Today in Mississippi August 2025 Local Pages by American MainStreet Publications

PASTA AMORE

KATRINA: 20 YEARS AFTER

COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREVIEW

A group of 84 high school juniors from across the state traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

The program instills leadership skills in the students, informs them about the electric cooperative form of business, and teaches them about the democratic form of government at both the state and federal levels.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

While in Washington, D.C., the students and adult chaperones visited historic sites, monuments, museums, and had an opportunity to learn about the impact electric cooperatives have on their communities.

Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s 39th Youth Tour in the books agencies roll out streamlined permitting rules after push by co-ops

After years of advocacy by NRECA and electric co-ops, federal agencies are releasing new National Environmental Policy Act procedures that will simplify permitting of cooperatives’ energy and broadband projects.

The Cooperatives Youth Leaders program is fully funded — including the trip to D.C. — by the local electric co-ops as a commitment to molding future leaders for Mississippi, so they can impact the state and local communities.

The Trump administration’s new procedures, which reﬂect recent NEPA reforms from Congress and court rulings on the law, will beneﬁt a wide range of co-op projects. Reviews under NEPA frequently take years to complete and are required when a project needs a government permit or receives federal grants or loans.

“The announcements deliver what we’ve been requesting for years— simpliﬁed, streamlined agency procedures that will allow us to more quickly get projects reviewed and approved,” NRECA CEO Jim Matheson said. “This change will beneﬁt all 900 electric cooperatives and will help streamline many co-op projects from Rural Utilities Service loan applications, building new generation, expanding new distribution infrastructure and more.”

On July 1, updated NEPA procedures were released by the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, the Interior, Energy, Transportation and Defense, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The reforms will help expedite infrastructure development and cut project costs by:

• Setting deadlines and page limits on NEPA environmental reviews, as required by the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 (two years and 150 pages for environmental impact statements; one year and 75 pages for environmental assessments).

For more information about the program, visit ecm.coop/ cooperative-di erence/cooperative-youth-leaders-program/.

• Clarifying that NEPA does not apply to every federal action.

• Allowing agencies to more easily create and adopt “categorical exclusions” for activities that do not have signiﬁcant environmental impacts.

The new actions came after President Donald Trump directed the White House Council on Environmental Quality in January to provide guidance to agencies on simplifying and expediting the NEPA permitting process.

The new procedures also follow a recent Supreme Court decision clarifying that agencies generally must only consider the environmental e ects of the project they are reviewing rather than study indirect impacts beyond their authority. NRECA had ﬁled a brief in the case urging better guardrails around the law’s application.

“For years NRECA has advocated for more e cient and predictable NEPA reviews and permitting processes that are essential for modernizing our nation’s infrastructure,” NRECA Regulatory A airs Director Viktoria Seale said. “This overhaul implements bipartisan amendments to NEPA in 2023 that will focus the scope of environmental reviews and expedite them.”

Co-ops have testiﬁed before Congress on the need for permitting reforms to help them meet growing demand for reliable, a ordable power and high-speed internet service. Many of their recommended reforms were included in the new agency procedures, including the time limits for NEPA reviews. – NRECA

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

ELECTRICITY EQUALS VALUE

Even though I work in the energy industry, I sometimes don’t think much about the electricity I use. I expect the lights to turn on when I ﬂip the switch and the co eemaker to work each morning. Because electricity is so abundant, we don’t think much about it. Recently, as we’ve experienced extreme heat temperatures in our service area, we think about it a little more.

Given how electricity powers our modern lifestyle every day, it’s a great value, especially when compared to other common services and expenses. For example, think back to the cost of a gallon of gasoline 25 years ago. Consider the cost of groceries or a cup of your favorite specialty co ee from a few years back. In comparison, the cost of electricity has remained largely ﬂat, unlike most other consumer goods.

Like many of you, I have a cell phone to stay connected, and I stream multiple platforms, so I can enjoy more viewing options. Many of us consider these necessities for modern day life. We can see what we’re getting for our money, and we pay the price for those services. In contrast, when we use electricity, we don’t necessarily “see” all that we’re getting for our money.

But considering what electricity does for us, it’s a tremendous value for our quality of life as well as our budgets. The bottom line: electricity brings everyday value.

4-County provides the reliable service you expect and deserve as valued members of the co-op. And as your trusted energy advisor, we want to help you save you energy and money.

We recognize that the past few months have been challenging for many of our members, and we’re here to help. If you have questions about your account or are looking for ways to save energy at home, please give us a call. 4-County is your electric co-op, and our sole purpose is to serve you and the needs of our community. That’s everyday value.

by Brian Clark

CEO/General Manager

New employee joins 4-County team

Triston Stevens has joined the 4-County team as an Apprentice Lineman 1 on Tim Adkins’ Corporate Center crew. Prior to 4-County, Triston worked nearly ﬁve years as a Lineman for contractor Sumter Utilities. He is a graduate of Northwest Line College. Triston and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Pickensville, Alabama.

Welcome to the 4-County team, Triston!

Triston Stevens

4-COUNTY DELEGATES YOUTH TOUR ENJOY

39th

Youth leadership delegates from 4-County Electric Power Association recently joined a group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi as they traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

Armando Dunand of New Hope High School, Carey Beth Honnoll of Starkville High School, Hayes Carver of Starkville Christian School, and Bes Sumrall of Caledonia High School participated in the prestigious June trip. And Starkville Academy graduate Maggie Martin, last year’s national winner, spoke to about 2,000 young leaders from around the country attending the event.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s Cooperative Youth Leaders program.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative. During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi. The young leaders attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

For more information on the NRECA Youth Tour program, call 4-County’s Brad Barr at 662-386-7224.

From left: A trio of Mississippi leaders. 2023 Youth Leadership Council (YLC) representative Bella Lane; 2024 YLC representative — and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) YLC national spokesperson — Maggie Martin; and 2025 YLC representative Crosby Parker chat at this year’s NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.

U.S. CAPITOL BUILDING

This program has shown me how to be a better citizen, respect those who fought for my freedom, and it showed me how to be a great leader. - Hayes Carver

HAYES CARVER

STARKVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

ARMANDO DUNAND

NEW HOPE HIGH SCHOOL

CAREY BETH HONNOLL

STARKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

BES SUMRALL

CALEDONIA HIGH SCHOOL

Evans taking inventory of blessings EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

keeps a written and visual tally of the hundreds of power and ﬁber items on the co-op storage shelves. “We have to make sure we have enough parts in stock to ensure the 4-County and FASTnet crews have what they need,” he explained.

Michael says he challenges himself to learn as much as possible about each piece of equipment in the warehouse. “I try to understand what each part is and what it does. That helps me in the overall process.,” he said.

4-County/FASTnet uses cutting edge parts and equipment, he stressed, looking at the rows and rows of essential items. “If we need something to help keep the lights on or the ﬁber strong, 4-County will get it,” Michael said.

The Aberdeen native began his 4-County career in April 2024, following an 18-year career as manager of an auto parts store.

Community College.

Growing up, Michael spent his summers along Coontail Road hunting, ﬁshing, tinkering with cars, and working in the family logging business. Today, he and his wife, Ashton, live on 100 acres in Monroe County with their son Jace, 10. Free time there is often spent at the pond, shop, sawmill or taking care of the dogs, cats, and chickens. “If my wife had it her way,” he joked, “she’d have a farm.”

Each day, Michael works on developing new relationships and helping 4/County/FASTnet team members any way he can. “I enjoy interacting with people every day.”

What makes 4-County/FASTnet di erent? “The people,” Michael answered. “I feel I’m appreciated here. The atmosphere is good.”

CENTRAL ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION

CARTHAGE: 601-267-5671 | PHILADELPHIA: 601-656-2601 | RANKIN: 601-829-1201 | SEBASTOPOL: 601-625-7422 A tradition of

Our Cooperative Youth Leaders program

o ers the tools and knowledge that will enable you to sharpen your leadership skills in your classroom, community, church, and family. Since 1986, students in Mississippi have competed for the opportunity to participate in this unique leadership program. This program is an educational and fun experience that makes a lasting impact on young people.

Our program is for high school juniors interested in enhancing their leadership skills. If interested, ﬁll out the application on page 18.

Once you are selected as a Central Electric representative, you will attend:

Cooperative Leaders Workshop

The three-day workshop features a true cooperative learning atmosphere. More than 80 students from across the state will experience cooperative team-building exercises, a breakfast with their legislators, a visit to the Capitol, a town hall meeting, and motivational speakers. We will also have time for games and interaction between the students.

You will have the opportunity to earn a $500 or $1,000 scholarship.

It’s an honor to be selected

The group of young Mississippians participating in the program represent electric cooperatives across the state. Students are selected through various forms of competition conducted by the local cooperatives.

Annually, more than 1,000 young people are involved in the program selection process statewide.

It’s on us

Youth Tour of Washington, D.C.

Each year, Mississippi’s student delegation joins more than 1,800 high school juniors from 44 states across the nation at the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., where they learn about cooperatives and rural electriﬁcation from a national perspective.

The youth tour is a wonderful sightseeing experience that also o ers an opportunity for making new friends.

The youth tour is organized by the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi (ECM) and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

Students’ expenses for both events are funded entirely by Central Electric. There are no hidden costs; Central Electric pays for all travel, lodging, meals, educational materials, and admission fees. Our support of the program demonstrates a commitment to our young people and a desire to provide an e ective, high-quality leadership program to help prepare them for life’s challenges.

How to get involved

Central Electric’s Cooperative Youth Leaders program director will contact an o cial at each of our local schools and provide program details. If you are interested in being a representative, contact your school guidance counselor or ﬁll out and return the application on the following page.

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

Harper shared with the students about his experience as a congressional leader and complimented the electric cooperative program, saying that he “is proud of this program because his daughter participated in it, and it was one of the best programs that she participated in while in high school.”

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

Being able to experience Washington with so many young leaders was amazing!! I got to see how each of us have characteristics of leadership in our history. This was once in a lifetime opportunity, so thank you to all that made it happen. – An Le

HAYES HANEY

NORTHWEST RANKIN HIGH SCHOOL

EMILY INGRAM

NORTHWEST RANKIN HIGH SCHOOL

AN LE

NESHOBA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

Cooperative Youth Leaders application

(Please

Are you currently a high school junior and your parent(s) or legal guardian receives electric service from Central Electric Power Association? If so, you are eligible to apply to represent Central Electric Power Association in the Cooperative Leaders Workshop Feb. 25-27, 2026, and the NRECA Washington, D.C., Youth Tour June 13-19, 2026.

Cooperative Youth Leaders program guidelines

1. Applicant must be a high school junior (11th grade) whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) receives electric service from Central Electric Power Association.

2. The top applicants will be selected by an independent panel of judges to participate in an interview process for the selection of two (2) winners who will represent Central Electric Power Association in the Youth Leadership Workshop in Jackson and the NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. INTERVIEWS WILL BE HELD WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 10, 2025, at the Central Electric Power Association office in Carthage.

3. If selected, student must commit to attend both the Cooperative Leaders Workshop Feb. 25-27, 2026, at the Westin Hotel in Jackson and the NRECA Youth Tour June 13-19, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

4. Application must be filled out by the student and postmarked by Monday, Sept. 1, 2025. Please email your application to jcpatterson@centralepa.com or mail to:

Cooperative Youth Leaders

Attn: Jessica Patterson

Central Electric Power Association Post Office Box 477 Carthage, MS 39051

Student’s full name

Name student goes by

Student’s mailing address

Student’s 911 address

Parent(s) or legal guardian

Name Central EPA bill is listed in

Account number

Daytime phone number

Alternate number

Email address

School

Student’s t-shirt size

Student signature

Parent/legal guardian signature

Please list any school and community activities/memberships and leadership positions:

Please list any awards or special recognition:

What are your college and career goals?

What are two characteristics of a good leader and why?

What is an interesting fact about yourself?

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer

Please contact Central Electric’s youth leadership program coordinator if you have any questions. Jessica Patterson, program director 601-267-5671 • jcpatterson@centralepa.com

Like our Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi Cooperative Youth Leaders page www.facebook.com/ECMCYL and follow us on Instagram @msyouthleaders.

STAYING SAFE WITH ELECTRONICS EVERYWHERE

by Qua’Shara Monix

As students, teachers, and families gear up for another school year, it’s important to focus on more than just supplies and schedules — electrical safety is a key part of preparing for a successful and safe return to school. From classrooms to football ﬁelds to home study spaces, electronics are everywhere, and knowing how to use them safely can help prevent accidents and keep learning uninterrupted.

CLASSROOMS AND COMPUTERS

Modern classrooms are ﬁlled with technology — laptops, smartboards, projectors, and charging stations. Teachers and students should be careful not to overload outlets or use damaged cords. Always plug devices into surge protectors when possible, and make sure wires are not stretched across walkways where someone could trip.

AT HOME

Many students now do homework and attend online classes from home using tablets, desktops, and other electronic devices. Parents should check that outlets are not overcrowded and that cords are not frayed or exposed. Devices should never be charged on beds, under pillows, or near water, and younger children should be supervised when using electronics.

SPORTS FIELDS AND OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT

• Unplug devices when not in use.

• Keep liquids away from electronics.

GENERAL TIPS FOR EVERYONE

• Never use damaged plugs or cables.

• Report any electrical issues to school sta or maintenance right away.

By making electrical safety part of your back-to-school checklist, you’re helping to create a safer environment for learning, play, and growth. After all, a safe school year is a successful one!

Even outside the classroom, electricity plays a role — especially on football ﬁelds and at outdoor school events where sound systems, scoreboard lights, and electric tools are used. Extension cords and outdoor outlets should be weatherproof, properly grounded, and kept away from wet areas. Coaches and sta should receive basic training on electrical safety for ﬁeld equipment.

• Teach children not to touch cords or outlets with wet hands.

REFRIGERATOR AND FREEZER EFFICIENCY TIPS

What are some ways I can improve the efficiency of my refrigerator and freezer?

When exploring ways to be more e cient with refrigerators and freezers, we often ﬁnd ourselves stuck between convenience and conserving energy. While you can upgrade to newer equipment, care and equipment habits can be just as important to saving energy.

by Miranda Boutelle

Here is some guidance on equipment energy use, including tips to keep your current equipment running e ciently and ways to limit overuse of refrigeration in our homes.

The U.S. Department of Energy helps us understand what to look for in our existing equipment and new appliances. In general, the larger the refrigerator, the more energy it uses. The most e cient models are typically 16 to 20 cubic feet. Models with the freezer on top tend to use less energy than bottom freezers or side-by-side units. A refrigerator 15 years or older uses about 35% more energy than an Energy Star-certiﬁed model. Let’s explore some tips to keep your refrigerator running e ciently.

KEEP IT ORGANIZED

One of the biggest issues with refrigerator energy use is opening the door or keeping it open. An organized fridge makes food items easier to ﬁnd, minimizing open-door time and keeping cold air inside. Place items in the same spots, so they are easier and faster to ﬁnd. I tell my kids to take a quick look inside at the options and close the door while they are deciding what to eat.

KEEP IT CLEAN

Regularly cleaning the gasket — the ﬂexible strip around the perimeter of the fridge door — ensures a tight seal between the door and the unit to keep cold air inside. If the gasket is not sealing tightly, it should be replaced. Removing and cleaning the vent at the bottom of the unit can help airﬂow. For the coils at the back, use an extended cleaning brush instead of moving the fridge and risking injury.

KEEP FOOD SAFETY IN MIND

The Department of Energy recommends setting your refrigerator temperature between 35 and 38 degrees and freezer at 0 degrees.

If you have a second refrigerator or freezer, here are some things to consider that can help you save energy.

DO YOU NEED IT PLUGGED IN YEAR-ROUND

Perhaps you can keep it empty and unplugged for part of the year. Maybe you only really need it during the holiday season. Unplugging it for the months you aren’t using it will save energy, and you’ll still have it as a backup when you need it.

EMPTY OUT

If you are a hunter or buy meat in bulk, set a goal to empty out your freezer before you restock. This allows you to avoid food waste and unplug the extra appliance when it is not needed.

CONSIDER THE LOCATION

Keeping the second fridge or freezer in a cool basement versus a hot garage requires less energy.

Instilling simple cleaning and food storage habits are easy ways to be more e cient with your in-home refrigeration.

Clean the vent cover and remove dust and debris buildup in the vent area under the front of the refrigerator.

Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating o cer at E ciency Services Group in Oregon.

THE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE NETWORK AT A GLANCE:

From booming suburbs to remote rural communities, America’s electric cooperatives are energy providers and engines of economic development. Electric cooperatives keep the lights on and play a vital role in transforming communities.

RISING TOGETHER

Celebrating strength, community and building brighter futures

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, a storm that devastated our communities and took down our entire electrical system. Looking back though, I don’t think about the destruction as much as I think about the rebuilding. I don’t think about the tragedy as much as I think about the resilience of our residents. I focus not on what was lost, but what we gained and the lessons we learned. I will forever be grateful that I am part of this community of people who stood strong in the face of tragedy and who built back better than ever. As we look back, let’s honor those who were lost and continue to cultivate a community that is thriving and, above all, cares for one another.

I consider myself lucky that I get to witness the care this community has for one another, not just after storms, but through programs like Operation Round Up (ORU). So many of you contribute generously to the ORU program that we are able to fund grants for charitable organizations, making our communities stronger. Twice each year, we open our ORU application process up to charities that beneﬁt our local community. This month, applications are available on coastelectric.coop.

After applications are received, they go through a vetting process with our partners at the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and our Community Trust Committee to ensure that our members’ contributions are being utilized in ways that reﬂect the mission and vision of Coast Electric and our members.

Organizations thinking of applying should visit coastelectric.coop and look for Operation Round Up under the My Community menu option to learn more about the program. Applications will be available through Aug. 31. We look forward to learning more about the work these organizations are doing to serve our community and to using Operation Round Up funds to further their mission.

by Ron Barnes

President and CEO

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

Congratulations to Amanda Moran, the winner of our June Reduce Your Use prize.

Visitwww.coastelectric.coopandﬁlloutourentryform.Itonly takesafewseconds,andyoucouldwinaprizethathelpsyousave!

OPERATION ROUND UP O OP P PE E ER R RA A AT T A II

AVAILABLE NOW! GRANT APPLICATIONS

Charitable organizations that serve Hancock, Harrison or Pearl River counties could be eligible for a grant of up to $10,000!

Since 2019, Operation Round Up has given back more than $1 million in grants thank s to the generosity of our members We thank you for supporting your local community and we are excited to share that grant applications are available for the month of February

Non-proﬁt organizations that are registered with the MS Secretary of State O ce and serve communities in Hancock, Harrison and/or Pearl River counties could be eligible for a grant of up to $10,000 from Coast Electric’s Operation Round Up program. Grant applications are available online only through Aug. 31.

Grants are made possible by generous contributions from Coast Electric members who round their bill up to the nearest

dollar each month. These contributions are responsible for funding more than $1.6 million in grants in our community! Coast Electric works with the Gulf Coast Community Foundation to manage our members’ contributions and the application process.

SCAN HERE OR VISIT WWW.COASTEPA.COM TO LEARN MORE AND APPLY TODAY!

The Coast Electric Community Trust Committee, made up of peers in our community, awards these grants based on the need and impact throughout our service area.

To apply visit coastelectric.coop/my-community/operation-roundup/.

ANNUAL MEETING Registration

Registration is open for our 2025 Annual Meeting! We hope to see you at the meeting on Nov. 6, but if you are unable to attend, you can register in one of three ways:

1. Return the registration card that was mailed to your home.

2. Register online through Oct. 30. Scan the QR code or visit coastelectric.coop/annual-meeting-registration.

3. Register at any Coast Electric o ce by Oct. 30.

Those who attend the meeting and those who register will be entered for a chance to win up to $1,000 in electricity credits! This year, everyone who registers will also be entered into a drawing to win a Ford F-150 that has been retired from Coast Electric’s ﬂeet. Members do not need to be present to win the truck. We hope to see you all at the meeting!

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C., in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

Harper shared with the students about his experience as a congressional leader and complimented the electric cooperative program, saying that he, “is proud of this program because his daughter participated in it, and it was one of the best programs that she participated in while in high school.”

The students attended a Washington Nationals baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The Cooperatives Youth Leaders program is fully funded — including the trip to D.C. — by local electric cooperatives like Coast Electric as a commitment to molding future leaders for Mississippi, so they can impact the state and local communities.

LABOR DAY

You can report outages by:

• Using the CE on the Go mobile app.

Lightning-fast downloads, streaming and gaming

Fast, dependable local service

No hidden terms or fees

Lightning-fast downloads, streaming and gaming

Fast, dependable local service No hidden terms or fees

Lightning-fast downloads, streaming and gaming

Fast, dependable local service No hidden terms or fees

Coast Electric’s business o ces will be closed Monday, Sept. 1, for the Labor Day holiday. We hope you have a safe and fun holiday weekend! Dispatchers will be on duty, and crews will be on call throughout the holiday weekend.

• Texting us at 228-338-4644 if you have a mobile number associated with your account.

• Reporting it online: outages.coastelectric.coop/

• We CANNOT take outage reports on our social media accounts. Trying to report your outage on social media does not put your outage into our system or report it to dispatchers or crews.

You can pay a bill by:

• Texting us at 228-338-4644 if you have a mobile number associated with your account.

• Using the CE on the Go mobile app.

• Visiting a kiosk located at each of our o ces.

• Calling 877-769-2372 to use our automated payment system.

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

by Abby Berry

Smart technologies make our homes more comfortable, convenient, and energy e cient. By connecting your home Wi-Fi network, smart devices automate everyday tasks like lighting, heating, cooling, and home security — they can even communicate with other smart devices in the home.

While not all smart home products are speciﬁcally designed with energy savings in mind, there are several smart technologies that can help you lower home energy use. Here are the top three smart home devices to help you save.

Smart thermostats

Smart or not, your thermostat is the most e ective tool for controlling energy use, as heating and cooling typically account for the largest portion of energy bills. Smart thermostats allow you to adjust the indoor temperature through an app, giving you full control from anywhere on the go. Many smart thermostats include learning capabilities and will adjust the thermostat based on previous behavior and patterns.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, smart thermostats can reduce heating and cooling bills by more than 8% annually, and with models as low as $65, they typically pay for themselves in one year.

Smart lighting

Smart LED bulbs use less electricity than traditional bulbs and can be scheduled or turned o (or on) remotely through a smart phone app. Smart bulbs are available in a range of shapes, brightness levels, colors, and more, so shop for the products that work best for your home lighting needs.

Many smart bulbs include motion sensors that turn on or o based on room activity, further optimizing home energy use. If you’re new to smart lighting, try a home starter kit. Prices for kits range from $70 to $300 and more, depending on how many bulbs you need.

Smart plugs

Smart plugs are inexpensive gadgets that can help you save energy. Many electronic devices consume power even when they are turned o — known as “phantom load” — which can take a toll on your energy bills. Smart plugs are simply plugged into an electrical outlet and connected to your Wi-Fi network. When set up, the smart plug can cut power (or return power) to non-smart devices, like co ee makers, phone chargers, and other items that draw phantom load.

Many smart plugs can be paired with popular smart hubs, like Alexa or Google Nest, or controlled through the plug’s associated app. Smart plugs are simple to use and a set of four can be purchased for as little as $25.

If you’re looking for new ways to save energy, try these budget-friendly, convenient smart home technologies.

Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative a airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

REFRIGERATOR AND FREEZER EFFICIENCY TIPS

What are some ways I can improve the efficiency of my refrigerator and freezer?

by Miranda Boutelle

Here is some guidance on equipment energy use, including tips to keep your current equipment running e ciently and ways to limit overuse of refrigeration in our homes.

KEEP IT ORGANIZED

KEEP IT CLEAN

KEEP FOOD SAFETY IN MIND

The Department of Energy recommends setting your refrigerator temperature between 35 and 38 degrees and freezer at 0 degrees.

If you have a second refrigerator or freezer, here are some things to consider that can help you save energy.

DO YOU NEED IT PLUGGED IN YEAR-ROUND

EMPTY OUT

If you are a hunter or buy meat in bulk, set a goal to empty out your freezer before you restock. This allows you to avoid food waste and unplug the extra appliance when it is not needed.

CONSIDER THE LOCATION

Keeping the second fridge or freezer in a cool basement versus a hot garage requires less energy.

Instilling simple cleaning and food storage habits are easy ways to be more e cient with your in-home refrigeration.

Clean the vent cover and remove dust and debris buildup in the vent area under the front of the refrigerator.

Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating o cer at E ciency Services Group in Oregon.

THE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE NETWORK AT A GLANCE:

Your voice. Your vote. Your cooperative.

One of the things that makes an electric cooperative di erent from other utilities is that you're not just a customer — you're a member. And as a member, you have a voice in how Dixie Electric is run. That's why the cooperative principle of democratic member control is so important to us — and why your vote matters.

Each year, you have the opportunity to vote for the people who represent you on our board of directors. These are fellow members who live and work in the same communities as you. Together, they guide the decisions that shape the future of Dixie Electric.

This year, the board seats for District 1 and District 5 are up for election, and all members are eligible to vote for each district, not just the one they live in.

One question we sometimes receive is about the di erence between voting by ballot and voting by proxy. When you vote by ballot — whether that’s online, by mail, or in person — you’re personally selecting the candidate of your choice. A proxy, on the other hand, allows you to authorize someone else — either our board of directors or another person you choose — to cast a vote on your behalf. Both options give you a voice; either way, the important thing is that your membership is represented in the election process. You might also wonder, “Why should I vote if the person running is unopposed?” It’s a good question — and an important one. Even if there's only one candidate, they must still be elected by you, the members. Your vote conﬁrms that you support their service on your behalf. It's your way of having a say in the leadership of your cooperative.

To make it as easy and convenient as possible, we o er several ways to vote:

• Online voting opens Aug. 18 by ballot or proxy.

• Mail-in ballots and proxies will be sent the ﬁrst week of September to all members. Members who receive a mail-in packet will receive both a ballot and a proxy form — but remember, you can only vote one way. Please choose your preferred method and return only that form. A postage-paid return envelope is provided.

• Proxy voting is available at any of our o ce locations beginning Aug. 18.

• In-person voting is available at our Annual Meeting on Oct. 18 between 10 – 10:30 a.m.

Please remember you may only vote once — whether online, by mail, or in person — so choose the method that works best for you. Voting will close at 5 p.m. on Oct. 13.

We’ve worked hard over the years to provide these choices because we value transparency and participation. And the good news is — it’s working. Last year, we had the highest number of votes cast in almost 50 years. I hope we keep that momentum going and see even more members get involved this year.

Dixie Electric will donate $1 for every vote cast to be shared between three great local charities: The Good Shepherd Clinic in Laurel, Petal Children's Task Force, and The Samaritan's Closet and Pantry in Waynesboro. By voting, you're not only shaping the future of your cooperative — you're also helping people in need in our community.

Your vote is your voice. I encourage you to take a moment to cast your vote and help us continue building on the momentum we’ve gained, making this year’s participation our best yet.

It's hard to believe it's been nearly 20 years since Hurricane Katrina changed everything. When the storm hit in August 2005, it left behind unimaginable destruction, and every single Dixie Electric member without power. As we approach the anniversary, we're taking time to reﬂect on those challenging days and the incredible e orts it took to bring the lights back on.

For those who worked here during that time, the memories are vivid.

"The ﬁrst thing I remember is total darkness," said Tommy Ulmer, Dixie Electric's Operations Manager. "I had never seen this area with no lights at all. No streetlights. Nothing. It was eerie."

With wind gusts reaching up to 120 mph, the storm snapped poles, downed trees, and brought everyday life to a halt.

"I barely got to the o ce that next day," said Line Foreman Adron Presley. "It was hard just to get around. Two or three days into the storm, the roads were starting to be cleared, and we could move around. But having limited access to everything was di cult because you could not leave your home due to the tree damage to the highways and the roads."

After the storm, all 35,000 meters lost service, making communication between the co-op's three o ces almost impossible.

"We couldn't call the branch o ces," said Administration and Finance Manager Aaron Zumwalt. "We were making trips to Waynesboro and Petal, trying to just verbally communicate what was going on. We couldn't communicate with our employees until the radios got back up and running, which made restoration e orts even more di cult.”

But in the face of devastation, the response was immediate and united.

"We started splitting everybody up to see what was down and what was still standing. There wasn't much standing," said Line Construction Supervisor Jason Holder.

Dixie Electric's system had taken over 50 years to build. In a matter of hours, Katrina had wiped out much of it.

"We had over 3,000 broken poles," Ulmer said. "We had to completely rebuild our system from the ground up."

Help poured in from across the country. Line workers from sister co-ops came by the hundreds — over 1,000 at one point. They brought their tools, their expertise, and their willingness to sleep in trucks and tents when local lodging ran out.

After more than three and a half weeks of intense, around-the-clock work, power was ﬁnally restored to all members. But the storm left more than damage — it left a lasting impact on how Dixie Electric operates today.

"Before Katrina, we believed in just doing the work quietly and letting the results speak for themselves," said General Manager Randy Smith. "But Katrina taught us how important it is to communicate with our members. Now, we focus on keeping everyone informed— where the outages are, how bad the damage is, and what we're doing to ﬁx it."

There's so much more to this story — stories of sacriﬁce, courage, and resilience. That's why we're premiering a special video on the exact anniversary of the storm: August 29. It will feature ﬁrsthand accounts from employees who lived through it and helped rebuild. This video can be found on Dixie Electric’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Make sure to follow us on social media and tune in to hear how Hurricane Katrina shaped not only our system, but the people who keep it running.

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students' participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

it, and it was one of the best programs that she

The students attended a Washington Nationals

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

NAPS AND THE JOYS OF

There’s something special about a week at the beach with grown kids and their families. The rhythm of the waves, the warmth of the sun and the slow, steady pace of each day have a way of teaching you things — if you’re willing to pay attention. This year’s trip reminded me that the beach isn’t just about water and sand. It’s a crash course in patience, perspective and presence. Every morning started the same: the quiet creak of the door, the soft thud of sandals on the wooden walkway and the slightly comical race to stake out a good spot. Rising early to set up umbrellas and chairs might sound like a chore, but it became a ritual — a quiet time when the beach was still waking up. The sun hadn’t yet claimed its place overhead, and there was peace in being the ﬁrst to feel the breeze and watch the waves roll in. That early morning silence became my favorite part of the day. Of course, once the beach ﬁlled in, peace took a backseat to real life. There were the usual suspects: the crowd that insisted their music taste was everyone’s favorite, the ones who set up too close and some who didn’t use the best language. But part of beach life — and community life — is learning to coexist. You learn that while you can’t control every situation, you can choose how you respond. A deep breath, a chuckle, maybe a walk down the shore — it’s amazing what you can tune out when you focus on what truly matters.

Then there are the grandkids. They arrive in full force — laughing, squealing, building crooked sandcastles and stomping the ones you build. And somehow, amid the crowds and chaos, they bring the joy you forgot you needed. They remind you that the beach — like life — is meant to be enjoyed, not just managed.

Lessons from the beach: UMBRELLAS,

IMPERFECTION

That there’s beauty in the mess and meaning in the moments that don’t go as planned.

There’s no shame in beach fatigue either. After a morning of sunscreen, snacks and semi-shade, the pull of a good nap is irresistible. And there’s no nap like one with a salty breeze blowing over sun-warmed skin. It’s a reset — proof that rest isn’t just allowed, it’s essential. Even the most dependable among us need to recharge sometimes.

And isn’t that true of our work at EMEPA? Like those early mornings with umbrellas, much of what we do goes unseen — restoring power before the sun rises, maintaining systems to keep everything running smoothly and responding to challenges with resilience and care. We navigate the noise, adapt to unexpected changes and serve with purpose — even when it’s not perfect, even when it’s not easy.

Just like a good day at the beach, being part of a cooperative is about showing up, sharing space and caring for the people around us. It’s about presence, patience and doing the work — often quietly — that helps others enjoy the moment.

And if you’re lucky, you get to do it all with people you love.

by Randy Carroll

CEO — East Mississippi Electric Power Association

Don’t forget to complete the 2025 proxy either by mail or online for your chance to win a $500 electricity credit. Due date for proxy return is Tuesday, Sept. 30.

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

U.S. CAPITOL BUILDING

This trip has taught me to take chances, stand up for what I believe in, and regret nothing. – Lauren Skinner

CHELSEA BIBBS

LOUISVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

MYLES COLEMAN

RUSSELL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

HAYDEN CLARK

CLARKDALE HIGH SCHOOL

LAUREN SKINNER

WEST LAUDERDALE HIGH SCHOOL

CHAMBER LEE COPELAND

KEMPER ACADEMY

KENNEDY CENTER

IWO JIMA MEMORIAL

ARLINGTON CEMETERY

EINSTEIN MEMORIAL

Stream Sports Anywhere:

Why East Mississippi Connect Is the Ultimate Partner for Sports Fans

Fall Sports Surge: A Streaming Power Play

As football season kicks o and school sports return each fall, EMC experiences a signiﬁcant uptick in streaming activity. This trend mirrors national patterns, where streaming services see heightened engagement during major sporting events. The overall migration to streaming remains strong, with digital viewing of live sports in the U.S. projected to reach 127.4 million viewers by 2027—a 21% increase from 2024.

National Trends Reﬂect Local Habits

Nationally, the shift toward streaming sports is undeniable. In January 2025, 69% of sports fans reported watching at least some live games on subscription-based videoon-demand platforms, matching the percentages for broadcast and cable networks.

This parity indicates a signiﬁcant change in viewing habits, with streaming becoming as prevalent as traditional methods.

Younger fans are at the forefront of this shift. Those 35 and younger are more inclined to subscribe to streaming services speciﬁcally for sports content, with 48% having done so, compared to 29% of those 35 and older. This trend underscores the importance of accessible, high-quality streaming options for engaging the next generation of sports fans.

EMC: Delivering Seamless Sports Streaming

In an era when sports fans demand ﬂexibility, high-quality streams and access to their favorite teams anytime, anywhere, East Mississippi Connect stands out as the premier partner for sports enthusiasts across East Mississippi. As the landscape of sports consumption shifts dramatically toward digital platforms, EMC ensures that fans are never out of the loop.

EMC’s commitment to providing reliable, high-speed internet ensures that sports fans can stream games without interruption. Whether it’s Friday night high school football, college football or pro games, EMC’s robust infrastructure supports seamless viewing experiences across multiple devices.

EMC’s services align further with the growing demand for mobile streaming. With 80% of global sports fans preferring to watch live sports on their smartphones, EMC’s network capabilities cater to this mobile-ﬁrst audience, ensuring that fans can catch every play, no matter where they are.

Why EMC Is the Go-To for Sports Fans

As streaming becomes the preferred method for consuming sports content, EMC stands out by o ering:

• High-speed connectivity: Ensuring bu er-free streaming experiences.

• Wide coverage: Reaching communities across East Mississippi.

• Reliable service: Minimizing disruptions during critical game moments.

In a time when access to live sports is increasingly digital, EMC provides the infrastructure and support that fans need to stay connected to their favorite teams and events.

Source: Information drawn from reports by panasonic.com, tvrev.com and thecurrent.com.

by Abby Berry

Smart thermostats

Smart lighting

Smart plugs

If you’re looking for new ways to save energy, try these budget-friendly, convenient smart home technologies.

Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative a airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

U.S. AIR FORCE MEMORIAL

Hearing other stories and being immersed in the wonders of our nation’s capital showed me that the sky isn’t the limit because there aren’t limits to what’s possible. - Lainey Sterling

BRADY DURR BROOKHAVEN ACADEMY

MEGHAN RICHARDSON BOGUE CHITTO ATTENDANCE CENTER

LAUREN HORNESBY MCCOMB HIGH SCHOOL

LAINEY STERLING PARKLANE ACADEMY

KENNEDY CENTER

the youth tour experience:D.C. Style

by Abby Berry

ROAD

Smart thermostats

Smart lighting

Smart plugs

If you’re looking for new ways to save energy, try these budget-friendly, convenient smart home technologies.

Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative a airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

REFRIGERATOR AND FREEZER EFFICIENCY TIPS

What are some ways I can improve the efficiency of my refrigerator and freezer?

by Miranda Boutelle

Here is some guidance on equipment energy use, including tips to keep your current equipment running e ciently and ways to limit overuse of refrigeration in our homes.

KEEP IT ORGANIZED

KEEP IT CLEAN

KEEP FOOD SAFETY IN MIND

The Department of Energy recommends setting your refrigerator temperature between 35 and 38 degrees and freezer at 0 degrees.

If you have a second refrigerator or freezer, here are some things to consider that can help you save energy.

DO YOU NEED IT PLUGGED IN YEAR-ROUND

EMPTY OUT

If you are a hunter or buy meat in bulk, set a goal to empty out your freezer before you restock. This allows you to avoid food waste and unplug the extra appliance when it is not needed.

CONSIDER THE LOCATION

Keeping the second fridge or freezer in a cool basement versus a hot garage requires less energy.

Instilling simple cleaning and food storage habits are easy ways to be more e cient with your in-home refrigeration.

Clean the vent cover and remove dust and debris buildup in the vent area under the front of the refrigerator.

Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating o cer at E ciency Services Group in Oregon.

THE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE NETWORK AT A GLANCE:

From Terminal E to solidarity

If you travel enough, whether for business or pleasure, you will on occasion have a bad experience. Recently I was attempting to return from Washington, D.C. late one afternoon. As thunderstorms rolled through the Northeast my ﬂight encountered delay after delay. I found myself spending approximately 28 hours in airports attempting to get home. Three of those on the tarmac in a hot plane, only to deplane and board time and time again. The airports were hardly large enough to handle the passengers when travel was on time, much less after multiple delays.

Many of us complete strangers resigned ourselves to sitting on the ﬂoor where we could ﬁnd space, hashing over our misfortunes, and seeing what could be found to eat. A day on nabs and Diet Pepsi might have hit the spot in high school but not so much now. Despite the di culties, it was a good experience to meet people and truly see how we were trying to look after each other.

While dwelling on my situation I began to realize how individuals I work with every day have similar experiences. As hurricane season settles in, I recognize that many of our linemen will be called to work

storm restoration in other areas. They may have hotels, but they may have tents. Air conditioning and dry ﬂoors are no guarantee. Meals will be available, but what and when are not always predictable.

The spirit of “Cooperation Among Cooperatives” is one of the strongest binds we electric co-ops have. Whether it’s hurricanes, ice, tornado, or any emergency issue, electric cooperatives have and will continue to have each other’s back.

My experience in Terminal E of Reagan National wasn’t the best, but it once again reminded me that I rarely have it that bad, and that there are a great many who volunteer for hardship to help their fellow man.

Stay safe.

by Kevin Doddridge General Manager/CEO

STEP UP STEP UP STEP UP PLATE! PLATE!

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

Information on the 2026 Cooperative Youth Leaders class will be published in the October issue.

KENNEDY CENTER U.S.

In D.C., I glimpsed our potential. Greatness is the path I now create. - Caleb Rucker

JONICHA BENSON

OLIVE BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL

ELIZA CAVENDER

MARSHALL ACADEMY

ELIZABETH FLOWERS

NORTHPOINT CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

EMMA LUCY HARDMAN

BYHALIA HIGH SCHOOL

LEE MCNEIL

LEWISBURG HIGH SCHOOL

TRINITY MOORE

CENTER HILL HIGH SCHOOL

SILAS PENNINGTON

HOME SCHOOL

CALEB RUCKER

DESOTO CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

XAVIER REYES SANCHEZ

DESOTO CAREER TECHNICAL CENTER/ DESOTO CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

ELIJAH WILLIAMS

NORTHPOINT CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Annual Meeting and Board of Directors Election 2025

The Northcentral Electric Cooperative Annual Meeting of the members will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, in the Northcentral Electric auditorium at 4600 Northcentral Way in Olive Branch.

Besides reporting on the ﬁnancial condition of the cooperative and highlighting current and future projects, the major business task at the Annual Meeting is the election of three members of the Board of Directors.

This year, board members are to be elected to serve a term of three years from District 3, District 5, and District 7 of our service area. More detailed descriptions of each district can be found in Section 4.02 of the bylaws. Northcentral’s bylaws can be viewed under the “Cooperative” section of the website at northcentralelectric.com or provided upon request at Northcentral’s o ce.

Current board members representing these districts are Phil Lachaussee of District 3, Jerry Nichols of District 5, and Patty Gri n of District 7.

Nominations to the Board of Directors, whether incumbent or new candidate, will be made by the membership. Any twenty-ﬁve (25) or more members from the district of which a director is to be elected shall make a nomination by signing a nomination form with

the nominee’s name and district stated on the form. Nomination forms can be picked up from the reception desk in the Northcentral Administrative Building. A list of the valid nominations will be posted at the Northcentral o ce.

The deadline for submission of nomination forms, as well as the schedule of meetings and deadlines for the Elections and Credentials Committee can be found under the “2025 Annual Meeting” link on the home page at northcentralelectric.com.

Members can vote either by proxy prior to the Annual Meeting or in person at the Annual Meeting. Proxies will be mailed to the membership on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, and must be received in the Northcentral o ce no later than 2 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 27, 2025. Members with email addresses on ﬁle will also receive an email to submit their proxy electronically. The Elections and Credentials Committee will review the proxies for validation beginning at 2 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 27, 2025.

For more details on the Board of Directors elections, the Annual Meeting, bylaws, or the nomination process, visit the “2025 Annual Meeting” link on the home page at northcentralelectric.com.

DISTRICT 1 BYHALIA

PAT WOODS

PRESIDENT SERVING SINCE 2008

DISTRICT 2

OLIVE BRANCH

DON DICKERSON

SECRETARY

SERVING SINCE 2011

DISTRICT 3

PLEASANT HILL

PHIL LACHAUSSEE

SERVING SINCE 2015

DISTRICT 4

OLIVE BRANCH

TONY TAYLOR

SERVING SINCE 2016

DISTRICT 5

MARSHALL COUNTY

JERRY NICHOLS VICE

SERVING SINCE 1998

DISTRICT 6

WATSON COMMUNITY

MORRIS THOMPSON

PRESIDENT

SERVING SINCE 2013

DISTRICT 7

SOUTH MARSHALL, TATE, & LAFAYETTE COUNTIES

PATTY GRIFFIN

SERVING SINCE 2024

DISTRICT

MARSHALL,

DISTRICT

JULIE NIBLETT SERVING SINCE 2015

CHRIS LATIMER BOARD ATTORNEY

COLUMBIA: 601-736-2666 | HATTIESBURG: 601-264-2458 | PURVIS: 601-794-8051 | WIGGINS: 601-928-7277

Pearl River Valley Electric Power Association is pleased to once again announce that members will be receiving annual patronage capital returns in August.

Patronage capital, or capital credits, represents members’ investment in their not-for-proﬁt electric cooperative. Each year, rates are set so that the Association has enough funding to operate throughout the year, and any year-end revenue above the cost of providing electric service is assigned to members as margins based on their share of electricity use. A portion of those margins is then returned to members each August. This year, Pearl River Valley Electric’s Board of Directors has authorized $3.7 million be returned to members.

“Capital credit returns are one of the advantages of being a member of a cooperative,” said Matthew Ware, CEO/general manager. “Our members share in the cost of doing business and beneﬁt from any returns as well.”

Paying with ease

At Pearl River Valley Electric, we understand that convenience matters. Our members lead busy lives, working, caring for families, attending school, and managing daily responsibilities. That’s why we o er a variety of easy, secure payment options designed to ﬁt your schedule and your needs. Whether you prefer to handle your bills with a few clicks on your phone or desire something more traditional, we’ve made paying your electric bill simple, fast, and ﬂexible.

Here are the ways you can pay

• Bank draft – Our most hands-o option. Your bill is automatically drafted from your bank account each month, on time, every time. No stamps, no worries, no late fees.

• Online bill pay – Log in through our website’s member portal EmPowered at prvepa.com, to pay your bill securely anytime, day or night. You can also view your energy use history, track your payments, and even set up recurring payments.

• Mobile app – Our PRVEPA app puts the power in your hands. Pay your bill, report an outage, or monitor your use — all from your phone.

PAY BILLS or REPORT OUTAGES: 855-2PRVEPA (855-277-8372)

Member owned. Locally operated. That’s the cooperative di erence. • Visit us online at www.PRVEPA.com.

Members to receive $3.7 million in capital credit returns

While investor-owned utilities return a portion of any proﬁts back to their investors, electric cooperatives assign margins to member-consumers as capital credits and pay them when the co-op’s ﬁnancial condition permits.

“Conservative management of the cooperative’s money by our Board of Directors has helped keep the Association ﬁnancially sound,” Ware continued. “We have returned capital credits for 60 years, totaling nearly $79 million overall.”

Each qualifying active member will receive their return as credit applied to their power bill mailed in August. For inactive members who qualify, checks will be mailed in September.

In addition to annual patronage returns for members, Pearl River Valley Electric also o ers discounted capital credit returns to the estates of deceased members and to former members. A total of more than $20.2 million has been distributed overall through these programs, including $864,000 in 2024.

• Pay by text – Once you’re enrolled, paying your bill is as easy as replying to a text. It’s fast, secure, and always at your ﬁngertips. (see sidebar for details)

• Pay by phone – Call our secure payment line 24/7 to pay over the phone. It’s a helpful option for those who prefer speaking to a system directly or don’t have internet access.

Each of these options is designed to help you save time, and in many cases, money. Automated options like bank draft reduce the risk of late fees and help avoid unnecessary trips to a payment o ce. Online and mobile payments let you manage your account when it’s convenient for you, not just during business hours.

As always, our local o ces are open if you ever need assistance or prefer to pay in person. But if you’re looking for quicker and easier ways to take care of your electric bill, we encourage you to try one of our ﬂexible payment options.

Thank you for being a valued member of Pearl River Valley Electric. We’re committed to making your service dependable, a ordable, and convenient.

You can now pay your Pearl River Valley Electric bill by text anytime, from anywhere with your smartphone (or your old ﬂip phone).

STEP 1 • If you aren’t already enrolled in text alerts, simply text “JOIN” to #352667.

STEP 2 • When you receive your welcome text, choose “START”.

STEP 3 • If you haven’t done so, set up a payment proﬁle in our member portal through our website PRVEPA.com or through our app.

Once you are enrolled in text alerts you can receive account and payment information with easy-to-use commands.

TEXT “BAL” to receive your account balance. You will then be asked to choose your account or accounts.

TEXT “PAY” to make a payment. You will then be asked to choose your account or accounts.

TEXT “CALL” to make a call to our o ce.

Other options available include “HELP”, “MENU”, “RESET” and “STOP”, which opts you out of text alerts. PAY

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

Youth Tour changed my life. I made so many connections, learned so many great things about our country, and became friends with so many amazing people! - Samantha Cardenas

SAMANTHA CARDENAS

SUMRALL HIGH SCHOOL

MADDIE HYLENDER

PURVIS HIGH SCHOOL

Our o ces will be closed Monday, Sept. 1, in observance of

LABOR DAY

A dispatcher will be on duty in case of emergency.

If you experience an outage, please call 855-2PRVEPA.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE

• Applications are available at PRVEPA o ces and at prvepa.com.

• Completed applications must be postmarked or emailed by Aug. 8.

• 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.

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.

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CEO

Remembering Hurricane Katrina

Aug. 29, 2005, is a date that will never be forgotten. Like many, I remember exactly where I was and the details of what transpired that most memorable Monday morning. In the days leading up to Hurricane Katrina’s landfall, preparations began and plans were in place for residents of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. After all, we’d been through this routine many times before. Little did we know we were preparing for the worst natural disaster to hit the United States. Shortly after landfall, some of us found ourselves wading through chest-deep water during the storm to ﬁnd higher ground, while others searched for family members to assure their safety. This devastating event will forever be etched in my memory much like the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001.

Following Katrina, more than 70 Singing River Electric employees sustained damage to their homes. Twenty-one employees su ered major damage, and most of those were forced to temporarily relocate their families. Amazingly enough, every one of those employees immediately reported to work to restore power to our communities.

Katrina’s destruction left 100% of our members without power. With assistance from more than 65 electric cooperatives and from as far away as Connecticut, our employees began the restoration process. At peak restoration time, we had 1,000 linemen reporting to our three o ces. They worked safely and e ciently to restore power to 50% of our members within the ﬁrst ﬁve days. All meters that could take power were restored within 10 days of Katrina’s landfall.

In the days following the storm, Singing River Electric’s meter count was reduced by more than 1,500. Brighter days were ahead with record growth during the 2006 calendar year – by the end of 2006, our meter count had grown to more than 66,000, up from the pre-Katrina count of 64,900. Our communities have continued to thrive since that unforgettable event. Today, Singing River Electric provides electricity to more than 81,500 meters across the communities we serve.

As I reﬂect on that date from 20 years ago, restoration e orts by our employees — including those displaced from their own homes and those who lost loved ones because of the storm – were truly amazing and a testament to the cooperative spirit.

by Brian Hughey

Energy Tips

Gabe Robbins Energy Services Representative robbins@singingriver.com

Air ﬁ lters and thermostat settings

As we continue into the heat of the summer, simple things can go a long way in terms of energy savings. Replacing your cooling system’s filter regularly will maintain a strong airflow, boost energy e ciency, and help your unit not work as hard to cool your home. Checking the filter each month and replacing it as needed will also eliminate wear and tear on your cooling system, helping extend the life of the unit.

As always, being aware of the temperature setting on your thermostat is where you can capture the most savings. The recommended summer thermostat setting is 78 degrees because this level is where your unit will operate most e ciently during hot summer temperatures. Keep your thermostat setting as high as you comfortably can and use fans to feel cooler. If it is 90 degrees outside and your thermostat is set to 70, your unit is running hard for long periods to keep up with the 20-degree di erence. Make the degree di erence as small as possible – the greater the di erence, the more your unit works, uses energy, and adds to your bill.

singingriver.com/ways-to-save

Annual Membership Meeting

Singing River Electric held its 2025 Annual Membership Meeting on Thursday, June. 26, at the Lucedale headquarters o ce.

General Manager and CEO Brian Hughey and Board President Kristal Sisson reviewed accomplishments from 2024 for Singing River Electric and Singing River Connect, and an audit ﬁrm representative presented the ﬁnancial report.

Attendees also heard from Camila Cristobal of George County High School, Aliya Douglas of St. Martin High School, and Brett Jackson of East Central High School who shared their experiences in Washington, D.C. as Singing River Electric’s Cooperative Youth Leadership students.

Thank you to our members who participated in the board of directors election online through the website and SmartHub app, by mailed-in proxies, and in person at the annual meeting. Three Singing River Electric members were elected to serve a three-year term on the cooperative’s board representing three geographic districts: Stanley R. Busby – District 1; Ronald Wilson – District 2; and Olin Howard Davis – District 3. Visit singingriver.com/my-coop/#board for a full list of board members

Annual Membership Meeting Prize Winners

Thank you to all members who voted online or returned proxies to participate in the board of directors election. Congratulations to our prize drawing winners!

$500 WINNER:

T.G. Hulsey of Richton

$250 WINNERS:

Rita Beech of Vancleave

Rhonda Grager of State Line

Roland Mestayer of Pascagoula

Brenda Jobe of Gautier

James Crum of Lucedale

Deiadra Mirick of Ocean Springs

Singing River Electric 2024 HIGHLIGHTS

• Inspected nearly 28,500 poles, replacing them as needed to strengthen our electric distribution system

• Continued implementing SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) with software and ﬁber lines providing data to minimize outage response times and perform proactive maintenance

• Retired more than $3.5 million in capital credits for the year 1998 –Cooperative Energy retired $1.53 million for the year 1994

• Re-cleared 1,300 miles of right-of-way to minimize service interruptions

• Restored power quickly and safely after Hurricane Francine and countless thunderstorms

• Awarded 277 heat pump rebates

• Activated a PIN number requirement for greater automated phone system security

• Awarded $16,575.43 in Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Grants

• Spent time in our communities for Cooperative Days of Service, career fairs, Mississippi state ﬂag donations, Arbor Day, Renew Our Rivers, and Safety City presentations

• Assisted fellow electric cooperatives after Hurricanes Helene and Milton and severe thunderstorms

• Began an apprenticeship program for newly hired linemen to standardize skills and training

Singing River Connect 2024 HIGHLIGHTS

• Grew to more than 12,000 subscribers

• Upgraded Everyday Scroller package subscribers from 100 Mbps to 300 Mbps

• Included ProtectIQ and ExperienceIQ enhanced app features in the Entertainment Enthusiast 1 Gig plan

• Introduced the Speed Fanatic 2 Gig o ering

• Partnered with Jackson County to provide free SmartTown Community Wi-Fi at Hurley’s Lum Cumbest Park and Vancleave horse arena

Being safe online is more important now than ever. With technology ever evolving, and children spending more time online, it’s important to help them become responsible online explorers.

To educate about safe internet use and responsible online behavior, Singing River Connect now o ers an education program geared toward elementary-aged children. The fun, interactive program featuring Webby the Internet Safety Cat teaches children how to make SMART decisions while exploring online.

Kicking o the program in July, ﬁber team members participated in a Summer Learning Series at the St. Martin and Moss Point libraries with the JacksonGeorge Regional Library System. Children enjoyed an interactive questionand-answer session along with an educational coloring book, fun stickers, and temporary tattoos.

Our ﬁber internet professionals are available to speak at schools and community events. Request a speaker online at singingriverconnect.com/ webby-the-cat or call any of our o ces.

AUGUST 2025

Webby the Internet Safety Cat Keeping Children Safe Online

Step 3: Fiber Construction

Running ﬁber lines on poles and burying lines underground

• Bayou Cassotte

• Kreole

• Monaco Lake

• Singing River Mall

• Gautier

Step 4: Splicing

• Fountainbleu

• Hamill Farm

• Ocean Springs

• Gulf Park Estates

Connecting ﬁber lines to the network

• Sunplex

• Hamill Farm

S Stay Safe — Keep your personal information private! Never share your full name, address, school, or phone number online.

M Make Good Choices — Think before you click. Not everything online is true or safe - ask an adult if you’re unsure.

A Ask for Help — If something feels weird or scary, tell a trusted adult. It’s always okay to ask questions!

R Respect Others — Be kind online, just like in real life. Treat everyone with respect. (No mean comments, no bullying)

T Think Before You Share — Photos, words, and videos stay online forever. Share smartly, and don’t post anything you wouldn’t say out loud! Kids,

Step 5: Service Drop & Drop

Splicing & Step 6: Installation

Bringing mainline ﬁber to the exterior of your home and connecting your home to blazing-fast ﬁber internet

• Fort Bayou

• Martin Blu

• Hickory Hills

• St. Martin

• Tucker Road

• Forts Lake

• Helena

• Helena Industrial

• Escatawpa South

• All Singing River Electric areas in George, Greene, Perry, Stone, Wayne, Harrison, Mobile, and Washington counties and north Jackson County

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students' participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

it, and it was one of the best programs that she

The students attended a Washington Nationals

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

The Dog Days of Summer

Dog days have arrived in South Mississippi. Blight invades the bark of trees and crops as the blistering sun causes us to be weary and short tempered. Mosquitos, gnats, and horse ﬂ ies torment us. Heck, my dog is even reluctant to leave his cool spot in the shade to welcome me home in the evening. This hot, humid weather makes one question the sanity of their decision to live in Mississippi, but we all know the simple answer. Because it’s home. It is familiar, and we know what to expect. The heat and humidity do not surprise us, and we know the art to making it bearable is through indulging in ice cold, sweet tea and shade trees. Being home makes life easier, even during times of inconvenience.

It’s hard to imagine a single more unbearable inconvenience during this time of the year than when the power goes out. It is hot in August, and no electricity can make life miserable. We understand that you’re not happy. Tempers are at wits’ end and home, temporarily at least, is not so sweet.

In a business where tree limbs, critters, storms, and even a car wreck can knock out service to miles of power lines, we take outages very seriously. We expect power outages, but we strive to provide a level of reliability that keeps the lights on day in and day out. When those unpreventable breakdowns occur, we’re prepared to respond quickly because we know that no outage is too short when you are the one without electricity.

Regardless of the cause or when it is, power outages are a hassle and providing you information about the outage is important. Southern Pine has various means of reporting and tracking outages. Making sure you are enrolled in our Outage Alert System gives you

access to the easiest and most convenient means to not only report an outage through text but also receive notifications concerning the event and even a restoration alert when your power is back on. During major outage events we provide continuous updates through our social media channels and on our website. Our outage viewer, also accessible through our website, shows the locations and number of members impacted, while providing a level of confidence that we’re aware of your outage. If an outage is shown on that map, then system operators and crews are aware of it, and I can guarantee they’re working hard to fi x the problem.

I know this is God’s country, but even perfection comes with the possibility for power outages. It’s a fact of life for Southern Pine, and we are committed to doing everything within our means to limit the number and duration of outages. We just ask that during those inconvenient times when it’s hot and the lights are out that we remember the hard work and sacriﬁce of the men and women who are out there working to restore power. Not just because their job is hard or even that it’s extremely dangerous, but because they are the epitome of dedication, and they take pride in Bringing the Power to the members of Southern Pine Electric.

by Drummonds McAlpin

President/CEO Southern Pine Electric

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

KENNEDY CENTER

While on this trip, I’ve been shown my career path and everything I would like to accomplish in the future. – Corinne Allen

CORINNE ALLEN

MENDENHALL HIGH SCHOOL

ADDISON BARRY

SIMPSON COUNTY ACADEMY

BRENNA LINTNER-DAVIS

RALEIGH HIGH SCHOOL

TYSON MCLAURIN

JEFFERSON DAVIS COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

MACIE MORROW

PUCKETT HIGH SCHOOL

JAYDEN SMITH

SIMPSON COUNTY ACADEMY

Stay Informed and Vigilant

At Southern Pine Electric, we are committed to keeping our members informed and safe from scams that can compromise personal information and ﬁnancial security. One such scam to be aware of involves fake “bill pay” listings on Google that pretend to be our cooperative.

HOW THIS SCAM WORKS:

Scammers are creating fraudulent Google business listings that use Southern Pine Electric’s name. When you call one of these listings, you won’t reach our regular automated system. Instead, a live operator, often with a foreign accent, may answer. They claim to o er “bill discounts” and may try to pressure you into providing personal or payment information.

These scammers sometimes go as far as using our real automated system’s background audio to make the call seem legitimate, further confusing members.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR:

• Automated systems: Our phone line always begins with an automated system. If you get a live person immediately, it’s a red ﬂag.

• No discount o ers: Southern Pine Electric does not o er bill discounts over the phone. Be wary of anyone claiming to provide one.

Save Money. Save Energy. Help the Grid.

• O cial contact numbers: Always use the contact number on your bill, our o cial website, or other Southern Pine Electric materials.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF:

If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately and call us directly at 800-231-5240. It’s better to verify than to risk sharing your personal information.

As always, we encourage you to stay cautious and share this alert with family and friends. By working together and staying informed, we can reduce the impact of these scams on our community. Let’s continue to look out for one another and protect our personal and ﬁ nancial security.

Stay safe and always trust your instincts!

August often brings the hottest weather of the year in Mississippi, and electricity use usually spikes, especially in the afternoon and early evening hours when demand is highest. By making small adjustments to your daily routine, you can lower your electric bill and reduce the strain on our power grid during peak times. Here are some simple ways to make a big di erence:

ENERGYSAVING TIPS:

• Adjust your thermostat. Set it to 78°F when you’re home and a few degrees higher when you’re away.

• Use ceiling fans wisely. They help you feel cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat without sacriﬁcing comfort.

• Close blinds and curtains. Block out direct sunlight to keep your home cooler and reduce the load on your AC.

• Avoid using large appliances during peak hours (2–7 p.m.). Shift laundry, dishwashing, and cooking to later in the evening.

• Grill outdoors or use the microwave. Keep your kitchen cool by minimizing oven use.

• Turn o lights and unplug electronics. Even in standby mode, devices draw energy.

• Keep your AC ﬁ lter clean. A clean ﬁ lter helps your system run more e ciently and keeps your air cleaner.

Together, we can make a meaningful impact on your bill, on energy use, and on the reliability of our grid during sweltering summer days. Thank you for being part of a cooperative that looks out for one another. Let’s stay safe, cool, and energy-smart this summer.

Board of Directors

RETURNS CAPITAL CREDITS

The Board of Directors has approved the return of $1,592,708.94 to Southwest Electric Members.

Active Members who had electric service in 2024 will see a credit on their August bill. Members with inactive accounts from that year will receive a check mailed on Aug. 11.

As a Member-owned electric cooperative, Southwest Electric operates di erently from investor-owned utilities. We don’t generate proﬁts for shareholders. Instead, any revenue that exceeds operating costs is invested back into the system. This investment is known as patronage capital.

Each year, patronage capital is allocated to Members based on how much electricity they use. The more electricity used, the larger the Member’s share. Over time, this capital is returned to Members as the ﬁnancial condition of the cooperative allows.

Since 1960, Southwest Electric has returned over $35 million in patronage capital to the people who own the cooperative — our Members.

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a February workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

The Cooperatives Youth Leaders program is fully funded — including the trip to D.C. — by the local electric cooperatives as a commitment to molding future leaders for Mississippi, so they can impact the state and local communities.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

FRONT STEPS OF THE CAPITOL BUILDING

From the places I went to the people I met, I found parts of myself and my story in all of them. – Payshunce Hall

COOPER CREEL

LOYD STAR ATTENDANCE CENTER

PAYSHUNCE HALL

BROOKHAVEN ACADEMY

KYNNEDI SMITH

BROOKHAVEN HIGH SCHOOL

KELDRICK WILSON

JEFFERSON COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Community Events

& ACTIVITIES

ANNUAL MEETING DATES TO REMEMBER

JUNE 1

City of Hollandale

SEPT. 20

Future Tour Junior Golf Championship

Greenville

Twin County is proud to have been included as a sponsor.

This was the 30-year anniversary of the tournament. The purpose is to grow the game with juniors and get kids interested in golf. Participants have gone on to play high school and collegiate golf, including winners on the LPGA and PGA Tours.

• JULY 22, 202 5 • “Record Date” for Twin County’s 2025 Annual Meeting.

Twin County Donates Park Benches

Twin County is pleased to donate new metal park benches to the City of Hollandale in an e ort to revitalize the park area for families to enjoy for many years.

48TH ANNUAL MISSISSIPPI

Delta Blues Festival

Delta

SEPT. 27

14TH ANNUAL

• JULY 23, 2025 • Petition for Nomination of Director available at the Hollandale office. Candidates must be a member from one of the following service areas and a member in good standing as of the Record Date: (1) Rolling Fork (1) Belzoni (1) Hollandale

Twin County is excited to remain an annual sponsor of one of the largest blues festivals and oldest continuously operated blues festivals in the world. The festival has recently expanded its scope to promote other aspects of the African American heritage in the Delta, including gospel music. In addition, the festival is also linked to on-going education and culture programs.

Hollandale

Sam Chatmon Blues Festival

Twin County is honored to once again accept an invitation by the City of Hollandale and the Economic & Development Foundation to be a sponsor of this cherished tradition. The festival provides quality entertainment and promotes local small businesses and always ensures a safe and welcoming environment.

• AUG. 8, 2025 • Petition for Nomination of Director must be received at the Hollandale office by 5 p.m.

This annual event draws families, music lovers, and visitors, providing an excellent opportunity for community engagement and economic impact.

• AUG. 14, 2025 • Annual meeting notices, annual reports, and proxies are mailed to all the members in good standing as of the Record Date.

• SEPT. 17, 2025 • All proxies must be received at any of Twin County’s offices by 5 p.m.

• SEPT. 23, 2025 • Twin County Annual Meeting at 1:30 p.m. in Hollandale.

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

The trip and workshop showed me how you can gain deep connections and grow valued relationships. – Walker Garrett

WALKER GARRETT

WASHINGTON SCHOOL

SCHYLA JOHNSON

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL - GREENVILLE

THE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE NETWORK AT A GLANCE:

by Abby Berry

Smart thermostats

Smart lighting

Smart plugs

If you’re looking for new ways to save energy, try these budget-friendly, convenient smart home technologies.

Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative a airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

39th

A group of 84 rising high school seniors from across Mississippi traveled to Washington, D.C. in June to attend the 2025 NRECA Youth Tour.

The trip was the culmination of the students’ participation in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s youth leadership program.

During a March workshop in Jackson, the students had the opportunity to meet and hear from state legislators.

The students attended a Washington Nationals pro baseball game, experienced the play “Les Misérables” at The Kennedy Center, and had dinner during an evening cruise on the Potomac River.

The students were chosen by their local electric cooperative.

The students also had an opportunity to tour Capitol Hill with former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

KENNEDY CENTER

I will always be grateful for the community and love shown in the entire group and will cherish this experience and family for the rest of my life. – Caroline Swa ord

YAZOO COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

CAROLINE SWAFFORD BENTON ACADEMY

KENZIE RAY

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

Katrina: One of ‘Mississippi’s ﬁnest moments’

My editor popped his head in the door and said, “Hey, one of this month’s stories is about the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Why don’t you write a column about your experiences.”

Hmm, it’s hard to believe that it has been 20 years. I was the public service commissioner for south Mississippi back then. I was in the middle of my second term. I vividly remember meeting my district director Archie McRaney at our Hattiesburg o ce on the Saturday morning before the storm.

Things had changed overnight, and it appeared that the Mississippi Gulf Coast may be in the crosshairs. The storm seemed to be tracking more to the east, and hurricanes that make landfall in the northern gulf tend to jump east at the last moment. Our normal procedure was to set up a command post on the Gulf Coast. Now I like bad weather — I should be a storm chaser — but Archie, he had been in the National Guard and rode out Hurricane Camille on the Gulf Coast. He did not like hurricanes one bit. He looked at me and said, “Boss, if you tell me to go the coast, I’m handing in my resignation.” Needless to say, we used our Hattiesburg o ce as the command center.

To say Katrina was bad is an understatement. At least 238 Mississippians lost their lives. I have seen estimates that Mississippi’s insured property losses topped $13.6 billion dollars. I recall standing in the middle of Biloxi and Gulfport and not being able to identify where I was. There were no buildings, no signs, no landmarks, just piles of rubble and debris. I have heard a picture is worth a thousand words, but nothing compares to smells, and I know of nothing that smells like the aftermath of a hurricane. The sea has turned over and

has a unique and unfamiliar smell. There is a mixture of gas, dead animals, sewage, and sea air that combine to make an unforgettable and repulsive odor.

But the thing that sticks out most in my mind was Mississippians’ response to this disaster. They didn’t whine, cry, or feel sorry for themselves. Then Gov. Haley Barbour said, “We hitched up our britches and went to work.” We helped each other cut trees, repair homes, get food and water, and anything else that needed to be done. People patrolled their neighborhoods to keep order and look out for one another. I watched linemen give their lunches away to people who needed food. I saw spouses of utility workers come to the o ce and pack lunches, wash clothes, and do whatever they could to assist in restoring lights. As I watched chaos unfold in our neighboring state, I was proud of Mississippians’ response and how, collectively, we handled this disaster. While the news media covered New Orleans and the struggles there, many of us grew frustrated, but Gov. Barbour reminded us, “The press doesn’t cover planes that land safely, only the ones that crash,” and Mississippi wasn’t crashing. I believe it may have been one of Mississippi’s ﬁnest moments

by Michael Callahan

Executive Vice President/CEO Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi

Speaking to everyone you bump into. Or better yet, walking past them in a store, sidewalk, getting gas, at the post office, bank, in an elevator, drug store, restaurant, walking down the church aisle on any Sunday, at a local school or game or even at a visitor’s school or game, local gyms and retail stores, funerals, or just going to other places in Mississippi, and always being appreciative and blessed of the place you were born in.

by Mark Doiron, a resident of the Village of Satartia, and a member of the Yazoo Valley Electric Power Association.

What’s Mississippi to you? What do you treasure most about life in our state? Send your brief thoughts to Today in Mississippi, news@ecm.coop or mail to P.O. Box 3300, Ridgeland, MS 39158. Submit your beautiful digital photo of life in Mississippi to Today in Mississippi, news@ecm.coop

Public Service Commissioner Michael Callahan — the current CEO of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi — at a lunch meeting with then South Mississippi Electric’s Assistant General Manager Marcus Ware discussing power restoration e orts in the days after Hurricane Katrina.