent

4.0

3.5%

3.5

3.3%

3.0

I

Today in Mississippi

Save time and money on gas!

Anytime, anywhere

Visit coahomaepa.com, click “Pay My Bill Online,” and follow the easy steps.

Fire it up Give your A/C system a break by moving the heat and humidity of cooking to the outdoor grill.

3.0%

2.5 2.0

1.6%

Stay Hydrated

1.5 1.0 0.5 0

Rent

Cable/ Satellite TV

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

I

Education

Electricity

Thirsty or not, drink water often when you’re active outdoors. Dehydration can be deadly!

13

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July 2018

Communicators: April Lollar and Merilee Sands For Today in Mississippi information, call 877-7MY-CEPA (877-769-2372) www.coastepa.com

Where our members have the power CEO’s message

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Day of Action

Volunteering exhibits pride in our communities In the month we celebrate our nation’s independence, I often reflect on what it means to be an American – the rights and the responsibilities that come with being a citizen of our great nation. While we are free to do as we choose, I believe it is our duty as citizens to engage in the communities where we live and work. Being an active part of our communities can bring fulfillment that few other things can. I am proud to be part of your local cooperative, a company that was founded and led by local people.

One of the seven cooperative principles that drive our co-op is showing concern for the communities we serve. I am proud to say that our employees are actively engaged in our communities both personally and as representatives of Coast Electric. In the past month, employees spent the day volunteering on our behalf at local charities for the United Way Day of Action, our Accounting Department completed their monthly day of service at Loaves and Fishes and we partnered with our friends at Infinity Science Center for an environmental project. Our community is thriving but there is always work we can do to make life better for our friends and neighbors. Volunteerism is part of what makes this country great.

I hope you will consider seeing the good you can do for our community and for our nation by pitching in and volunteering.

Cooperatives are different from other businesses. Coast Electric is a locally-owned company that is led by those we serve. As someone who receives service from Coast Electric, you are more than a customer, you are a member of your cooperative. For the co-op to function effectively, it takes everyone doing their part – employees,

Ron Barnes President and CEO

Last month, the United Way of South Mississippi organized a Day of Action for our communities. Coast Electric employees were eager to participate in this day of community service and spent the day volunteering at the Humane Society of South Mississippi and at Manna Ministries in Picayune.

board members and you – to work toward a common goal. Although the tasks in each department may differ, the goal is the same – to provide superior service to the people of south Mississippi.

Our engineers design the electrical distribution system that powers your homes and businesses. Their research determines when we need to make system upgrades and improvements and when new infrastructure – like substations – is needed.

Our engineers work to ensure Coast Electric’s system uses Steven Broussard is part of Coast Electric’s engineering team. Steven advanced technology to make the system reliable for the is responsible for the company’s substation construction, maintemembers we serve. nance and protection.

July 2018

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Today in Mississippi

Coast Electric, Infinity Science Center

Partnership gives raptors a safe place to nest Ospreys and other raptors now have a safe place to nest on the grounds of Infinity Science Center thanks to a partnership between Coast Electric Power Association and Infinity.

The partnership began when Joe Pettigrew, a volunteer at Infinity and a master naturalist, saw the opportunity for a nesting platform near the science center’s opossum walk. Coast Electric was asked to become a partner not only because of the cooperative’s commitment to environmental efforts, but because of the tools and manpower needed to build and place the platform.

Coast Electric staff built the platform to meet national standards and crews used equipment that typically digs holes for and sets power poles to place the nesting platform near a

Tip of the

Month

retaining pond on Infinity property.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, ospreys often nest in the tops of dead trees and on power poles. Nesting on the tops of power poles can create hazardous conditions for the birds and for the public. Coast Electric has an avian protection plan that includes covering poles in locations ospreys tend to nest to protect the birds and the electrical system.

“Ospreys can nest in the same spot for many years so this gives the birds a safe alternative,” said Coast Electric Vice President of Engineering Scott Brown, who implemented the cooperative’s avian protection plan. “We are often working to cover our equipment to keep the birds away from danger, so it was great for us to be involved in a project that gives these animals a safe place to nest.”

Infinity Science Center Executive Director John Wilson said the nesting area will help Infinity guests, “understand the complexity and diversity of our ecosystem.” Wilson said, “We help people understand this planet and how precious it is and how everything works together. To go into space, you have to understand this planet first.”

Here’s a cool tip for your fridge! Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in your refrigerator.

Uncovered foods release moisture, causing the compressor to work harder.

Source: energy.gov

Coast Electric employees built and installed an osprey nest on the grounds of Infinity Science Center, giving the birds a safe place to nest.

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July 2018 USE IT ANY TIME

Delta Electric’s new IVR phone number is 662-743-4425.

24/7

GET ACCOUNT INFO MAKE A PAYMENT REPORT AN OUTAGE MAKE AN ARRANGEMENT

Greenwood • Winona • Cleveland • Indianola

$ave

without suffering this summer

By Debbie Stringer • A rooftop power ventilator will run When summertime temperatures hours longer than usual to remove start creeping into the 90s, your excess heat from the attic. energy use will rise as appliances • The water heater will consume struggle to do their job. more energy when household memThe problem is compounded bers bathe and wash clothes more when the nights are hot and humid often. too.

All these factors combined will Delta Electric Power Association force your home to consume more cautions members that power bills electricity. And the more kilowattwill rise along with the temperatures, hours your appliances use, the higher because of the increased use of elecyour electric bill. (Likewise, the tricity. more you drive, the more you spend Here’s on gasoline. why: It’s that sim• Your air ple.)

Once you understand how the conditioner As a memelectric bill reflects your daily will run ber-owned more hours electric coophabits, you can take steps to to remove erative, Delta reduce energy costs over the the heat and Electric is humidity committed to long term. infiltrating helping you your home. manage your On the hottest days it may run 24 energy use. Once you understand hours. how the monthly electric bill reflects • The refrigerator and freezer will your daily habits in the home, you work harder to maintain their temcan take meaningful steps to reduce perature settings, especially units energy costs over the long term. exposed to outdoor heat, like a freezHere’s how: er in a garage.

• Raise the temperature setting on

the air conditioner. For every degree you turn the thermostat up during air conditioning season, you’ll save up to 2 to 3 percent on your cooling costs. Delta Electric recommends a summertime setting of 78 degrees or higher.

• If you have a central air conditioner, replace the filter monthly during the summer. A dirty air conditioner filter hampers air flow and makes the air conditioning system work harder—and use more electricity.

• If you use window air conditioners, make sure to seal the openings around the units’ window mounts.

Make sure it sits level so that it drains correctly. If possible, mount it out of the direct sun.

• Consider replacing an old window unit with a model that meets Energy Star standards for energy efficiency and quieter operation.

• When a ceiling fan is running, you can move the air conditioner thermostat three to four degrees higher without noticing a difference in comfort level. A fan cannot lower a room’s temperature but it will deliver a cooling breeze to the skin, and can increase comfort while you

sleep. Turn the fan off when the room is vacant to avoid wasting energy.

• Turn off a TV that no one is watching.

• Set the water heater to 120 degrees or below and the refrigerator no lower than 38 degrees.

• Use the bathroom’s exhaust fan to remove excess heat and humidity while bathing.

• Wash clothes in cold water. Most detergents clean just as well in cold water.

• Set the clothes dryer on the lowest heat setting and run it in the cooler hours of day or night.

• Run only full loads in the dishwasher, and set it to air dry.

• Cook with a slow cooker, microwave or outdoor grill to avoid heating up the kitchen.

• Incandescent light bulbs emit heat—just what you don’t want in summer. Replace them with LEDs, which won’t heat up the house, are more energy efficient and last far longer.

• Plug air leaks in the home, including cracks around window air conditioning units and exterior doors.

July 2018

Don’t let the air you’re paying to cool escape outside!

• Half of all the heat that enters the home in summer comes in through the windows. Install insulated curtains or blinds on windows that receive direct sunlight, and keep them closed.

• Manufactured-home dwellers should

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Delta Electric is ready for storms

Incandescent light bulbs emit heat—just what you don’t want in summer. Replace them with cool, long-lasting LEDs. inspect air conditioning duct work beneath the home for leaks and bad connections.

• If your home needs a new roof, select materials with energy efficiency in mind.

Reflective roofs can reduce the temperature of the roof by as much as 30 percent, which means less heat will enter your home. Look for Energy Star-certified roof products.

• Adequate insulation in the attic will drastically reduce your home’s heating and cooling needs. In the summer, insulation helps prevent the heat build-up in the attic from entering the home.

Find more energy-efficiency tips and ways to save money at www.Energy.gov.

While summer brings much fun in the sun, it can also bring the occasional severe storm. In the event of a power outage, you can trust that Delta Electric Power Association is ready to respond.

The major cause of most power outages comes from damage to power lines due to falling trees and branches. We work year-round — through right-of-way clearing— to ensure power lines in our service territory stand little risk of being damaged by trees, branches or other types of vegetation.

Despite our best efforts, during major storms damage can occur to transmission stations, substations and power lines. When this happens, our first priority is to safely restore power to as many Delta Electric members as possible in the shortest amount of time.

We start by mobilizing our line workers and other critical staff. The big problems are handled first, like damage to transmission lines, which serve tens of thousands of people. These problems must be corrected before we can focus on other areas where more localized damage may have occurred.

Delta Electric employees inspect substations to determine if the problem starts there, or if there could be an issue down the line. If the root of the problem is at the substation, power can be restored to

Now Now ow In Int ntrodu troduc ducing ng!

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CONVENIE ENCE Avoid the lines. PaySite P allows you to come in, make payments fast, and you’re on yo our way. EASY!

MMEDIATE T CREDIT Your o Delta EPA payment posts immediately. Whether you are paying late or just like the certainty that your payment is processed, PaySite gives you u immediate credit on your Delta EPA balance.

SERVICE This new way to o pay your bills helps us provide the highest quality ervice to our meembers. PaySite eliminates the hassle of paying bills because it is Fastt, Easy, and Convenient.

thousands of members.

Next, we check the service lines that deliver power into neighborhoods and communities. Line workers repair the damaged lines, restoring power to hundreds of people. If you continue to experience an outage, there may be damage to a tap line outside your home or business. Make sure you notify Delta Electric, so we can inspect these lines.

We will do our best to avoid power outages, but sometimes Mother Nature has other plans.

How to report your power outage Call Delta Electric’s call center at 662-453-6352 to speak to a representative to report outages or downed power lines at any time, including after business hours, on weekends and holidays.

During widespread power outages, however, our call center may become overloaded with phone calls. In that case, Delta Electric offers two excellent alternatives for reporting your outage: • Call our automated system 24/7 at 662-743-4425.

• Use Delta Electric’s free mobile app or mobile web app. Search your app source for “Delta EPA” to download.

FREE

mobile app now available!

Available for immediate download and installation on your iPhone, iPad or Android device!

• View account information • View bill history • Make a secure payment • View payment history • Manage alerts and reminders • View your daily electricity use • Report power outage without making a phone call Search for “Delta EPA” in the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Learn more about Delta Electric’s mobile app and mobile web app at

GREENWOOD OFFICE G O LOBBY

Located at 1700 Highway 82 West e

DeltaEPA.com

12 I Today in Mississippi I July 2018

Dixie Electric is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

Patriotism in action According to MerriamWebster’s dictionary, patriotRandy Smith ism is “the love General Manager for or devotion to one’s country.” Perhaps no other day of the year evokes such a sense of patriotism than Independence Day. Arguably, another, perhaps deeper form of patriotism is active engagement in public and civic life. Besides being enjoyable, participation in community events and activities with your friends, neighbors and co-workers makes a difference. Simple things like supporting a bake sale or attending a local high school event signal to the young people

in your community that you care and support them, and that the community itself is worth sustaining.

At Dixie Electric, we work to engage with the communities we serve. During July we will offer free Energy Fairs in Waynesboro, Petal and Laurel to provide information and ideas on how to save electricity at your home. The Energy Fairs will include information on energy efficient lighting, online tools such as the home energy calculator, and tips on caulk and weather stripping.

There are civic engagement opportunities through Dixie Electric as well.

You may recall that one of our most important cooperative principles is that of democratic participation. If you pay

ENERGY FAIR

your bill, you are a member of the co-op with an opportunity to provide input through voting during our annual meeting. The voting period for our annual meeting will open in late August.

Democracy is not a spectator sport; it takes active civic engagement by citizens to thrive. This Independence Day, I hope you will embrace the local celebrations and actively participate in your community—and vote at every opportunity!

Join us for Dixie Electric’s

Helping our community save energy Tuesday, July 24

in Waynesboro at Gatlin’s Building Supply

Thursday, July 26

FtRheEpuEblic

to

at the Petal Lowe’s

Friday, July 27 at the Laurel Lowe’s

All locations: 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

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12a

Pina Caldwell RETIRES

General Manager Randy Smith presents Pina with a plaque honoring her for her 28 years of service to Dixie Electric.

Caldwell worked in the engineering department for most of her career.

Here is Caldwell along with Mitzi Walley, Patsy Thornton, Bobby Shows, Lisa Badley, (back row) Timmy Ewing, Drew Walters, Jeremy McAndrew and Gary Minchew.

Retiree Pina Caldwell reflects on her years at Dixie Electric at her Hawaii-themed retirement celebration.

Laughter. Dependable. Organized. tion charges and preparing large power Always encouraging. These are just a contracts. few of the kind words shared about “Pina is enthusiastic and encouraglong-serving employee Pina Caldwell. ing. She made it easy for me to learn “Fresh out of school and new to the her responsibilities because she was co-op world, Pina helped get me setvery organized and detailed,” Mitzi tled in at Dixie. She took time to Walley said. Walley became the explain the various policies, practices administrative assistant for the engiand paperwork that had to be done in neering department upon Caldwell’s the engineering retirement. department,” During Pina’s System Engineer 28-year career, she Blake Remy said. witnessed numer“Pina was able to ous changes. The find anything for up-to-date technolme. If a document ogy that has been had ever passed implemented over through the engithe past several neering departyears is the most ment, she knew significant change, Administrative Assistant Pina Caldwell teaches high school students about making wise decisions according to where to find it. with the Junior Achievement program during the Caldwell.

Pina was caring 1990s. and loving to On Friday, June myself and everyone at Dixie, and will 1, employees, retirees, family and be greatly missed.” friends gathered to honored Caldwell Administrative Assistant Pina for her years of service. She enjoys travCaldwell retired from Dixie Electric in eling and visited Hawaii in 2017, so a late April. She came to Dixie Electric luau was the theme for her retirement in January 1990 as a consumer account luncheon. Coworkers shared stories; clerk in the billing department. In several remarked about Caldwell’s 1999 she was promoted to the secrekindness towards others. tary for the engineering department, Pina and her husband, Billy, have the position she held until retirement. two children, Katie and Sam, and three Caldwell’s title was later changed to grandchildren. They are members of administrative assistant. Her job duties Salem Heights Baptist Church. After included collecting and recording retirement, Caldwell plans to travel, right-of-way easements, preparing and fish, camp and spend time with her sending letters for power line construc- grandchildren.

the risk of someone coming in contact with the power lines.

Here are the substations and surrounding communities that are either currently being cleared or will be Dixie Electric Power Association clears trees, limbs cleared soon: and underbrush from the area around and below the • South Waynesboro substation – Winchester, power lines, called the right-of-way. Right-of-way Denham-Progress, Sunlight, Big Rock and the Central clearing decreases the number of outages and reduces School area

Right-of-way clearing projects underway

• Glade substation – Glade, Antioch and Powers communities • Indian Springs substation – Sunrise and Petal Clearing the right-of-way protects individuals from the hazards of electricity and makes power restoration quicker and safer for both Dixie Electric’s members and personnel.

Energy Efficienc

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Just a quick click or step away 1. New Home Building – Comfort Advantage provides

incentives for energy efficient new home construction.

Visit one of our offices for more information.

2. Home Energy Calculators – On dixieepa.com answer the questions on the home energy calculator and receive tips and information to improve your home’s efficiency. There is a series of calculators that let you know how much electric energy appliances, televisions and light bulbs use.

3. Home Energy Adventure – Learn all kinds of facts about energy efficiency with this interactive question-and-answer game. This is great information at your fingertips.

4. Events – Come visit us at the Energy Fair in your area. We’ll be at a store near you during the last week of July.

See page 12 for detailed information.

5. ENERGY STAR – Shopping for electronics, appliances or a new heating/cooling system for your home?

Look for the blue ENERGY STAR logo and be assured that it meets energy efficiency standards.

Visit energystar.gov for buying tips.

6. SmartHub App – Dixie Electric’s SmartHub app provides detailed information about your daily energy use. Learn your family’s energy use patterns and consider ways that you can lower your bill.

Home Energ Adventure

Energy Fair

cy

July 2018

gy Home Energy Calculator

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Today in Mississippi I July 2018

Bylaws govern Dixie Electric’s board elections Section 4.03. Tenure & Qualifications. (a) At each annual meeting of the members, approximately onethird (1/3) of the total number of directors shall be elected by ballot, by and from the members, to serve for a term of three (3) years as provided by law. If the election of directors shall not be held at the annual meeting or if such annual meeting is not held, each director shall hold office until his or her successor shall have been qualified and elected. If there is no individual who has been duly nominated and qualified as set forth in Section 4.04, the director shall hold office until his or her successor shall have been qualified and elected. The Association will make reasonable attempts to qualify candidates and hold the election for the successor as set forth in Section 4.04 as soon as practicable. (b) At any meeting, ballots shall not be necessary in the event the number of persons nominated for directors does not exceed the number of directors to be elected, but in such case if there be no objection, the directors may be elected in any other proper manner. Drawing by lot shall resolve, where necessary, any tie votes. (c) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a director or to hold any position of trust in the Association who is not an active member in good standing of the Association, has not been a bona fide resident of the district from which they are to be elected for one year immediately preceding the nomination to directorship, or who is in any way employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise. (d) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a director who has been finally convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude. (e) In order to be eligible to become or remain a director of the Association, a person must be a member of the Association and receiving service therefrom at his or

her primary residential abode, and not be a close relative as defined in Section 4.08 of an employee, incumbent director, or the director being replaced.

When a membership is held jointly by a married couple, either one but not both may be elected a director; provided, however that neither one shall be eligible to become or remain a director or to hold a position of trust in the Association unless both shall meet the qualifications hereinabove set forth. No person shall take or hold office as director who is the incumbent of or a candidate for any elective county, beat, district, school district, municipal or state public office for which a salary is paid. (f) In order to be eligible to become or remain a director of the Association, a person must have the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract. (g) In order to be eligible to become or remain a director of the Association, a person must not have been an employee of the Association for at least three (3) years and must not be a close relative, as defined in Section 4.08, to a current employee of the Association. (h) Upon establishment of the fact that a nominee for director lacks eligibility under this Section or as may be provided elsewhere in these bylaws, it shall be the duty of the chair presiding at the meeting at which such nominee would be otherwise voted upon to disqualify such nominee. Upon establishment of the fact that any person being considered for, or already holding, a directorship or other position of trust in the Association lacks eligibility under this Section, it shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to withhold such positions from such persons, or to cause them to be removed therefrom, as the case may be. (i) Nothing in this section contained shall, or shall be construed to, affect in any manner whatsoever, the validity of any action taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors, unless such action is taken with

respect to a matter which is affected by the provisions of this section and in which one or more of the directors have an intent adverse to that of the Association.

Section 4.04. Nominations by Petition and Credentials and Election Committee. (a) Nominations by Petition.

Except for Association employees or their spouses, twenty-five (25) members acting together, may nominate by petition a candidate for Director by submitting a petition for nomination between June 1 and 5 p.m. on the last business day in July of that year. Any petition for nomination shall contain the name and address of the nominee and be submitted on a form designated and provided by the Association. Each member signing such petition shall place thereon the date of signing, printed name, address, account number, telephone number and service location of the member. For a nomination by petition to be placed on the notice of the members’ meeting, it shall be received at the Association’s headquarters no later than 5 p.m. on the last business day in July of that year and be approved by the Credentials and Election Committee. No member may submit more than one petition for nomination and no member may nominate more than one candidate.

Petitions by joint members will only be counted as one petition and in the event a married couple attempts to nominate two different people, only the first received petition will be accepted. The Secretary must mail with the notice of the meeting or separately a statement of the number of Board members to be elected and the names of the candidates nominated by petition. (b) Credentials and Election Committee. In order to carry out its duty to approve eligibility for membership on the Board of Directors, and to review the Director election process, the Board of Directors may appoint a Credentials and Election Committee consisting of not less than five (5) nor more than seven (7) members

who shall be selected from different Districts so as to ensure equitable geographic representation.

Members of the Credentials and Election Committee may serve for a three (3) year term with an initial term to be set so that approximately a third (1/3) of the Committee will be appointed each year. Members of the Credentials and Election Committee may serve a second consecutive three (3) year term if so appointed. Individuals who have already served two (2) consecutive terms on the Credentials and Election Committee are not eligible to serve again until they have been off of the Committee for at least one (1) three (3) year term. Said appointment shall be made during the month of May or June. No existing Association employees, agents, officers, Directors or known candidates for Director, and close relatives (as hereinafter defined) or members of the same household of existing Association employees, agents, officers, Directors or known candidates for Director may serve on such committee. In the event of the

Notice of Dixie Electric’s Director Qualification Period Candidates seeking election to represent Districts 3, 4 or 6 on the board of directors for Dixie Electric must visit Dixie Electric’s headquarters office at 1863 Highway 184, Laurel, Miss., and obtain a Director Qualification Packet during business hours between June 1 and July 31.

The forms and petitions in the packet must be completed and returned by close of business on

Tuesday, July 31, 2018.

July 2018

failure of the Board to appoint said Credentials and Election committee, then the President or his or her designee may appoint said committee in the month of July or at such appropriate time. It is the responsibility of the Credentials and Election Committee to appoint a chair for the Committee. The Credentials and Election Committee shall meet at a time and place to be determined by the majority of the members of the Committee. It may be the responsibility of the Committee to pass upon all questions that may arise with respect to the registration and qualifications of members in person or by proxy, the regularity of all petitions for nominations of Directors, the qualifications of all nominees for

directors, to count all ballots cast in any election or other ballot vote taken, and to rule upon the effect of any ballots irregularly marked. In the exercise of its responsibility, the Credentials and Election Committee may have available to it the advice of counsel provided by the Association.

In the] event a written protest or objection is filed concerning any election, such protest or objection shall be filed during, or within three (3) business days following the adjournment of the meeting in which the voting is conducted. The Credentials and Election Committee shall thereupon be reconvened, upon notice from its chair, not less than seven (7) business days after such protest or objection is filed.

The Committee shall hear such evi-

dence as is presented by the protestor(s) or objector(s), who may be heard in person, by counsel, or both, and shall hear any opposing evidence; and the Credentials and Election Committee, by a vote of a majority of those present and voting, shall, within a reasonable time, but not later than thirty (30) calendar days after such hearing, render its decision, the result of which may be to affirm the election, to change in part the outcome thereof, or to set it aside entirely. The Credentials and Election Committee decision (as reflected by a majority of those actually present and voting) on all matters covered by this Section shall be final. (c) In the event of any meeting of the members at which directors

Plant the right tree in the right place

MEDIUM TREES

70 ft.

6 0 ft.

30-35 feet from lines • Bradford Pear • Carolina Silverbell • Golden Raintree • Ornamental Cherry • Saucer Magnolia • Serviceberry • Sourwood • Fraser Fir • Winter King Hawthorne

50ft.

4 0 ft.

30 ft.

20ft.

Avoid planting within 20 feet of power lines.

20-25 feet from line • Flowering Dogwood • Japanese Lilac • Kousa • Dogwood • Stewartia • Redbud • Ornamental Crabapple

10 ft.

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shall not be elected, the Board of Directors may nevertheless appoint a Credentials Committee with authority to pass upon all applicable matters herein provided as well as any other matters or questions which may be referred to it by the Chair of the meeting or by the Board of Directors. The President of the Board, or the President’s designee, shall preside at and conduct all meetings of the Members with full authority to act or refer any questions deem appropriate to the aforesaid Committee for decision. (d) Notwithstanding anything in this section contained, failure to comply with any of the provisions of this section shall not affect in any manner whatsoever the validity of any election of directors.

SMALL TREES

40-45 feet from lines • Red Maple • Spruce • Lacebark Elm • White Oak • Hemlock • Shagbark Hickory

Today in Mississippi

For more tips on smart tree planting in your community, visit dixieepa.com or www.ArborDay.org.

Trees beautify our neighborhoods, and when planted in the right spot, can even help lower energy bills. But the wrong tree in the wrong place can be a hazard... especially to power lines.

LARGE TREES

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This ad is an updated version according to Dixie Electric’s tree planting guidelines.

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East Mississippi Electric Power Association Louisville 662.773.5741

Meridian 601.581.8600

Quitman 601.776.6271

DeKalb 601.743.2641

The value of our service continues to shine A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

Recently I had a conversation with an old friend of mine. He was intrigued with solar panels and battery installations he heard about in the news. One of his questions caught my attention. “Aren’t you guys afraid solar will put you out of business?” he asked.

My response probably surprised him. At East CEO Randy Carroll Mississippi Electric Power Association, we support cost-effective and efficient solar installations and will work with any of our members who wish to install solar panels and battery systems. Our only requirements are that the installations are done properly and that the safety of our members and employees is assured.

EMEPA is one of 15 electric cooperatives in Mississippi that have members with solar installations.

Electric cooperatives have a history of serving local member needs. If a member has a desire to install solar, we want to be their trusted source for information specific to their needs and use patterns.

Sometimes the question is, “Why do you still need a flat monthly charge when I install solar?” That question goes hand in hand with whether a member wants to remain connected to the electric distribution system. If a member intends to live completely off the grid, they would no longer be a member-consumer of EMEPA services. We would not have any poles, wires, transformers or service lines backing up the solar power to the home, nor delivering energy during cloudy days and nights when the sun is not shining. We also would not have anyone responding to outages. If that were the case, there would not be a monthly bill.

If on the other hand, the member wants backup serv-

Reporting a power outage can be EASY!

Update your phone number.

ice for those times their service from solar is not operating at the level needed for their comfort and safety, they will still need all the equipment currently serving them.

One of the many benefits of being a member of an electric cooperative is that when you needed your electric service for your home, it was built with little or no upfront cost. Over time, that installation cost, along with routine maintenance, is recovered through a flat monthly charge and energy sales. When any of the poles, wires, transformers and service wires are damaged by lightning, wind or storms, our employees respond to fix the problem and restore the safe, affordable and reliable service you have come to expect.

You see, our commitment to you and your electric service is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, rain or shine.

We not only build the service, we maintain the lines and respond to the outages whenever they happen. We do so daily for less per person than most people spend for a drive-thru breakfast.

How to update your phone number: • Call any EMEPA office to change the number associated with your account.

Meridian 601-581-8600 Louisville 662-773-5741 Quitman 601-776-6271 DeKalb 601-743-2641 • Email your contact information to contactus@emepa.com with “Verify Contact Info” in subject line of email.

• Visit any EMEPA office.

EMEPA’s new outage reporting system will automatically recognize your account if your phone number is correct.

PrePay

July 2018 I Today in Mississippi

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puts the power in your hands.

Don’t get hit with an expensive power bill at the end of the month. PrePay helps you save money and energy.

Electricity is one of the few commodities we pay for after we’ve used the service, and unless you have monitored your energy use throughout the month, the bill may come as a shock. PrePay metering is designed to ease – and hopefully eliminate – that shock.

PrePay metering is a plan for residential members that allows you to pay when you want, in the amounts you want – before you use the service. With PrePay, there’s no more monthly bill, no security deposit needed and you

can make payments as often as you want. This allows greater flexibility to manage your account as it better suits your lifestyle and financial ability.

If you find it easier to make daily, weekly or biweekly payments for your energy use rather than one large payment each month, then this is the option for you. You choose how much and when you want to pay – $5 a day, $40 a week – the choice is yours. This easy, pay-as-you-go plan gives you greater control over your budget,

because you decide how much to pay and when you would like to make a payment.

Members pay a certain amount upfront, and a text or email alert lets you know when you are almost “out” of electricity. If you don’t make another payment—over the phone, online or at one of EMEPA’s convenient payment kiosks—electric service automatically gets shut off when the account runs dry. Likewise, if you run out of electricity and are disconnected, the remote setup lets

hookups occur in a matter of minutes when payment is finally made.

Members using the PrePay service will receive daily updates detailing the amount of electricity used and current account balance for that day. Additionally, you can use EMEPA’s free smartphone app or visit EMEPA.com to check daily electricity use and manage alerts and reminders, among other things.

Contact your local EMEPA office to learn more or get started today.

Benefits: • No deposits, late fees or large energy bills • Make smaller payments throughout the month

How do I add money to my Prepay account?

• Visit any EMEPA office between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

• Use our automated phone system 24 hours a day at 601-581-8600.

• Visit EMEPA.com or download our free smartphone app.

• Use the convenient payment kiosks located at each of EMEPA’s four offices for 24/7 service or at the Piggly Wiggly of Collinsville during the store’s operating hours.

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July 2018

Keep kids safe all summer

The best place for Fido this summer: indoors Your dog loves riding in the car with you and playing in the grass on warm, sunny days. But when it gets really hot, keep Fido indoors where the air conditioning can keep your best friend cool.

Like people, pets can suffer from all kinds of heatrelated problems, like heat stroke, dehydration and respiratory distress. Some days, the safest thing for them is a lazy day inside your home.

Here are five ways to keep Fluffy and Fido safe and cool this summer: 1. Put out extra bowls of water indoors and outdoors so your pets can drink as much as they need. Panting is your pets’ way of cooling down by evaporating fluids from the respiratory tract. But those fluids need replacing.

2. Water isn’t just for drinking in the summer: Letting your pets stand or play in it will help keep them cool on

hot days. Some dogs will enjoy a small plastic baby pool, but be sure to replace the water every few days to discourage mosquito breeding.

3. If you’re outdoors with your pet, stay in the shade under a big tree or an awning. Too much sun can disorient your pet and even cause heatstroke. Short-haired pets can even get sunburned if they’re in the sun for too long.

4. If you’re leaving the house without your pets, leave them indoors and leave the air conditioning on. If you’re taking them with you, NEVER leave them unattended in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. It doesn’t take long for a dog to become overheated or dehydrated enough to get sick—or even die.

5. Exercise your pets early in the cooler hours of morning or late evening. Keep them on the lawn and away from asphalt; hot pavement can burn a pet’s paws.

Keep cool in the kitchen Watermelon-Cucumber Salad 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced 4 cups diced and seeded watermelon 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and sliced 1/2 cup mint, thinly sliced 1/4 cup olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon Salt to taste Feta cheese Soak onion slices in cold water. Pat dry the watermelon and cucumber, and drain the onion; toss together in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice and salt, and toss. Top with feta cheese. Makes 4 servings.

You might not be able to keep your eyes on your children every minute this summer while they’re roaming around the neighborhood having fun. So teach them how to keep themselves safe, especially around electricity.

• The most important lesson about outdoor electrical safety is: Never touch a power line. A downed line might seem like its “dead,” but chances are good that it’s still energized.

Touching it with a hand, a toy or a stick could electrocute someone.

• If a kite, balloon or another toy gets caught in an overhead power line, do not try to dislodge it by throwing shoes or other items at it. Call your electric cooperative if you must retrieve the toy.

• Stay far away from overhead power lines while flying kites or using large toys so they don’t come into contact with energized lines.

• Do not climb utility poles or trees that are close to power lines.

• Don’t post signs, balloons, ribbons or anything else on utility poles or electrical equipment.

• Stay out of electrical substations—even to rescue a pet.

Those substations house high-voltage equipment that can electrocute someone.

• Don’t touch electrical toys that are standing in a puddle or floating in a pool.

Tip of the

Month

Here’s a cool tip for your fridge!

Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in your refrigerator.

Uncovered foods release moisture, causing the compressor to work harder.

Source: energy.gov

July 2018

Stay cooler while saving energy Your use of indoor energy can soar with the rising temperatures. Here are five ways to take control: • Cover the windows. Half of all of the heat that enters your home during the summer comes in through the windows.

Invest in a thick shade or window film to block out the summer sun. Save up to 15 percent on your cooling bill by shading west-facing windows, which absorb the most afternoon sun. For the hottest parts of your house, consider installing an awning or planting trees in front of the window to shade the house.

• Change A/C filters.

A filter for your air conditioning system costs only dollars (about $5 for a highquality, pleated model), but can save you much more if you change it every month during the summer. Dirty air conditioning filters prevent air flow and make the air conditioning system work harder.

That means a higher bill.

• Turn the thermostat up. For every degree you turn your thermostat up during air conditioning season, you’ll save up to 2 percent on your cooling costs. Try setting your thermostat at 78 degrees, and turn on a ceiling fan to help circulate the air.

• Use your ceiling fans.

Fans don't cool the air, but they make the air feel cooler by moving it around the room and against your skin, which creates a sort of “wind chill” effect.

When the fan is running, you can move your thermostat three to four degrees higher without noticing a difference in your comfort level.

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

Average Annual Price Increase 2012-2017 Percent

4.0

3.5%

3.5

3.3%

3.0

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Today in Mississippi

2.0

Your pool and electricity:

potential trouble Any conversation about swimming pool safety will revolve around drowning. But it should also address electrocution.

Although far less common than drowning, electrocution in or near a swimming pool takes the lives of a small handful of people every year. One was a 7-year-old boy who was electrocuted by a faulty pool light.

Here are a few tips for preventing electrical accidents while you’re enjoying your pool: • Keep TVs, radios and extension cords far away from the water.

• Have your pool equipment inspected and maintained every season. Faulty, malfunctioning or improperly installed equipment—like pool lights—can be hazardous.

• Have the pool inspected when it is first installed, or before you buy a new house that comes with an already-installed pool.

• Don’t do your own electrical work on your pool lights or other electrical components.

Call a licensed electrician.

• Keep electrical devices and cords at least 5 feet away from the edge of the pool.

• Supervise children and party guests who are using the pool.

• Look for signs of trouble, like flickering lights or equipment that performs erratically.

If a swimmer is twitching or unresponsive, it’s possible the water is electrified.

Make a plan in case someone gets shocked at the pool. You’re less likely to panic if you know exactly what to do: Turn off the power, clear the pool area without touching anything metal and call an ambulance.

Fire it up Give your A/C system a break by moving the heat and humidity of cooking to the outdoor grill.

1.6%

Stay Hydrated

1.5 1.0 0.5 Rent

Cable/ Satellite TV

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

12c

3.0%

2.5

0

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Education

Electricity

Thirsty or not, drink water often when you’re active outdoors. Dehydration can be deadly!

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Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Foundation scholarships awarded I

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The Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Foundation provides scholarships to the children of Mississippi cooperative employees that are qualifying high school seniors enrolled full time at accredited institutions for the following fall semester.

This year’s recipients: • Ashley Higginbotham, daughter of Jimmy and Nancy Higginbotham • Kayle Reynolds, daughter of Derrick and Krystal Reynolds • Sarah White, daughter of Charles and Kathy White • Zabial Burton, daughter of Michael and Karen Burton.

FOUNDATION

East Mississippi Electric

80th Annual Meeting

ATTALA COUNTY

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Louisville WINSTON COUNTY

NOXUBEE COUNTY

15

Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018

De Kalb

16 NESHOBA COUNTY

Mark your calendar for Saturday, Oct. 6, and make plans to attend our 80th annual meeting.

If you have any questions about the annual meeting or just want to know more, please contact EMEPA at 601.581.8624 or visit our website at www.emepa.com.

KEMPER COUNTY

LAUDERDALE COUNTY Meridian

I-20 NEWTON COUNTY

JASPER COUNTY

I-59 CLARKE COUNTY Quitman

WAYNE COUNTY

45

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Board of Directors

www.4county.org • 1-800-431-1544

John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr., President Johnny Johnson, Vice President Mike Banks, Secretary/Treasurer Bill Bell Kenneth Seitz Ernest H. “Bud” Tumlinson Marty Crowder

YOUR COOPERATIVE

By Joe Cade CEO/General Manager

Patriotism in action According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, patriotism is “the love for or devotion to one’s country.” Perhaps no other day of the year evokes such a sense of patriotism than Independence Day. With flags rippling in the wind––red, white and blue bunting adorning porches and store fronts and local parades and marching bands on display, it’s easy to feel a swell of pride for our country.

Arguably, another, perhaps deeper form of patriotism is active engagement in public and civic life. Involvement in your town promotes a richer community life, and ensures that institutions thrive and communities remain vibrant and inviting places to live work and play. Besides being enjoyable, your participation in community events and activities, together with your friends, neighbors and coworkers makes a difference. Simple things like supporting a bake sale or attending a local high school event signals to the young people in your community that you care and support them, and that the community itself is worth sustaining.

In fact, there are civic engagement opportunities through 4-County Electric Power Association. You may recall that one of our most important cooperative principles is that of democratic participation. As a member of our community and as a member of the co-op you have an opportunity to provide input through voting.

4-County, like other types of co-ops, originated to serve a need that was not being met by traditional for-profit electric companies.

We make decisions based on long-term thinking—decisions that benefit the larger community in which we operate. One of the best

ways you can engage with your co-op is by casting your vote when it’s time to elect board members. These are folks just like you, from our community, who provide guidance to coop leadership on a myriad of issues and decisions both short term and long term.

You can also make a difference in your local, state and national elections. Perhaps you haven’t voted in the past because you didn’t think you were qualified to weigh in on a particular topic, or maybe you simply didn’t have time to vote. But you do have an opinion on the issues that affect you and voting makes sure your voice is heard.

Everyone has valuable experience that informs their decision-making process.

Diverse perspectives benefit us all. You may have a different view than your neighbor, but together, those perspectives provide a more balanced view of the community. You could be bringing new information that hadn’t been previously considered. The more of us participating in the process the better, because greater numbers reflect a consensus on the direction of the future and the will of the people.

I would argue that voting, whether in the co-op or in local and national elections is a form of patriotism, as it reflects a devotion to one’s community and commitment to ensure that it thrives.

Democracy is not a spectator sport; it takes active civic engagement by citizens to thrive. This Independence Day, I hope you will embrace the local celebrations and actively participate in your community—and vote at every opportunity!

Here’s an Idea

STEALING ELECTRICITY is illegal and dangerous Many members are interested in their electric bills. While there are numerous ways to cut down on the amount of electricity used in a home, in some cases members resort to trying to steal electricity. Tampering with an electric meter is both illegal and dangerous. Under Mississippi law, anyone who intentionally tampers with a meter is guilty of a misdemeanor, which is punishable by a fine and imprisonment.

“Those who tamper with their electric meters in an effort to reduce their power costs are stealing from their energy providers and their fellow cooperative members,” said Jimmie Daniels, manager of system security at 4-County Electric Power Association. “Like any other business that is required to cover the costs of theft by increasing its prices, member-owned electric cooperatives must cover the costs of meter tampering in their rates.”

Electric meters are designed to accurately record the electricity used each month and are routinely tested. Meters are sealed for the protection of the homeowner and the energy provider. Members who break a meter seal are exposing themselves and their home to the risk of electrocution and fire. Once a meter has been tampered with, it becomes both unsafe and unstable. Interrupting the flow of electricity through a line also poses serious risk to linemen working nearby.

Your cooperative is dedicated to providing safe and reliable electric energy. Meters owned by 4-County are regularly inspected for signs of wear and damage. As members of an electric power association, you can assist in cracking down on energy thieves. If you are aware of or suspect that someone is tampering with a meter, please let us know.

“If members are having trouble with their bills, they should not hesitate to contact us,” Daniels said. “We’re happy to help suggest energy efficient options and other ways they can reduce their use. Tampering with meters should never be an option.”

Co-op Connections Card saves Since the Co-op Connections Card was unveiled in September 2011, 4-County members have saved over $670,684 on prescription drugs through May.

Look here each month to see the savings total!

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June 7 annual meeting a day of fellowship and fun!

Some 600 people attended 4-County Electric Power Association’s annual membership meeting Thursday, June 7, at the East Mississippi Community College auditorium in Mayhew.

Those attending the event enjoyed a day full of food, fun, fellowship and information. Registration and a health fair for members began at 9 a.m. A catfish lunch with all the fixings for members began at 10:15 a.m. The business portion of the meeting began at noon.

Members viewed a variety of displays featuring 4-County programs, services and equipment.

4-County CEO Joe Cade said there was something for everyone at the meeting. “We provided our membership with good information, elected three directors and, of course, gave away some great door prizes—including a truck,” Cade said.

Held in conjunction with the annual meeting, the health fair provided members the opportunity to receive a variety of healthcare screenings.

In addition to the pre-meeting health fair, the business session included financial and management reports along with the election of three directors to the Association’s board of directors. Three incumbent directors were re-elected: Kenneth M. Seitz of Starkville for District 2, Oktibbeha County; E.H. “Bud” Tumlinson of West Point for District 3, Clay and Monroe counties; and John E. “Jay” Gilliland Jr. of Mathiston for District 6, Webster and Chickasaw counties.

They will serve three-year terms.

The 4-County Foundation also distributed 15 awards to organizations within the co-op’s service area. Those receiving awards were Camp Jigsaw ($4,615), Chickasaw Sheriff’s Department ($5,000), East Webster Elementary School ($6,000), Father’s Child Ministry ($2,000), Girls Engineering Change ($800), Girl Scouts Heart of the South ($700), Maben Fire Department ($1,626.40), Mississippi Burn Foundation ($5,000), Mississippi School for Math and Science ($3,500), Lowndes County Schools ($5,500), Pilot Club of Starkville ($2,000), United Way Lowndes County ($4,644), West Point Police Department ($9,750), Shuqualak CAG ($9,713) and MSU Rural Medical Scholars ($4,800). (See page 13.)

Mark Beaver of Columbus was the winner of the grand prize, a retired 4-County fleet truck. There was a variety of other attendee prizes.

Above: 4-County CEO Joe Cade presents Mark Beaver with the keys to a retired 4-County truck. The truck was the grand prize at the co-op’s annual meeting June 7.

Above: Gavin Burton, 11, learns a little more about a YMCA program from Salem Gibson. The program, assisting those with Parkinson’s, received a 4-County Foundation grant.

Left: George Glass of Macon participates in the annual meeting health fair with the assistance of Whitney Ewing of Baptist Golden Triangle.

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time

the

By Brad Barr Time stands still for no man. Just ask Bobby Burdine.

“Sometimes I just walk around and it’s all I can hear,” he said.

His statement is more literal than figurative. Owning somewhere in the neighborhood of 300 to 400 antique clocks, the collector from Choctaw County is never far from the “tick, tock,” chimes, cuckoos and whimsical tunes of time. The sounds are music to Burdine’s ears.

“I’ve got all kinds of time,” Burdine said, gesturing in his warehouse of grandfather clocks, mantle clocks, wall clocks, banjo clocks (a reference to the shape) and mouse clocks (in reference to the type of clock featured in the classic nursery rhyme).

He is a collector, repair professional and seller of antique clocks.

Most of his clocks are American made. A few of them are of the French provincial style. His oldest timepiece is a grandfather clock made in France during the late 1700s.

What really drives his fascination with antique clocks? He really doesn’t have enough time to explain it, he joked. But, seriously, it probably stems from a natural inclination to figure out how things work. “I was mechanically inclined at an early age,” he – Bobby Burdine explained. “And I liked clocks then too. I could just sit and watch them.”

Burdine’s father, a farmer and cabinet maker, was somewhat of an inspiration. “Anything that moved mechanically, I would take it apart.”

“I’ve got all kinds of time.”

of hi

Burdine said. “ much better m rebuilt. The m away models,” aficionado said from mechanic time pieces.

He finds som estate sales. Mo rescued throug Association of

Bobby Burdine sometimes feels like he has all the time in the world. The Choctaw County resident is an antique clock aficionado. He collects and repairs them at his shop near Chester.

The young tinkerer got his first set of tools at 7. “I would take anything apart that would come apart,” he said. And at first, it really didn’t matter if he put it back together or not. “But, I thought I would,” he said with a laugh.

Thirty-five years ago he began to scratch the itch to collect. It all began with a cuckoo clock at a yard sale. The clock didn’t work but he took it to an area repairman to get it fixed. He bought another, and then another. Both clocks were repaired. That repairman, Cloyd Robinson, became Burdine’s mentor. “After he fixed that third clock for me, he asked me if I was interested in learning how to work on clocks,” Burdine said.

He went to Robinson’s workshop one night a week and brought his chair to the table of mechanical knowledge. “I’d bring my own clocks in, and he would show me how to repair them,” he explained. “That’s how I learned.”

Robinson was a tool and die maker for Herschede Clock Co., at that time located in Starkville. The company called Starkville home

from 1960 to 1984. Burdine owns several Herschede clocks. “Cloyd was my mentor. He taught me to do it the right way, to repair the clocks for the long term,” he stressed.

Like Robinson, Burdine is a perfectionist, a perfect complement to his hobby/passion. “Anything I do, if it’s worth doing, I want to do it right. It takes a lot of time and patience to repair clocks correctly,” Burdine said.

The workings of an antique clock are much like a work of art to Burdine. In a way, he added, they deserve to be taken care of. “Some of these clocks ran for 100 years before they stopped. I feel like I can repair them so they’ll run another 100 years.”

Antique versus modern clocks? No contest,

geniuses of yeste computer gurus Working on a Burdine explaine ple, can have up chimes, etc.). An parts for many o make a lot of pa The Fashion favorite. He also Clock” grandfath When he’s no maintenance dir Patrol. He and h and 12 grandchi the clocks,” he s

July 2018 I Today in Mississippi

his life

“The antique clocks were made of materials. Most of them can be modern clocks are basically throwhe said. The difference, the clock d, lies in the gradual conversion cal to computerized (or digital)

me of his clocks at auctions and ost of his clocks, however, were gh his membership in the National Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC). “Most of my clocks I obtained through trade with other collectors around the country,” Burdine said. He often attends antique clock shows, tailored exclusively for members of the NAWCC. While Burdine does enjoy the history of the clocks, his main interest is the mechanics or the “guts” of the device.

The mechanical eryear compare favorably to the of today, he said. antique clocks is quite tedious, ed. A grandfather clock, for examp to 300 parts (screws, pins, nother challenge? He can’t find of his older clocks. “I have to arts,” he said. brand of mantle clocks is his o fancies his Herschede “The her clock. ot working on clocks, Burdine is a rector for the Mississippi Highway his wife, Jeanith, have six children ildren. “We all enjoy checking out said.

He has some timetested advice for those interested in collecting clocks. Keep the process simple, he said. “Make sure it’s something you like.”

Why does he do it?

The answer is simple. “It’s really something to me to take a clock that’s no longer useful and bring it back to life.”

At the end of the day, you can find Burdine working in a 10-by-10-foot workshop decorated with references to the joys and light-hearted pains of his hobby. You can count on that. Like clockwork.

Burdine has somewhere in the neighborhood of 300 to 400 antique clocks in his home and warehouse in Choctaw County.

They come in all shapes and sizes – wall clocks, mantle clocks and grandfather clocks.

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Today in Mississippi

July 2018

2018 Student tour Washington, D.C.

From left, Haley Fye, Clay Walters and Lake Little enjoy a visit to the Washington Cathedral as part of the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour held June 9-15 in Washington, D.C.

Watts

Happening WEDNESDAY, JULY 4

Starkville Independence Day Celebration; Starkville Sportsplex, 405 Lynn Lane in Starkville; 5 to 9 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322.

THURSDAY, JULY 5

Monthly Gallery Opening and Reception; Main

This list of area events is compiled from information provided by area chambers of commerce and visitors bureaus. The events listed are subject to change. Please call to confirm dates, times and additional details.

SATURDAY, JULY 14 Possum Town Quilters; Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St. in Columbus; 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; details, (662) 328-2787.

SATURDAY, JULY 19

gallery of the Columbus Arts Council, 501 Main St. in downtown Columbus; 5:30 to 7 p.m.; details, (662) 3282787.

Summer Concert Series Downtown at Sundown;

SATURDAY, JULY 7

SATURDAY, JULY 28

Farmers Market; Fire Station Park at the end of Russell Street in Starkville; 7:30 to 10 a.m.; details, (662)

Dancing in the Park; McKee Park, 405 Lynn Lane in

323-3322.

SUNDAY, JUNE 24 Sunday Funday; The Parthenon, 513 University Drive in Starkville; 1 to 6 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322.

THURSDAY, JULY 12

Art in Public Places Reception – Vicki Armstrong; Greater Starkville Development Partnership, 200 E. Main St.; 5:30 to 7 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322.

Cotton District in Starkville; 7 to 9 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322.

Starkville; 9 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.; details, (662) 323-3322.

Haley Fye of Starkville, Clay Walters of Columbus and Lake Little, also of Starkville, were among more than 1,500 high school students from across the country who participated in the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour held June 9-15 in Washington, D.C. The 4-County Electric Power Association delegates travelled to Washington with a group of 70 high school juniors from across Mississippi.

The Youth Tour is designed to offer students from across the nation the opportunity to meet their elected officials, watch government in action and tour historically significant sites, memorials and museums.

Highlights of the event included meeting with their elected representatives in the U.S. House and Senate to discuss the process of government and issues of the day, and learning more about electric cooperatives and American history.

The Youth Tour is a joint effort of 4-County, the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Look for more details and photos in next month’s issue of Today in Mississippi.

Killebrew joins 4-County Jimbo Killebrew of West Point has joined the 4-County Electric Power Association team.

A native of Columbus, Killebrew is a graduate of Heritage Academy and East Mississippi Community College’s Lineman College.

Prior to 4-County, Killebrew worked for contractor company MDR as a groundman.

He will work as an Jimbo Killebrew apprentice lineman 4 on Tommy Reed’s crew based at the 4-County Corporate Center.

“I think it’s a great opportunity,” Killebrew said. “I look forward to helping our members keep the lights on.”

In his spare time, he enjoys hunting and fishing and hanging out with his black lab, Daisy.

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4-County Foundation distributes latest awards The 4-County Foundation presented over $65,000 in awards to 15 area organizations during the Association’s Annual Meeting June 7 at East Mississippi Community College’s Mayhew campus.

Awards included: • Camp Jigsaw - $4,615 for costs associated with autism program • Chickasaw County Sheriff’s Dept. $5,000 to assist in purchase of K-9 drug and search dog

• East Webster Elementary School – $6,000 for 24 Chromebooks • Father’s Child Ministry - $2,000 to assist in cost for teen leadership camp • Girls Engineering Change - $800 to assist with program promotion • Girl Scouts Hearts of the South - $700 to assist with education event transportation • Maben Fire Department - $1,626.40 for foam educator and rescue kit • Mississippi Burn Foundation - $5,000

for patient travel expenses when needed in 4-County service area • Mississippi School for Math & Science - $3,500 for five scholarships to gifted learners program • Lowndes County Schools - $5,500 for robotics competition • Pilot Club of Starkville - $2,000 for splash pad installation • United Way of Lowndes County -

$4,644 for computers • West Point Police Department - $9,750 for computers • Shuqualak Community Action Group – $9,713 for basketball court • MSU Extension Rural Medical Scholars - $4,800 for two program scholarships

Friends of Camp Jigsaw - $4,615

Friends of Chickasaw County Sheriff’s Dept. - $5,000

East Webster Elementary School – $6,000

Friends of Father’s Child Ministry - $2,000

Friends of Girls Engineering Change - $800

Friends of Girl Scouts Hearts of the South - $700

Friends of Maben Fire Department - $1,626.40

Friends of Mississippi Burn Foundation - $5,000

Friends of Mississippi School for Math & Science - $3,500

Friends of Lowndes County Schools - $5,500

Friends of Pilot Club of Starkville - $2,000

Friends of United Way of Lowndes County - $4,644

Friends of West Point Police Department - $9,750

Friends of Shuqualak Community Action Group – $9,713

Friends of MSU Extension Rural Medical Scholars - $4,800

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Stay cooler while saving energy The best place for Fido this summer: indoors Your dog loves riding in the car with you and playing in the grass on warm, sunny days. But when it gets really hot, keep Fido indoors where the air conditioning can keep your best friend cool.

Like people, pets can suffer from all kinds of heat-related problems, like heat stroke, dehydration and respiratory distress. Some days, the safest thing for them is a lazy day inside your home.

Here are five ways to keep Fluffy and Fido safe and cool this summer: 1. Put out extra bowls of water indoors and outdoors so your pets can drink as much as they need. Panting is your pets’ way of cooling down by evaporating fluids from the respiratory tract.

But those fluids need replacing.

2. Water isn’t just for drinking in the summer: Letting your pets stand or play in it will help keep them cool on hot days. Some dogs will

enjoy a small plastic baby pool, but be sure to replace the water every few days to discourage mosquito breeding.

3. If you’re outdoors with your pet, stay in the shade under a big tree or an awning. Too much sun can disorient your pet and even cause heatstroke. Short-haired pets can even get sunburned if they’re in the sun for too long.

4. If you’re leaving the house without your pets, leave them indoors and leave the air conditioning on. If you’re taking them with you, NEVER leave them unattended in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. It doesn’t take long for a dog to become overheated or dehydrated enough to get sick—or even die.

5. Exercise your pets early in the cooler hours of morning or late evening. Keep them on the lawn and away from asphalt; hot pavement can burn a pet’s paws.

Keep cool in the kitchen Watermelon-Cucumber Salad 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced 4 cups diced and seeded watermelon 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and sliced 1/2 cup mint, thinly sliced 1/4 cup olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon Salt to taste Feta cheese Soak onion slices in cold water. Pat dry the watermelon and cucumber, and drain the onion; toss together in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice and salt, and toss. Top with feta cheese. Makes 4 servings.

Your use of indoor energy can soar with the rising temperatures.

Here are five ways to take control: • Cover the windows. Half of all of the heat that enters your home during the summer comes in through the windows. Invest in a thick shade or window film to block out the summer sun. Save up to 15 percent on your cooling bill by shading west-facing windows, which absorb the most afternoon sun. For the hottest parts of your house, consider installing an awning or planting trees in front of the window to shade the house.

• Change A/C filters. A filter for your air conditioning system costs only dollars (about $5 for a highquality, pleated model), but can save you much more if you

Tip of the

Month

change it every month during the summer. Dirty air conditioning filters prevent air flow and make the air conditioning system work harder. That means a higher bill.

• Turn the thermostat up. For every degree you turn your thermostat up during air conditioning season, you’ll save up to 2 percent on your cooling costs.

Try setting your thermostat at 78 degrees, and turn on a ceiling fan to help circulate the air.

• Use your ceiling fans. Fans don't cool the air, but they make the air feel cooler by moving it around the room and against your skin, which creates a sort of “wind chill” effect. When the fan is running, you can move your thermostat three to four degrees higher without noticing a difference in your comfort level.

Here’s a cool tip for your fridge! Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in your refrigerator. Uncovered foods release moisture, causing the compressor to work harder.

Source: energy.gov

July 2018

MEDIA DAY held at Magnolia Electric Power

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Today in Mississippi I 13

Fire it up Give your A/C system a break by moving the heat and humidity of cooking to the outdoor grill.

Magnolia Electric Power (MEP) held a special meeting for the media on June 5. All newspaper and radio personnel that serve MEP’s service territory were invited to attend.

MEP works closely with the local media to build a relationship and to communicate to its members through their media outlets especially during significant power outages.

Over the past several years, MEP has improved its facilities by building a new headquarters office in Summit, and has made vast advancements in its technology. We invited the media to our office to convey this new information to the media representatives.

Lucy Shell, member services director, explained to the media contacts how MEP uses various outlets to communicate during a major power outage event, but the relationship with the media is crucial in events such as these. She explained to them how important it is for the association to work with the media when needing to convey information quickly to the public.

Information packets were provided with contact information, past hurricane statistics, general service information and protocol for emergency response. General safety and generator safety was also discussed.

Darrell Smith, general manager, went further to explain how mutual aid agreements are beneficial to the association.

That is, how other cooperatives from around the state and nation work with MEP in case of a major outage. He also explained the framework of the cooperative network

Top left: Earnest Herndon from Enterprise-Journal looks at an outage map in MEP’s dispatch center.

Top right: Newspaper and radio representatives in MEP’s service area meet to discuss MEP’s new technology and facilities.

Bottom left: Aaron Achord shows the media contacts how MEP communicates and restores power in a major outage event.

Above: General Manager Darrell Smith explains to Herndon and Ben Sills from Supertalk how the cooperative network works to assist during major outages.

nationwide.

Lawrence Weems, IT director, discussed the advancements in technology and the tools that can be useful in reporting outages, easy online payments and monitoring use with the SmartHub portal. “When we have a significant outage, all of our membership could report their outage online because we have unlimited data lines. Unfortunately, we have a limited amount of phone lines, so it can be difficult to get through during a storm event,” said Weems.

Aaron Achord, manager of engineering and operations, concluded the meeting with a tour of MEP’s operation department. He explained to the visitors about the AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) meters and how efficiently the meters communicate with the dispatch department during a significant outage. This system predicts the location or possible cause of an outage from calls received from the members. This integrated outage system removes some of the guesswork, allowing linemen to be dispatched quicker and sending them to specific locations to restore power.

MEP encourages its members to take advantage of the tools offered to make outage reporting, bill pay and monitoring electric use convenient. To view an outage map during a major outage event or to take advantage of these time-saving tools, visit mepcoop.com or download the SmartHub app from the Apple Store or Android Marketplace.

Stay Hydrated Thirsty or not, drink water often when you’re active outdoors. Dehydration can be deadly!

12 I Today in Mississippi

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July 2018

Providing affordable, reliable electricity to our members since 1936.

MONROE COUNTY ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

Keep kids safe all summer

The best place for Fido this summer: indoors Your dog loves riding in the car with you and playing in the grass on warm, sunny days. But when it gets really hot, keep Fido indoors where the air conditioning can keep your best friend cool.

Like people, pets can suffer from all kinds of heatrelated problems, like heat stroke, dehydration and respiratory distress. Some days, the safest thing for them is a lazy day inside your home.

Here are five ways to keep Fluffy and Fido safe and cool this summer: 1. Put out extra bowls of water indoors and outdoors so your pets can drink as much as they need. Panting is your pets’ way of cooling down by evaporating fluids from the respiratory tract. But those fluids need replacing.

2. Water isn’t just for drinking in the summer: Letting your pets stand or play in it will help keep them cool on

hot days. Some dogs will enjoy a small plastic baby pool, but be sure to replace the water every few days to discourage mosquito breeding.

3. If you’re outdoors with your pet, stay in the shade under a big tree or an awning. Too much sun can disorient your pet and even cause heatstroke. Short-haired pets can even get sunburned if they’re in the sun for too long.

4. If you’re leaving the house without your pets, leave them indoors and leave the air conditioning on. If you’re taking them with you, NEVER leave them unattended in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. It doesn’t take long for a dog to become overheated or dehydrated enough to get sick—or even die.

5. Exercise your pets early in the cooler hours of morning or late evening. Keep them on the lawn and away from asphalt; hot pavement can burn a pet’s paws.

Keep cool in the kitchen Watermelon-Cucumber Salad 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced 4 cups diced and seeded watermelon 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and sliced 1/2 cup mint, thinly sliced 1/4 cup olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon Salt to taste Feta cheese Soak onion slices in cold water. Pat dry the watermelon and cucumber, and drain the onion; toss together in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice and salt, and toss. Top with feta cheese. Makes 4 servings.

You might not be able to keep your eyes on your children every minute this summer while they’re roaming around the neighborhood having fun. So teach them how to keep themselves safe, especially around electricity.

• The most important lesson about outdoor electrical safety is: Never touch a power line. A downed line might seem like its “dead,” but chances are good that it’s still energized. Touching it with a hand, a toy or a stick could electrocute someone.

• If a kite, balloon or another toy gets caught in an overhead power line, do not try to dislodge it by throwing shoes or other items at it. Call your electric cooperative if you must retrieve the toy.

• Stay far away from overhead power lines while flying kites or using large toys so they don’t come into contact with energized lines.

• Do not climb utility poles or trees that are close to power lines.

• Don’t post signs, balloons, ribbons or anything else on utility poles or electrical equipment.

• Stay out of electrical substations—even to rescue a pet.

Those substations house high-voltage equipment that can electrocute someone.

• Don’t touch electrical toys that are standing in a puddle or floating in a pool.

Tip of the

Month

Here’s a cool tip for your fridge!

Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in your refrigerator.

Uncovered foods release moisture, causing the compressor to work harder.

Source: energy.gov

July 2018

Stay cooler while saving energy Your use of indoor energy can soar with the rising temperatures. Here are five ways to take control: • Cover the windows. Half of all of the heat that enters your home during the summer comes in through the windows.

Invest in a thick shade or window film to block out the summer sun. Save up to 15 percent on your cooling bill by shading west-facing windows, which absorb the most afternoon sun. For the hottest parts of your house, consider installing an awning or planting trees in front of the window to shade the house.

• Change A/C filters.

A filter for your air conditioning system costs only dollars (about $5 for a highquality, pleated model), but can save you much more if you change it every month during the summer. Dirty air conditioning filters prevent air flow and make the air conditioning system work harder.

That means a higher bill.

• Turn the thermostat up. For every degree you turn your thermostat up during air conditioning season, you’ll save up to 2 percent on your cooling costs. Try setting your thermostat at 78 degrees, and turn on a ceiling fan to help circulate the air.

• Use your ceiling fans.

Fans don't cool the air, but they make the air feel cooler by moving it around the room and against your skin, which creates a sort of “wind chill” effect.

When the fan is running, you can move your thermostat three to four degrees higher without noticing a difference in your comfort level.

1/3 Page (4.625” x 4.875”)

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

Average Annual Price Increase 2012-2017 Percent

4.0

3.5%

3.5

3.3%

3.0

I

Today in Mississippi

Your pool and electricity:

potential trouble Any conversation about swimming pool safety will revolve around drowning. But it should also address electrocution.

Although far less common than drowning, electrocution in or near a swimming pool takes the lives of a small handful of people every year. One was a 7-year-old boy who was electrocuted by a faulty pool light.

Here are a few tips for preventing electrical accidents while you’re enjoying your pool: • Keep TVs, radios and extension cords far away from the water.

• Have your pool equipment inspected and maintained every season. Faulty, malfunctioning or improperly installed equipment—like pool lights—can be hazardous.

• Have the pool inspected when it is first installed, or before you buy a new house that comes with an already-installed pool.

• Don’t do your own electrical work on your pool lights or other electrical components.

Call a licensed electrician.

• Keep electrical devices and cords at least 5 feet away from the edge of the pool.

• Supervise children and party guests who are using the pool.

• Look for signs of trouble, like flickering lights or equipment that performs erratically.

If a swimmer is twitching or unresponsive, it’s possible the water is electrified.

Make a plan in case someone gets electrocuted at the pool. You’re less likely to panic if you know exactly what to do: Turn off the power, clear the pool area without touching anything metal and call an ambulance.

Fire it up Give your A/C system a break by moving the heat and humidity of cooking to the outdoor grill.

3.0%

2.5 2.0

1.6%

Stay Hydrated

1.5 1.0 0.5 0

Rent

Cable/ Satellite TV

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

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Education

Electricity

Thirsty or not, drink water often when you’re active outdoors. Dehydration can be deadly!

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July 2018

Like us on Facebook by searching for “North East Power”

10 PR 2050 • Oxford, MS 38655 662-234-6331 • Toll Free: 877-234-6331 • Fax: 662-234-0046

NEMEPA growth leads to bylaw changes ed in our office 40 days before the meeting, which gives someone who wishes to run for a board position, but not nominated by the committee, additional time to receive the 50 signatures on a petition that is required to have their name on

the ballot. (This is reflected in Section 4 under Nominations.)

The maps below show where these changes are reflected. For more information on these changes, contact North East Mississippi Electric Power

Association, or visit www.nemepa.org for a complete copy of the association’s bylaws.

NEW BOARD DISTRICT MAP

This map reflects the new changes in the board districts.

Tate District 3

District 1

Panola

North East Mississippi Electric Power Association (NEMEPA) is celebrating 80 years of service for our members. When the cooperative began operations in 1938, there were bylaws created to control the actions of its members. Today – 80 years later – we still operate by those bylaws. However, with the growth that NEMEPA has experienced in the last few decades, there are sections pertaining to voting districts which needed to be changed to reflect that geographical growth, helping to ensure more equal board representation by district.

To better reflect the growth and have a more equal board representation in all districts, the board of directors voted to make changes to the bylaws at the Feb 13, 2018, board meeting. In addition to providing our members with a more equal board representation, it will also allow ballots to be mailed in a timely manner.

Previously, the bylaws stated nominations made by petition had to be received 21 days prior to the annual meeting of the membership. The change requires nominations made by petition be received during normal business hours at the principal office at least thirty days prior to the annual meeting. This allows more time to have the ballots mailed to our members.

The nominations committee must now meet not less than 40 days or more than 90 days before the date of the annual meeting. The nominations made by the committee must be post-

District 6

District 2

District 7

District 5

District 4 District 8 District 9

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Article III, Section 4 outlines changes to voting districts

Article IV, Section 4 outlines changes to nominations to the Board of Directors

SECTION 4. Voting Districts. The territory served or to be served by the Association shall be divided into nine (9) districts, each of which shall contain as nearly as possible the same number of members. Each district shall be represented by one (1) Director District No. 1 - Meter Routes 30, 35, 40, 60, 65 & 810 District No. 2 - Meter Routes 120, 210, 780, 790 & 797 District No. 3 - Meter Routes 90, 150, 180, 185 & 240 District No. 4 - Meter Routes 270, 277, 330, 360 & 390 District No. 5 - Meter Route 280, 300, 310 & 450 District No. 6 - Meter Routes 620, 625, 650, 660, 663, 667 & 680 District No. 7 - Meter Routes 690, 697, 720, 730, 750, 757 & 760 District No. 8 - Meter Routes 510, 550, 570, 600, 604, 607, 630, 635, 637, 640 & 645 District No. 9 - Meter Routes 400, 420, 480, 487, 520, 540 & 545

SECTION 4. Nominations. It shall be the duty of the Board to appoint, not less than A thirty (30) forty (40) days or more than ninety (90) days before the date of the meeting of the members at which Directors are to be elected, the Committee on Nominations consisting of Nine(9) members, one of whom shall be a resident of each of the nine (9) districts B as described in Article III, Section 4. No member of the Board of Directors may serve on such Committee. The Committee shall have prepared and posted at the principal office of the Association at least forty (40) days before the meeting a list of nominations for Directors in writing over their signatures. The Secretary shall mail with the Notice of the Meeting, or separately, a statement of the number of Directors to be elected and the names and addresses of those nominated by the Committee on Nominations. Any fifty (50) or more members acting together may make other nominations by petition, and the Secretary shall post such nominations at the same place where the list of nominations made by the Committee is posted. If a husband and wife hold a joint membership, either the husband or wife, but not both, may sign such petition. Each member signing such petition shall place thereon the account number of the member as shown on the electric bill with the Association. Nominations made by petition, if any, received at the principal office C during normal business hours of the Association at least D twenty-one (21) thirty (30) days before the time of the meeting

The section in red under Article III, Section 4 shows the old Districts under the bylaws. The process of voting by meter routes was struck from the bylaws to reflect the growth NEMEPA has experienced in recent years. These changes are reflected in the new map on page 12.

OLD DISTRICT MAP This map reflects the old district lines that were changed in the new by-laws.

District 1

Tate

Panola

District 7 District 3 District 6

District 2

District 4

shall be included on the official ballot. Nominations are to be made in no other manner or form except as herein authorized and within the time herein prescribed.

The Board may also appoint a Credentials and Election Committee, consisting of not less than three (3) or more than nine (9) members of the Association. No member of the Board of Directors or member of the Committee on Nominations may serve on such committee. In the event of the failure of the Board to appoint said Credentials and Election committee, then in that event the President or Chair of the meeting shall appoint said committee during the forepart of the members meeting. It shall be the responsibility of the committee to pass upon all questions that may arise with respect to the registration and qualifications of members in person or by proxy, the regularity of all petitions for nominations of directors, the qualifications of all nominees for directors, to count all ballots cast in any election or other ballot vote taken, and to rule upon the effect of any ballots irregularly marked. Drawing by lot shall resolve, where necessary, any tie votes. In the exercise of its responsibility, the Credentials and Election Committee shall have available to it the advice of counsel provided by the Association. In the event a protest or objection is filed concerning any election, such protest or objection must be filed during, or within three (3) business days following the adjournment of, the meeting in which the voting is conducted. The Credentials and Election Committee shall thereupon be reconvened, upon notice from its chairman, not less than seven (7) days after such protest or objection is filed.

The Committee shall hear such evidence as is presented by the protestor(s) or objector(s), who may be heard in person, by counsel, or both, and any opposing evidence; and the Credentials and Election Committee, by a vote of a majority of those present and voting, shall, within a reasonable time, but not later than thirty (30) days after such hearing, render its decision, the result of which may be to affirm the election, to change the outcome thereof, or to set it aside. The Credentials and Election Committee's decision (as reflected by a majority of those actually present and voting) on all matters covered by this Section shall be final.

Notwithstanding anything in this section contained, failure to comply with any of the provisions of this section shall not affect in any manner whatsoever the validity of any election of directors.

A thirty (30) forty (40): 30 days was struck and replaced with 40 days to give additional time to aquire petition signatures.

B as described in Article III, Section 4: This was

District 8

District 5

District 9

omitted from the bylaws.

C during normal business hours: This change was added to ensure applicants return their petition signatures on time.

D twenty-one (21) thirty (30) days: This allows more time to have the ballots mailed to our members.

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AMI

makes the member smart, not the meter

By Elissa Fulton they can’t be installed,” said Pennington. “Out of all the site visits we Electricity meters have been a source of contention and skepticism have done, rarely do the meters fail against the member. In fact, on at since electricity was first introduced into homes around the turn of the least two occassions this year when we have visited a member’s home, the 20th century. After hearing these tales from generations passed, it’s no heat and air were running at the same time due to an HVAC equipment wonder many of us still feel that way today. If our electricity bills increase, failure. That caused the bill to almost triple in both instances.” it must be because of the meter, right? Advanced Meter Infrastructure According to Pennington, most of the extreme electricity use comes (AMI) has equally received its fair share of ridicule since first being intro- from HVAC systems, or an appliance that is failing in the home. duced in the 1980s.

“On a 1,500-square-foot home, an HVAC system will run for about AMI meters have largely been misunderstood and perhaps not properly 40 to 50 cents an hour. However, when it gets over 90 degrees or above, defended, but in fact, all they do is communicate readings. Their daily it has to run continuously to cool the home, and that can be around readings and technology offer a great deal of convenience and quality for $1.50 per hour to run,” said Pennington. “So when no one touches their the members of thermostat, and no one does anything different, Northcentral they are living the same way but the temperature Electric Power drastically increases. That piece of equipment that 1 Association. In addiwas creating your bill last month for 50 cents an tion to the quality hour is the same piece of equipment that is now these meters offer, having to run at three times, depending on the they also offer great size of the home. It’s not the member’s fault, it’s reliability. The decinot our fault. There’s a middle ground that’s sion to install these never been explained before. So when the memAMI meters in 2008 ber gets that bill during a winter or summer was made to offer month, it’s easy to assume that our rates have that great quality, changed. But nothing has changed except that reliability and the device they rely on to heat or cool their home is convenience to our using a lot more electricity when it’s 90 degrees members. outside or when it drops below freezing.”

Russell Mississippi typically has extreme summers with Pennington, technitemperatures soaring into the upper 90s and often www.northcentralepa.com cal services coorditipping into the 100s. This year we are already nator for beginning to see those dangerous temperatures.

Northcentral, has a long history with Northcentral and is very familiar When the weather conditions rise and the home begins to use its HVAC with how these meters operate. The Byhalia native began his career with system more, it can make the bills double and sometimes triple. The good Northcentral as a lineman in 2004. After the meters were installed in news is that Northcentral Electric has technology available that allows our 2008, he was tasked specifically to manage the technology that accompa- members to view their daily use and to monitor where their energy is nies them and to troubleshoot any technical problems that arise. being used, or to uncover the things that may be failing in the home.

“When I go out into the field I try to explain to our members that With this these meters informaare tested tion, a 2 3 before instalfamily can lation and determine they have to where be within .03 they can percent of make accuracy or sacrifices

View My Usage.

Choose account.

during the extreme weather days.

Mark Nichols, director of finance and administration, works closely with Pennington on the technology available for energy monitoring. The information is on Northcentral Electric’s website,

www.northcentralepa.com (see image in the Apple Store or Android Marke “When a member visits our websi member login. A new user can sign u User,” said Nichols. “Once they are l Usage (image No. 3). If the member click on the account they want to vie Account Ledger, Billing History, Pay (See image No. 2.)

Reading the graphs and alerts “When a member views the usage charts of each day in the month and lows. If you hover over the days, it w day and the actual kilowatt-hour use easiest way for a member to figure th hour on a residential meter for the su

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6

4 June 2, 2018

April 29, 2018 graph (image No. 4), we see that the high for the day on Sunday, April 29, was 55 degrees on average. The electricity use for this member on that day was 44 kilowatt-hours. On that day they used roughly $4.14 worth of electricity on a day that was 55 degrees.”

A week later on Sunday, May 6, the temperature rose to 65 degrees during the day and 61 degrees at night (see image No. 5), and the electricity use went up to 55 kilowatt-hours. That’s approximately $5.17 on that day, creeping up as the temperature rises for the electricity use.”

And then on Sunday, May 13, the temperature is up to a high of 81 degrees and a low of 65 degrees (see image No. 6) with a 98 kilowatthour use; that’s increased that bill to $9.20,” said Nichols. “So as you can see, the days fluctuate the most by temperature. By hovering over each of these days on the chart, you can see the use for each day and determine where you need to make sacrifices on the extreme weather days. These amounts will continue to rise with the extreme temperatures approaching and should level back off in the fall.”

5

May 4, 2018

e No. 1), and there is an app available et by searching for “Northcentral.” ite from a web browser, they will see a up for this service by clicking on New logged in, they will click on My r has more than one account they can ew, and it will offer services such as yment History and Usage History.”

e graphs, they will see interactive bar you can easily see the highs and will show the highs and lows for each e for that day,” said Nichols. “The heir use is to know that each kilowattummertime costs 9.4 cents. So in this

Energy efficient appliances also make a difference. When building a home, most people are more concerned with the cosmetic elements of a home, but choosing energy efficient appliances, installing high quality insulation or windows and other energy efficiency upgrades can make a huge difference in the electric bill and save money over time.

Another handy feature Northcentral Electric offers its members in the Member Services Portal is the Alerts section.

“Once you grasp how the graphs work and on average how much electricity you are using, you can start customizing for alerts that will notify you when your electricity use goes above your stated average,” said Nichols. “If the first day of summer hits and you haven’t had your HVAC serviced, your alerts will notify you that your electricity use has increased, and you’ll know you might need to have that unit serviced.”

The alerts can be customized by kilowatt-hour or by dollar amount, and will arrive by text every day if you choose. (See image No. 7.) There are also low-use alerts and payment confirmations.

“There’re so many different ways to look at these features,” said Nichols. “And there’re so many ways for these alerts and 7 this technology to help our members plan their electricity budget.”

In the coming weeks when Mississippi will see its warmest weather, Northcentral Electric encourages our members to take advantage of this technology and all of its uses that are made possible because of AMI meters. The information and technology department, billing analysts and auditors are all key players in our billing and AMI reliability. And if you have questions, the dedicated AMI team at Northcentral Electric is here to assist with any questions about your electricity use and budget.

My Alerts

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July 2018

PRVEPA Contact Information: Columbia: 601-736-2666 Hattiesburg: 601-264-2458

Purvis: 601-794-8051 Wiggins: 601-928-7277

To pay bills or report outages:

855-2PRVEPA (855-277-8372) Visit us on line at www.PRVEPA.com Member owned. Locally operated. That’s the cooperative difference.

Know how your home uses electricity Pearl River Valley Electric is continually looking for ways to improve service to members. As part of this commitment, we offer numerous programs to assist with wise energy use.

Over the years, we have published a wide variety of brochures and booklets that offer energy savings tips, as well as suggestions on how to maximize your home’s energy efficiency. These publications are available at any of our offices or on our website at www.PRVEPA.com. The website has a wide variety of other information and interactive links related to wise energy use.

Some of the most useful information now available to members is being able to check their home’s daily and hourly electrical use at any time. This information can be found by clicking on the “Pay My Bill” or “Manage My Account” tabs and following the steps at the mem-

On the website, members can compare their daily electric use with temperature data.

ber portal.

Members can view the amount of kilowatt-hours recorded by their meter for any period of time, so they can compare one month with another. There is also a feature that adds the daily temperatures to each chart, so members can see the weather factors that can have such an impact on their electric use.

“We have found that members better understand what drives their monthly

bill when they look at their daily use,” said Scott Arinder, member services representative. “By the time someone receives what they think is a high bill, they might have forgotten about a hot stretch of days early in the billing period or that maybe they had a house full of visitors for a weekend. When I talk with them and show them how they used electricity throughout the month, they are able to think back and remember something that might have been out of the ordinary.

“There are also instances when we can pinpoint something like a pump or a heater or some other appliance that is running too much and contributing to higher electric use. On those occasions, the member can replace the unit or make repairs to it and we can see the home’s overall use drop afterward.”

Members can call or visit any Pearl River Valley Electric office for information about their bill or wise energy use.

Arinder can be reached at 601-731-7809.

How is my electricity dollar spent?

Monthly electric bills are determined mainly by how much electricity your home uses. An average bill in south Mississippi is driven by the following categories:

45% 14% 12% 11% 9% 6% 3%

Heating & Cooling Water Heating Washer / Dryer / Dishwasher Other Refrigerator / Freezer Lighting Electronics 11%

14% 45% 12% 9%

6% 3%

Former Pearl River Valley Electric general manager dies W.T. “Tom” Shows, former general manager of Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association (PRVEPA) for nearly 30 years, died June 17. He was 85.

Shows had worked nearly 50 years for the Association when he retired December 31, 2007, having joined PRVEPA in 1957. He became general manager in 1977. During that time the cooperative’s membership grew from approximately 18,000 to more than 43,000, the number of employees more than doubled and two new district offices were added within the Association’s 12-county service area.

“Mr. Shows dedicated his life to serving our members,” noted current general manager Randy Wallace. “He developed a team of professionals dedicated to planning and building our system as it experienced unprecedented growth, which resulted in service reliability well above the national average. Under his leadership, our association paid off its government loans from REA (Rural Electrification Administration) and refinanced the debt, saving members a

significant amount of money. And he also led us through the unimaginable disaster that was Hurricane Katrina. Without a doubt, he was one of the most respected leaders in our industry.”

Shows graduated from Mississippi State University in 1954 and served three years in the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division before coming to work for PRVEPA. He served in numerous civic and professional organizations, including as president of the Marion County Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Columbia, Columbia School Board, and Pearl River Basin Development District. He was a member of the board of directors for Asbury Foundation, South Mississippi Electric Power Association (now Cooperative Energy) and Electric Power Associations of Mississippi (now Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi), and also served on the boards of Trustmark Corporation and Trustmark Bank of Jackson, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), and the National Bank for Cooperatives (CoBank).

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Save without suffering this summer

By Debbie Stringer Now that the summertime temperatures have soared into the 90s, your energy use will rise as appliances struggle to do their job.

The problem is compounded when the nights are hot and humid too.

Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association cautions members that power bills will rise along with the temperatures, because of the increased use of electricity.

Here’s why: • Your air conditioner will run more hours to remove the heat and humidity infiltrating your home. On the hottest days it may run 24 hours.

• The refrigerator and freezer will work harder to maintain their temperature settings, especially units exposed to outdoor heat, like a freezer in a garage.

• A rooftop power ventilator will run hours longer than usual to remove excess heat from the attic.

• The water heater will consume more energy when household members bathe and wash clothes more often.

All these factors combined will force your home to consume more electricity.

And the more kilowatt-hours your appliances use, the higher your electric bill.

(Likewise, the more you drive, the more you spend on gasoline. It’s that simple.)

As a member-owned electric cooperative, Pearl River Valley Electric is

committed to helping you manage your energy use. Once you understand how the monthly electric bill reflects your daily habits in the home, you can take meaningful steps to reduce energy costs over the long term.

Here’s how: • Raise the temperature setting on the air conditioner. For every degree you turn the thermostat up during air conditioning eason, you’ll save up to 2 to 3 percent on your cooling costs.

PRVEPA recommends a summertime setting of 78 degrees or higher.

• If you have a central air conditioner, replace the filter monthly during the summer. A dirty air conditioner filter hampers air flow and makes the air conditioning system work harder—and use more electricity.

• If you use window air conditioners, make sure to seal the openings around the units’ window mounts. Make sure it sits level so that it drains correctly. If possible, mount it out of the direct sun.

• Consider replacing an old window unit with a model that meets Energy Star

standards for energy efficiency and quieter operation.

• When a ceiling fan is running, you can move the air conditioner thermostat three to four degrees higher without noticing a difference in comfort level. A fan cannot lower a room’s temperature but it will deliver a cooling breeze to the skin, and can increase comfort while you sleep.

Turn the fan off when the room is vacant to avoid wasting energy.

• Turn off a TV that no one is watching.

• Set the water heater to 120 degrees or below and the refrigerator no lower than 38 degrees.

• Use the bathroom’s exhaust fan to remove excess heat and humidity while bathing.

• Wash clothes in cold water. Most detergents clean just as well in cold water.

• Set the clothes dryer on the lowest heat setting and run it in the cooler hours of day or night.

• Run only full loads in the dishwasher, and set it to air dry.

• Cook with a slow cooker, microwave or

Applications for Community College Scholars program due August 10, 2018 Funded by members who are rounding up their monthly bills, these scholarships are intended to assist students who will attend a Mississippi community college as a freshman this fall.

Applications are available at PRV offices and online at www.PRVEPA.com.

Completed applications must be postmarked or emailed by August 10.

Scholarship recipients must be a PRVEPA member, spouse or child of a member participating in the Round Up program.

Recipients must be full time (12 hours or more per semester) freshmen students enrolled in academic or career-technical programs.

Scholarship funds will be credited to each student’s college account—no checks will be issued to individuals.

Scholarships should be awarded by the end of September. Students must be enrolled in good standing at the time funds are released to the colleges.

More information is available at our website, www.PRVEPA.com.

outdoor grill to avoid heating up the kitchen.

• Incandescent light bulbs emit heat— just what you don’t want in summer.

Replace them with LEDs, which won’t heat up the house, are more energy efficient and last far longer.

• Plug air leaks in the home, including cracks around window air conditioning units and exterior doors. Don’t let the air you’re paying to cool escape outside!

• Half of all the heat that enters the home in summer comes in through the windows. Install insulated curtains or blinds on windows that receive direct sunlight, and keep them closed.

• Manufactured-home dwellers should inspect air conditioning duct work beneath the home for leaks and bad connections.

• If your home needs a new roof, select materials with energy efficiency in mind.

Reflective roofs can reduce the temperature of the roof by as much as 30 percent, which means less heat will enter your home. Look for Energy Starcertified roof products.

• Adequate insulation in the attic will drastically reduce your home’s heating and cooling needs. In the summer, insulation helps prevent the heat buildup in the attic from entering the home.

Find more energy-efficiency tips and ways to save money at www.Energy.gov.

We have an app for that!

PRVEPA member scan now access their account information from their smart phones. You’ll have the same helpful services found on our website in the palm of your hand.

• Pay your bill • Track your daily use • Keep up with multiple accounts • Set up alerts and reminders • View your billing history • Update your contact info Apps for Apple and Android devices are now available. Visit your app store and search for “PRVEPA” to download your app today.

They’re free, convenient and easy to use!

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“Pioneers In America’s Rural Electrification”

Fagan Jackson

finds satisfaction in storms, teaching next generation

By Jennifer Johnson before finding his niche here. “I went to Pontotoc Electric Journeyman Lineman Fagan Itawamba Community College and then Ole Jackson is not kidding when he says storm trouble is Miss and got my degree in business in 1990. I his favorite part of the job. “I know it sounds crazy, started working at Tupelo Water and Light and but I enjoy searching to find what’s causing the probwas a journeyman lineman there, but I wound lem and getting it fixed so people don’t have to be in up trying some other things after I worked there the dark.” for five years.”

Jackson said he’s worked his share of storms, includJackson worked at Cooper Tire for a time and ing several in different states. “I helped in Florida with did stints in firefighting and law enforcement. the hurricane last year, and I’ve worked storms in Eventually, though, the thrill of line work pulled at Virginia. I was part of a crew that worked 13 days him again, and he became a lineman for Pontotoc straight after an ice storm in Kentucky. I’ve definitely Electric. It turned out to be a pivotal time to become been to parts of the country that can’t be seen from a part of the Pontotoc Electric team. “I came on board four-lane.” around the time of the 1994 ice storm. Those were He and his fellow linemen have been thanked by the some tough times. I was training during the ice storm, general public on a number of different occasions, but and I had done many things that were required as a one in particular stands out in his mind. “We were in journeyman at my previous utility job, but I did it all the mountains of Kentucky. The snow was literally heavy as it fell.

These were huge snowflakes. I’d never seen snow like that,” Jackson said.

“At the end of a very long day, we met a local dairy farmer. I’ll never forget his handshake—his hand was like a rock. He told us he milked 400 dairy cows by hand. He Journeyman Lineman Fagan Jackson stands in front of his service truck. said he was so glad so see us because he was still without power. I didn’t have the during the ice storm.” heart to tell him we had finished for the day. I told Nowadays, Jackson runs a service truck for Pontotoc (Pontotoc Electric Staking Technician) Ferrell Gates Electric repairing street lights, hooking up new services and the linemen from another co-op that I thought I for residential customers, and taking care of outage calls could climb one more. I climbed that pole and worked during the day. He works with an apprentice lineman, with Ferrell and the others to get his power restored which allows him to teach while performing the jobs before we quit for the night.” required. Jackson said he enjoys mentoring the Jackson has been working at Pontotoc Electric for younger linemen who are learning the trade. “They get 11 years, but his career went in a few other directions to learn skills, and I get to make sure we pass down

good, safe work habits to the next generation of linemen. That’s what this job is all about. Somebody passed their knowledge to me, and now I’m passing my knowledge to these guys.”

Jackson said he’s close to his colleagues at Pontotoc Electric. “There’s no doubt we are a family. Of course, we all have different personalities, but we all care about each other. Where I really saw that was when I’ve worked storms. You meet these linemen from other utilities and for a very brief moment it may be a little awkward, but then all of a sudden, everybody just meshes. The next thing you know, we’re talking to each other like we’ve been friends our whole lives.”

When he’s not running the service truck or working trouble calls for Pontotoc Electric, Jackson fills his down time with hunting, fishing, and working on old cars. He’s currently restoring a 1979 Camaro and a 1972 Chevrolet pickup. Recently, he’s been learning to weld. He has a small cabin on the TennesseeTombigbee Waterway, and when time allows, he enjoys an occasional getaway to relax and unwind with wife Leticia and daughters Heather and Harley.

Whatever he’s doing, Jackson said it’s important to him to improve things. “My goal has always been to leave things better than I found them.”

July 2018

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Chocolate Gravy

The best place for Fido this summer: indoors

Sandra Fair, Pontotoc Electric Cashier 1 cup sugar 6 tbsp. cocoa 4 cups milk 6 tbsp. margarine 1 tsp. vanilla extract Combine sugar and cocoa in a large saucepan. Add milk, margarine, and vanilla. Heat and stir until thickened. Serve over hot biscuits.

Peanut Butter Pie Mike Montgomery, Pontotoc Electric Retiree 4 oz. cream cheese, softened ¾ cup powdered sugar ¾ cup creamy peanut butter 8 oz. whipped topping 1 graham cracker crust chocolate syrup Beat cream cheese, sugar, and peanut butter with electric mixer until well mixed. Add whipped topping and beat until smooth. Pour mixture into graham cracker crust. Drizzle with chocolate syrup. Freeze 6 hours or overnight. Serve frozen. Serves 8.

Your dog loves riding in the car with you and playing in the grass on warm, sunny days. But when it gets really hot, keep Fido indoors where the air conditioning can keep your best friend cool.

Like people, pets can suffer from all kinds of heat-related problems, like heat stroke, dehydration and respiratory distress. Some days, the safest thing for them is a lazy day inside your home.

Here are five ways to keep Fluffy and Fido safe and cool this summer: 1. Put out extra bowls of water indoors and outdoors so your pets can drink as much as they need. Panting is your pets’ way of cooling down by evaporating fluids from the respiratory tract. But those fluids need replacing.

2. Water isn’t just for drinking in the summer: Letting your pets stand or play in it will help keep them cool on hot days.

Some dogs will enjoy a small plastic baby pool, but be sure to replace the water every few days to discourage mosquito breeding.

3. If you’re outdoors with your pet, stay in the shade under a big tree or an awning.

Too much sun can disorient your pet and even cause heatstroke. Short-haired pets can even get sunburned if they’re in the sun for too long.

4. If you’re leaving the house without your pets, leave them indoors and leave the air conditioning on. If you’re taking them with you, NEVER leave them unattended in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. It doesn’t take long for a dog to become overheated or dehydrated enough to get sick—or even die.

5. Exercise your pets early in the cooler hours of morning or late evening. Keep them on the lawn and away from asphalt; hot pavement can burn a pet’s paws.

Friday & Saturday, July 13 & 14, 2018 at the Town Square in Bruce.

Events include an arts and crafts show, car show, and live entertainment.

662-983-2222 For more information, contact the Bruce Chamber of Commerce at

Pontotoc Electric and the Tennessee Valley Authority recently made donations to the State 4-H Electric Program. Pictured during the State 4-H Club Congress event on May 31, are left to right: James Wooten, Extension Engineer, MSU Cooperative Extension Service; John Malone, General Manager, TVA Mississippi; Jon Mark Huff, State 4-H Council President; Josh Wooten, Senior Customer Service Manager, TVA Starkville District; and Chuck Howell, General Manager, Pontotoc Electric Power Association.

12 Today in Mississippi July 2018 Pay Bill Report Outages

Brian Hughey, General Manager & CEO Lorri Freeman, APR, Manager of Public Relations Amanda Parker, Public Relations Specialist For more information, call 601-947-4211, 228-497-1313 or visit our website at singingriver.com. SRE is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

CEO’s Message

Check Energy Use

Round Up Bill

View Outage Map

Contact Us

Are you prepared this hurricane season?

While the 2018 hurricane season officially began on June 1, the Gulf of Mexico saw its first named storm during the last week of May. Fortunately for our area, Tropical Storm Alberto shifted eastward and made landfall along Brian Hughey the Florida Panhandle, causing General Manager and CEO Singing River Electric only minimal damage.

According to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), this year’s hurricane season is expected to be near or above normal.

As we move toward the most active part of hurricane season, we encourage you to finalize your preparations for this year’s storm season. Those preparations likely include storing such things as water, non-perishable food, fuel, batteries, etc.

Some members also have an evacuation route picked out ahead

Manage your energy use this summer.

of time, depending on the magnitude of a potential storm.

Singing River Electric maintains a storm plan and has recently concluded an annual review of our Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan. Should a hurricane or tropical storm approach our area, our plan contains specific steps to be taken as a storm enters the Gulf of Mexico.

Employees are pre-assigned tasks such as preparing food, securing supplies/fuel, and servicing vehicles. Line crews, service personnel and supervisors are assigned areas of our system in an effort to efficiently begin work once the storm has passed.

Being a part of the network of electric cooperatives provides Singing River Electric access to cooperative line personnel from other states, who will assist us in restoring your electric service following a disaster. Singing River Electric is prepared and ready to respond and restore service to our members as quickly and safely as possible.

Did you know that heating and cooling costs make up 45-55 percent of your electricity bill? Set thermostats to 78 degrees in the summer. Use ceiling fans only when you are in the room.

Close shades and drapes during the day to help keep heat out.

Visit www.singingriver.com for more summer efficiency tips.

Servicing your AC

Josh Havard BPI certified professional joshhavard@singingriver.com

During these summer months, extreme heat causes air conditioners to work overtime. Since heating and cooling is the largest contributor to your electric bill, it is important to make sure the unit is operating at full efficiency. Several things can be done to accomplish this: Service your unit annually, or every couple of years. Cleaning the coils and checking the Freon level will assure the unit is operating efficiently. Low Freon levels, even one pound low, can cause your unit to operate about 30 percent

more or longer to do the same job and increases your electric bill.

Change your filter each month, or according to manufacturer’s directions.

A dirty filter can cause the unit to work harder and longer to move enough air through to cool your home.

Avoid covering your outdoor (condensing) unit. It needs open air flow to work properly and at peak efficiency.

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Hurricane Prep What to do Before the storm checklist Replenish or purchase hurricane preparedness

supplies (food, water, radio, batteries, etc.)

Review evacuation plan with household

and extended family Recharge cell phones and refill medications

Trim trees, secure home and outdoor furniture

Set refrigerator on coldest setting

and keep its doors shut prior to storm landfall Fill tubs and sinks with water for washing and

flushing prior to storm landfall

Learn how SRE prepares

Update y ou r contact i nformati with SRE on (via S m ar tH on lin e o r u b ap p , p h o n e)

by visiting singingriver.com/ storm-and-outage-center Like Singing River Electric

on Facebook and follow SRECooperative on Twitter to stay informed Download SRE’s SmartHub app

on your mobile device to report any power outages Stay tuned to local media for weather

information Hurricane Alberto Preparation Singing River Electric initiated its storm plan in response to the threat of Hurricane Alberto in May. Shown, engineer Payton Dudley meets with Lucedale crews on Friday, May 25, 2018, to discuss Hurricane Alberto, pre-storm preparations and assigned areas for the storm. Crews were

briefed the same day at the co-op’s Gautier and Sand Hill offices. And cooperative staff met to coordinate materials, equipment, fuel purchases and staffing assignments. In the end, the storm headed toward Florida, but it is always important to stay prepared.

Supporting Project Hero

Creating Jobs in South Mississippi

The Project Hero organization sponsors cycling events for veterans to raise awareness for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). On March 9, cyclists traveling with Project Hero stopped at the Gautier American Legion for lunch as they made their way from Tallahassee, Fla., to New Orleans, La., over a six-day period.

SRE bucket trucks helped display the American flag to greet the cyclists. The co-op also donated water for the event.

Cooperative Energy, Singing River Electric’s generation cooperative, hosted workshops in Hattiesburg and Gulfport for community leaders, city officials and supervisors from across the region in June. Attendees included Singing River Electric staff and officials from Jackson and George counties. Participants learned about working with their local economic development authorities to develop their communities, how job creators judge communities, and best practices.

12 Today in Mississippi July 2018

Time marches on The first half of 2018 has been a busy and productive year that has left me amazed at how time has marched by. In particular, the month of May marked a special milestone for me, as I observed my one-year anniversary as CEO at the cooperative.

It was a year characterized by several challenging projects that kept us all on our toes, but perhaps none was, and continues to be, more gratifying than the construction project of our new Jason S. Siegfried Taylorsville President/CEO campus. With each layer of brick and mortar, excitement at the thought of moving into the new facility is growing within the walls of our 1938 headquarters building, where we continue to patch and pray that the old structure will keep the rain off our heads a little while longer.

We are all more than ready to enjoy the “fresh” atmosphere that the campus will bring, but I cannot help but wonder at the nostalgia of this building that we have called home for 80 years.

If these old walls could talk, the stories would resonate about the perseverance of a determined, hard-nosed breed of people with a mission to bring a better life to some of the most rural areas of our state.

Throughout those years, we have been doing things right because we have listened to our members in order to Southern Pine Electric’s new headquarters building, above, is located on the main campus, below, in Taylorsville. cultivate strong relationships with them and the communities we serve. have reaped the benefits of being part strengthen our infrastructure and our Working hand-in-hand with our of this organization. mission to persevere in enhancing the members, Southern Pine has done more life of our members—all will be Throughout the years faces have than provide electricity; we have helped making the move with us. changed, technology has evolved and create jobs, promoted economic growth our co-op has taken on challenges that At the 2017 annual membership and invested in the people within the our forefathers would not be able to meeting, I promised members that I 11 counties of our service area. comprehend. Yet, the reason we are would continue to look for ways to As we prepare for the much-needed here—the reason there is a Southern connect in a personal way while move to the new buildings, we will not keeping our core values intact. A decade Pine—will never change. We will just shut the doors and leave the “old” from now, if the new walls could talk, I continue to serve our members by behind. The commitment to our am confident they will say we have kept Bringing the Power to make communities, our determination to their life better. our word and Southern Pine members

July 2018 Today in Mississippi

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Southern Pine bylaws outline annual meeting, election Article III: Meetings 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 the month of November of each year, at such place in one of the counties of Mississippi within which the Cooperative serves, 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 other-wise established for such meeting in this Section. Failure to hold the annual meeting at the designated time and place shall not work a forfeiture or dis-solution of the Cooperative.

It shall be the responsibility of the Board of Directors to make adequate plans and preparation for the annual meeting, and to encourage attendance by the membership at these meetings.

Article IV: Directors Section 4.03: Tenure and Qualifications (a) At each annual meeting of the members, directors shall be elected by ballot, by and from the membership of the Cooperative, one director to be elected from each of the counties of Copiah, Covington, Newton, Scott, Simpson, Forrest, Jasper, Jefferson Davis, Smith, Lawrence and Rankin Counties, Mississippi, each director to be elected for a term of three (3) years, in accordance with the following formula, to-wit: (1) At the annual meeting of November 1984, and every three (3) years thereafter, one director shall be elected from each of the counties of Copiah, Covington and Newton Counties, Mississippi, each of whom shall serve for a term of three (3) years from the date of election as provided by law.

(2) At the annual meeting of November 1985, and every three (3) years thereafter, one director shall be elected from each of the counties of Scott, Simpson, Forrest and Jasper Counties, Mississippi, each of whom shall serve for a term of three (3) years from date of election as provided by law.

(3) At the annual meeting of November,

1986, and every three (3) years thereafter, one director shall be elected from each of the counties of Jefferson Davis, Smith, Lawrence and Rankin Counties, Mississippi, each of whom shall serve for a term of three (3) years from the date of election as provided by law.

If the election of directors shall not be held at the annual meeting or if such annual meeting is not held, each director shall hold office until their successors shall have been elected and qualified. (b) At any meeting, the Credentials and Election Committee shall determine the manner in which votes are to be cast and counted.

At any meeting, ballots shall not be necessary in the event the number of persons nominated for directors does not exceed the number of directors to be elected, but in such case if there be no objections, the directors may be elected in any other proper manner. Drawing by lot shall resolve, where necessary, any tie votes. If an election of directors shall not be held on the day designated for the annual meeting, a special meeting of the members may be held for the purpose of electing directors within a reasonable time thereafter. (c) No person or non-natural person as described in subsection (e) of this section shall be eligible to become or remain a director or to hold any position of trust in the Cooperative who is not an active member in good standing of the Cooperative, has not been a bona fide resident of the county from which they are to be elected for six months immediately preceding the nomination to directorship, or who is in any way employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise. (d) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a director who has been finally convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude. (e) In order to be eligible to become or remain a director of the Cooperative, a person must be a member of the

Cooperative and receiving service therefrom, and not be a close relative as defined in Section 4.08 of an incumbent director, or the director being replaced.

However, the operating or chief executive officer of any member which is not a natural person, such as a corporation, church, etc., or its designee, shall, notwithstanding that they do not receive service from the Cooperative, be eligible to become a director, from the county in which such member is located, if they be so designated.

(1) Is in substantial permanent occupancy, direction or use of the premises served by the Cooperative, and (2) Is a permanent resident within the county where such member is served by the Cooperative; provided further, that no more than one (1) such person may serve on the Board of Directors at the same time. (f) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a director of, or to hold any other position of trust in the Cooperative, unless such person has the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract. (g) No employee of the Cooperative shall be eligible to become or remain a director of the Cooperative. (h) Upon establishment of the fact that a nominee for director lacks eligibility under this Section or as may be provided elsewhere in these bylaws, it shall be the duty of the chair presiding at the meeting at which such nominee would be otherwise voted upon to disqualify such nominee. Upon the establishment of the fact that any person being considered for, or already holding, a directorship or other position of trust in the Cooperative lacks eligibility under this Section, it shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to withhold such position from such person, or to cause them to be removed therefrom, as the case may be. (i) Nothing in this section contained shall, or shall be construed to, affect in any manner whatsoever, the validity of any action taken at any meeting of the

Board of Directors, unless such action is taken with respect to a matter which is affected by the provisions of this section and in which one or more of the directors have an intent averse to that of the Cooperative.

Section 4.04: Committee on Nominations, Credentials and Elections (a) Committee on Nominations. It shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to appoint, at its regular August meeting of each year, a committee on nominations consisting of not less than five (5) nor more than eleven (11) members who shall be selected so as to ensure equitable geographic representation. No existing Cooperative employee, agent, officer, director or unknown candidate for director, may serve on such committee.

The committee shall receive and consider nominees submitted by the members of the Cooperative. The submission should include the member’s name, address, account number and contact information and be mailed to the Committee on Nominations, P.O. Box 60, Taylorsville, MS 39168. Nominations must be received by August 9, 2018. The committee shall meet at a time and place set by the Board of Directors. The committee shall prepare and post at the principal office of the Cooperative within fifteen (15) days after the date of their appointment a list of nominations for directors. The Secretary shall mail with the notice of the membership meeting a statement of the number of directors to be elected and showing separately those candidates nominated by the Committee on Nominations and those candidates nominated by petitions, which have been received on, or prior to the second Thursday of September of the year of such meeting. Any fifty (50) members acting together may make nominations by petition and the Secretary shall post such nominations at the same place where the list of nominations by the committee is posted. Any petition or nomination shall be submitted on a form designated and provided by the Cooperative. Each member signing such petition shall place thereon the date of signing, address and account number of the member.

At the membership meeting, the Chairman shall call for additional nominations from the floor. No member may nominate more than one candidate.

12 Today in Mississippi

July 2018

P.O. Box 5 • 18671 Highway 61 • Lorman, MS 39096 601-437-3611 or toll-free 1-800-287-8564 • Fax: 601-437-8736

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

www.southwestelectric.coop

Southwest Electric

sw_electric_coop

SWElectricCoop

Giving our residential Members power to choose

Member Choice Billing

Regular Billing

Standard billing most familiar to our Members. Pay for use as metered on a monthly basis.

Alternate Payment Dates Choose to have payments due on the 15th or 27th of each month, allowing for flexibility with your budget and schedule.

Variable Monthly Payment

Calculates and averages the last 11 months of use plus the current month’s use, providing a levelized current bill. Makes monthly budgeting easier.

EZ-Pay

Only requires $100 to start service ($55 is a credit towards electricity use) and no deposit. Pay for use as you go. Available for new and existing Members.

Paperless Billing

No more paper bills in your mailbox.

Receive notification of your bill by text or email.

Payment Options SmartHub through the mobile app or online at southwestelectric.coop

Credit/Debit Card Draft enroll through SmartHub online or the mobile app for monthly auto pay or one-time payment

Bank Draft one-time eCheck payment through SmartHub or call us to enroll in auto monthly bank draft

Pay by Phone 24/7 1-877-607-6973 – with credit/debit cards or by eCheck

Pay Centers • Lorman – Southwest Electric office • Port Gibson – RiverHills Bank and State Bank & Trust

MoneyGram

NOTICE: Whitaker Insurance A no longer gency is ac our paym cepting ents utility bil for ls.

• available at Walmart and CVS stores • $1.50 fee • Receive code 16381

U.S. Mail

For more information about SmartHub, please contact Les Southerland at 800-287-8564 or lsoutherland@swepa.coop.

Mail your bill stub and check or money order to P.O. Box 5, Lorman, MS 39096.

July 2018 Today in Mississippi

13

Southwest Mississippi Electric Power Association

Annual Meeting Thursday, August 9, at 10:00 a.m.

Copiah-Lincoln Community College 11 Co-Lin Circle, Natchez Tom Reed Academic Building, Room 300 Look for your annual meeting announcement and proxy in the mail.

Proxies must be received by 4:30 p.m. on August 3, 2018.

2018 Annual Meeting room, Tom Reed Academic Building, Room 300

Southwest Electric Employee Recipe Spotlight Broccoli Salad by Lynda O’Quinn

Lala’s Banana Pudding by Lynda Purser

2 large bundles broccoli, cut into bite-size pieces 1 cup raisins 1 medium red onion, chopped 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

1 large box instant vanilla pudding mix Milk for pudding 1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 (8-oz.) carton Cool Whip 2 bags vanilla wafers 7 ripe bananas, sliced

Mix broccoli, raisins, onion and bacon in a large bowl. Mix mayonnaise, sugar and vinegar in a smaller bowl for the dressing. Pour dressing on salad, mix and serve.

2 cups mayonnaise ½ cup sugar 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Mix instant pudding as directed on the package, stirring until thick. Add condensed milk and Cool Whip, mixing well. Make the first layer of vanilla wafers and bananas in a large serving bowl, and top with some of the pudding mixture.

Continue with layers and pudding until bowl is full. Top with remaining pudding mixture and several vanilla wafers for decoration.

12 I Today in Mississippi I July 2018

For after-hours outages, call

866-897-7250

Find NEW online services at TwinCoEPA.com

THE PERENNIAL

“I can sell everything I’ve got right here and don’t even have to leave the farm.”

– Charles Ware Above: Snap beans flourish in Charles Ware’s garden.

Right: His father’s vintage red tractor, background, still works hard for Ware.

Facing page, top: The largest of Ware’s cabbages weighs 7 pounds, he says.

Bottom: The garden encompasses 10 acres, but not all rows are planted. Ware likes to leave space for picking and spraying, and room for running plants to spread out in search of moisture.

r e n e rd a G

By Debbie Stringer For a retiree, Charles Ware stays awfully busy, especially this time of year.

Ware retired in April from his job running the school bus shop for Washington County schools.

Now he gets to devote all his time and energy to his life-long passion—vegetable gardening.

Ware, 68, a member of Twin County Electric Power Association, grows vegetables on 10 acres at his home in Washington County.

This year he has row upon row of squash, okra, peas, snap beans, cucumbers, butterbeans, onions, beets and cabbage. He sells the fresh produce to customers who visit the farm. “I can sell everything I’ve got right here and don’t even have to leave the farm,” Ware said. His daughter, Kim Davis, preserves some of the harvest.

This year’s spring was too chilly and wet for planting Irish potatoes and broccoli, and the weather slightly delayed his early-summer crops.

But this farmer takes it

all in stride. Decades of gardening experience have taught him how to cope with most any challenge nature throws his way.

He advises beginning gardeners to start small. “You just have to go into it gradually and learn as you work with it. It don’t come overnight. It’s a lot about how you work the soil and get it ready,” Ware said.

He became fascinated with gardening as a youngster helping his father grow watermelons and vegetables at their farm in

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Twin County annual meeting set for Sept. 18 Darlove. There’s not been a summer since that he hasn’t tended a garden.

“If I wasn’t working in my daddy’s garden, I was working in my garden,” Ware said.

Although he does most of the work himself, Ware relies on two hired men to help pick.

He owns five vintage farm tractors, each one fitted with a different implement to eliminate the chore of frequent change-outs.

“It’s just all old stuff but it works,” Ware said.

The early-1960s Massey Ferguson tractor he uses was his father’s, the same tractor Ware drove as a boy. Now with a fresh coat of red paint and a new clutch, it works as hard as ever.

After a long day working in the bus shop, Ware looked forward to cranking up a tractor and heading into the garden. “You get on that tractor and you can get away from the job and the telephone. Sometimes I leave my phone in the truck ‘cause I don’t want to hear it ring.”

When friends asked how he planned to occupy himself in retirement, “I said, come with me and I’ll show you what I’m going to do. I need a little help anyway.”

Ware’s gardening winds down in the fall, when his focus shifts to another favorite—and productive—pastime: “It’s hunting season then and I’m getting ready to go hunting.”

Charles Ware welcomes customers to his farm from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Contact him at 662-378-7737.

Twin County Electric Power Association will hold its annual meeting of members on Tuesday, September 18, 2018, beginning at 2 p.m. at its home office in Hollandale, Mississippi. Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m.

The primary purposes of the annual meeting of members are to elect three (3) directors, to hear and receive reports of Twin County’s officers, directors and committees, to ratify a proposed Amendment to Twin County’s Certificate of Incorporation, and to transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

In accordance with Twin County’s By-Laws, a quorum of its members must be present in person or by proxy in order to conduct business at the meeting.

The following is a summary of Section 4.04 of Twin County’s By-Laws relating to the process for nominations for directors: A. Any fifteen (15) members of Twin County may nominate a member by petition in writing filed with Twin County’s Secretary not less than forty-five (45) calendar days prior to its annual meeting. Such petition must be submitted on a form designated by Twin County, and each member signing such petition must include the following: signature, name, address, account number and service location.

B. Twin County’s By-Laws require that Twin County’s Board of Directors appoint a Committee on Nominations which shall nominate one (1) candidate for each director to be elected at the annual meeting. The Committee on Nominations’ nominees shall be posted at Twin County’s office in Hollandale, Mississippi, as soon as practicable after the meeting of the Committee on Nominations.

Any member of Twin County Electric Power Association may obtain a complete copy of its By-Laws by contacting Twin County’s office in Belzoni, Greenville, Hollandale or Rolling Fork.

Twin County hopes that you will mark your calendar for September 18, 2018, and make plans to attend its annual meeting.

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Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association

Featuring Manager of Member Services: Dennis McFee For Today in Mississippi information, call 662-746-4251, or email dmcfee@yazoovalley.com

Ronnie Eldridge

#

as a part of our mini-series

LOCAL BLUES ENTHUSIAST

“Traveling the Blues Trail”

recalls a lifetime

dedicated to the

blues

By Elissa Fulton The blues’ origins are still shrouded in mystery, but is generally accepted as an old African tradition of storytelling, a custom deep-rooted in those who practice it today. In the early 20th century, blues was popular in the black and the white communities of the South, and the musicians traveled from town to town looking for a gig and a way to make a profit playing their music.

About the time that rock-and-roll and doo-wop became popular in the late 1940s and early 1950s, the blues was beginning to lose favor with the young white crowd, but it was quickly gaining favor across the pond in England. The blues was influencing young rockers like the Rolling Stones and the Beatles. Suddenly, the musicians that had been playing in towns all through the Mississippi Delta were touring England and becoming legends in their own right.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, this genre of music was making a big impression on a young Ronnie Eldridge, who grew up in a coastal town of North Carolina. He and his friends were finding rare blues records on discount racks in music stores and trading them within their small circle of friends. Without the modern conveniences of the internet and music databases, the group found it difficult to learn much about the enigmatic music. But it became quickly clear to Eldridge that he himself had ties to this world of peculiar guitar strumming and picking. It would soon change the path of his life.

“It was really hard to find these records, so if you found a blues record, you shared it with your friends,” said Eldridge. “We were over at my friend’s place and he told me to check out a record and told me I would love it. It was a record of various artists. This has only happened to me twice in my life—when I heard my first Skip James record and when I heard my first [Jimi] Hendrix record. It was like a mind-altering, life-changing experience. It was like the needle hits the record and you

go into this zone, and before you know it it’s over and you’re like, what was that? The song was Cypress Grove Blues.”

Eldridge turned the record over and started reading about Skip James and realized James was from a little town in Mississippi called Bentonia, and that he was listening to the Bentonia Blues. It turns out he knew exactly where Bentonia was.

“I got real excited and I told my friend, ‘I know exactly where that is. We go right through there going to my

“My grandmother was in a family band and they played traditional music, but my grandfather loved the blues so much he made her learn to play it. My family were all music lovers and they all danced. I didn’t dance; that’s why I learned to be a musician.”

- Ronnie Eldridge

grandparents’ house in Midway, Miss.’ I just became obsessed with trying to find out something about Skip James. In December of 1974, I was 24 years old and I had an old hippie van. So one day I went around to all my buddies and told them I was leaving and heading to Mississippi to hear some of the old bluesmen. The more we read about them, the more we found out they were still alive.”

The first two artists he heard in the flesh were Sam Chapman from the Chapman family and Son Thomas.

“They were playing on a balcony at Millsaps College and we were all on the grass below,” he said. “It was awesome. Sam Chapman is one of the greatest bluesmen of all time.”

Shortly after watching Chapman and Thomas perform, Eldridge had his first accidental experience with a juke house in Midway. Not knowing exactly what a juke house was, he pulled over at the store in Midway to get a soda from a machine when he heard blues chords coming from somewhere close by. The music would start and stop again, so he knew there was someone somewhere playing a guitar.

“I looked over and saw an old tenant house behind the old gin, like the kind with the two doors on the front and a gallery porch. So, I went over and pulled my van up in the yard, and an old, tall man bounces down the stairs and asked me how I was doing. I said, ‘You don’t mind if I sit here and listen to the music do you?’

That’s when he said, ‘Well, come on in.’”

The old man sat and talked to him while they listened to the music, and that’s when Eldridge discovered the old man knew his grandfather. It turned out his grandfather loved the blues just as much as Eldridge.

“My grandmother was in a family band and they played traditional music, but my grandfather loved the blues so much he made her learn to play it. My family were all music lovers and they all danced. I didn’t dance; that’s why I learned to be a musician,” Eldridge said.

“That’s the first time I remember hearing anything like that. I was about 8 years old sitting on the front porch when she started playing. It certainly influenced me.”

When Eldridge started immersing himself into the Delta Blues scene, he met friends that opened up many unique opportunities for him.

“There are things that have happened that I never, ever dreamed would have happened when I told my buddies I was leaving North Carolina,” he said.

As a carpenter he had the opportunity to work on the

July 2018

set of Martin Scorcese’s world-wide documentary series on the blues.

He partnered with Norwegians to offer an American blues tour in the South, and has met and played with some of the greatest blues musicians of all time. Eldridge is often consulted on many topics concerning the blues, including where to place historical markers so that they are historically representative of the artist or location. He has worked with many blues festivals in sound and production and even partnered with another blues lover to start the dedication markers on Farish Street in Jackson. Because of his love and admiration for the music and the artists that created it, he has played a large role in Mississippi’s blues history.

“Well, I don’t think of it like that. I just always wanted to be a part of it. I just wanted to witness it to start with,” said Eldridge.

“To be honest, I thought I would have been back in North Carolina after a year. But that was in 1974 and now all my buddies come here.”

Eldridge has always been drawn to the guitar, and it’s no surprise that he plays and writes his own music. He’s recorded a few songs and even played in Nashville at the request of a friend who is a songwriter in the Music City.

“The blues was just, like, magnetic to me or something.

It was something that I could hear and say to myself, I could do that. It was earthy, unlike all the rock-and-roll with all the huge bands and electric instruments. I knew I could never be at that level, but when I saw or heard some old guy just doing simple stuff on the guitar and a deep projection in his voice, it was just something that would make my hair stand up on my neck,” he said.

Eldridge set out on a journey to the South way before the Mississippi, along with Tennessee, started marketing the Blues Trail. He has seen the music he loves go through many transitions, but most important, he was able to spend time with some of America’s greatest blues musicians.

“It’s Americana and it’s not going anywhere,” Eldridge said.

“We are going to lose all of these old guys, but we still have these new guys that are being influenced. And then they’ll have guys that they influence and it’s probably going to change. But it’s always going to be sought after—that originality of one man with a guitar that’s singing to some people or trying to

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“I think that’s the beautiful thing about the blues. You can make a record and you can take your guitar and walk out on the street and play that record exactly like you played it—and no different. I think that’s what people see in it, just that real earthy, simplistic thing that just sort of hangs with you.”

get attention on the streets. I think that’s the beautiful thing about the blues. You can make a record and you can take your guitar and walk out on the street and play that record exactly like you played it—and no different.

I think that’s what people see in it, just that real earthy, simplistic thing that just sort of hangs with you.”

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AMI

makes the member smart, not the meter

By Elissa Fulton installed,” Peeples said. “Out of all the site visits we have done, rarely do Electricity meters have been a source of contention and skepticism the meters fail against the member.” since electricity was first introduced into homes around the turn of the According to Peeples, most of the extreme electricity use comes from 20th century. After hearing these tales from generations passed, it’s no HVAC systems, or an appliance that is failing in the home. wonder many of us still feel that way today. If our electricity bills “On a 1,500-square-foot home, an HVAC system will run for about increase, it must be because of the meter, right? Advanced Meter 40 to 50 cents an hour. However, when it gets over 90 degrees or above, Infrastructure (AMI) has equally received its fair share of ridicule since it has to run more hours per day to cool the home, and that increases first being introduced in the 1980s. your utility use.” Peeples said. “So when no one touches their thermostat, AMI meters have largely been misunderstood and perhaps not properly and no one does anything different, they are living the same way, but the defended, but in fact, all they do is communicate readings. Their daily temperature drastically increases; that piece of equipment that was creatreadings and technology offer a great deal of convenience and quality for ing your bill last month for 50 cents an hour is the same piece of equipthe members of ment that is now having to run at three times, Yazoo Valley depending on the size of the home. It’s not the Electric Power members’ fault, it’s not our fault. There’s a middle 1 Association. In ground that’s never been explained before. So when addition to the the member gets that bill during a winter or summer quality these meters month, it’s easy to assume that our rates have offer, they also offer changed, but nothing has changed except that device great reliability. they rely on to heat or cool their home is using a lot The decision to more electricity when it’s 90 degrees outside or install these AMI when it drops below freezing.” meters in 2008 was Mississippi typically has extreme summers with made to offer that temperatures soaring into the upper 90s and often great quality, reliatipping into the 100s. This year we are already bility and the conbeginning to see those dangerous temperatures. venience to our When the temperatures rise and the home begins to members. use its HVAC system more, it can make the bills www.yazoovalley.com Pat Peeples, double and sometimes triple. The good news is that AMI supervisor for Yazoo Valley Electric has technology available that Yazoo Valley, has a long history with meters and is very familiar with allows members to view their daily use and to monitor where their energy how they operate. The Yazoo City native was first introduced to the is being used, or to uncover the things that may be failing in the home. cooperative after he retired from Public Service Commission, Yazoo With this information, a family can determine where they can make sacCity’s public utility municipality. Peeples was hired specifically to oversee rifices during the extreme weather days. the installation of the AMI meters and to manage the technology that Peeples works closely with the Information and Technology accompany them.

Department with the technology available for energy monitoring. The “When I go out into the field I try to explain to our members that information is on Yazoo Valley Electric’s website, www.yazoovalley.com these meters are tested before installation and 2 3 they have to be within .03 percent of accuracy or they can’t be

View My Usage.

Choose account.

(see image No. 1 at top left), and there is an app available in the Apple Store or Android Market by searching for “Yazoo Valley.”

“When a member visits our website from a web browser, they will see a member login. A new user can sign up for this service by

5

clicking on New User,” Peeples said click on My Usage (image No. 3.). account they can click on the accou services such as Account Ledger, Bil Usage History.” (See image No. 2.)

Reading the graphs and alerts “When a member views the usag charts of each day in the month, an lows. If you hover over the days, it w day and the actual kilowatt-hour us iest way for a member to figure thei hour costs approximately 12 cents. that the high for the day on Wedne low was 45 degrees. The electricity kilowatt-hours. On that day they us ty on a day that was 54 degrees.”

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6

4 April 4, 2018 A month later on May 4, the temperature rose to 70 degrees during the day and 63 degrees at night (see image No. 5), and the electricity use went up to 25 kilowatt-hours. That’s approximately $3 on that day for the electricity use, approximately four times the use on May 4.

“And then on June 2, the temperature is up to a high of 94 degrees and a low of 74 degrees (see image No. 6) with a 77 kilowatt-hour use; that’s increased that bill to $9.24,” Peeples said.

“So as you can see, the days fluctuate the most by temperature. By hovering over each of these days on the chart, you can see the use for each day and determine where you need to make sacrifices on the extreme weather days. These amounts will continue to rise with the extreme temperatures approaching and should level back off in the fall.”

Energy efficiency appliances also make a difference. When building a home, most people are more concerned with the cosmetic elements of a

May 4, 2018

d. “Once they are logged in, they will If the member has more than one unt they want to view, and it will offer lling History, Payment History and )

ge graphs, they will see interactive bar nd you can easily see the highs and will show the highs and lows for each se for that day,” Peeples said. “The easir use is to know that each kilowattSo in this graph (image No. 4), we see esday, April 4, was 54 degrees and the use for this member on that day was 6 sed roughly 72 cents worth of electrici-

June 2, 2018 home. But choosing energy efficient appliances, installing high quality insulation or windows and other energy efficiency upgrades can make a huge difference in the electric bill and save money over time.

Another handy feature Yazoo Valley Electric offers its members in the Member Services Portal is the Alerts section.

“Once you grasp how the graphs work and on average how much electricity you are using, you can start customizing for alerts that will notify you when your electricity use goes above your stated average,” Peeples said. “If the first day of summer hits, and you haven’t had your HVAC serviced, your alerts will notify you that your electricity use has increased, and you’ll know you might need to have that unit serviced.”

The alerts can be customized by kilowatt-hour or by dollar amount, and will arrive by text every day if you choose. (See image No. 7.) There are also low-use alerts and payment confirmations.

“There’re so many different ways to look at these features,” Peeples said. “And there’re so many ways for these alerts and this technology to help our members plan their electricity budget.”

7 In the coming weeks when Mississippi will see its warmest weather, Yazoo Valley Electric encourages our members to take advantage of this technology and all of its uses that are made possible because of AMI meters. If you have questions, dedicated employees at Yazoo Valley Electric are here to help you.

My Alerts

12d

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Today in Mississippi I July 2018

Keep kids safe all summer

The best place for Fido this summer: indoors Your dog loves riding in the car with you and playing in the grass on warm, sunny days. But when it gets really hot, keep Fido indoors where the air conditioning can keep your best friend cool.

Like people, pets can suffer from all kinds of heatrelated problems, like heat stroke, dehydration and respiratory distress. Some days, the safest thing for them is a lazy day inside your home.

Here are five ways to keep Fluffy and Fido safe and cool this summer: 1. Put out extra bowls of water indoors and outdoors so your pets can drink as much as they need. Panting is your pets’ way of cooling down by evaporating fluids from the respiratory tract. But those fluids need replacing.

2. Water isn’t just for drinking in the summer: Letting your pets stand or play in it will help keep them cool

on hot days. Some dogs will enjoy a small plastic baby pool, but be sure to replace the water every few days to discourage mosquito breeding.

3. If you’re outdoors with your pet, stay in the shade under a big tree or an awning. Too much sun can disorient your pet and even cause heatstroke. Short-haired pets can even get sunburned if they’re in the sun for too long.

4. If you’re leaving the house without your pets, leave them indoors and leave the air conditioning on. If you’re taking them with you, NEVER leave them unattended in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. It doesn’t take long for a dog to become overheated or dehydrated enough to get sick—or even die.

5. Exercise your pets early in the cooler hours of morning or late evening. Keep them on the lawn and away from asphalt; hot pavement can burn a pet’s paws.

You might not be able to keep your eyes on your children every minute this summer while they’re roaming around the neighborhood having fun. So teach them how to keep themselves safe, especially around electricity.

• The most important lesson about outdoor electrical safety is: Never touch a power line. A downed line might seem like its “dead,” but chances are good that it’s still energized. Touching it with a hand, a toy or a stick could electrocute someone.

• If a kite, balloon or another toy gets caught in an overhead power line, do not try to dislodge it by throwing shoes or other items at it. Call your electric cooperative if you must retrieve the toy.

• Stay far away from overhead power lines while flying kites or using large toys so they don’t come into contact with energized lines.

• Do not climb utility poles or trees that are close to power lines.

• Don’t post signs, balloons, ribbons or anything else on utility poles or electrical equipment.

• Stay out of electrical substations—even to rescue a pet.

Those substations house high-voltage equipment that can electrocute someone.

• Don’t touch electrical toys that are standing in a puddle or floating in a pool.

Tip of the

Keep cool in the kitchen Watermelon-Cucumber Salad 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced 4 cups diced and seeded watermelon 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and sliced 1/2 cup mint, thinly sliced 1/4 cup olive oil Juice of 1/2 lemon Salt to taste Feta cheese Soak onion slices in cold water. Pat dry the watermelon and cucumber, and drain the onion; toss together in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice and salt, and toss. Top with feta cheese. Makes 4 servings.

Month

Here’s a cool tip for your fridge!

Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in your refrigerator.

Uncovered foods release moisture, causing the compressor to work harder.

Source: energy.gov

July 2018

Stay cooler while saving energy Your use of indoor energy can soar with the rising temperatures. Here are five ways to take control: • Cover the windows. Half of all of the heat that enters your home during the summer comes in through the windows.

Invest in a thick shade or window film to block out the summer sun. Save up to 15 percent on your cooling bill by shading west-facing windows, which absorb the most afternoon sun. For the hottest parts of your house, consider installing an awning or planting trees in front of the window to shade the house.

• Change A/C filters. A filter for your air conditioning system costs only dollars (about $5 for a high-quality, pleated model), but can save you much more if you change it every month during the summer. Dirty air conditioning filters prevent air flow and make the air conditioning system work harder. That means a higher bill.

• Turn the thermostat up. For every degree you turn your thermostat up during air conditioning season, you’ll save up to 2 percent on your cooling costs. Try setting your thermostat at 78 degrees, and turn on a ceiling fan to help circulate the air.

• Use your ceiling fans.

Fans don't cool the air, but they make the air feel cooler by moving it around the room and against your skin, which creates a sort of “wind chill” effect.

When the fan is running, you can move your thermostat three to four degrees higher without noticing a difference in your comfort level.

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

Average Annual Price Increase 2012-2017 Percent

4.0

3.5%

3.5

3.3%

3.0

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Today in Mississippi

Your pool and electricity:

potential trouble Any conversation about swimming pool safety will revolve around drowning. But it should also address electrocution.

Although far less common than drowning, electrocution in or near a swimming pool takes the lives of a small handful of people every year. One was a 7-year-old boy who was electrocuted by a faulty pool light.

Here are a few tips for preventing electrical accidents while you’re enjoying your pool: • Keep TVs, radios and extension cords far away from the water.

• Have your pool equipment inspected and maintained every season. Faulty, malfunctioning or improperly installed equipment—like pool lights—can be hazardous.

• Have the pool inspected when it is first installed, or before you buy a new house that comes with an already-installed pool.

• Don’t do your own electrical work on your pool lights or other electrical components.

Call a licensed electrician.

• Keep electrical devices and cords at least 5 feet away from the edge of the pool.

• Supervise children and party guests who are using the pool.

• Look for signs of trouble, like flickering lights or equipment that performs erratically.

If a swimmer is twitching or unresponsive, it’s possible the water is electrified.

Make a plan in case someone gets an electrical shock at the pool. You’re less likely to panic if you know exactly what to do: Turn off the power, clear the pool area without touching anything metal and call an ambulance.

Fire it up Give your A/C system a break by moving the heat and humidity of cooking to the outdoor grill.

3.0%

2.5 2.0

1.6%

Stay Hydrated

1.5 1.0 0.5 0

Rent

Cable/ Satellite TV

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

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Education

Electricity

Thirsty or not, drink water often when you’re active outdoors. Dehydration can be deadly!

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