Onancock Is Renowned for Its Agriculture, Seafood and Small-Town Life

Cooperative News

2019 Eastern Shore Garden Tour Highlights The Eastern Shore peninsula Onancock is renowned for its agriculture, seafood and small-town life. The 2019 Eastern Shore House and Garden Tour focuses on the bustling bayside town of Onancock. Founded in 1680, Onancock features a deep- water port, historic buildings and churches. The maritime town is complemented by vibrant shops, galleries and restaurants. Travel south to visit perennial tour centerpiece and National Historic Landmark, Eyre Hall, an acclaimed ancestral property displaying some of the country’s oldest continuously maintained gardens. The local garden tour is slated for EYRE HALL Saturday, May 4, from 9:30 a.m. to 3215 Eyre Hall Dr., Cheriton VA 23316 5 p.m. For more information log Honored as a National Historic Landmark, this acclaimed ancestral property offers a rare onto esgardentours.com or picture of colonial plantation life. The key to Eyre Hall’s remarkable preservation lies in its vagardenweek.org. descent through eight generations of the same family. The gambrel-roofed manor was completed in 1758 by Littleton Eyre, who lavished his home with expansive spaces, superlative woodwork and handsome furnishings. Before the end of the century, Littleton’s son and grandson had, in their turn, inherited his masterwork, adding an eastern wing and laying out a grand rear garden. The three early A&N ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE owners were succeeded by stewards who declined to gild their classic legacy with the 21275 Cooperative Way passing fancies of later eras. P.O. Box 290 Today, Eyre Hall visitors are delighted to find that the refined but soft-spoken style of its Tasley, VA 23441-0290 creators remains wonderfully in place. The past also lives in the garden, where venerable 757-787-9750 • 800-431-2632 crepe myrtles tower above parterres enclosed by ancient boxwood and set off by colorful Office Hours: M-F, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. mixed borders. On the west, the recently stabilized remaining walls of an early orangery anec.com add a hint of romance to the garden scene. Beyond the house and garden, broad stretches of Payments: 1-855-386-9921 open fields and long views over Cherrystone Creek complete the placid panorama awaiting visitors to this perennial centerpiece of the Eastern Shore tour. H. Furlong Baldwin, owner. President & CEO Butch Williamson Local Pages Editor Jay Diem A&N Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 A&N Electric Cooperative SANS SOUCI 80 Market St., Onancock VA 23417 A two-story Victorian with gingerbread trim, Sans Souci rests THE BENJAMIN FOSQUE HOUSE atop a small knoll overlooking Market Street in Onancock. The

French phrase translates to, “without concerns,” aptly describing 16 Market St., Onancock VA 23417 this relaxing and tranquil property. Located in the heart of Onancock, its Victorian façade in full view The back section of the home was built in the 1850s and the from Market Street, the Benjamin Fosque House was built in 1883. front was added in the 1880s. Surrounded by established beech Sawn brackets and extensive ornamental tracery adorn the and hardwood trees, a boxwood-lined path leads to the front gables and porches. The front hall features a longcase clock from entrance. Furnished with 18th- and early-19th-century American Bristol, England (circa mid-18th century). The library is well pieces, Sans Souci showcases an impressive collection of tall case appointed with treasures from the homeowners’ time abroad and mantel clocks inherited from the homeowner’s father, a local including glass collectibles, an inlaid Swiss music box and a series builder and furniture maker. The interior is complemented by a of hand-colored Thomas Landseer etchings. The living room was fine collection of Chinese Imari porcelain, a Bombay desk circa part of a substantial 1987 addition. The cathedral ceiling creates 1700s and a rare 18th-century British Bermuda headboard. When a bright, open space for modern family living while following the the home was remodeled in 1962, a bill of goods for building architectural vernacular of a historic Victorian home. materials circa 1858-’60 was found in the rafters of the oldest Outdoors, the swimming pool is surrounded by brick patio, section and is now displayed as a reminder of Sans Souci’s paths and a pergola — its white garden carefully curated to significant historical footprint. maintain a serene outdoor living space. A doctor’s office built in On the grounds, visitors will enjoy the gingerbread-trimmed the front yard in 1910 was moved to the backyard in 1985 to serve gazebo and informal gardens including drift roses, daffodils, iris, as a playhouse for fifth-generation Fosque children. A variety of hydrangea, jasmine, salvia, magnolia and more. Open for the first deciduous and evergreen shrubs and perennials provide year-long time. Mr. & Mrs. John E. Morgan Jr., owners. color and foliage, framing views of the central branch of Onancock Creek. Open for the first time. Dr. & Mrs. Fletcher D. Fosque, owners.

The oldest house in Onancock, Scott Hall was built in 1769. When land was purchased to build Scott Hall, Virginia was still a colony of Great Britain. Originally constructed in a telescope style, the house is now a Dutch Colonial with a cedar-shake roof. Interior highlights include floor-to-ceiling bookcases and a recently renovated master bath. On the landing between the first and second floors, original, exposed hand-hewn notched beams showcase the home’s history. First built with thick walls, alcoves and trap doors, it’s believed that Scott Hall was designed as a fortress. Many such features were corrected in a 2006 renovation. Behind the house, the central branch of Onancock Creek is viewed beside the iron gates of the cemetery where 17 relatives of early Scott Hall owners are buried. The last naval engagement of the Revolutionary War, The Battle of the Barges, took place just beyond Onancock Creek. Commodore Zedekiah Whaley, while in command of the Protector Barge, SCOTT HALL perished in this battle on Nov. 30, 1782. His exact burial site 2 South St., Onancock VA 23417 unknown, the U.S. government added Whaley’s headstone in the Scott Hall Cemetery in 1928. Open for the first time. Ms. Elizabeth A. Lankford, owner. anec.com March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 GRACE AMES HOUSE 18306 HERMITAGE ROAD 5 Ames St., Onancock VA 23417 18306 Hermitage Rd., Onancock VA 23417 Originally built circa 1927, the Grace Ames House sits on a Situated on Onancock Creek, 18306 Hermitage Road is a Federal- point of land on the central branch of Onancock Creek. style brick and wood-sided home. Built in 2005, an addition was J. Grace Ames purchased the property in 1925 and negotiated completed in 2014. access to what is now known as the Ames Street Bridge, which was Secluded by land, this home is located conveniently near the privately owned at that time. Onancock Wharf via water. Notable interior features include a hand- The Grace Ames House is a classic example of a Craftsman painted botanical mural in the front hall, detailed woodwork on bungalow “kit house.” Beginning in the early 1900s, kit houses fireplaces and mantels, and raised paneling in the hall and den. were sold from the pages of catalogues and shipped by train across Visitors to the home will enjoy the main-floor master suite and the United States. gracefully appointed bedrooms with special furnishings such as a The current owners renovated the home from the foundation up handmade needlepoint rug. On the main level, highlights include a in 2016-’17, creating an open, flowing design that incorporates 19th-century American chest in the living room, assorted porcelain multiple vantages of the creek. Light and lines prevail in the and a vast and diverse fine-art collection. Bold use of interior color contemporary interior. Daylight streams through the open master provides a striking backdrop for the art. bath, featuring floor-to-ceiling tile. Eclectic and diverse art by well- Function meets personalization through a series of his-and-hers known Eastern Shore artists has been thoughtfully collected by the parlors and studies, each reflecting the homeowners’ varied homeowners and displayed throughout. The cleverly constructed personal interests. back of the house features a second-story deck with panoramic From the back porch, guests will experience a flurry of maritime creek views. activity. Fishing boats, pleasure cruisers, sailboats and kayaks on Outdoors, the garden is whimsical and unstructured with a focus Onancock Creek provide ever-changing scenery. Beautiful waterside on nature. Migratory birds enjoy native plants and waterfront gardens, from formal to less structured, add to the grandeur of this perches. Open for the first time. Dr. Greg & Patsy Felthousen, owners. property. Open for the first time. George T. & Nell W. Minton, owners.

Tickets: See esgardentours.com for details. Parking: Parking available at Eyre Hall and neighborhood parking available in the Onancock tour area. Continuous shuttle service available on Onancock tour route.

Places of Interest: • Ker Place, 69 Market St., Onancock (Tour Headquarters) • Historic Cokesbury Church, 75 Market St., Onancock • Hopkins and Brothers Store, 2 Market Street, Onancock • Locustville Academy, 28055 Drummondtown Rd., Locustville • Barrier Islands Center and Almshouse Farm, 7295 Young St., Machipongo • Northampton County Courthouse and Court Green, 16404 Courthouse Rd., Eastville • Kiptopeke State Park – 3540 Kiptopeke Dr., Cape Charles

Weekend Tour Activities: • May 3: Walking Tour of Onancock with Dennis Custis 4 p.m. at Ker Place, Onancock • May 3: “Tour of Europe” 7:30 p.m. at Historic Cokesbury Church, Onancock • May 3-4: “Miracle on South Division Street” 8 p.m. at The North Street Playhouse, 34 Market St., Onancock • May 4: Art & Flowers with Pop-up Vendors 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Historic Onancock School • May 4: The Onancock Market 9 a.m. to noon, corner of Market and Ames Streets • May 5: “Tour of Europe” 4 p.m. at Hungars Episcopal Church, Bridgetown

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 A&N Electric Cooperative Director Election

&N Electric Cooperative Directors Nominating Committee prior to May 1, at least seventy-ﬁve (75) days prior to the are elected from the membership 2019, by sending a letter to the address Member-meeting a writing for each Member Ato represent you on the Board. listed below. Petition Nomination (“Member Petition”): Those interested in running for a Board Nominating Committee After verifying that the Member Petition seat can be nominated through the A&N Electric Cooperative complies with this Bylaw, the Cooperative following methods: P.O. Box 290 shall post the Member Petition Nomination

Tasley, VA 23417 in approximately the same location as the (1) The Nominating Committee, Nominating Committee Nominations. All representing the areas to elect Directors, is (2) Member Petition Nominations. nominations and petitions are due in by appointed. The Nominating Committee Members may nominate additional May 1, 2019. will select a slate of candidates to be placed individuals to run for election for any No nominations shall be made from the on the ballot at the Cooperative’s Annual Director position for which Members are ﬂoor at the Annual Member Meeting. Meeting. This year’s Nominating Committee scheduled to vote at any Member meeting Please visit our website for the is scheduled to meet on May 9, 2019. (“Member Petition Nominations”). complete version of A&N Electric Should you have a recommendation, you Members may make Member Petition Cooperative’s Bylaws. can submit your request in writing to the Nominations by delivering to the Secretary

Share your thoughts, shape what’s ahead: AMI Update

2019 online member survey &N Electric Cooperative began installing meters in the coming this spring Apilot phase of its Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project Every two years, a survey is sent to in early February. homeowners to collect information about Meter exchanges are being performed by Allegiant Utility energy usage. The survey covers a variety Services Inc., a contractor working of topics, including questions about the on behalf of the cooperative. construction of your home, types and Cooperative members included in ages of your heating and cooling the pilot test phase received an systems, the amount and ages of your automated phone message from the cooperative a week prior to their appliances, your internet connection and meter exchange. others. Look for the survey to arrive via email in mid-May — it should only take After the pilot meters are fully about 5-10 minutes to complete. deployed the cooperative will conduct tests on the system. The To better serve your needs, your electric cooperative system must pass these tests before needs your input. a full deployment of the system can In fact, your input can impact both existing and new programs and products be initiated. Cooperative members can find offered by your energy cooperative. All answers are strictly confidential, unless more information and track the you have a specific question or issue you would like your cooperative to address. project’s status at anec.com/ content/meter-schedule. Does your cooperative have your email address? Since the survey is only conducted online, please make sure we have your current email address on file.

How are responses used? These surveys are designed to provide information to A&N Electric Cooperative that can be used to better serve your needs. Using your responses, we can modify existing programs to meet changing needs, add new programs, enhance communications with you and more!

anec.com March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 21 22 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 A&N Electric Cooperative Celebrate Arbor Day MESSAGES FROM YOUR CO-OP with Free Seedlings ‰ Visit us at facebook.com/ ANElectricCoop and “like” us. A&N Electric Cooperative is partnering with ‰ anec.com the Virginia Department of Forestry to distribute Visit to sign up to receive Beat the Peak emails or seedlings on Saturday, April 27. text-message alerts. A group will be distributing the seedlings ‰ ® at the Eastern Shore Community College in The Touchstone Energy Co-op Connections® Card is FREE to all Accomack County. ANEC members. The card offers Check the A&N Electric Cooperative website discounts at at anec.com and our social media pages for participating more details. local and nationwide businesses, including prescription drug discounts.

The cooperative will conduct its regular quarterly Member Satisfaction Surveys with the help of TSE Services in March. Log onto anec.com for more details.

anec.com March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 23 BARC News

Keyser’s Corner Personalize your BARC experience with our Mobile App

CEO Mike Keyser

s your cooperative, BARC works to ensure our members have a BARC MOBILE APP KEY CAPABILITY SUMMARY Apersonalized experience and to • View Account Information • View Your Usage offer as many tools as possible in a cost- effective manner. A couple of years ago • View Your Bill History • Manage Alerts we launched the BARC Mobile App for • Make a Payment • View and Report Outages our members to provide additional convenience to pay your bill, view your • View Payment History • Receive Notification of Power Restoration usage, report an outage and receive • Manage Multiple Accounts • Secure Transactions notifications of power restoration, to name a few of its features. As a local company serving its members, digital age, we strive to provide a Program — a free direct debit for the we take pride in providing exceptional personalized online experience as well. highest level of convenience. service to our members, whether it is a The BARC Mobile App is available We are dedicated to providing the tools BARC employee answering the phone in both the Apple and Android app and options that allow you to do business when you call — not a computer or a stores, and allows you to manage all with us in the way you prefer, and when foreign call center — or responding to aspects of your account just as you it fits your schedule. Download the outages or issues in a quick manner. To can through our online portal BARC Mobile App onto your smartphone ensure you can take advantage of the https://ebill.barcelectric.com/oscp. today and have digital convenience at The reporting function allows you your fingertips. to quickly report an outage and get BARC ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE confirmation back when power is restored. P.O. Box 264 No longer will you be required to call in Millboro, VA 24460-0264 1-800-846-2272 your outage — just simply press a few Office Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. buttons and we take care of the rest. barcelectric.com With the BARC Mobile App you can barcconnects.net also pay your monthly electric bill with

Come join us on Facebook something called an “e-check.” The great facebook.com/BARCElectricCooperative thing about an e-check is that the bank fee is just $1 as compared with the credit-card Chief Executive Ofﬁcer processing fee of $3.95 per $300 payment. Michael Keyser You still have convenience of electronic BARC Electric Cooperative is an equal payment but with a much smaller fee. Of opportunity provider and employer. course, we also offer the Worry-Free

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 BARC Electric Cooperative Please help us and participate in the 2019 residential survey

very other year, BARC Electric Cooperative conducts a survey of its residential members on a variety of topics. This survey is Edesigned to provide information that can be used to better serve your needs. Using the responses, your cooperative can modify existing programs to meet changing needs, add new programs, enhance communications with you and more! The survey will ask you about the construction of your home, the types and age of your heating and cooling systems, the number and age of appliances, how you connect to the internet, and a variety of other topics. Unlike quizzes and tests in school, there is nothing you need to study or prepare for in advance. Just sit back, relax and answer the questions to the best of your ability. This year the survey will be conducted entirely online. The rationale for this approach is straightforward:

• Online surveying saves resources, As with all surveys, more is better so those are designed to tailor online ads in no paper used or postage required. please, be sure to take a few minutes to your browser to tempt you to buy something. • It is easy to complete and doesn’t provide your input. All answers are This survey is designed to equip your pick up stains from your coffee cup. confidential unless you have a question or cooperative to add value to your service. issue you would like your cooperative to So please do complete it. Thank you in • It eliminates data-entry errors. contact you about. Just enter that request advance for helping us help you. in the comment box at the end of the survey. Of course, the logical follow-up question Over the next couple of months, BARC is, “What if I don’t have internet access or will be sending reminder emails. Not a Does BARC have your completing things online is difficult for me?” deluge, but one or two to let you know it current email address? Fortunately, there are a number of is still in the works. In mid-May, you will In order to participate in the survey simple solutions. If your internet access is be sent a survey link via email. Please BARC will need your current email limited, try using a PC at your local library complete the survey as soon as you can. address. Please send your email or at a family member’s/friend’s home. The goal is to have the data analyzed and address to [email protected] in Make an event of it and enjoy some good a report prepared by August. After that, the near future so your input can company while you provide input to help look for a summary of the findings in a become part of the results. Like all your cooperative deliver greater value. future article. your account information, it is safe and The survey also works very well on a tablet That’s it. We all get barraged by survey secure with the cooperative. or smartphone. requests when we are online. Many of

TINA’s Tastings

Recipe courtesy of BARC member, Joy Oden.

DIET MOUNTAIN DEW SALAD 6-oz. package sugar-free lemon-flavored gelatin 2 cups boiling water Tina Glenn 1 cup Diet Mountain Dew 20-oz. can crushed pineapple in juice, drained and juice reserved Topping: 1 cup nonfat sour cream 1 teaspoon lemon extract ¼ cup Equal Measure sugar substitute

In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Add Diet Mountain Dew and Congratulations to BARC reserved pineapple juice. Refrigerate this mixture for 30 minutes until thickened, employees Candise and Nate not set. Fold in crushed pineapple and transfer to a shallow 11-inch-by-7-inch dish. Refrigerate 1 ½ hours. Combine topping ingredients in a small bowl and spread on Hiner on the arrival of their ﬁrst top of salad. Cut and serve. Yield: 8 (¾ cup servings) child, Oakley, born Dec. 27, 2018.

barcelectric.com March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 Cooperative Craig-Botetourt Electric News

Additional Information About Your Co-op’s Right-of-Way Process

ne of the goals of Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative (CBEC) is to provide reliable electric service to the Omembership. Reliable means keeping outages to a minimum. CBEC’s service territory is very mountainous and has trees on both sides of the right-of-way. Over the years, this is a challenge that CBEC has dealt with in different ways. The Cooperative has worked to ensure all its rights-of-way are cut every seven years and the service has improved, outside of storm events. CBEC spends almost $1 million each year for right-of-way maintenance. It is CBEC’s second-largest operational expense. For 2019 CBEC has made a key change in the cutting of rights-of-way. The Cooperative has contracted with Weed Control Inc. to add a dedicated person who will do nothing but manage the day-to-day operations of CBEC’s rights-of-way tree cutting. His name is Mike Perkins. He is pictured along with his vehicle so that members will Mike Perkins of Weed Control Inc. will manage the day-to-day be able to recognize him if he’s seen working in their area. His job operations of rights-of-way tree cutting for CBEC. has several duties including the following: • Notifying members with door hangers before the tree-cutting crews are in the area. Just a reminder, during 2019 the areas to be cut include Roanoke County from Route 311 northeast to Botetourt County down to • Managing the tree-cutting crews to ensure they are providing Gala Industries. In Craig County, there will be cutting on Route 611 a quality job for both the Cooperative and the affected member. Peaceful Valley Road. • To answer any questions the members may have regarding This is another example of CBEC evaluating its practices to the process. ensure intended beneﬁts for the members. Thank you for your • To identify dead or danger trees that may affect electric service. understanding and patience.

CRAIG-BOTETOURT Power Supplier Planned-Outage Announcement ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 26198 Craigs Creek Rd. • P.O. Box 265 Appalachian Power has announced two outages that will affect Craig-Botetourt New Castle, VA 24127-0265 Electric Cooperative (CBEC) members. On April 7, 2019, from midnight to 540-864-5121 • 1-800-760-2232 Ofﬁce Hours: M-F, 7:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m. 8 a.m., and May 5, 2019, from midnight to 8 a.m. These outages are related Website: cbec.coop to system improvements that Appalachian Power will be implementing on the Email: [email protected] Mt. Union substation in Botetourt County. CBEC is currently making plans to President minimize the impact on these two days. As we get closer to the event, CBEC Jasper B. Persinger, Jr. will be providing information on exactly which areas will be impacted. It is CEO possible that all of the areas in Roanoke and Craig counties will be affected, Shawn C. Hildebrand along with the southeast portion of Botetourt County. CBEC will be publishing Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer. more information as it becomes available.

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative Nominating Annual Meeting Notice Committee he Annual Meeting of Members of Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative will be DISTRICT NO. 1 held Saturday, June 1, 2019, at 7 p.m. Monroe (West Virginia), At the 2019 Annual Meeting, two directors are to be elected. The directors T Alleghany and Giles counties whose terms expire are Clell R. Clemons, Jr., District No. 1, and Frankie R. Garman, Jr., District No. 2. These directors are eligible for another three-year term if selected by Mrs. Gary L. Brisendine, Chairperson the Nominating Committee. If any member has a desire to have input in selecting a 2116 Cove Creek Road qualiﬁed Cooperative member to run for election from District No. 1, which includes Covington, VA 24426

Monroe (West Virginia), Alleghany and Giles counties, they should meet at the home Ms. Jennifer B. Lee of Mrs. Gary L. Brisendine, 2116 Cove Creek Road, Covington, Virginia, at 3 p.m. 1205 Kanawha Trail on March 20, 2019, telephone number 540-559-2649. Covington, VA 24426 If any member has a desire to have input in selecting a qualiﬁed Cooperative member to run for election from District No. 2, which includes Craig and Roanoke counties, Mr. James R. Bush, Jr. they should meet at the home of Mr. Robert U. Guiles, 6750 Blacksburg Road, 2110 Cove Creek Road Catawba, Virginia, at 7 p.m. on March 21, 2019, telephone number 540-384-6786. Covington, VA 24426 If you are unable to be present for the Nominating Committee meeting and you are a member of District No. 1 or District No. 2, contact one of the Nominating Committee DISTRICT NO. 2 members prior to their meeting. Craig and Roanoke counties

Mr. Robert U. Guiles, Chairperson Listed below are two sections from Article IV of our bylaws regarding board members. 6750 Blacksburg Road Catawba, VA 24070

Article IV Sections Regarding Board Members Mr. Michael N. Ricucci 7475 Blacksburg Road SECTION 4.3 – Director Qualifications. materially affiliated with, or have a Catawba, VA 24070 Any Director or Director candidate must material financial interest in, any comply with this Section. individual or entity other than an Mr. Richard Kelly A. Director Qualifications. A Director or entity in which the cooperative 8564 Gravel Hill Road Director candidate must: possessed an ownership interest Catawba, VA 24070 1. Be a natural person; (other than an entity in which the 2. Have the capacity to enter into Cooperative possesses an ownership legally binding contracts; and interest): with all Director Qualifications does not 3. Be a Member in good standing a. Directly and substantially affect the Board action. residing in the Geographic Director competing with the Cooperative; District from which the Director is b. Selling goods or services in SECTION 4.4 – Director Nominations. elected or chosen. substantial quantity to the Director candidates shall be nominated as 4. If the Cooperative has any separate Cooperative or to a substantial follows: Director Districts for any Class, be a number of Members; or A. Nominating Committee Nominations. Member of such Class. c. Possessing a substantial conflict Within 150 days before the Member Items 1-4 collectively, “Membership of interest with the Cooperative. Meeting, the Board shall appoint a Director Qualifications.” Items a-c collectively, “Conflict of Nominating Committee of three B. Conflict of Interest Director Qualifications. Interest Director Qualifications.” Members from each Director District While a Director, and during the one C. Continuing Director Qualifications. (“Nominating Committee”). year immediately prior to becoming a Only natural persons complying with Nominating Committee members may Director, a Director or Director candidate the Membership Director Qualifications, not be an existing or a Close Relative of must not be, nor have been: and Conflict of Interest Director an existing, Cooperative Director, 1. A Close Relative of any existing Qualifications (collectively, “Director Officer, employee, agent, representative, Director, other than an existing Qualifications”) may serve, or continue or known Director candidate. Director who will cease being a to serve, as a Director. At least sixty (60) days prior to the Director within one year; After being elected or appointed a Member Meeting at which Members are 2. An existing, or a Close Relative of an Director, if any Director fails to comply scheduled to elect Directors, a Nominating existing, non-Director Cooperative with any Director Qualification, as Committee shall: Officer, employee, agent, or determined by the Board, then the Board 1. Nominate at least one individual to representative; shall remove the Director. If at least a run for election for each Director 3. Employed by, materially affiliated majority of Directors authorized by these position for which Members are with, or share a material financial Bylaws comply with the Director scheduled to vote at the Member interest with, any other Director; or Qualifications and approve a Board action, Meeting (“Nominating Committee 4. Engaged in, nor employed by, then the failure of any Director to comply Nominations”); and cbec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 2. Post the Nominating Committee Nominations at the Cooperative’s principal office and publish the Nominating Committee Nominations in “Cooperative Living” magazine. The Cooperative may reasonably compensate or reimburse Nominating Committee members as determined by the Board. B. Member Petition Nominations. Members may nominate additional individuals to run for election for any Director position for which Members are scheduled to vote at any Member Meeting (“Member Petition Nominations”). Members may make Member Petition Nominations by delivery to the Secretary at least sixty business days prior to the Member Meeting in writing for each Member Petition Nomination (“Member Petition”): 1. Listing the name of the Member Petition Nominee; 2. Indicating the Director position for which the Member Petition Nominee will run; and 3. Containing the printed names, addresses, telephone numbers, and original signatures, of at least five percent (5%) of the Members located in the Director District for which the person named in the Member Petition will run. After verifying that a Member Petition complies with this Bylaw, the Cooperative shall post the Member Petition Nomination in approximately the same location as the Nominating Committee Nominations. C. Notice of Director Nominations. At least ten days prior to any Member Meeting at which Members are scheduled to elect Directors, the Cooperative shall notify Members of the: 1. Director positions for which Members are scheduled to vote; 2. Names and corresponding Director positions of all Nominating Committee Nominations; and 3. Names and corresponding Director positions of all Member Petition Nominations. D. Nominations from Floor. Additional nominations for Director for a Director District may be made from the floor at a Member Meeting. No Member may nominate more than one candidate.

Want to be involved with your Cooperative?

Members interested in serving on the board or knowing of a member desiring to serve, please contact management, a director or nominating committee member. Volunteering for the Advisory Board, attending the annual meeting and reading Cooperative Living magazine are all very important for every member.

NOTICE OF CRAIG-BOTETOURT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE CBEC Office REGARDING FUEL MIX AND EMISSIONS DATA Closed for Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative (CBEC) purchases the power it provides to its Good Friday, customers through wholesale contracts. 14.37 percent of this purchased power comes from hydropower from the Southeastern Power Administration, which CBEC considers a non- April 19, 2019 emitting resource. The remainder 85.63 percent, and majority, of CBEC’s generation mix comes from purchased-power contracts linked to the general PJM marketplace. The power from the PJM marketplace includes natural gas, coal, oil, wind, solar, landﬁll gas, nuclear, Our ofﬁce in New Castle, demand response, and other sources. For additional information on PJM regional Virginia, will be closed in emissions, please visit: pjm.com/library/reports-notices.aspx. observance of Good Friday. If you have an outage during this time, please contact our CBEC January Outages after-hours dispatcher by calling Members Area 540-864-5121. We hope everyone Date Affected Duration Affected Cause has a pleasant Easter holiday. Jan. 1 323 4.15 hours Craig County and Monroe County, WV Tree

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative Community Electric Cooperative News

Smooth out your payments with levelized billing

ant to smooth out most of the How It Works To Enroll fluctuation in the amount you Payment amounts differ each month. To enroll in Levelized Billing, please Wpay for your monthly electric The payment amount is re-calculated each complete the form on our website bill? If so, sign up for Levelized Billing. month by averaging your current month’s comelec.coop/content/levelizedbilling. You qualify if you have been a CEC kWh usage with the previous 11 months. residential customer for at least 12 months Satisfaction Guaranteed and have a good payment history. Plan Settlement If you’re not completely satisfied, Levelized Billing calculates an average There is no yearly settlement — the you may stop Levelized Billing at cost based on a 12-month moving average average simply re-calculates each month. any time. of electric usage. The average simply recalculates each month, helping to guard against unexpectedly high bills due to colder winter temperatures or hotter Stone retires after 24 years of service summer temperatures. It does not reduce aisy Stone retired from the your overall energy expense; it simply accounting and finance department helps to guard against unexpectedly of Community Electric Cooperative high bills. D (CEC). Stone started her tenure with CEC in 1995 as a custodian, transitioned to a member service representative, and ultimately advanced to an accountant role, where she remained until her retirement. For nearly 25 years, Stone has been committed to the success and professionalism of her role at CEC. Steve Harmon, president & CEO, said, “I want to express my deep appreciation for the opportunity to work alongside and benefit from the talent and dedication that Daisy has shown at Community Electric Cooperative. We have been honored and humbled by having her as part of our team COMMUNITY ELECTRIC for so long. Along with the entire Board of COOPERATIVE Directors and our management staff, From left: Steve Harmon, Daisy Stone and 52 W. Windsor Boulevard we’d like to wish Daisy a happy and Jennie Barrett. P.O. Box 267 healthy retirement.” Windsor, VA 23487-0267 Stone has been a strong leader, “Daisy has exemplified the cooperative 757-242-6181 After-Hours Outages: 1-855-700-2667 encouraging improvement in audit quality spirit in the many positions she has Office Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and working to facilitate important growth worked at CEC. She is an inspiration comelec.coop goals of CEC. She was able to offer demonstrated by her eagerness to learn President/CEO consistent implementation and application and to teach, having a positive attitude, Steven A. Harmon of new accounting standards. During her and promoting an overall team effort! We Local Pages Editor extensive time with the Cooperative, Stone will miss Daisy as a wonderful employee Jessica Parr was able to offer the partners and members and as a good friend. CEC wishes her all the information they need to make the best!” said Jennie Barrett, vice Community Electric Cooperative is an informed decisions based on credible and president of finance and accounting at equal opportunity provider and employer. fairly presented financial statements. Community Electric Cooperative.

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Community Electric Cooperative CEC employees recognized for years of service

ommunity Electric Cooperative (CEC) recognized employees for their continued and faithful service to the CCooperative. The following employees pictured were presented awards for their years of service to the Cooperative. Standing, from left: Five years – Steven A. Harmon, president & CEO 20 years – Ricky Brame, staking engineer (recently resigned) 35 years – Michael Glascock, store keeper & work order clerk 30 years – Danny Beale, crew leader 10 years – John Stewart, assistant secretary/treasurer, CEC Board of Directors 20 years – Carey Copeland, vice chairman, CEC Board of Directors; president, TES Board of Directors 30 years – Helen Brown, bookkeeper (seated)

Source: call811.com comelec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 POWERING Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative THE NEXT GENERATION

Battling Mother Nature Through Wind, Ice, Lightning and Hurricanes ... Please Join Us in Celebrating MEC’s Tireless and Diligent Line Workers on April 8

It is an honored tradition at Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative (MEC) and electric cooperatives across the country to recognize their line workers on the second Monday of April each year in appreciation for the difficult work they do DAILY to keep power flowing to homes, schools and businesses. The date was designated by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), of which MEC is a member. During the past 12 months Mother Nature has dealt numerous challenges for our Cooperative and its faithful employees ... treacherous weather conditions have created outages involving near-impossible travel conditions for MEC crews to reach areas to make repairs. Line workers have faced broken poles to be replaced, span after span of wire on the ground, and countless trees and limbs on electric lines serving our members. Even though facing these difficult and oftentimes potentially dangerous circumstances, your MEC crews worked diligently, safely and with strong resolve and urgency. They plowed on throughout days and nights to restore power to those in need. We commend these loyal, reliable and hardworking individuals, and we invite you to join us on April 8 in recognizing those who work so faithfully to keep the lights on, even in the worst kinds of weather.

Thank you for your service!

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative National Lineman Appreciation Day Resolution

Whereas linemen leave their families and put their lives on the line every day to keep the power on;

Whereas linemen work 365 days a year under dangerous conditions to build, maintain and repair the electric infrastructure;

Whereas linemen are the first responders of the electric cooperative family, getting power back on and making things safe for all after storms and accidents; and

Whereas there would be no electric cooperatives without the brave men and women who comprise our corps of linemen;

Therefore be it resolved that NRECA recognizes the second Monday of April of each year as National Lineman Appreciation Day ... to recognize the contributions of these valuable men and women to America’s Electric Cooperatives.

meckelec.org March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ... SHAPE WHAT’S AHEAD 2019 Online Member Survey Coming This Spring

Every two years, a survey is sent to our members to collect information about energy usage. The survey covers a variety of topics, including questions about the construction of your home, types and ages of your heating and cooling systems, the amount and ages of your appliances, your internet connection and other topics. Look for the survey to arrive via email in mid-May — it should only take about 5-10 minutes to complete. 1938 — MEC’s Jack Smith (left), charged with gathering information for a feasibility study, and Norman Williams, Mecklenburg County agent, look over a map to be presented to the State Corporation Commission.

MEC Celebrates 81 Years of Serving Its Members!

March 18, 1938!! That’s the date that the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) approved the charter for the establishment of Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative (MEC). Rural residents who desperately needed electric service but had been denied by existing utilities formed their own electricity provider and received a loan from the Rural

MEC member Cassie Neal sends her email address to Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative Electrification Administration (REA) so she can participate in the upcoming survey. to begin construction of lines. Created by the people and for the To better serve your needs, please give us your input. people, those who received its electric Your input impacts both existing and new programs as well as possible products offered service then, as well as today, are by Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative. All answers are confidential; and if you have a more than “customers” ... they are question or issue you would like your Cooperative to contact you about, just enter your “members” and part-owners of this request in the comment box at the end of the survey. not-for-profit organization.

Early 1940s Testimony

“Brothers and sisters, I want to tell you this. The greatest

thing on earth is to have the Do we have your email address? love of God in your heart, and Since the survey is only conducted online, please make sure we have your current email the next greatest thing is to address on ﬁle*. You can provide yours to us at [email protected] or by calling 434-372-6122. Please include your MEC account number. have electricity in your house.”

— Farmer giving witness in a *Your email address as well as all your electric account information is safe and secure with us. rural Tennessee church

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative Final Hurdle Cleared, SCC Approves EMPOWER Broadband ... Time to Roll!

n Jan. 30, 2019, the Virginia State Corporation Commission WE ARE ON THE MOVE! O(SCC) approved the formation For months we’ve been touting MEC’s fiber backbone as we sought SCC of Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative’s approval for our EMPOWER Broadband Fiber-To-The-Premises subsidiary; and rest (MEC) affiliate, EMPOWER Broadband assured, we’ve made the most of that time and have been busy at work. To date, Incorporated and, accordingly, the management agreement between the MEC construction crews have deployed over 15 miles of backbone fiber from our two organizations. Those approvals Chase City Headquarters Office to our Black Branch Substation and onward to represented the final hurdle for your Highway 360. Additionally, to the east, our engineering team has designed the Cooperative to bring you the very best in backbone-system layout from Big Fork down Route 1 across Red Lawn Road, and high-speed internet access. You and your along 903 through Bracey and all the way to Ebony. We have proudly reached an family no longer have to settle for less agreement with the residents there to serve the Morristown Subdivision in Bracey; because you live in a beautiful rural area ... and to bolster our efforts on the eastern front, we’ve put line contractors to work EMPOWER is now officially and legally preparing the line and deploying fiber … this project is on the move! Over 100 electric cooperatives EMPOWER’s initial grant-funding parameters establish eligibility of service to those within 1,000 feet of the fiber backbone ... in the immediate future we’ll be across the country are contacting those who are eligible for service in this initial run! When our team successfully enabling the delivers the news that fiber is available to you ... let us know you’re signing on provision of fiber broadband immediately, during the engineering phase, and we’ll designate a fiber drop to your home or business and get you on our installer’s schedule. services to their members. The best part of signing up during the design phase? Doing so gets you FREE home phone service for one year (a $360 savings)! When you see crews at work authorized to commence its offering of in these areas … fiber has arrived! If you have questions … call EMPOWER Fiber-To-The-Premises broadband service with the same high-quality service and Broadband at 434-372-6244 or check our website at empowermec.net! dependability you have come to expect from your electric cooperative. Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative is farms and businesses. This fiber-optic for our students, our businesses, and for a certificated electric service provider network creates a “Super Highway” for the conveniences of today’s communication regulated by and under the purview of data ... the same highway needed to connect needs. Providing this service succinctly the SCC. Virginia law authorizes to the worldwide web. This fiber network supports our mission ... “to create services member-owned cooperatives to operate and enhance the quality of life.” subsidiaries deemed beneficial to their Providing this service is EMPOWER Broadband is open for members and communities ... and business and is now connecting homes EMPOWER Broadband overwhelmingly a part of our mission ... and businesses adjacent to MEC’s fiber fits that definition! “to create services and enhance network! Keep track of our construction Over the past several years, your schedule and the communities we are Cooperative has listened to your escalating the quality of life.” currently serving at meckelec.org, requests that we make a difference in empowermec.net and social media. meeting our region’s need for high-speed provides an opportunity for those with internet, and we have heeded those calls! no access, or an inadequate connection to Through the growing communications the web ... to have the best technology needs of MEC, it became necessary for available! your Cooperative to increase the MEC is a service organization created to capabilities of the communications serve you ... and deploying this new fiber- network connecting its substations and optic cable allows us to meet the needs of our district offices. To address this need, many members who are without the MEC is deploying a ring of fiber-optic internet connectivity they deserve. Once cable across its system ... passing through again, your Cooperative is working to your communities, and by your homes, meet your needs and level the playing field meckelec.org March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 21 The Little Boy Who Could: Meet James R. Edwards Jr. by Laura Emery, Field Editor

s a wide-eyed youngster playing in the grease at his father’s auto shop Ain Emporia, James R. Edwards Jr. idolized his dad and was certain he’d follow in his footsteps. “I was at my father’s auto-repair shop as often as possible. I would help where needed. Any chance I got, I would try and get my hands in the grease,” he says with a laugh. But there was no way then that he could have known his life’s trajectory … that he would take a divergent path from the one expected, only to rise through the ranks in PHOTOS EMERY LAURA law enforcement to become sheriff of the county where he was born and reared. The youngster from Emporia, Virginia, would also one day meet the president of the United States and, ultimately, carry on his father’s legacy at the auto-repair shop. On this cool January morning, the now- 61-year-old is beneath a large sport utility vehicle up on the shop’s hydraulic lift. Like the little boy in the shop 50-some years ago, he’s at home again with grease on his hands. “I love working here at the shop At Jimmie’s Auto Repair, James R. Edwards Jr. because cars are fascinating and there’s maintains the same quality of customer service nothing better than gettin’ that grease on his father was known for back in the 1960s. you,” he says, smiling. At Jimmie’s Auto Edwards reached the pinnacle of his law- Repair, Edwards maintains the same enforcement career when he was elected

quality of customer service his father was sheriff of Greensville County. OF GREENSVILLECOUNTYVA.GOV COURTESY PHOTO known for back in the 1960s. It’s mostly a one-man shop, though he sometimes gets Edwards began teaching auto mechanics he explains. “As a law-enforcement officer, help from his childhood friend, Michael at a local high school. Then, he left his I gave it my all. I tried to always treat Fields. Edwards does oil changes, minor hometown and found himself in Richmond people fairly. I didn’t ask anybody to do tune-ups, brake work, front-end work and working for Haley Pontiac. anything that I wouldn’t do.” some engine work. “It’s still the place to It wasn’t long before his small-town But it was a job that came with daily bring your car for good service and fair roots led him back home again. “It was too uncertainty. “Because of the dangers of prices,” he says. busy for me in Richmond and I wanted a the job, I just never knew for sure that I The second-youngest child of five change of pace, so I came back to Emporia,” would return home to my wife, Linda, and siblings and the only boy, Edwards had the he explains. Upon returning to the area two sons, James III and JaShawn. I didn’t kind of childhood you’d expect in a small where he was born and raised, Edwards take anything for granted. I knew I was town like Emporia. “It was nice, quiet,” he decided to apply for a job as a jailer at the blessed,” he says. says. “My parents were good, hardworking Greensville County Sheriff’s office. In 2007, Edwards reached the pinnacle people who raised five children. They “I believed that nothing was impossible of his law-enforcement career when he taught us morals. They themselves would if I put my heart and soul into it. Before was elected sheriff of Greensville County. have given you the shirt off their back.” long, I began to move up the ranks ... “I was so honored to be able to make it to After graduating from Norfolk State jailer, then road deputy, then corporal, that position,” says the “Gunsmoke” University with a degree in auto mechanics, then sergeant, then lieutenant captain,” television-show fan.

22 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative When asked what the highlight of his are supposed to live forever and always be the best feeling in the world,” he says. 34-year career in law enforcement was, there to turn to when you need them. But Proud to be a member of Mecklenburg Edwards doesn’t hesitate. “It was when I it doesn’t work that way, and I don’t have Electric Cooperative, Edwards says the got to meet the president of the United them now to turn to,” he says. service is top-notch. “Any time the States. It still amazes me that a small-town But Edwards is certain his parents are power is out, those guys are right on the boy from Emporia, Virginia, got to meet looking down on him and smiling. “I know money. There’s a great group of people the president,” he says, with a chuckle. they’re proud of me. Sometimes, I see a there. I really appreciate what they do,” Upon his retirement from law enforcement butterfly flutter through the shop and I’m he says. in 2015, Edwards decided to spruce up thinking it’s my dad coming by to check Does Edwards have any advice for the building that once housed his father’s on me. That’s just how I like to think of it,” younger generations? He says, “Go for auto shop. “It wasn’t time to let it go,” he he says, softly. your dreams. You can do anything you put says. “My dad would be proud to see me At the back of the shop sits a bright- your mind to. But education is the key. here in this building — the one that he yellow 1967 Camaro, Edwards’ Christmas I thought back then I could do anything, built to make a living and send five kids gift to himself. “In my spare time, I enjoy that nothing was impossible if I put my off to college. I’ve got a lot of his old drag racing,” he says. “I’m going to build heart and soul into it. Get your education customers and they always tell me that a race engine into the Camaro.” He’s also and then dream big and shoot for I look like him.” passionate about his favorite football team, the stars.” The comparison is especially poignant the Philadelphia Eagles, and being a now that both his parents are deceased. “I grandfather — but not in that order. He’s For More Information lost my mother in 1995 to lung cancer and got two grandchildren: Jillian, 6 months Jimmie’s Auto Repair then my father in 1998. It was really hard. old, and Jordyn, 7 years old. “Being a 1854 Halifax Street As a kid, you think your mother and father grandparent is a beautiful experience; it’s Emporia, VA 23847

Right: At the back of the shop sits a bright- yellow 1967 Camaro, Edwards’ Christmas gift to himself. Below, left: When asked what the highlight of his 34-year career in law enforcement was, Edwards doesn’t hesitate. “It was when I got to meet the president of the United States. It still amazes me that a small-town boy from Emporia, Virginia, got to meet the president,” he says. Below, right: Jimmie’s Auto Repair is mostly a one-man shop, though he sometimes gets help from his childhood friend, Michael Fields. Edwards does oil changes, minor tune-ups, brake work, front- end work and some engine work. “It’s still the place to bring your car for good service and fair prices,” he says.

meckelec.org March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 23 MECKLENBURG ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE P.O. Box 2451 Chase City, VA 23924-2451 .W. Parks is a five-year employee of Chase City District Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative (434) 372-6200 (MEC) who exhibits determination Emporia District T and drive in his electrical profession. In (434) 634-6168 the short time that he has worked here, Gretna District he has already won numerous awards at (434) 656-1288 regional and international lineman’s Power Failure & Emergencies competitions. The first was at a regional (877) 632-5688 event in 2016 where he competed as Office Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ground technician on a team with Paul Website: meckelec.org Underwood and Jason McKinney. Their Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative is an team placed first among 14 others in the equal opportunity provider and employer. “Transformer Replacement” event. In January of the next year MEC promoted him to apprentice line technician and he began the apprentice T. W. Parks Apprentice Line Technician program that provides extensive and Reminders Chase City District diverse training in specialized technical Five years of service procedures and skills necessary for all phases of line construction, operations and maintenance. Five months later he T.W.’s strong work ethic originated from

competed at the regional rodeo again, this his grandfather’s influence. “I drove the time in the apprentice category among tractor in the tobacco field for my Papa 47 others; and he placed third overall, when I was so small I had to stand on the Daylight Saving Time thus qualifying to participate in the clutch to stop the tractor,” he grins. He begins Sunday, March 10. International Lineman’s Rodeo in Kansas. also learned commitment to doing a job Again last year his exceptional performance well while working under the supervision at the regional rodeo qualified him to of his father, the late Steve Parks, who was compete in Kansas among 300 other a professional carpenter. apprentices! T.W. works in the Chase City district T.W. says his job responsibilities at and lives just outside of town. He and his Mecklenburg Electric vary as he progresses wife, Jennifer, who is a receptionist at

through the eight-step program to become South Hill Family Medicine, have been Deadline for submitting a journeyman line technician. It takes married six years. Their pride and joy is applications for their 19-month-old son, Declan, who MEC Scholarships is four years of training in prescribed Friday, March 29. operating procedures and Cooperative loves to play in water — at the lake, the safety rules, as well as supervised hands-on pool or the beach. T.W. loves the water experience to advance from the role of himself and enjoys off-shore ﬁshing at assisting crew members in constructing the Outer Banks and duck hunting with and maintaining de-energized lines to his 4-year-old chocolate Lab named personally performing line-construction Tucker. tasks on energized overhead and T.W. was raised in the Black Branch underground lines. community of Mecklenburg County. MEC ofﬁces will be closed He comments, “My co-workers and He says, “I came to Mecklenburg Electric on Monday, April 22, for I work hard for all our members; and Cooperative because I wanted to have Easter Monday. during an outage, we want to get the a chance to give back to the community power back on for them as safely and where I grew up and also to surrounding quickly as possible.” He adds, “It is areas. Working with the close-knit group Please note that this issue of rewarding to hear compliments from of employees here is like working with Cooperative Living is our combined members about MEC and our work. They family, and I wear the MEC uniform March-April edition. Your next know we are going to take care of them.” with pride.” magazine will come in May.

24 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative MEC Welcomes Dustin Francis

ustin Francis has been hired as Mecklenburg Electric DCooperative’s (MEC) community relations coordinator. He will be creating and maintaining marketing, demand-side energy and conservation programs, developing the key accounts program, and representing MEC in governmental, community and professional organizations. He will also be seeking out economic development opportunities and ways to promote Mecklenburg’s positive role in the community, as well as providing articles for Cooperative Living. For the past seven years he was employed with the Halifax County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce where he served as road deputy and crime-prevention ofﬁcer. He enjoyed making presentations on safety and other topics to various civic organizations, senior-citizen groups and classroom students. Dustin, who earned a degree from Liberty University in Lynchburg, also serves his community as assistant pastor at Dan River Baptist Church in South Boston, Virginia. He and his wife, Liz, live in Nathalie and have two sons, Gerald age 3 and Joey age 1. Dustin says, “I am grateful for the opportunity to come to MEC, and I am really looking forward to being part of an organization that has such a great reputation among its members and the communities it serves. Energy conservation is one of my passions, and I hope to be a great asset in guiding our members to know how to reduce their energy consumption and save money.”

Dustin Shares Energy-Saving Tips:

• For more efﬁcient operation of your heating and cooling units, have them inspected annually. Also, make sure all ductwork is intact and sealed properly.

• To lower your electric bill and lengthen the life of your refrigerator, unplug it and dust the coils using a vaccum and a small brush.

meckelec.org March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 25 Northern Neck Electric Cooperative News

April 8, 2019

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Northern Neck Electric Cooperative NNEC board and staff visit state legislators in Richmond

n Jan. 29, Northern Neck Electric Cooperative (NNEC) board members and staff joined more than 200 directors and staff members from 12 other member-owned Oelectric cooperatives from across the commonwealth for the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives’ (VMDAEC) annual legislative conference at the state capitol. Those attending were board members Hunter Greenlaw, Ralph Sutton, James Wise, Holly Wargo and Wayne Saunders, as well as NNEC President and CEO Greg White; Richard McLendon, vice president of member services and information technology; and Jay Garner, public relations manager. Above: NNEC board members meet Del. Following an early-morning VMDAEC governmental-affairs brieﬁng, NNEC visited Bob Thomas. Below: NNEC President and with several state lawmakers and their staff. The General Assembly visit provided directors CEO Greg White speaks at the VMDAEC and management an opportunity to discuss face-to-face with legislators how proposed board meeting during the annual legislative legislation might affect members of NNEC. conference held Jan. 29.

NORTHERN NECK ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 85 St. Johns Street P.O. Box 288 Warsaw, VA 22572-0288 804-333-3621 • 1-800-243-2860 nnec.coop Ofﬁce Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. President & CEO Greg W. White Local Pages Editor Jay Garner Northern Neck Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer. NNEC board members and staff meet with Del. Margaret Ransone. L-R: Hunter Greenlaw, James Wise, Del. Ransone, Greg White, Richard McLendon, Ralph Sutton and Holly Wargo. nnec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 in the Northern Neck

‘Playground of the Potomac’ — Colonial Beach • Wednesday, May 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

he Garden Club of the Northern Neck invites you to “The Playground of the Potomac,” as Colonial Beach was named in 1892. This small Ttown, bordered by the Potomac River and Monroe Bay, has melded its river, beach and fishing-resort history with today’s bird sanctuaries, unspoiled beauty and golf-cart attitude to make it a unique spot to come and play. In this quiet northwestern part of Virginia’s historic Westmoreland County and the Northern Neck, you’ll experience the second-longest public beach in Virginia, bungalows, cottages and easy coastal living. WideRiver 121 Irving Avenue Enjoy overlooking the town beach while visiting the creamy yellow house and cottage here at WideRiver. The original two-story wood-frame house dates to 1886 and was built by John B. Hammond, a well-known early developer. The house reflects similarities to another Hammond project, the Bell House, the once summer home of Alexander Graham Bell. The two- bedroom, one-bath cottage on the property Starfish Cottage was constructed in 2017 by Terry’s parents 1203 Irving Avenue Sweetwater Hall of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to allow them Starfish Cottage is a perfect 1930s beach 1109 Irving Avenue to be close to their grandchildren. Though bungalow that relishes spectacular vistas of The owners of this home enjoy the the cottage mirrors many features of the the Potomac River. Beach-bungalow style very best of both old and new since this main house, it was built in the Katrina loves incorporating the primary colors of majestic Victorian house is new, built in shotgun style used in post-Katrina its surroundings, and Starfish Cottage is no 2010. Owners Julia and Thomas Savage Louisiana. Neil Austriaco and Terry exception. From its whimsical décor to its purchased the property in 2018. It has Miller, owners. quintessential wraparound screened porch, been modeled precisely from the original this home personifies the attitude and family home using the same footprint and magnetism of this river beach community. floor plan. As you explore this house with Notice the vintage ’30s features throughout its gleaming wood floors you’ll find it the cottage: pine floors, glass doorknobs, difficult to look at anything other than the interesting moldings and exposed-beam water views! Light and water dominate ceilings. The back garden is alive with the house through its 69 windows. The summer color featuring a myriad of roses, upstairs veranda could cause one to spend hydrangea and more. Don’t miss the hours doing nothing but soaking in the classic, customized 1957 Chevy golf cart. activities on the water, beach and sidewalk. Duff House It’s photographed wherever it goes in Thomas, who grew up coming to Colonial 910 Bryant Avenue Colonial Beach! You will find this cheerful Beach, can’t help but reminisce about Owners James and Brenda Duff will property difficult to leave. Glenn and Teri crab pots, sailboats and misty mornings delight you with both the interior and Lewis, owners. as he relishes his and Julia’s new home. exterior of their 2015-built cottage-style- Thomas and Julia Savage, owners. design home. The interior deviates from that typical style, however, to accommodate their extensive collection of American and European watercolors, etchings, paintings, lithographs and Japanese woodblock prints. The house and environs continue to evolve as they add to their outdoor living spaces. You’ll see a wide sampling of

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Northern Neck Electric Cooperative special perennials and colorful seasonal plantings. Japanese maples and crepe Tour Information myrtles add texture and diversity to the 400 shrubs, trees and perennials installed This is an escorted shuttle tour beginning at headquarters, departing every in the fall of 2018. This whole property 20-30 minutes. Shuttles run continuously. Last tour begins at 3 p.m. entices one to enjoy the beauties of the Online: vagardenweek.org/main/tourdetails?id=415 arts, the water and natural beauty of the Tour Headquarters: Colonial Beach Community Center, 717 Marshall Avenue. gardens. James and Brenda Duff, owners. Tickets: Advance: $25 per person, vagardenweek.org/main/tickets. Locally: Colonial Collectibles in Warsaw, The Dandelion in Irvington, Callao Coffee & Café in Callao, The Art of Coffee in Montross, and Wilkerson’s Restaurant and Riverview Inn in Colonial Beach. Day of Tour: $35 per person at Tour Headquarters. Parking: Available only at Tour Headquarters. NO parking at tour homes. Lunch: Colonial Beach has 14 restaurants serving lunch and one fast-food option. Large groups or tour buses should contact the Bus and Group Tour Coordinator to make lunch arrangements. Refreshments: Complimentary cookies and lemonade served at the newly renovated Riverview Inn, 24 Hawthorn Street, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Redman House While there, visitors may view one of the motel rooms newly decorated in 943 Bryant Avenue a serene-yet-fun beach style. The home of Jon and Robin Redman Facilities: Restrooms available at Tour Headquarters and the Regional is unique from the other offerings in (Cooper) Library, 20 Washington Avenue. Colonial Beach in its coastal-style design. Built in 2004 and purchased by the current Bus and Group Tour Information: Gail Sigler, [email protected], 804-472-2409 owners in 2011, it was updated and Chairman: Pam Minor, [email protected] expanded to provide adequate space for Co-Chairs: Cynthia Madey, Alice Wilkerson an ever-growing family and its pets. The property features a six-bedroom family Local Attractions: home, a three-bedroom guesthouse with in-ground pool, and a separate teen space James Monroe Birthplace, 4460 James Monroe Highway, Colonial Beach. for four. Boasting expansive private Grand Opening being held in conjunction with this tour. No admission fee. waterfront views and access, the main house opens to multi-level decks with Stratford Hall Plantation, 483 Great House Road, Montross. Historic home of the fully outﬁtted bar and private dock. “Lees of Virginia” and one of the ﬁnest examples of Georgian architecture in the Ornamental grasses and thoughtful country. The Garden Club of Virginia, using Historic Garden Week proceeds, landscaping add to the beauty of this restored the formal east garden. Admission waived with an HGW ticket on the welcoming home. The Redmans love their Northern Neck Tour day. home but the location in Colonial Beach is what makes it special to them and their The Museum at Colonial Beach, 128 Hawthorn Street, Colonial Beach. Formed family. Jon and Robin Redman, owners. in 1994, The Colonial Beach Historical Society promotes the preservation and history of the region. The Museum opened in 1998.

George Washington’s Birthplace National Monument, 1732 Pope’s Creek Road, Colonial Beach. nps.gov/gewa. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission.

Ingleside Winery, 5872 Leedstown Road, Colonial Beach. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets and free shuttle services are available at the Community Center Tour Headquarters, 717 Marshall Avenue. We are asking guests to leave their private vehicles at the headquarters parking lot. There is no parking at tour homes. The shuttles will circle the route of the ﬁve open houses and the Riverview Inn continuously throughout the day beginning at 10 a.m. Complimentary refreshments will be served at the Riverview Inn, 24 Hawthorn Street. Garden Club members will serve as hostesses on each shuttle to answer questions and provide guidance to make the day a great experience.

nnec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 21 NNEC donates to Free Health Clinic

ecently, Northern Neck Electric Cooperative’s (NNEC) board of Rdirectors presented a donation to the Northern Neck-Middlesex Free Health Clinic (NNMFHC). The clinic serves low-income, uninsured and under-insured residents in Lancaster, Middlesex, Northumberland, Richmond and Westmoreland counties. It embraces health and wellness as the foundation for quality of life and dedicates itself to providing the highest level of health care to all those who lack access to it within our community. NNMFHC was formed in 1992 and is run entirely from the donations it receives. Since its founding, the clinic L-R: Holly Wargo, Rusty Brown, Ralph Sutton, Hunter Greenlaw, Jean Nelson (executive has handled over 160,000 medical, dental director of NNMFHC), Wayne Saunders, Steve Thomas and James Wise. and counseling visits; filled over 550,000 prescriptions; and made over 130,000 medical referrals. NNEC is proud to support this organization that is helping to 2019 is an NNEC survey year fill in the critical health-care gaps within our local community. his year, Northern Neck Electric Cooperative (NNEC) will conduct several surveys of its residential members on a variety of topics. These surveys are designed to provide Tinformation to NNEC that can be used to better serve your needs. Using your Inquiry or responses, we can modify existing programs to meet changing needs, add new programs, Complaint Procedure enhance communications with you and more! In May, you will receive an email with the Residential Energy Survey that will ask you Northern Neck Electric Cooperative about the construction of your home, the types and age of your heating and cooling systems, has established a customer inquiry or the number and age of appliances, how you connect to the internet, and a variety of other complaint procedure pursuant to topics. Unlike quizzes and tests in school, there is nothing you need to study or prepare for Section 56-247.1 of the Code of Virginia. in advance. Just sit back, relax and answer the questions to the best of your ability. This procedure has been adopted to The Residential Energy Survey will be conducted entirely online. The rationale for this ensure prompt and effective handling of approach is straightforward: all customer inquiries and is on file in the cooperative’s business office. In keeping • Online surveying saves resources, no paper used or postage required. with the provisions of the Code of • It is easy to complete. Virginia, this notice is to advise that • It eliminates data-entry errors. should you have a question, inquiry or complaint concerning Northern Neck Of course, the logical follow-up question is, “What if I don’t have internet access or Electric Cooperative service, please completing things online is difficult for me?” call 804-333-3621 or toll-free 1-800- If your internet access is limited, try using a PC at your local library or at a family member’s/ 243-2860 between the hours of 8 a.m. friend’s home. Make an event of it and enjoy some and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. good company while you provide input to help your Does your co-op have Northern Neck Electric Cooperative’s cooperative deliver greater value. The survey also your current email business office is located on 85 St. works very well on a tablet or smartphone. Johns Street in Warsaw. Cooperative As with all surveys, more is better, so please be address? employees who are knowledgeable and sure to take a few minutes to provide your input. All trained in the procedure for handling answers are confidential unless you have a question In order to participate in questions will be accessible by or issue and would like NNEC to contact you. Just the survey, NNEC will need telephone or in person during the enter that request in the comment box at the end of your current email address. cooperative’s regular working hours the survey. Please send it to us in the (Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to We all get barraged by survey requests when we are near future so your input can 5 p.m.). To report a power outage or an online. Many of those are designed to tailor online ads become part of the results. emergency situation (such as a broken in your browser to tempt you to buy something. This utility pole or downed power line), Like all your account survey is designed to equip NNEC with information please call 1-866-NNEC OUT information, it is safe and that can help add value to your service. Thank you in (866-663-2688). secure with the cooperative. advance for helping us help you.

22 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Northern Neck Electric Cooperative Ready to Go Green?

NNEC offers renewable

Energy Credits or members interested in seeing the development and expansion Fof renewable energy sources, NNEC offers a 100% Renewable Energy Attributes Electric Service Rider (Schedule RE-1). This Rider is available on a voluntary basis as a “companion rate” to any Preparation and awareness are residential customer for the entire month’s electricity usage. After a member signs keys for farm electrical safety up for the 100% Renewable Energy Attributes Electric Service Rider, an additional charge of $0.015 per kilowatt- arming is among the more dangerous occupations for several reasons, and among hour (kWh) is added to the monthly bill. them, potential for encounters with electrical hazards. Before taking to the fields, the This is a sell-at-cost charge with no profit Safe Electricity program urges farm workers to be aware of overhead power lines and F or added fee for NNEC. to keep equipment and extensions far away from them. For every 1,000 kWh sold, NNEC will Safe Electricity encourages farm managers to share this information with their families purchase a Renewable Energy Certificate and workers to keep them safe from farm-related electrical accidents. from Old Dominion Electric Cooperative (ODEC). Renewable Energy Certificates • Start each morning by planning your • As in any outdoor work, be careful not are produced every time a renewable day’s work. Know what jobs will happen to raise any equipment such as ladders, source (windmill, solar array, hydro, etc.) near power lines, and have a plan to poles or rods into power lines. generates 1,000 kWh. At this time all keep the assigned workers safe. Remember, non-metallic materials such Renewable Energy Credits offered by as lumber, tree limbs, tires, ropes and • Keep yourself and equipment 10 feet ODEC will be sourced from one or more hay will conduct electricity depending away from power lines in all directions, of the following: on dampness, dust and dirt contamination. at all times. Use a spotter when moving • the Armenia Mountain Wind Farm tall equipment and loads. • Use qualified electricians for work on in north-central Pennsylvania (Tioga drying equipment and other farm • Use care when raising augers or the bed and Bradford counties); electrical systems. of a grain truck. It can be difficult to • the Stony Creek Wind Farm in estimate distance and sometimes a • If you are on farming equipment that southwestern Pennsylvania power line is closer than it looks. Use makes contact with a power line, do not (Somerset County); and/or a spotter to make certain you stay far exit the equipment. When you step off • the Criterion Wind farm in western away from power lines. the equipment, you become the Maryland. electricity’s path to ground and receive a You can sign up or find out more • Always lower equipment extensions, potentially fatal shock. Wait until utility information by calling NNEC at 800-243- portable augers or elevators to their workers have de-energized the line and 2860 or 804-333-3621. The 100% lowest possible level, under 14 feet, confirmed that it is safe for you to exit Renewable Energy Attributes Electric before moving or transporting them. the vehicle. If the vehicle is on fire and Service Rider is online and can be found Wind, uneven ground, shifting weight you must exit, jump clear of the vehicle on the NNEC Rate Schedule page or other conditions can cause you to with both feet together. Hop as far from nnec.coop/content/rate-schedule. lose control of equipment and make the vehicle as you can with your feet contact with power lines. together. Keep your feet together to • Be aware of increased height when prevent current flow through your body, loading and transporting larger modern which could be deadly. tractors with higher antennas. Electrical work around the farm can • Never attempt to raise or move a power also pose hazards. Often the need for an line to clear a path. If power lines near electrical repair comes at a time when a your property have sagged over time, farmer has been working long hours and call Northern Neck Electric Co-op and is fatigued. At such times, it’s best to step we will address any low aerial line. back and wait until you’ve rested. • Don’t use metal poles when breaking up For more information on electrical bridged grain inside and around bins. safety, visit SafeElectricity.org nnec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 23 Tired of Automatic Bank Draft writing checks? utomatic Bank Draft allows secure. This program is available to all you to pay your electric bills members, including those who are signed o Paperless to receive your bill Aautomatically each month without up for Levelized Billing. You will continue online (email notification when having to write a check. It saves you time, to receive your electric bill each month Gyour bill is available for viewing it’s convenient and it’s free. It’s easy to sign and your payment will be deducted on My Account) to: up and you no longer need to worry about automatically from your checking, • pay your bill online; missing a payment, writing a check or savings or credit union account. Your next paying postage. month’s bill from Northern Neck Electric • receive your bill two to three days With your authorization, we will inform Cooperative and your monthly statement sooner than through the mail; your bank or credit union of the amount from your bank or credit union will • have the bill sent to a second due each month and they will automatically indicate your payment. email address; deduct that amount from your account. You can activate Automatic Bank Draft You will still receive a monthly statement payment by completing the authorization • eliminate clutter, save paper and the from us showing your current electricity below and returning it to Northern Neck expense of postage; and use and other charges. Electric Coop erative with a voided check • view your bill anywhere you receive There is no charge for this service and (for checking account) or deposit slip (for email with a computer, tablet your account information is protected and savings account). or smartphone.

SAMPLE EMAIL: Northern Neck Electric Cooperative Dear Valued Customer, Automatic Bank Draft Payment Authorization Form Your online bill is now available. To view the bill and/or make a payment toward your account, CUSTOMER INFORMATION click here. If your browser does not display an Name ______Acct. No. ______active link above, you can select the following URL, copy it, paste it into Address______Soc. Security No.______your browser’s address field, and then press Enter to access your bill: City______State___ Zip______Home Tel. No. ( )______https://myaccount.nnec.coop/oscp/ We appreciate your participation in Email ______Work Tel. No. ( )______this service; however, if you should choose not to continue, please login to your account to change your BANK or CREDIT UNION INFORMATION e-bill setting. (Please attach a voided check or savings deposit slip) Northern Neck Electric Cooperative (804) 333-3621 - Customer Service Bank or Credit Union Name ______(800) 243-2860 - Toll Free Branch______Acct. No.______

Address______Acct. is a ___checking ___savings

City______State___ Zip______Bank Tel. No. ( )______(required)

AUTHORIZATION I authorize Northern Neck Electric Cooperative to deduct my payment(s) for my monthly electric bill(s) from the account listed above. I understand that I control my payments, and I will notify the Cooperative if at any time I decide that I would like to discontinue this payment service.

Date ______Signature ______

24 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Northern Neck Electric Cooperative Three Easy DIY Projects to Save Energy

Insulating a water heater that’s warm to the wasted through air leaks in the home. touch can save 7 to 16 percent annually on Applying caulk around windows, doors, your water-heating bills. It should also be electrical wiring and plumbing can save noted that if your water heater is new, it is energy and money. There are many likely already insulated. But if your water different types of caulking compounds SOURCE: RARE FORM PROPERTIES heater is warm to the touch, it needs available, but the most popular choice is by Abby Berry additional insulation. silicone. Silicone caulk is waterproof, You can purchase a pre-cut jacket or flexible and won’t shrink or crack. inter weather can have a big blanket for about $20. You’ll also need two Before applying new caulk, clean and impact on your energy bills, people for this project. Before you start, remove any old caulk or paint with a putty Whitting your pockets a little turn off the water heater. Wrap the blanket knife, screwdriver, brush or solvent. The harder than you would have liked. Now around the water heater and tape it to area should be dry before you apply the that spring is just around the corner, it’s temporarily keep it in place. If necessary, new caulk. the perfect time to tackle a few DIY use a marker to note the areas where the Apply the caulk in one continuous efficiency projects for your home. The controls are so you can cut them out. Once stream and make sure it sticks to both good news: You don’t have to be an energy the blanket is positioned correctly, tape it sides of the crack or seam. Afterwards, use expert to do this! permanently in place, then turn the water a putty knife to smooth out the caulk, then There are several easy ways to save heater back on. If you have an electric wipe the surface with a dry cloth. energy, but if you’re willing to take a water heater, do not set the thermostat hands-on approach, here are three projects above 130 degrees, which can cause Weather-Strip Exterior Doors you can do now to start saving. overheating. One of the best ways to seal air leaks is to weather-strip exterior doors, which can Make the Most of Your Seal Air Leaks with Caulk keep out drafts and help you control Water Heater The average American family spends energy costs. Weather-stripping materials Let’s start with one of the easiest $2,000 annually on energy bills, but vary, but you can ask your local hardware projects: insulating your water heater. unfortunately, much of that money is or home store for assistance if you’re unsure about the supplies you need. When choosing weather-stripping materials, make sure it can withstand temperature changes, friction and the general “wear and tear” for the location of the door. Keep in mind, you will need Did You Know? separate materials for the door sweep (at the bottom of the door) and the top On April 17, 1938, Northern and sides. Neck Electric Cooperative Before applying the new weather stripping, clean the moulding with water energized its first distribution and soap, then let the area dry completely. line in the area. The line Measure each side of the door, then cut the traversed 38 miles from weather stripping to fit each section. Make sure the weather stripping fits snugly Oak Grove in Westmoreland against both surfaces so it compresses County to Red Hill in when the door is closed. Richmond County, and By completing these simple efficiency projects, you can save energy (and brought electricity to money!) while increasing the comfort 127 members. level of your home. And you can impress your family and friends with your savvy energy-saving skills.

Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives.

nnec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 25 P.O. Box 2710, Manassas, VA 20108 novec.com | 703-335-0500 or toll-free 1-888-335-0500

For updates and tips on safety and energy savings, find us on social media:

@novec @novec @novec_electric

Tip of the Month

When streaming online content, use the smallest device that makes sense for the number of people watching. Avoid streaming on game consoles, which uses 10 times more power than streaming SEE BEAUTIFUL through a tablet or laptop. HOMES AND

Source: energy.gov GARDENS Virginia’s Historic Garden Week is April 27-May 4 Board of Directors

Chairman Brent George Wade C. House District 2 District 5 Skip Albrite By Priscilla Knight Vice Chairman District 7 James Chesley oft green leaves and pastel blossoms will soon clothe bare District 3 Open trees and shrubs, while yellow daffodils and multi-colored District 4 tulips festoon garden beds. They will proclaim, “It’s spring!” Secretary S Michael Ragan Stan C. District 6 Feuerberg To celebrate the season, the Garden Club of Virginia invites the President and public to see more than 250 of the dogwood state’s most beautiful Treasurer CEO gardens, homes, and historic landmarks during Historic Garden Cynthia Week, April 27 through May 4. Gilbride District 1 “Historic Garden Week is a beloved tradition for nearly 25,000 visitors each year,” says Karen Cauthen Ellsworth, Historic Garden Week state director. “This year’s 31 tours throughout Editor — Priscilla Knight Virginia will feature unforgettable gardens at their peak of Graphic Designer — Leslie Khamsivone springtime color, as well as gorgeous homes displaying fabulous flower arrangements.” NOVEC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

18 | Cooperative Living | January 2019 Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative In Northern Virginia, join tours in Old Town Alexandria, Fredericksburg, Leesburg, McLean, the Town of Washington, and Warrenton. Highlights include antebellum homes and formal boxwood gardens in Fredericksburg, newly restored grounds — funded by previous Historic Garden Week tour proceeds — at Oatlands Historic House & Gardens in Leesburg, three centuries of homes in McLean, and gardens at the acclaimed Inn at Little Washington.

Tour proceeds have restored, enhanced, and preserved the grounds of more than 40 historic landmarks in Virginia since 1929. As a side benefit, the tour has contributed an estimated $425 million over the last 46 years to state and local economies.

For detailed descriptions of featured homes and gardens, and ticket information, visit vagardenweek.org.

Enjoy blossoming trees during Historic Garden Week.

Stroll through this formal garden in McLean on April 30.

Photos by Donna Moulton.

NOVEC.com March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 PLANT ENERGY-SAVING TREES FOR ARBOR DAY But not near power lines

By Priscilla Knight

OVEC urges homeowners to NOVEC —Your Electric Co-op —Your NOVEC Ncelebrate both Earth Day on April 22 and Virginia’s Arbor Day on April 26 by planting energy-saving trees, but not near power lines and equipment.

“Trees add beauty and value to a home, but they also help the environment,” says Carmen Peniche, a NOVEC energy services specialist. “Trees absorb carbon dioxide in the Blooming Yoshino and saucer magnolia trees, along with other trees, help save atmosphere and, properly energy at Marsh Mansion in Heritage Hunt, Gainesville. Photo by Priscilla Knight. placed, they help homeowners save energy and lower northern and western sides of away from underground electricity bills.” the property. Rick Carpenter, utility cables.” NOVEC’s vegetation management Recommended trees for manager, recommends Canadian Do not plant near Northern Virginia hemlock, Leyland cypress, pine, overhead power lines eastern red cedar, and Chinese The National Arbor Day holly trees for Northern For neighborhoods with Foundation recommends Virginia yards. overhead power lines, Carpenter planting deciduous trees for says homeowners should not shade in the summer. When Call 811, Miss Utility, plant trees in NOVEC’s 30-foot- they drop their leaves in autumn before digging wide right-of-way areas. “We they will allow the sun’s solar may remove them without heat to pass through branches Carpenter says, “Before picking notice.” When planting in to warm a home in winter. Oak, up the shovel to plant a tree, yards, Carpenter recommends maple, and Japanese Zelkova call Miss Utility at 811. Workers determining how tall the tree trees provide excellent shade on will mark the location of all will grow at maturity, then the eastern and southern sides underground utility lines.” planting it that many feet of a house. Cherry, crabapple, away from right-of-way areas. dogwood, saucer magnolia, and Carpenter suggests homeowners “By heeding these guidelines, other small and medium trees consider how tall and wide a homeowners help prevent block low, intense sunshine on tree will become: “Trees should power outages from occurring the western side. shade a house, but not spread during storms.” over it. Otherwise, tree branches For winter energy savings, the may break during storms and Review landscaping guidelines foundation says to plant solid damage the roof or siding. and a helpful video rows of evergreens on the Also, you’ll want to keep roots at novec.com/vegetation.

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative SAFETYIN THE

SKeep objectsK withY metal away from power lines.

Including streamers, metallic helium balloons, sky-lanterns, kites, and drones.

Never try to remove anything caught on a power line or pole.

Call NOVEC at 703-335-0500 or 1-888-335-0500 for assistance and properly trained personnel .

Fly in open ﬁelds, far from power lines and never in stormy weather.

For more electrical safety information, visit novec.com/safety.

NOVEC.com March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 21 GROWING CANNABIS Could electricity demand and global warming get ‘high’?

By Priscilla Knight

he cannabis plant Weed’s Wonders concerns, people who suffer — commonly called and Worries from particular illnesses say marijuana — may look its nonintoxicating oil provides

NOVEC —Your Electric Co-op —Your NOVEC T innocuous, but it sprouts as Some cannabis users smoke the pain relief. As a result of medical much controversy as green dried flowers and leaves. Others studies and lobbying efforts, leaves. People with certain use hashish, which comes from people with certain medical medical conditions say cannabis the plant’s secreted resin or conditions can now consume relieves their suffering, while gum. Some users rub cannabis the cannabidiol (CBD) oil legally many employers worry about oil into their skin. in 33 states and the District intoxicating marijuana use in of Columbia. Furthermore, their workplaces. “Most people who use recreational users can “toke cannabis do so to experience up” in 10 states and in D.C. In What advocates and employers a sense of mild euphoria and other words, the vast majority of may not realize is how much relaxation, often referred to as Americans today live in a state energy it takes to grow a ‘high,’” says the University where cannabis is legal in some cannabis — at a time when of Washington’s Alcohol & form, or soon will be. environmentalists are urging Drug Abuse Institute. ADAI Americans to use less energy notes that marijuana users In February 2018, Virginia’s to keep global warming from may become talkative, hungry, General Assembly unanimously getting, well, high. and sleepy. They may also passed a medical marijuana bill lose some coordination and that allows physicians to issue experience anxiety. ADAI says a written certification for CBD long-term marijuana use could and tetrahydrocannabinol acid increase the risk of respiratory (THC-A) oils to patients with diseases from smoking it, intractable epilepsy, glaucoma, while decreasing memory and AIDS, hepatitis C, cancer, learning ability. and some other conditions to help alleviate symptoms. The Employers in high-risk legislation requires Virginia to industries, such as energy, regulate clinics that grow and trucking, and aviation, are supply the oil. concerned about employees working on the job while under “This is a big deal for people the influence of anything with who suffer from a number of a psychoactive compound. disorders,” said State Sen. Dave Opponents also worry that Marsden, chief co-patron of the legalizing marijuana will hinder Senate bill. employers’ ability to maintain a drug-free workplace. “Those who suffer from intractable epilepsy have Legalizing Cannabis in already seen the benefit of Virginia and Other States cannabidiol oil. …” said Del. Eileen Filler-Corn, chief Although cannabis consumption co-patron of the House bill. causes health and safety

22 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative #hip2thecrop

Picture courtesy of Jason Deal, a Northern Virginia native who cultivates medical marijuana in a growing facility in Arizona.

Is the green plant “Energy Impacts of Cannabis energy, and renewable sources energy ‘green?’ Cultivation,” noted that in to generate enough electricity. 2012 — before Californians Energy companies have voted to legalize recreational Although major indoor another cannabis concern — cannabis use by adults — the marijuana growers are meeting the growing demand state’s increased electricity switching to energy-saving for electricity to grow the consumption from growing LED lighting, the kilowatt-hour plant as more states legalize cannabis indoors equaled costs of lighting, dehumidifiers, its use. According to EUCI, an the amount of electricity and air conditioning still run energy consulting and training used by 1 million homes. high. Growing the plant company headquartered in The report also said, “Other outdoors in warm states like Denver, Colorado, “Marijuana states have experienced an California uses little electricity, growth is an extremely energy- increase in electricity demand but many growers prefer intensive business that requires after legalizing recreational indoor cultivation. By massive amounts of energy cannabis; for example, half of controlling light intensity for lighting, venting, and de- the electricity load growth in and spectrum, temperature, humidification.” The company Colorado is now attributable to humidity, and nutrients, indoor states that marijuana-growing new cannabis cultivation.” growers can yield five or six facilities — just the legal ones harvests, compared to one or — use so much electricity they Growing cannabis legally turns two outdoors. rival data centers for energy electric meter dials rapidly, demand. EUCI says electric but illegal cultivations could “People have strong opinions utilities need to confront “the be using four times as much about cannabis, pro and con,” impact and consequences on electricity, according to “The notes John Rainey, NOVEC electricity consumption and 2018 Cannabis Energy Report,” director of power origination power operations of the rapidly issued by the New Frontier and plant operations. “No growing cannabis industry in Data and Resource Innovation matter what opinions they have, the United States.” Institute. To meet the increasing one thing is certain: Growing energy demand from cannabis cannabis indoors requires An April 2017 California Public growers, the power industry electricity — and plenty of it.” Utilities Commission report, must use fossil fuels, nuclear

NOVEC.com March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 23 NOVEC —Your Electric Co-op —Your NOVEC TEE UP FOR THE NOVEC HELPS GOLF TOURNAMENT ON MAY 16

7TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Mark your calendars now for the seventh annual NOVEC HELPS golf tournament on Thursday, May 16, at Bull Run Golf Club in Haymarket.

NOVEC HELPS uses proceeds from the charity fundraiser to support the communities it serves while participants enjoy a day on the green.

Sponsorship opportunities are available on multiple levels for individuals, companies, or other groups.

Registration: begins at 7:30 a.m. Shotgun Start: 8:30 a.m. Fee: $140 per player

If you would like to play or co-sponsor the tournament, contact NOVEC HELPS at [email protected].

UPCOMING EVENT

Strikes for Stronger Families Bowl-a-Thon NOVEC will sponsor bowling lanes and NOVEC HELPS will participate in Northern Virginia mar.9 Family Service’s Strikes for Stronger Families Bowl-a-Thon on March 9, at Bowl America Manassas. Money raised through the event will directly benefit NVFS’s SERVE Campus, which provides care as an emergency family shelter.

NOVEC HELPS, Hands Engaged in Local Public Service, is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization of NOVEC employees who volunteer their time to do community service. The HELPS board of directors votes on projects and events to support, whether with financial donations or with feet on the ground.

Learn more at novechelps.org. Follow HELPS on facebook.com/novechelps.

24 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative KNOW HOW TO USE YOUR GENERATOR SAFELY

By Emily Ready

If you plan to use a generator well-ventilated area where unit’s wattage capacity when and if the power goes out, carbon monoxide cannot and prioritize your make sure you know how to build up or somehow get electrical needs. operate it safely. Generators can inside the home. • Extension cords – Always pose serious hazards if not used • Prevent backfeed – Do not follow the guidelines properly or placed in a well- connect generators directly specified by the generator ventilated area. Before using a to household wiring, unless manufacturer regarding generator, read these tips: you have a professional extension cords and

install the generator and appliances. If you must use • Follow directions – a transfer switch. Without an extension cord, make Read all operating and that switch, power can sure it is heavy-duty grade, maintenance manuals. “backfeed” through the properly grounded, and in • Refueling – Never attempt electric meter into good condition. to refill a generator’s fuel power lines, which tank while it is running. puts technicians in danger BONUS TIP: Turn the machine off and let when they are working Email NOVEC Solutions at it cool down first. to restore power. [email protected] for information about • Ventilate – A running • Don’t overload – purchasing an emergency or generator creates carbon Overloading a generator stationary generator. monoxide, which is with too many appliances odorless, colorless, and can cause the equipment For more tips about staying can be deadly. Only run a to malfunction and put you safe around electricity, visit generator outdoors in a dry, back in the dark. Know the novec.com/safety.

NOTICE OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE REGARDING FUEL MIX AND EMISSIONS DATA

Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (NOVEC) purchases the power it provides to its customers through various wholesale contracts. The Halifax County Biomass Plant, a NOVEC affiliate, supplies 4.7 percent of its purchased power. Other NOVEC purchased power from renewable sources includes 1.0 percent from landfill gas, 0.2 percent from hydropower, and 0.002 percent from solar. The remaining 94.1 percent of NOVEC’s generation mix comes from purchased power available from the PJM market. Including the electric generation supplied by PJM, NOVEC has a combined fuel mix and emission data profile of 31.8 percent nuclear, 29.1 percent natural gas, 27.5 percent coal, and 11.6 percent renewables. For additional information on PJM regional emissions, visit www.pjm.com/library/reports-notices.aspx. For additional information on NOVEC-specific emissions, visitwww.novec.com/About_NOVEC/Power-Supply.cfm .

NOVEC.com March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 25 Prince George Electric Cooperative News

Legislative Day 2019

irectors and key team members of involvement activities with Prince George Electric Cooperative economic development, education D(PGEC) visited Richmond on and local nonprofits. It was no Jan. 29 to meet with state legislators at the surprise this year would be an Virginia General Assembly. The Virginia, active General Assembly session Maryland & Delaware Association of for electric cooperatives. Electric Cooperatives’ (VMDAEC) staff Among interest to many was the broadband initiative of Prince briefed co-op board members and guests Above, L-R: PGEC on the 2019 General Assembly issues. George Electric Cooperative. board member, The PGEC leadership and team called PGEC has been at the forefront Herbert R. Patrick, on delegates and senators representing of this statewide discussion. PGEC vice the areas served by the cooperative. The Members of PGEC have president of interaction with legislators and state expressed excitement about the government relations and communications, Renee officials increases awareness of electric service, realizing the new Chapline, PGEC board members Denya C. Hankerson cooperatives and the impact of providing opportunities with education, and John M. Brock, Del. Roslyn Tyler, PGEC board energy to Virginia homeowners, workforce development and member Randolph G. Williams and Mrs. Doris Patrick. agribusinesses and industrial customers. healthcare in the service area. Inset, L-R: Randolph G. Williams, PGEC board member, These businesses served by the cooperatives PGEC’s legislative-visits accepts the ACRE achievement certificate from Frank create employment opportunities for delegation this year included Bacon (left), ACRE chairman, and Richard Johnstone, residents living in rural communities that board members Matthew P. Carden, CEO of VMDAEC. Below, L-R: PGEC president & CEO, impact the state and local economy. The John M. Brock Jr., Denya C. Mike Malandro, PGEC delegation took advantage of this Hankerson, Christopher T. Parker, PGEC board opportunity to come together with one- Randolph G. Williams, Herbert R. member on-one visits with legislators to discuss Patrick and Richard B. Scott. Also Herbert R. legislative concerns. attending from Prince George Patrick, chief The team provided an update on new Electric Cooperative were Mike operating officer, Casey innovations, enterprises and community- Malandro, president & CEO, Logan, and Casey Logan, chief operating VMDAEC chief officer, and Renee Chapline, vice operating president of government relations PRINCE GEORGE officer, Brian ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE and communications. Mosier. Headquarters: 7103 General Mahone Hwy. P.O. Box 168 Waverly, VA 23890-0168 New Power Cost Adjustment Customer Service Office: 5718 Courthouse Road Prince George, VA 23875 became effective Feb. 1, 2019

24-Hour Emergency Service he current Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) credit of .008460/kilowatt-hour has 804-834-2424 changed to a credit of .004227. The PCA that became effective Feb. 1, 2019, will Website: pgec.coop Tbe reflected in the Energy Supply Service portion of your bill. Prince George Office Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Electric Cooperative remains committed to providing electric service at the lowest reasonable cost while continuing to modernize our infrastructure, resulting in improved President & CEO safety and reliability. Mike Malandro, P.E. Should you have questions or desire additional information, please contact Customer Prince George Electric Cooperative is an Service at 804-834-2424 or visit either of our two offices at 7103 General Mahone Hwy., equal opportunity provider and employer. Waverly, or 5718 Courthouse Road, Prince George.

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Prince George Electric Cooperative Please participate in your cooperative’s 2019 residential survey

very other year, Prince George Electric Cooperative (PGEC) conducts a survey of its residential members on a variety of topics. This survey is designed to provide Einformation that can be used to better serve your needs. Using the responses, PGEC can modify existing programs to meet changing needs, add new programs, enhance communications with you, and more! The survey will ask you about the construction of your home, the types and ages of your heating and cooling systems, the number and ages of appliances, how you connect to the internet, and a variety of other topics. Unlike quizzes and tests in school, there is nothing you need to study or prepare for in advance. Just sit back, relax and answer the questions to the best of your ability. This year the survey will be conducted entirely online. The rationale for this approach is straightforward:

• Online surveying saves resources, As with all surveys, more is better so Does PGEC have your no paper or postage required. please, be sure to take a few minutes to current email address? provide your input and all answers are • It is easy to complete and doesn’t conﬁdential. In order to participate in the survey, pick up stains from your coffee cup. Over the next couple of months, your PGEC will need your current email cooperative will be sending reminder • It eliminates data-entry errors. address. Please send it to us in the emails. Not a deluge, but one or two to let

near future so your input can become you know it is still in the works. In mid- Of course, the logical follow-up part of the results. Like all your May, you will be sent a survey link via question is, “What if I don’t have internet account information, it is safe and email. Please complete the survey as soon access or completing things online is secure with the cooperative. as you can. After that, look for a summary difficult for me?” of the findings in a future article. Fortunately, there are a number of That’s it. We all get barraged by survey simple solutions. If your internet access is requests when we are online. Many of HOLIDAY CLOSING limited, try using a PC at your local library those are designed to tailor online ads or at a family member’s/friend’s home. PGEC offices will be closed on in your browser to tempt you to buy Make an event of it and enjoy some good Monday, April 22, for Easter. Please something. This survey is designed to company while you provide input to help equip your cooperative to add value to call 804-834-2424 for 24-hour your cooperative deliver greater value. your service. So please do complete it. emergency service. The survey also works very well on Thank you in advance for helping us a tablet or smartphone. help you.

CREE LED Light Bulb Offer —

Better Light, Better Price t Prince George Electric Cooperative (PGEC), we have a special offer for you as a member/owner of your electric cooperative! We have partnered with CREE® 10! ALighting and 1000Bulbs to give you a discounted price on a 4-pack of CREE 60-watt-equivalent Better Light, Better Price, LED bulbs. These bulbs are fully dimmable and designed to last 22 years, with a 100 percent performance-satisfaction guarantee. Members can order up to ﬁve 4-packs of these 60-watt-equivalent bulbs for only $9.97 per pack and only pay a total of $4 shipping ... that is as little as $2.69 per bulb and almost a 50 percent savings off regular retail pricing! Order today and enjoy another beneﬁt of being a PGEC member/owner! Visit pgec.coop and place your order through SmartHub. If your account isn’t registered in SmartHub, it only takes a few minutes! pgec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 Did you know you have many ways to pay your bill?

Select the one that works best for you!

Free phone apps put Account Management in your hand! Pay with VISA or MasterCard. Download the free SmartHub app from your favorite app store.

Auto monthly payments using your VISA, MasterCard or bank account reduces the work for you! You still receive bill statements if desired. Contact the ofﬁce to ﬁnd out more.

Pay the traditional way with check or money order through the mail or at one of our ofﬁces.

Protect your data by calling 804-834-2424, option #2, to securely access your account information or to make a payment with VISA or MasterCard.

Pay Now for those on the go. Use your smartphone or mobile device to simply make a payment without registering your account! Use VISA or MasterCard. The Pay Now feature is available on our home page of pgec.coop.

Access SmartHub at pgec.coop to register your account(s) and password. View energy-consumption history and trends or make

VARIJANTA/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK payment(s) with VISA or MasterCard!

Avoid High Bill Payments with Budget Billing

o your bills vary from season to To qualify for this program, you must must be made on time each month to season so that it is hard to have had service with PGEC for at least participate in this program. This program Dbudget your payments? Then the 12 months; your account must be in good is offered to residential accounts only and Budget Bill Plan may be what you need. standing and have a zero balance at the does not apply to ﬁnal bills when your Under this plan, you pay the same time the plan begins; and payments account is closed. amount of money each month. In some months that payment may be more than what your bill is and other months it will BUDGET BILL PLAN be less than what your bill is. The purpose is to know what your payment will be I request to be placed on the Budget Bill Plan for May 2019 through April 2020. each month. I understand I will be notified of my participation and budget amount if approved. Let’s say your budget amount is $130 per month and your March bill is $165. Name:______Acct. #: ______You pay only $130. If your April bill is $100, you still pay $130. After 12 months, the Mailing Address: ______amount you have been billed and the ______amount you have paid should be very close. The monthly amount is reviewed and Daytime Phone:______Email:______adjusted if needed twice in 12 months Member Signature:______to keep you on track with your billed amounts. The plan runs from May 2019 Please note any additional accounts: ______to April 2020 when the billed-versus-paid Mail to P.O. Box 620, Waverly, VA 23890 amounts are settled.

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Prince George Electric Cooperative R4URALBAND Update

s excitement of warmer days ﬁlls the air, so does the excitement about AR4URALBAND! After a long, cold winter of bad weather and unplanned construction delays, the Fiber-to-the-Home internet connections in the South Prince George area (11771 Prince George Drive, extending south to State Route 35) are well underway. For a complete street listing of internet availability for this area, please Check out all the awards and recognition visit our RURALBAND.coop website and R4URALBAND has received locally and nationally. search under “Fiber Communities.” Member connections in South Prince George area are anticipated to take place See the latest areas of internet availability. through late spring. Members in the Waverly – Georgetown Road area of Check out R4URALBAND’s tiered service packages. Sussex County have been contacted as that area will be the next phase for the internet expansion. These locations too have been RURALBAND.COOP updated on the R4URALBAND website. Construction in this part of Sussex County is almost complete and connections will begin soon. at RURALBAND.coop. More good news, rollout of this technology and the R4URALBAND, PGEC Enterprises, also as of Feb. 1 current connected community beneﬁts that come with LLC’s award-winning high-speed internet members saw their 30Mbps base service high-speed internet and look forward to service program, began offering tiered package have a speed increase to 50Mbps announcing new areas of availability soon. internet service plans as of Feb. 1, and will ... and have a lower monthly price of Should you have any questions, please include a local and long-distance phone $74/month ... that’s an $8 savings. Current call Customer Service at 804-834-2424, service option in late spring. The three members wanting even more speed can Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or option plans are a 50Mbps, 100Mbps and sign up for either of the above data plans visit RURALBAND.coop. We appreciate 1Gbps offering. Further information and by contacting Customer Service. your continued support of this exciting package-pricing details can also be found We are excited about the continued growth opportunity.

pgec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 21 In Our Community

KEENER RETIREMENT On Jan. 8, Prince George Electric Cooperative said farewell to Robert L. Keener after 41 years of dedicated service to the cooperative. The departing veteran began his career as a groundsman in 1977 and held numerous positions including lineman, apparatus serviceman and became the co-op’s engineering technician in 1996. The entire cooperative and membership are deeply grateful for Bob’s service over the decades.

Above left: Bob Keener. Above right: PGEC 1996 annual report cover of Bob Keener with Ed and Lori Ptaschek. Left: PGEC 2018 Annual Meeting with Bob Keener in the golf cart and Brian Carr.

ROUND UP FOR EDUCATION Don’t miss the next Educators from W. A. Walton Elementary in Prince George County, Red Cross Blood Drive! below from left, Mary Beth Gardner, Dea Farrell, Roshell Moon, Beth Holcomb, Erin Ehrenfeld, get reimbursement checks totaling $650 from PGEC Marketing Manager Glenn Horst. Member support of PGEC’s Round Up for Education program helps funding to teachers designed to cover out-of-pocket expenses for qualiﬁed teaching materials.

Wednesday, May 8, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Waverly Headquarters

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give Blood.™

redcrossblood.org 1-800-RED CROSS

22 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Prince George Electric Cooperative Virginia Agribusiness Council Legislative Appreciation Banquet

taff and board members of Prince George Electric Cooperative (PGEC) joined directors, leadership and staff from cooperatives across Virginia to attend the Virginia Agribusiness SCouncil’s Annual Legislative Banquet Jan. 10. Over 100 members of the cooperative family hosted dozens of legislators and administration ofﬁcials from both parties — with the guest of honor, Sen. Rosalyn Dance, seated at the cooperatives’ head table. The banquet was held at the Richmond Raceway Complex in Henrico County. PGEC attendees included Board of Directors Chairman Paul H. Brown, board members Matthew P. Carden, John M. Brock Jr., Denya C. Hankerson, Brian E. Coey, Christopher T. L-R: PGEC board members Denya C. Parker, Randolph G. Williams, Herbert R. Patrick and Richard B. Scott. Also attending from Hankerson, Paul H. Brown, and Sen. PGEC were Renee Chapline, vice president of government relations and communications, Rosalyn R. Dance. Casey Logan, chief operating ofﬁcer, Tim McGaha, vice president of information technology, and Glenn Horst, manager of marketing. Following a reception and buffet that featured foods and beverages from across Virginia, the VAC Board presented the 2019 Distinguished Friend of Virginia Agribusiness Award to Sen. Rosalyn Dance.

L-R: PGEC board members Matthew P. Carden and Brian E. Coey.

PGEC Manager of Marketing Glenn Horst with his wife Vicki. PGEC board member Paul H. Brown, Del. Emily Brewer, PGEC board member Brian E. Coey, and PGEC chief operating ofﬁcer, Casey Logan.

pgec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 23 Powell Valley Electric Cooperative News

A message from your General Manager:

Randell Meyers General Manager 77 Cents of Every Dollar & CEO s many of us did, I challenged myself back in January to eat healthier this year. There are many benefits of a healthy diet: weight loss, more energy, reduced risk of Acancer and even improved memory. It’s hard to argue against making smarter choices when it comes to the food we eat. Unfortunately, one of my weaknesses is a good cheeseburger, and it so happens that there are restaurants near our office that serve very tasty burgers. These restaurants don’t actually have a herd of cows out back. Their success depends on a quality supplier for their ground beef and other ingredients. POWELL VALLEY You may think that Powell Valley Electric Cooperative (PVEC) has little in common with ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE a restaurant, and that’s probably true, but we both need quality suppliers to be successful. 420 Straight Creek Road We are best known for electricity, but we don’t actually make it. We buy it — and we buy P.O. Box 1528 lots of it. New Tazewell, TN 37824 In 2018, PVEC purchased over $46 million of electricity from our wholesale energy Office Hours: M-F 8 a.m.–5 p.m. supplier, the Tennessee Valley Authority. TVA generates power and delivers it to each of our 10 electric substations located throughout our service area. Tazewell Office: Our wholesale power cost, or the money we pay to TVA for power, represents our single Service Requests: (423) 626-0707 largest expense. In fact, 77 cents of every dollar you pay on your monthly power bill goes Billing Inquiries: (423) 626-0706 directly to TVA. Outages/Trouble: (423) 626-5204 Obviously, what happens at TVA matters. Other Inquiries: (423) 626-5204 In 2018, TVA’s CEO Bill Johnson announced his retirement, and the TVA board is going Jonesville Office: through the process of selecting a new CEO. We expect an announcement to be made any Service Requests: (276) 346-6003 day now, possibly even before you read this. The board’s selection will have a significant Billing Inquiries: (276) 346-6003 impact on TVA, but it will also impact your co-op and your energy bill. Outages: (276) 346-6065 PVEC has been vocal to the TVA board regarding our expectations for the new CEO. Other Inquiries: (276) 346-6016 We challenged the TVA board to select a candidate who understands the industry, the Sneedville Office: region and our not-for-profit model. More importantly, we challenged board members to All Inquiries: (423) 733-2207 select as CEO someone who shares our commitment to deliver safe, affordable and reliable Calls to all PVEC locations will be energy to the people we serve. answered by emergency operators after Like successful restaurants care what goes on with their suppliers, we care about what office hours, on weekends & holidays. happens at TVA. The benefits of making smart choices are significant. Visit us at pve.coop — Randell W. Meyers You may also contact us at [email protected] Randell Meyers General Manager & CEO Closing Notice Ronnie Williams Powell Valley Electric Cooperative offices Tazewell Area Supervisor will be closed April 19th in observance Jason Stapleton Jonesville Area Supervisor of Good Friday. Our best wishes to Joey Southern all of you for a blessed Easter! Sneedville Area Supervisor As always, PVEC dispatchers will be Powell Valley Electric Cooperative is an on duty throughout the holiday weekend equal opportunity provider and employer. to take your emergency calls.

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Powell Valley Electric Cooperative location from Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, to the old Powell Valley Electric Cooperative (PVEC) main office building at 325 Straight Creek Road, New Tazewell, Tennessee. ‘A Cooperative Effort’ A new era of cooperative effort will now be greatly enhanced because of this new he comments that follow are from organizers of the Stand in the Gap Coalition. location that is more centrally located to We have long recognized that low incomes and lack of resources in our area have the SIGCO endeavors. Having a more been driving contributors to many of the social issues we are experiencing every day T opportune facility and floor plan, this new in our communities. At PVEC our mission is to improve the lives of those we serve, and office will allow SIGCO the ability to we are constantly working toward ways to do just that, whether it is through economic conduct educational training on-site with development projects; our goal to provide broadband services to our members; or of course, our school-aged children and conduct providing reliable power at the lowest cost possible. Our involvement in the Coalition prevention-awareness meetings for the movement is another effort to help meet the needs of people in our area. various people of our Tri-State area. The Stand in the Gap Coalition has been In the late summer of 2010, two people lands and communities from the debilitating given another cooperative opportunity by from Harrogate, Tennessee, drove 70 miles results of substance abuse in our communities, receiving a new Prevention Coalition grant to Manchester, Kentucky, in Clay County schools, churches and homes. The Stand in in November 2018 from the Tennessee to view a documentary called Appalachian the Gap Coalition (SIGCO) was taking Department of Mental Health and Substance Dawn. This documentary chronicled the shape as a cooperative effort of local people Abuse Services (TDMHSAS), Nashville, desperate conditions of local people and dedicated to keeping our communities free Tennessee. In receiving this grant, SIGCO is communities of Appalachia due to a scourge of substance abuse. 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If now designated a Prevention Coalition. As of illicit and illegal drug activities in my people, which are called by my name, such, SIGCO will cooperate and coordinate their region. shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek with local government, health department Much like many different communities my face, and turn from their wicked ways, agencies, city and county law enforcement, of eastern Tennessee, Kentucky and then will I hear from heaven, and will school and educational programs and our southwestern Virginia, an area known as forgive their sin, and will heal their land,” faith-based communities. As a Prevention Appalachia, families were being torn apart, was the new foundational message. A Coalition, SIGCO will promote and pursue children losing their lives or their parents. It “Healing of Our Land” was now a primary three primary focus areas as defined by the was a desperate time in the late 1990s and focus of SIGCO. TDMHSAS new grant. Specifically, binge early 2000s. Clay County was known On Nov. 11, 2011, an estimated gathering drinking among 14- to 25-year-olds; tobacco nationally as the “OxyContin Capitol” of of 8,000 Tri-State residents walked into use among 12- to 17-year-olds; and non- America, a poor commentary on a land the historic town of Cumberland Gap, medical prescription drug use among all loved by generations of mountaineers. Tennessee, wearing bright green T-shirts with age groups. After viewing the Appalachian Dawn “Stand in the Gap” logo and 2 Chronicles 2019 is poised to bring a variety of video, our two people traveled back to 7:14 in print. A low-hanging cloud against cooperative opportunities for the Stand in Claiborne County with a heightened sense an otherwise blue sky was observed in the the Gap Coalition and residents of our Tri- of urgency that a “cooperative effort” must eastern sky that was in the form of a cross State communities. SIGCO intends to take be attempted to reclaim and restore the and seen as an unmistakable signature of full advantage of this new year in concert lands and communities of our Tri-State confidence for this large gathering of Tri- with our many friends and concerned area from the ever-increasing influences of State people who were willing to make this agencies. A most significant march into drug and alcohol abuse and the associated most important stand for their families this new year is being made by the new family violence that so often accompanies and communities. association of SIGCO and PVEC through these activities. Several other public marches and walks the opening of our new office spaces at With prayerful consideration, a visit was sponsored by SIGCO have continued the 325 Straight Creek Road, New Tazewell, scheduled with Dr. Edwin Robertson of visible and vocal support of our communities Tennessee. Now, the need for volunteers Harrogate, Tennessee, a well-known since November 2011, seeking to promote involved with the SIGCO programs is veterinarian and community activist, to their desires for a safer, healthier and drug- greater than ever! explore the possibilities of raising up a group free region. Notable in 2014 was the “Stand Who are the “volunteers” at SIGCO? of local people who would stand together at the Cross” in Campbell County at the Folks from all walks of life and vocations, against the harmful activities of substance foot of the massive 100-foot cross along who have desires for a safer and healthier abuse in the Tri-State area around I-75 and just north of Caryville, Tennessee, place to live, educate and grow our region’s Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. where an estimated 3,000 people from assets. Young people, parents, grandparents, After several local showings of across eastern Tennessee prayerfully walked pastors, teachers, all occupations and Appalachian Dawn and preliminary over a mile to take a “Stand” against the vocational backgrounds! Join up with this organizational meetings, a small group of scourge of drug and alcohol substance abuse new cooperative venture of 2019 and volunteers started gathering in February that is plaguing our region. become a team member with the Stand in 2011 on the Pinnacle Overlook of the In continuing this cooperative regional the Gap Coalition. Call (423) 300-1302 Tri-State area from the Cumberland Gap spirit, during the fall of 2018, the Stand in or email [email protected] and National Park to prayerfully look for the Gap Coalition was extremely blessed to find your place in giving back to your guidance in reclaiming and taking back our be offered an opportunity to move its office communities! pve.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 Maintaining the Cooperative’s Rights-of-Way

owell Valley Electric Cooperative (PVEC) has more than 3,500 miles of transmission and distribution power lines and has a responsibility to maintain its rights-of-way Palong those lines. After extensive evaluation, PVEC has determined that the best and most effective way to maintain its rights-of-way includes the herbicide ground-spraying program. The cooperative has been very pleased with the results of this program and believes that you will be impressed with the results as well. In 2016 and 2018, PVEC’s spraying contractor treated the same miles of line. During the 2018 spraying season the amount of herbicides used to treat these same miles of line was reduced by almost 90 percent, which demonstrates our rights-of-way have improved and the program is on the right course as projected. PVEC has the responsibility to provide reliable and economical power to all consumers. This requires a good, clear right-of-way. As a landowner you have the right to take care of your own property. If a landowner does not want herbicides used on his or her property, PVEC will provide the landowner the opportunity to clear his or her own property to PVEC’s specifications. This clearing must be done at the property owner’s expense. A landowner choosing to clear his or her own right- of-way must remember that working around power lines is extremely dangerous and should only be done by someone specially trained and qualified for that type of work. Members affected by the 2019 right-of-way program will be notified through their electric bills. If you have questions or comments about this program, feel free to give us a call at your local area office — Jonesville (276) 346-6003, Sneedville (423) 733-2207 or Tazewell (423) 626-5204. This herbicide application is one of the many efforts used by PVEC to provide maximum reliability of service at the lowest possible rates.

Sneedville Area Supervisor What’s a-Cooking?

Joey Southern shares onnie Williams shares his wife Jeanine’s recipe for Apple Dumplings. Ronnie has safety tips Rworked with the cooperative since 1974.

Ingredients: ou teach your kids to stay far away from power lines 2 cans of croissants while they’re playing outdoors in the spring and 2 Granny Smith apples cut into 8 slices Ysummer. Heed that advice when you’re working in 2 sticks of real butter the yard or on the roof. Contact with a live wire can damage 1 ½ cups of sugar your equipment. Worse, if you happen to be touching the equipment when it 1 can of Mountain Dew Cinnamon touches the wire, you could get electrocuted.

Here are a few springtime safety tips: Directions: After apples are sliced, wrap each in a • Don’t move a ladder or any tall equipment within 15 feet of any power line. croissant. Place in an 11-inch-by-9-inch pan. A ladder that tips over should easily clear the wire. Melt butter in a saucepan and then add sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved and pour mixture • For safety’s sake, assume every wire is live. Do not assume the wire is over the croissants. Pour the can of Mountain a telephone or cable line. Call your electric cooperative to make Dew over the croissants and sprinkle with absolutely sure. desired amount of cinnamon. Bake at 375 degrees for • Never touch a branch if it is touching a wire. Report the situation to your approximately 40-45 minutes electric cooperative and keep everyone away from it until help arrives. or until croissants are • Don’t work outdoors in the rain. You could slip and fall, causing your ladder golden brown. or equipment — or yourself — to topple onto a power line.

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Powell Valley Electric Cooperative Change Your Clocks, Billing Corner

Change Your Batteries Looking for an easier way to manage your account? Look no he second Sunday in March will trigger Daylight Saving further — use Powell Valley Time, when we “spring ahead” and set our clocks Electric Cooperative’s (PVEC) forward one hour. That’s also the best day to change the T smart app to access your electric batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors — even if the batteries aren’t dead. account. Look for PVEC in the If you don’t have fire alarms and CO detectors, your family Google Play Store or in the Apple is at risk. The alarms will loudly warn you if smoke or gas is App Store. The app is free to present in your home — so you can get out. download and install. Carbon monoxide is a clear, odorless gas that is deadly but As a customer you can view hard to detect. If you don’t have an alarm, it’s unlikely you will know if your home has a CO leak. your bill, sign up for alerts and Carbon monoxide doesn’t come just from cars. Your gas reminders, view account-payment furnace or stove is a potential source of the gas. The U.S. history, pay a bill and more using Environmental Protection Agency offers these tips for PVEC’s mobile app. To view poison prevention: addresses, maps or phone • Keep gas appliances properly adjusted. numbers to our offices simply • Use electric space heaters, not gas space heaters. open the app and use the • Install an exhaust fan, vented to the outdoors, over a gas stove. “Locations” link. • Open flues when wood-burning fireplaces are in use. For more assistance with the • Choose properly sized wood stoves with tight-fitting doors that are certified to meet EPA mobile app, visit pve.coop and emission standards. check out the Mobile App • Have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune up your central heating system — Support page, or contact your including furnaces, flues and chimneys — annually. Repair leaks promptly. local PVEC office. • Do not idle your car inside the garage.

Clean the Lint Trap — and More

t’s automatic for most people to wipe the lint out of the clothes dryer’s lint trap after every load of clothes. But that’s not enough to keep your dryer from Ibecoming a fire hazard. Here’s what else you can do: • If your clothes are still damp when the dryer shuts off, it’s possible the machine’s exhaust duct is clogged or blocked. Don’t use the dryer again until you clear it. • Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct at least once a year. The duct is the coil that sends the hot dryer air to the outdoors. The vent is the hole where the hot air leaves the house. Both can get clogged with lint and overheat, send dirty, moist air back into your home, or even catch on fire. You might have to disconnect the exhaust duct from the dryer and from the vent to remove a blockage. • Sweep behind your dryer regularly. Lint can accumulate there and also underneath. Move the dryer and clean the back of it. This might be a job for a service technician rather than one for a do-it-yourselfer. • If your exhaust duct is plastic or foil, replace it with a rigid or corrugated, semi-rigid metal duct. Plastic and foil are too flexible and trap lint easily. They’re also easier to crush, which will prevent air from flowing through to the vent. • Don’t throw gasoline-, oil- or chemical-soiled clothes and towels into the dryer. Wash them several times and line-dry them. If you have to use the dryer for them, choose the lowest setting, and remove them the minute the cycle is finished. Even washed-and-dried clothes that have come into contact with volatile chemicals can ignite. Instead, safely dispose of the clothes. pve.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 21 DIRECTOR2019

ThreeELECTIONS (3) positions on Rappahannock Electric Cooperative’s (REC) Board of Directors will be up for election at REC’s Annual Meeting on Aug. 22, 2019. REC’s Bylaws require that any member-owner who desires to seek election to the Board of Directors must submit a nomination petition signed by at least 25 REC member- owners. The completed petition must be delivered to the office of REC’s president by May 2, 2019.

No nominations can be accepted at the Annual Meeting in August. Nomination petition forms are now available. To obtain your petition and candidate nomination packet, visit myrec.coop/boardelections, email [email protected] or call 1-800-552-3904.

Three Directors will be elected, one from each of the following Regions: Region I - the counties of Frederick, Shenandoah & portions of Page, Warren & Rappahannock. Currently represented by Michael W. Lindsay. Region VI - Caroline County. Currently represented by Linda R. Gray. Region VII - Louisa County. Currently represented by J. Mark Wood.

To become a candidate in one of the director elections listed above, you must be an REC member-owner as defined under Article I of the REC Bylaws. You must also reside in the region that you wish to represent as provided under Article IV of the REC Bylaws. Member-owners signing the nomination petition can be from any of the nine regions. For further details on director qualifications and the nomination procedures, please review Article IV of REC’s Bylaws. The Bylaws are available under the About Us section of myrec.coop, and a printed copy can be requested by calling 1-800-552-3904.

18 Rappahannock Electric Cooperative | Cooperative Living Magazine myrec.coop

Michael W. Lindsay Region I In addition to the Bylaws, Article IV, Board of Directors, Section 3: Qualifications for Director, Board candidates shall overall meet the requirements listed below. Christopher G. Shipe Region II • Possess an understanding of basic financial matters and fiduciary responsibilities of a board member; • Be recognized as a leader in their industry and community because of their strong record of Darlene H. Carpenter accomplishment; Region III • Be experienced in serving on a board or reporting directly to a board; • Be committed to learning about the Cooperative and its diverse membership and willing to Sanford devote 24 to 44 days per year in order to be a Reaves, Jr. meaningful contributor on behalf of all Region IV member-owners; LECTR E IC C OC O • Be willing and capable of articulating points N OP N E A R of view that may challenge the thinking of the H A A T P I board and management; Jesse R. “Randy” V P E A Thomas R • Place a high value on personal and corporate Region V integrity and ethical behavior; • Have an understanding of cooperatives; 2019 REC DIRECTOR • Be willing and able to successfully complete ★ ★ ★ NRECA’s Credentialed Cooperative Director Linda R. program within five years of becoming a Gray director; Region VI To obtain further information regarding • Be willing and able to participate in the Cooperative’s New Director Orientation program; the 2019 Director Election, and visit myrec.coop/boardelections, • Be financially secure (not motivated by director J. Mark Meet Your Board of Directors Wood email [email protected] compensation). Region VII Board Regions or call 1-800-552-3904.

Completed nomination forms

William C. must be returned to the office of the I II Frazier II president at REC no later than Michael W. Lindsay Christopher G. Shipe Darlene H. Carpenter Region VIII Treasurer Chairman Vice Chairman Region I Region III III 5 p.m. on May 2, 2019. Region II IV

VVI Eugene L. VII VIII IX Campbell, Jr. Region IX

Richmond Sanford Reaves, Jr. Jesse “Randy” Thomas Linda R. Gray Secretary Region IV Region V Region VI March-April 2019 19

J. Mark Wood William C. Frazier Eugene L. Campbell, Jr. Region VII Region VIII Region IX

Notice of Bylaw Amendment

Board of Directors voted at its October 2017 Below is an excerpt of Bylaws reflecting this change. e complete REC’smeeting to amend Article V, Section 1 of the Bylaws are available on REC’s website, www.myrec.coop. A printed copy Bylaws. e amendment reduced the number of meetings the of the Bylaws is available upon request. board is required to hold each year from 12 to at least six. “For the past two years a strategic objective of the board ARTICLE V has been to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Technology MEETINGS OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS and communication capabilities have advanced to the point SECTION 1: Regular Meetings today where the board can fulfill its duties and responsibilities e Board of Directors shall meet, primarily for organizational with fewer in-person business meetings than were necessary in purposes, within thirty days of the annual meeting of members; if such the past,“ explained Chris Shipe, REC board chair. “ e time meeting is separate from a regular meeting of the Board of Directors, previously dedicated to regular monthly meetings will now be notice of the meeting shall be provided in accordance with Section 3 of better utilized as topic-specific strategy sessions and educational this Article. Annually, there shall be a minimum of six regular meetings events to help the board stay abreast of the significant changes of the Board of Directors held at such time and place within the general occurring within the electric industry.” area served by the Cooperative as designated by the Board of Directors. Such regular meeting may be held without notice other than such resolution fixing the time and place thereof.

20 www.myrec.coop Rappahannock Electric Cooperative RELIABILITY: Responding to Top Causes of Power Outages

While REC crews respond to power outages as quickly as possible, REC always aims to prevent an outage from occurring in the first place. The Cooperative regularly analyzes outage data and works to stop a potential problem in its tracks. Here’s a look at the most common causes of power outages and how REC works to address them:

Trees are the No. 1 cause of power outages. To reduce outages, REC’s professional foresters and certified arborists work with contractor employees to clear more than 1,500 miles of right-of-way each year.

REC adds coverings called animal guards to transformers and other apparatus to keep the critters out and the lights on. Last year, REC installed nearly 5,000 animal guards.

REC follows an underground line- replacement program to identify and replace equipment before aluminum failure causes an outage.

In 2018, REC installed nearly 600 lightning “arrestors” to protect insulators and conductors.

Sometimes, there are multiple causes across REC’s 17,000 miles of line. REC works year- round to upgrade poles, wires and related equipment.

20 Rappahannock Electric Cooperative | Cooperative Living Magazine myrec.coop

Community Connections Make a DIFFERENCE REC’s primary goal is to deliver safe, reliable and affordable electricity to its member-owners. But as a cooperative, REC also believes in improving and helping the communities it serves. As employees gear up for another year of making a difference, here’s a quick look back at REC’s community involvement in 2018.

300+ 100+ 26 17

300-plus events 100-plus employees 26 safety 17 Touch-a-Truck held across 22 sharing their time and demonstrations. events. counties. expertise.

20 17 18K 8

20 elementary, 17 demonstrations of $18,000 in Community 8 students from 7 middle and high REC’s electric vehicle. Grants awarded to 17 schools participated schools visited. nonprofits. in Youth Tour.

The Power of Change Each month, thousands of REC members give voluntarily to The Power of Change. These funds are invested back into the community so we have a better place to live, work and play. Gifts can be a set monthly amount, a one-time donation or member-owners can round up their bills to the next whole dollar. Join today by logging in to your MyREC SmartHub account or visit thepowerofchange.org.

March-April 2019 21 You Don’t Need to Wait for Earth Day to Make a Difference Earth Day is April 22. But you do not need to wait until then to do something meaningful. REC is committed to serving as a good steward of the environment, and the Cooperative is making it easier than ever for you to join in. Here are just a few easy ideas to help you and your family make a difference.

Learn About Electric Vehicles REC is committed to helping its member-owners learn about driving and charging electric vehicles. With its own electric vehicle, REC has helped hundreds of member-owners learn how to make energy-efficient car buying and charging decisions.

Find more details on electric vehicle Cooperative Sunshare charging at myrec.coop/electriccar.

The sun never felt better. Join REC as we take steps today for a better tomorrow.

REC is giving its member-owners a choice in supporting renewable energy to protect our environment. Your neighbors are Learn more about electric vehicles at doing their part. Will you join them? these upcoming events: • Get Connected Sign up today for Cooperative Sunshare. • 2019 Annual Meeting • Purchase 50-kilowatt blocks of solar for only a few dollars more • Farmers Markets • Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest per month! Festival • Purchase no more than you would use in any one month. • Orange Street Festival • Local Parades • Cancel or modify anytime. • National Night Out Events Enroll online at myrec.coop/sunshare or call 800-552-3904. • Clarke County STEM Festival • Front Royal Festival of Leaves

2022 Rappahannock Electric Cooperative | Cooperative Living Magazine myrec.coop Landscape Your Way to Energy Savings

Heating and cooling are the largest expenses for of debris or anything that could grow against the unit.) most homes, typically accounting for more than Did you know a strategically positioned tree can save 50 percent of a family's energy use. Your decisions you up to 25 percent on your home's heating and about what and where to plant can help reduce cooling costs? Learn more: those expenses. (Helpful hint: Keep your HVAC clear myrec.coop/smartlandscaping

The Right Tree, The Right Place Always look up before planting a tree. Trees are the No. 1 cause of power outages, but tree and power line conflicts can often be avoided by following this simple advice: When selecting trees to plant on your property, you should consider the mature height of the tree and the best location. Learn more: myrec.coop/trees

Can You Safely Dig It? April is National Safe Digging Month. Always visit va811.com to fill out your online ticket to safe digging, and remember: • Allow required time for underground utility markings • Respect the markings • And excavate carefully

Learn more: va811.com

March-April 2019 2323 REC Donates Money to Important Community Groups You know REC provides electric service, but did you know the Cooperative also donates money to nonprofits that make a difference in the community? Through REC’s Community Grants program, kids learn how to swim, fire and EMS officials learn life-saving skills, and students in need receive healthy snacks.

Applications are available year-round. Each grant is meant to supplement — but not replace — state, local or other sources of funding for specific projects. Organizations seeking funding for a project that will benefit the Cooperative’s membership are encouraged to apply for the grant.

REC will award two $5,000 grants and four $2,000 grants. There will be at least one grant from each of the following categories:

• Education Grants may be awarded to individual teachers, or groups of teachers, from grades K-12 who demonstrate creative teaching methods to students of Cooperative member-owners. • Community Grants may be awarded to non-profit organizations serving REC members, or whose services directly benefit them. • Emergency Service Grants may be awarded to emergency-response teams that are served by REC, or whose services directly benefit REC members. The deadline for the 2019 Community Grant application is Oct. 15, 2019. Apply today at myrec.coop/community

What Makes You REC Proud?

“I am proud to work at REC because of the noticeable contributions and close working relationships within our community. At REC, we care about our member-owners.” -Steve Coates distribution designer, Culpeper 11-year REC employee

24 Rappahannock Electric Cooperative | Cooperative Living Magazine myrec.coop

Why Was My Electric Bill So High? REDUCE YOUR CLUTTER Go Paperless Today!

Multiple blasts of Arctic air have poured into Virginia this winter, causing your heating system to use more energy to maintain the comfort in your home. If your house has a heat pump, it may have used auxiliary heat when the outside Tired of sorting through piles of temperatures approached freezing. The auxiliary system can add significantly junk mail and bills every evening? to your home-heating costs. To stay warm, some families also use space Take the simple step of signing heaters, which can add to monthly energy costs. up to receive a paperless bill from REC and begin the process See the impact weather had on your bill of reducing the piles of paper that accumulate each day. In your MyREC SmartHub account, click the My Usage HOW TO GO PAPERLESS tab to check energy use by day — or even hour — to see In your MyREC SmartHub account: the effect of the Arctic air • Click My Profile on your electricity use. If you • My Information don’t have MyREC SmartHub • Update My Printed Bill Settings yet, no problem. Visit: • Printed Bill Status myrec.smarthub.coop to create your profile today! Don’t have a MyREC SmartHub account yet? No problem! Visit myrec.smarthub.coop today to 2019 online member-owner survey coming create your online profile. It’s fast, simple and free! To better serve your needs, REC would like your input.

In mid-May, look for a link to take a survey, which will ask for Local Pages Editor – Casey M. Hollins, CCC information about your energy usage. The survey should take only Staff Writer – Brian Baer about 5 to 10 minutes to complete. Contact Information: P.O. Box 7388 Fredericksburg, VA 22404 Since the survey is conducted only online, please make sure REC 800.552.3904 has your current email address on file.Make any updates in your [email protected] MyREC SmartHub account or call 800-552-3904. Rappahannock Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

March-April 2019 25 Your Co-op Your News

Southside Electric Cooperative Celebrates National Lineman Appreciation Day

America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 8, 2019, Southside Electric Cooperative (SEC), along with cooperatives across the country, will honor the hardworking men and women who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. SEC proudly recognizes all of our electric linemen for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power ﬂowing and protect the public’s safety. SEC invites all co-op members to take a moment and thank a lineman for the work they do. On April 8, use #ThankALineman on social media to show your support for the men and women who light our lives!

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Southside Electric Cooperative 2019 Is a Survey Year

very other year, Southside Electric Cooperative (SEC) conducts a survey of its residential members on a variety of Etopics. This survey is designed to provide information that can be used to better serve your needs. Using the responses, SEC can modify existing programs to meet changing needs, add new programs, enhance communications with you and more! The survey will ask you about the construction of your home, the types and age of your heating and cooling systems, the number and age of appliances, how you connect to the internet and a variety of other topics. Unlike quizzes and tests in school, there is nothing you need to study or prepare for in advance. Over the next couple of months, SEC will be sending reminder Just sit back, relax and answer the questions to the best of emails. Not a deluge, but one or two to let you know it is still in the your ability. works. In mid-May, you will be sent a survey link via email. Please This year the survey will be conducted entirely online. The complete the survey as soon as you can. The goal is to have the data rationale for this approach is straightforward: analyzed and a report prepared by August. After that, look for a summary of the ﬁndings in a future article. • Online surveying saves resources, no paper used or This survey is designed to equip your Cooperative to add value to postage required. your service. We look forward to hearing how we can better serve you! • It is easy to complete and doesn’t pick up stains from your coffee cup. Does SEC have your current email address? • It eliminates data-entry errors. In order to participate in the survey, we will need As with all surveys, more is better so, please, be sure to take your current email address. Please ensure your account a few minutes to provide your input. All answers are conﬁdential information is updated by calling a Member Services unless you have a question or issue you would like SEC to contact you about. Just enter that request in the comment box Representative at 1-800-552-2118. Like all your account at the end of the survey. information, it is safe and secure with the Cooperative.

sec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 COMMUNITY PROFILE Reconstructed tavern gives look at past hospitality

April event to highlight history

By Mark Thomas, Community Relations Coordinator

n a cold January afternoon in the late 1700s, a traveler on horseback Oheading west from Peytonsburg in Halifax County through the rough terrain of Pittsylvania County would have been pleased to see Yates Tavern ahead. At the tavern, the chilled and weary traveler could get a bucket of oats and shelter for his horse. He could warm by the rock fireplace and have a glass of hard cider followed by a dinner of chicken or pork and dried vegetables. “He’d have whatever the family was eating,” says Diane Moon. “You didn’t have a choice.” After the meal, the guest might play a game of checkers with the tavern proprietor, listen to some fiddle tunes, exchange news of the day with other guests and debate political views. “Just like now,” says Langhorne Jones Jr. Turning in for the night, the traveler would have a pallet on the upstairs wooden floor or space in a rope-supported bed on a straw tick mattress. It’s unlikely he would have had much privacy, unless the tavern didn’t have many guests that evening. Sleeping six to eight in a room was common. How much the guest was able to pay likely determined the quality of his sleeping accommodations. Before resuming his journey, breakfast the next morning would have been a bowl of something like oatmeal or possibly an egg and piece of fried ham. On a cold January afternoon in 2019, Moon, who lives in Gretna and is regent of the Thomas Carter Chapter of the local Daughters of the American Revolution, and Jones, a Chatham resident and membership chairman of the Pittsylvania Historical Society, painted a verbal picture of accommodations at the tavern, and told about the unique architecture of the frame building with cedar-shakes roof, and a celebration being planned for early spring.

Left: A photo from U.S. 29 Business outside of Gretna shows the tavern’s massive chimney. A jetty, or overhang, expands the second- story rooms at the tavern. Inset: Photo shows Yates Tavern before the 1976 restoration.

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Southside Electric Cooperative Built around 1750, Yates Tavern was one of four in Pittsylvania County’s past. It is the only one that has been restored and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is located just south of present- day Gretna in Pittsylvania County, one of 18 counties served by Southside Electric Cooperative. Historical information reports “John Lewis took out a license to run a tavern” in 1804. Moon, who’s also a member of the county historical society, says it’s likely the building served as a tavern before then. It’s reported that, “From 1818 to 1835, Samuel Yates obtained yearly licenses for a house of private entertainment.” Later, the building served as a private residence for several families and as storage space for a local lumber business. In 1975, Moon’s great-aunt, Nannie Bennett Cocke, donated the tavern and 25 feet on each side of the building to Pittsylvania County. It was restored as part of the county celebrating America’s bicentennial in 1976. Funding for the restoration came from the Pittsylvania Top: Pittsylvania County residents County Board of Supervisors, Virginia Langhorne Jones Jr. and Diane Moon Historic Landmarks Commission, hope visitors will enjoy learning about Yates Tavern and America’s early years at National Park Service and DeWitt Wallace, a festival in April. Inset: Winter travelers co-founder of Reader’s Digest. Others stopping by Yates Tavern in the late 1700s cleaned and graded the site, seeded the and early 1800s would warm by the rock yard around the building and planted fireplace, have dinner and sleep upstairs. trees. Today, the county historical society Left: Reenactors debate politics at the first looks after the property. Tavern Days in 2017. Materials to redo the tavern came from other structures in the area. allowed prepared food to be handed from read in history books. ... It was the rank- “This building is more authentic than the basement to the main floor. and-file people who made history, just like anything in Williamsburg. When it was A unique feature of the tavern is the the people we read about. Yates Tavern reconstructed, all of the wood came from 10-inch, second-floor overhang, or jetty, really symbolizes that.” buildings all over the county that were on the front and back of the building’s Moon, Jones and others are hoping to built in the 1750s,” Jones says. “That’s why exterior. Jones says the jetty goes back to raise awareness of Yates Tavern with a you see all the wormholes in the wood.” an architectural style in London at the festival this spring. The second Tavern Besides the original pieces of wood, Jones time. Jetties were added to houses to Days will be held Saturday, April 13, from points out 250-year-old wooden pegs used simply give the second story of the 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The event will include arts in the reconstruction. Hand-blown glass in building a bit more room. and crafts, music, concessions, reenactors the windows has a shimmering effect. Moon says the restored tavern is a and plenty of history lessons. Admission Walking up the steps and through the treasure, primarily because of its unique will be free. front door, a visitor comes into a main architecture. Yates Tavern is thought to be “We want to have activities that would room with the large fireplace and a mantel the only structure of its type in Virginia. have been around a tavern at the time of that weighs about 60 pounds. The historical “A lot of young people, when they think the Revolutionary War,” Moon says. society and DAR have placed furniture and about Virginia history, they think about The first Tavern Days was held in 2017, other items in the main and other rooms Jamestown and Williamsburg, but history part of the celebration of Pittsylvania to increase the tavern look. The first floor happened right here,” Moon says. “I think County’s 250th anniversary. also has a small room that Jones supposes it’s important for them to see what happened For more information about this year’s would have been used by the tavern owner here.” And, she adds, it’s important for event, Google the Thomas Carter Chapter and family. Through a wooden door that them to find out what role their families of the Daughters of the American Revolution. has a small square cut out of it for the had in the history of America. Some information for the article was taken family cat and up the curved stairway are Moon adds that the DAR focuses from research done in 1983 by students at two more rooms, a large one that was on historic preservation, education John L. Hurt Jr. Elementary School, also in likely the main guest quarters. Meals were and patriotism. Pittsylvania County, and from historical prepared in the basement. A trap door “History is not just made up of what we materials provided by Langhorne Jones Jr. sec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 21

Member Profile lack of economic development in the rural county. She says the county’s

Donna Fore strong agribusiness industry teaches young people about being on time for By Mark Thomas, Community Relations Coordinator a job, putting in eight hours and other work skills. o you remember where you were “We’re raising kids with strong work and what you were doing on the ethics and all of those qualities for great Dmorning of Sept. 11, 2001? jobs, but we don’t have the jobs,” says Donna Fore does. She was at the Pentagon. Fore, noting that young people leave Now living in Charlotte County, on 9/11 the county for work and don’t return. Fore was at her desk at the Pentagon on Fore also wants to see the county what she recalls as a beautiful, fall-like day. work on lowering its multi-million- A colleague called Fore to her office, just dollar debt and promoting the area’s after a plane had crashed into the first rich history to tourists. tower at the World Trade Center in New “These issues need a little vision, York City. Wondering what had happened, a few resources, some attention and they watched as another plane struck the somebody that cares. ... I’m ready second tower. After running back to her to push up my sleeves and get my office to call husband Stephen, she felt hands dirty.” what she describes as a “little earthquake.” But Fore knows the job ahead is The Pentagon had been hit by a third plane. going to take a lot of people with ideas. “The building kind of shuttered,” She’s excited that the county has a new Fore remembers. administrator, Dan Witt, and thinks Two friends who were part of a Bible In her military career, the 63-year-old with his and the Board of Supervisors’ study group with Fore died, among the Fore served in Europe, the Middle East, leadership, along with the support from 125 Pentagon employees who perished in Japan and Central America, among other the citizens and partnership with existing the assault on the building. Other friends posts. She was an intelligence officer, and businesses, Charlotte County can have were injured. her work included training and equipping growth and new jobs, and also tackle its It was an unbelievable calamity that other countries’ militaries, building other challenges. continues to cause tremendous sorrow and relationships with local residents by She adds that she’ll put some prayer repercussions almost 18 years later. Terror providing medical and other needed into that, too. had struck at home. Almost 3,000 people services, and fighting drug trafficking. Beyond her work on the Board of died on 9/11 and more than 6,000 were Fore is back in government service, and Supervisors, Fore, who’s an insurance injured in the coordinated terrorist attacks today often finds herself in Charlotte Court agent for New York Life, is involved in in New York City, at the Pentagon in House working on economic development, Rotary, Lions and Ruritan clubs in Arlington and in Pennsylvania. broadband and school upgrades. She surrounding communities and teaches “That (event) set in motion some things recently completed her first year as the Sunday school. She supports the American for me,” says Fore, whose breaking voice Aspen/Phenix District member on the Cancer Society’s Relay For Life and was a tells of the emotion she still feels. “It made Charlotte County Board of Supervisors. sponsor of last fall’s Opportunity Fund me realize where I wanted to be and how “I’ve enjoyed it,” she says while sitting Skeet & Trap Classic that raised money for I was going to get there.” in the board’s meeting room at the county Southside Opportunity Fund scholarships. The where is Charlotte County and the administration office. “It has been She says when she retired from the how is that Fore eventually retired from challenging, mostly because I’ve been military, she wanted to get more involved the United States Air Force as a colonel getting up to speed on county issues.” in the community. after a 30-year career. Husband Stephen is Fore says joining county government “What did I do that mattered to a native of Charlotte County and wanted has reminded her that making things someone else? That’s how I measure to go back home. She was fine with that. happen at any level of government takes my life now.” She started living in the county in 2002 patience, research, working with colleagues on weekends while continuing to work in and the public, and compromise. She says This article is part of a continuing series Northern Virginia and Charlottesville. the path to solving problems isn’t always to recognize SEC members for their Fore became a full-time county resident in straight. There’s plenty of work ahead. contributions to the community or something 2015. A native of Florida who grew up in Fore says the county schools need that makes them unique. Readers are invited Texas, she now thinks of herself as being attention. The county has started renovation to suggest members to be featured by from Charlotte County. projects at Bacon and Phenix elementary emailing [email protected]. “People just love you here. I felt so schools, including adding indoor activity embraced,” says Fore, a Southside Electric areas at both schools and new classrooms Cooperative member since 2002. at Phenix. Another issue, she adds, is the

22 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Southside Electric Cooperative Above: (L-R) Del. Kirk Cox, SEC Director Dr. Frank Bacon, SEC Director Kristie Martin-Wallace and SEC President & CEO Jeff Edwards. Left: (L-R) SEC Director Charles Friedl, SEC Director Dr. Earl Currin Jr., SEC Director Brenda Hicks Johnson, Del. Roslyn Tyler, SEC Director Will White and SEC Community Relations Coordinator Lloyd Lenhart.

SEC visits state legislators ore than 150 electric cooperative leaders from across Virginia gathered in Richmond Jan. 29 for Legislative Day activities sponsored by the Virginia, Save time, money and effort by MMaryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives (VMDAEC). enrolling in paperless billing. Manage The Legislative Day event is held each year and gives electric cooperative leaders the your payments online for secure opportunity to visit their state delegates and senators and discuss pending legislation of access to your statements 24/7. No interest to electric cooperatives. checks to write! No stamps to buy! “We had a very productive day on Capitol Hill in Richmond,” Andrew Vehorn, director No bills to mail, ﬁle, shred or clutter of governmental affairs for VMDAEC, said after the day’s activities. “Virginia’s electric your mailbox! cooperatives, as member-owned electric utilities, have very strong support among Enroll today by creating a SmartHub our lawmakers. The Legislative Day visits allow co-op directors and staff to cultivate account: http://sec.smarthub.coop. and reinforce the good working relationships that co-ops have always had with their legislators.” Once logged into SmartHub, go to Southside Electric Cooperative’s (SEC) delegation visited with Del. Kirk Cox, “My Proﬁle” to change your printed Del. Roslyn Tyler, Sen. Amanda Chase and Sen. Glen Sturtevant. bill status. sec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 23 Three Easy DIY Projects to Save Energy

inter weather can have a big impact on your energy bills, hitting your pockets Wa little harder than you would have liked. Now that spring is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to tackle a few DIY efﬁciency

projects for your home. The good news: You don’t SOURCE: RARE FORM PROPERTIES have to be an energy expert to do this! There are several easy ways to save energy, but if you’re willing to take a hands-on approach, here are three projects you can do now to start saving.

Make the Most of Your Water Heater Seal Air Leaks with Caulk Applying caulk around windows, doors, Let’s start with one of the easiest projects: The average American family spends electrical wiring and plumbing can save insulating your water heater. Insulating a $2,000 annually on energy bills, but, energy and money. water heater that’s warm to the touch can unfortunately, much of that money is save 7 to 16 percent annually on your water wasted through air leaks in the home. Weather-Strip Exterior Doors heating bills. It should also be noted that if Applying caulk around windows, doors, your water heater is new, it is likely already electrical wiring and plumbing can save One of the best ways to seal air leaks is insulated. But if your water heater is warm energy and money. There are many to weather-strip exterior doors, which can to the touch, it needs additional insulation. different types of caulking compounds keep out drafts and help you control You can purchase a pre-cut jacket or available, but the most popular choice is energy costs. Weather-stripping materials blanket for about $20. You’ll also need two silicone. Silicone caulk is waterproof, vary, but you can ask your local hardware people for this project. Before you start, flexible and won’t shrink or crack. or home store for assistance if you’re turn off the water heater. Wrap the blanket Before applying new caulk, clean and unsure about the supplies you need. around the water heater and tape it to remove any old caulk or paint with a putty When choosing weather-stripping temporarily keep it in place. If necessary, knife, screwdriver, brush or solvent. The materials, make sure it can withstand use a marker to note the areas where the area should be dry before you apply the temperature changes, friction and the general controls are so you can cut them out. Once new caulk. “wear and tear” for the location of the the blanket is positioned correctly tape it Apply the caulk in one continuous door. Keep in mind, you will need separate permanently in place, then turn the water stream, and make sure it sticks to both materials for the door sweep (at the heater back on. If you have an electric water sides of the crack or seam. Afterwards, use bottom of the door) and the top and sides. heater, do not set the thermostat above a putty knife to smooth out the caulk, then Before applying the new weather 130 degrees, which can cause overheating. wipe the surface with a dry cloth. stripping, clean the moulding with water and soap, then let the area dry completely. Measure each side of the door, then cut the weather stripping to fit each section. Make sure the weather stripping fits snugly against both surfaces so it compresses when the door is closed. By completing these simple efficiency projects, you can save energy (and money!) while increasing the comfort level of your home. And you can impress your family and friends with your savvy energy-saving skills.

24 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Southside Electric Cooperative Upcoming Events SEC Closed for

Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & 80th Anniversary Celebration: Boonsboro Good Friday Country Club, March 28, 5:30-8 p.m. bedfordareachamber.com Avoca Museum Opening Day: Altavista, April 6, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. avocamuseum.org Osprey 10K-5K Run/Walk: Smith Mountain Lake State Park, April 6, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. smlspfriends.com Powhatan Village Vibe Music Series: Downtown Powhatan, April 12, 7-10 p.m. powhatanchamber.org Park Day: Pamplin Historical Park, April 13, 1-3 p.m., park-beautification event. Southside Electric Register at pamplinpark.org Cooperative offices 12th Annual Flea Market & Craft Sale to benefit Lake Country Detachment #1085 Marine Corps will be closed on Friday, League: Dixie Warehouse, South Hill, April 20, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. April 19, 2019, in Relay For Life of Campbell County: Altavista, April 26, 6 p.m.-12 a.m. relayforlife.org observance of Good Friday. 86th Historic Garden Week: Petersburg/Dinwiddie, April 30. VAgardenweek.org All office locations will Heart of Virginia Festival: Farmville, May 4, 9 a.m. heartofvirginia.org reopen at 8 a.m. on The Great Farmville Duck Derby: Appomattox River, May 4, 5 p.m. Visit The Great Farmville Duck Monday, April 22, 2019. Derby on Facebook for more information.

SOUTHSIDE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 1-800-552-2118 Outages Only: 1-866-878-5514 Central District/Hdqtrs. – Crewe Eastern District – Dinwiddie Northern District – Powhatan Western District – Altavista

Ofﬁce Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Website: sec.coop

President & CEO Jeffrey S. Edwards

Local Pages Editor Lauren A. Irby

Southside Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

sec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 25 NEWS

NOMINATING COMMITTEE SVEC Seeks Board Candidates Members from Frederick/Clarke counties: The Board of Directors of Shenandoah Board of Directors, contact one of the Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) has committee members listed at right to Ruth Boden made changes to the bylaws governing learn more about how to get on the 3026 Woodside Road the process for nominating candidates ballot for the annual meeting. As Clear Brook, VA 22624 for election to the Board. Please look mentioned earlier, the process for Tammara Canfield for a bill insert this month with details nominating candidates has changed 161 Forgotten Lane on the topic. You may also visit this year. Information can be found in Clear Brook, VA 22624 svec.coop and SVEC’s social media your March bill insert, at svec.coop and channels for more information. on SVEC’s social media channels. Members from Page County: Director elections will occur on During the 2019 meeting, SVEC Thursday, June 13, during the cooperative’s member-owners will elect one director Judy Bell annual meeting at the James Madison from Clarke/Frederick counties/city 387 Leaksville Road Luray, VA 22835 University Convocation Center in of Winchester; one director from Harrisonburg. Additional information Shenandoah/Warren counties; one William Fisher about the meeting will follow, director from Page/Shenandoah/ 9 S Hawksbill Street including in the May issue of Warren counties; and one director Luray, VA 22835 Cooperative Living magazine. from the city of Winchester. Directors In January, the Board of Directors serve four-year terms. Members from city of Winchester: selected members for this year’s While SVEC directors come from Nominating Committee. It is the duty jurisdictions throughout the service David A. Chandler of this committee to recommend territory, they represent the entire 1061 Breckinridge Lane Winchester, VA 22601 candidates for director elections. co-op membership as a Board member. If you, as a member-owner of the The incumbent this year from Laura J. Stokes cooperative, know someone you feel Clarke/Frederick/Winchester is 511 S. Stewart Street should be a candidate for the SVEC Bill Orndoff, who lives in Stephenson. Winchester, VA 22601 There is no incumbent from Shenandoah/Warren. Members from Shenandoah County:

SHENANDOAH VALLEY The incumbent from Page/ Shenandoah/Warren is Board Vice Chris Boies ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE Chair David Ferguson, who lives in P. O. Box 542 Strasburg, VA 22657 Mailing Address: Edinburg, and the incumbent from P.O. Box 236, Mt. Crawford, VA 22841-0236 Winchester is Robbie Marchant, a James W. Winkfield, Jr. Physical Address: city resident. 494 Varghese Drive 180 Oakwood Drive, Rockingham, VA 22801 Potential candidates for the Board Strasburg, VA 22657 must be member-owners of SVEC and 800-234-SVEC (7832) • svec.coop bona fide residents of its service area. Oﬃce Hours: M-F, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The cooperative’s bylaws say that candidates must be at least 21 years President and CEO: Michael W. Hastings of age and may not, in any way, be SVEC offices will Board Chair: Fred C. Garber employed by a competing enterprise or a business selling electric energy or be closed all day Local Pages Editor: Kathleen Josephson supplies to the cooperative. Friday, April 19, Writers: Cammie Tutwiler & Preston Knight Remember, this is your electric for Good Friday. For all questions concerning advertising, cooperative, so please take an active contact Cooperative Living at 804-346-3344. role and be sure to attend the 2019 Offices will reopen annual meeting. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and Monday, April 22. employer. SVEC supports our armed services and Have a safe and happy Easter! veterans in employment opportunities.

18 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative Online Survey Hitting Inboxes Soon

Shenandoah Valley Electric If you want to participate in the Cooperative (SVEC) needs your input. survey, please make sure SVEC has In mid-May, you can expect to receive your current email address on file. an email with a link for an online You can provide your email by calling svec-online.coop. Please see the residential home survey about your SVEC at 1-800-234-7832, visiting a local message alongside this article about energy usage. office or registering for eBusiness at changes coming to our eBusiness page. The survey will only be conducted online. No paper copies will be made available. Changes Coming for Online Accounts The survey should take less than 10 minutes to complete. All answers In an effort to better serve our member-owners, Shenandoah Valley Electric are strictly confidential, unless you Cooperative (SVEC) is in the process of converting its core business software, have a specific question or issue you with a completion date scheduled for later in the spring. Once the conversion would like SVEC to address. occurs, member-owners who currently have an eBusiness account with The survey covers a variety of svec-online.coop will need to re-register. topics, including questions about the Until the conversion, please continue to manage your account online at construction of your home, types and svec-online.coop. ages of your heating and cooling We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Please know the new systems, the amount and ages of system will provide additional resources for you and SVEC. We will share your appliances and your internet additional information in the coming weeks. connection. Your input can affect both This issue of the magazine is a combination of March and April. For the existing and new programs and latest updates as SVEC moves closer to its software conversion, please visit products offered by the cooperative. svec.coop, svec-online.coop and the cooperative’s social media channels. Thank you in advance for sharing your feedback! Cold Weather Affects Winter Bills

Shenandoah Valley Electric information on this program is months or cold winter months. Cooperative (SVEC) wants to make available at SVECBeatThePeak.coop. The graphic below shows how member-owners aware that bitterly SVEC also offers a “budget billing” consumption increases over the winter cold temperatures this winter lead option called Levelized. Each month, when temperatures are the lowest. to higher electric bills because of SVEC will average your actual billing The graphic reflects use in 2018, with increased electric use. for the current month with the the most consumption coming in With temperatures staying at or previous 11 months. Your bill will vary the coldest months of January and below the freezing mark during the slightly from month to month, but this December. During these months, winter, more people stay inside, and “rolling average” evens out extreme member-owners would have seen a more electricity is being used to heat highs and lows, such as the hot summer spike in bills, compared to other months. homes and businesses, which leads to higher total electric bills. Rates have not increased for any of SVEC’s member-owners during this KWH Residential Usage time period. Higher bills this time of 2000 year are primarily a result of greater electricity consumption. 30˚ 35˚ SVEC understands member-owners’ Avg. Avg. concerns about unusually high bills. 37 The cooperative would like to remind 1500 ˚ 73˚ Avg. Avg. member-owners to control electricity 42˚ 41˚ Avg. 72˚ Avg. use by being aware of how much 70˚ Avg. Avg. energy is being consumed, and taking 68˚ 57˚ appropriate conservation measures. 49˚ Avg. 69˚ Avg. 1000 Avg. Avg. The free and voluntary Beat the Peak ❆ ❆ program helps the cooperative hold ary down electric rates by getting member- ✸ owners to reduce consumption during Janu May APRIL AUGUST OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER JULY JULY FEBRUARY MARCH MAY JANUARY SEPTEMBER high peak demand times. More 500 JUNE svec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 19 Cooperatives Descend on Richmond to Share Priorities

Staff and board members of Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative met with state legislators on Tuesday, Jan. 29, as part of the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives’ (VMDAEC) quarterly board meeting and Legislative Day. Attending were Board Vice Chair David Ferguson, Secretary/ Treasurer Suzanne Obenshain and Directors Larry Howdyshell and Robbie Marchant, along with President & CEO Michael PHOTOS KNIGHT PRESTON Hastings, Vice President of Member Services Mike Aulgur and Public Relations Representative Preston Knight. They joined more than 150 people attending VMDAEC’s annual event in Richmond, which included representatives of Virginia’s 13 member-owned electric cooperatives as well as government officials, legislative staff and guests. Attendees spent the morning visiting with legislators and their aides in their General Assembly offices, outlining the position of Virginia’s electric cooperatives on legislation proposed in 2019. Topics discussed included measures recommended by the Rubin Group, a professionally SVEC Board member Robbie Marchant (second from right) joined officials mediated group of stakeholders from throughout the from Rappahannock Electric Cooperative in meeting with Sen. Jill Vogel, commonwealth representing utility, solar, environmental R-Upperville. and consumer interests, working towards a consensus on developing solar policy. The ultimate goal is to build and maintain relationships with legislators to ensure that the best interests of electric cooperative member-owners are in mind whenever legislation is under consideration.

Del. Ronnie Campbell, R-Raphine, met with, from left, SVEC Board members David Ferguson and Larry Howdyshell, and President & CEO Michael Hastings.

Del. Steve Landes, R-Weyers Cave, speaks with Howdyshell and Hastings.

Hastings discusses legislation with Del. Tony Wilt, R-Harrisonburg. Howdyshell, Hastings and Ferguson meet with Del. Todd Gilbert, R-Woodstock.

20 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative Operation Round Up Awards Grants

In January, the Operation Round Up Committee awarded more than $14,000 in grants to area nonprofit organizations. Operation Round Up is Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative’s charitable giving program. It is a voluntary program that helps address crucial PRESTON KNIGHT PHOTO KNIGHT PRESTON charitable needs within our service territory by having member-owners round up their monthly bills to the nearest even dollar. The committee awards the funds collected after reviewing applications. In addition to grant requests, the committee oversees the cooperative’s high school scholarship program and allocates funding to agencies throughout the Valley to help people St. John Bosco Catholic Church received a $2,500 Operation Round Up grant. Officials were joined by in need pay their electric bills during committee member Gina Stetter (right) during a check presentation on Feb. 4. the winter. If you want to help support nonprofits Rockingham County who find Want to Help? and these energy-assistance agencies, themselves homeless, between jobs please contribute or enroll in Operation or under-employed, leaving them Through participation in Round Up through the methods listed struggling to meet basic needs. Operation Round Up, the average at right. People Helping People is a grassroots, contribution per member-owner is Organizations receiving grants in faith-based mission that provides a about 50 cents a month or $6 a year. January and a description of their coordinated and equitable system of There are several ways to begin your program or project from their helping people facing financial crisis. voluntary participation: application were: Augusta Health Foundation — Fill out the electronic form Page Free Clinic — To help pay for For the Cancer Bridge Fund, which on svec.coop/ORU. dental services at the clinic for Page provides help to cancer patients who Through our eBusiness page, County residents who normally would are unable to afford the necessities of svec-online.coop, under “Account.” not be able to afford such care. The life during their treatment. The fund short-term goal is to have dental has been in existence for nearly two Visit any SVEC office and speak with services at least once a month and free decades providing for patients a Member Service Representative. to patients. classified as indigent or working poor. Call SVEC at 1-800-234-7832 and Blue Ridge Habitat for Humanity — Rockingham Library Association — request a sign-up form. To support multiple families with To support the Summer Reading critical home repair, preservation and Games through the Massanutten Fixed amounts are also accepted to weatherization in the Northern Regional Library. The annual program, Operation Round Up, and one-time Shenandoah Valley. A priority is to which will run from June through contributions may be made by support aging-in-place families mid-August this summer, serves to writing a check out to Shenandoah because a crucial component aging counteract the loss of reading skills Valley Electric Cooperative, with adults face is maintaining independence that often occur during the summer Operation Round Up in the memo as disabilities or injuries occur and if months for children in kindergarten line, and mailed to P.O. Box 236, their homes need certain mobility- through 12th grade. Mount Crawford, VA 22841. related repairs. New Directions — To cover material Want to Apply? Catholic Outreach — To help house and labor expenses to continue homeless men and women in Area nonprofits and charitable building a privacy fence at the Shenandoah County. The St. John organizations are invited to apply for confidential shelter that serves victims Bosco Catholic Outreach runs an an Operation Round Up grant. The of violence in Augusta County and the emergency hotline, two food pantries, next deadline is for applications to cities of Staunton and Waynesboro. thrift store and more, but recognizes be emailed or mailed to SVEC by The privacy fence will provide an additional need exists to provide 4:30 p.m. July 9. residents a safe area to be outdoors shelter for the homeless. Applications are available at without worry as they continue their svec.coop/ORU. People Helping People — To provide journey to healing, self-empowerment financial assistance to people in and independence.

svec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 21 Take It ‘Eazy’ with Auto Payments

Everyone needs a break once in a while. Enrolling in the Eazy Pay program at Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) guarantees that you will have that opportunity at least once every month. PRESTON KNIGHT PHOTO KNIGHT PRESTON Eazy Pay is a free, safe and secure way to make sure that your monthly electric bill is paid on time by having the amount automatically withdrawn from your financial institution account. Member-owners enrolled in the program are thankful to have a worry-free payment option. “You do not have to use a stamp or write a check, and with everyone’s busy schedules, Eazy Pay is a real time saver,” Sam Lilly retired after 46 years with SVEC. Ben Cash, manager of SVEC Manager of Member Services Barbara Frye said. distribution systems, shares a story about his former co-worker Signing up is simple. Here’s how you can participate: during a January luncheon. Log-in to, or sign up for, eBusiness at svec-online.coop. Once logged in, click on “Eazy Pay” under the “Account” section. Lilly Retires After 46 Years Fill out the authorization form by printing one off from svec.coop — along with a voided check for your checking

account or deposit slip for your savings account — and return On Jan. 3, Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) the documents to SVEC in person at any office or by mail to celebrated the retirement of Sam Lilly, who in September SVEC, Attn. Eazy Pay, P.O. Box 236, Mount Crawford, VA, 22841. 2018 reached his 46th anniversary with the organization. *Please do not return the form with your regular payment*. Lilly worked tirelessly in the vegetation management area of the cooperative. He started out on the line crew Please note that your account must reflect a zero balance and was then promoted to right-of-way supervisor in 1974. before enrolling in Eazy Pay, modifying your Eazy Pay In 1993 he became a construction technician and was a information or discontinuing your participation in the staking/vegetation management representative before program. The name of the SVEC member-owner must ending his career as vegetation management coordinator match the name on the financial institution account. Upon in Page County. receipt of the required information, SVEC will implement As a number of his former fellow co-workers noted the direct debit of your financial institution account. during a retirement luncheon, SVEC member-owners and You will continue to receive a monthly bill from SVEC employees will certainly miss Lilly’s quick wit and willingness as usual. On this statement, you will see a new line to the to help keep the lights on. effect that, “Your bank account will be debited for $ (total Please wish Sam the best in his retirement! amount due) on (date).” You will be charged ABSOLUTELY NOTHING for this service, and you may cancel at any time. Please remember to allow at least five (5) business days before the debit date to cancel the payment deduction or make changes to your financial institution information. Also, please remember that the payment will have to be made by another payment method. Give yourself a break and consider signing up for Eazy Pay today. SVEC Food Drive Ends March 8 Shenandoah Valley Electric jurisdictions that SVEC serves are also the hungry during this winter season. Cooperative (SVEC) is holding a food served by the food bank, which is For more information on the food drive for the Blue Ridge Area Food based in Verona. Food from SVEC’s bank, visit brafb.org. For more Bank through March 8. All of our drive will be donated to the food information about the SVEC food offices have barrels inside the front bank’s Winchester- and Verona-area drive, contact Cammie Tutwiler at door for SVEC member-owners to drop branches. Shenandoah Valley Electric off food for the hungry. All locations We appreciate your help in feeding Cooperative by calling 1-800-234-7832. are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Last year, thanks to the generosity of The most-needed items are: member-owners, SVEC donated 2,140 cereal; peanut or almond butter; canned tuna and chicken; canned soups, stews and chili; pounds of food, which equals 1,783 meals. Help us top that number this year! canned fruits and veggies; boxed mac & cheese; spaghetti sauce; pasta and rice; The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank paper products; baby food, formula and diapers; soap, toothbrushes and feminine products serves about 118,600 people each month in 25 counties and nine cities. All PLEASE DO NOT DONATE GLASS ITEMS

22 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative — parents Ayasakanta and Mamata Rout — grew up in India. “We don’t pronounce the words the way you’re supposed to,” said his father, Ayasakanta. “He is a very active reader. He just reads.” Ayasakanta Rout said he has been impressed at the students’ ability to handle what can be a stressful setting at a spelling bee. “They had a blast, actually,” he said of Rockingham County’s district bee. “Kids have more courage than the

COURTESY OF ROCKINGHAM DISTRICT RURITANS OF ROCKINGHAM DISTRICT COURTESY parents. They were all so calm. It was amazing to see.” Twenty finalists will compete March 9 in Another Rockingham County the Rockingham District Ruritans Regional speller, Amos Horst, 13, of J. Frank SPELLBOUND Spelling Bee. Hillyard Middle School, said he can The Valley’s Best Spellers to Compete for D.C. sum up what it takes to be successful in these events in three words. by Preston Knight, SVEC Writer Rockingham counties, as well as the “Practice, practice, practice,” said city of Harrisonburg. Amos, son of Roland and Lois Horst in With every word Summer Kite, 12, Twenty-nine registered schools start Fulks Run. “If I know most of it, they adds to her repertoire (language of out with over 1,200 students participating can’t throw words at me that will origin, French), the clutter in her in their individual school bees and school surprise me.” house accumulates. district bees to qualify as one of the He said he likes to spell words in his For Summer, the daughter of Mark regional finalists. The winner will receive head before he starts rattling off letters and Elizabeth Kite in Stanley, she a new laptop and an all-expenses-paid aloud. As for nerves in front of an admits she might get nervous when trip to the Scripps National Spelling Bee audience, he said it’s only natural to under the big lights of a spelling bee in Washington, D.C., later in the spring. be anxious. competition. To make the situation SVEC caught up briefly with three Once you get started, it’s easier to get better, when she studies words in finalists and their parents, all of whom comfortable, he said. preparation, she’ll sit with a stack of are member-owners of the cooperative. “It’s sort of like getting up to walk if Post-It notes and fold them into An additional cooperative link to the you’ve had a bad injury,” Amos said. origami shapes, from swans to flowers. competition is Brian Plum, a member It also can help that words are no “It’s really hard for her to do one of SVEC’s Board of Directors who was a longer foreign to competitors who are thing at a time, she has such a busy, judge in the 2018 regional bee. in bees for multiple years now, such active brain,” Elizabeth Kite said. “I did it so I could play a small role as Summer. “There’s a lot of origami around our in helping out for what is an admirable “I like seeing different words and house these days.” and inspirational effort,” he said. “It’s seeing what they mean because some Summer, a student at Page County amazing to see the time and dedication of them have a really ridiculous Middle School, is among 20 finalists these young people put into the spelling definition,” she said. who will compete March 9 in the bee, and they should be commended That can only mean more Post-It Rockingham District Ruritans Regional for the incredible commitment to disarray (definition, a lack of order or Spelling Bee at Eastern Mennonite excellence demonstrated to get to the sequence) awaits at her home. University in Harrisonburg. The event level of the regional spelling bee “It’s a really good outlet for her. It involves students in fifth through and beyond.” helps her relax,” Elizabeth Kite said eighth grade from public and private of the origami. “It takes me time to schools within Highland, Page and Courage Under Pressure prepare the list. I have to make sure to The strategy to spelling words pronounce the words correctly. I have correctly is similar for finalists: At learned a lot helping study.” The Regional Spelling Bee is at NOVEMBER OUTAGES minimum, ask for the definition. Mrigank Rout, 10, of Peak View 11 a.m. March 9 at Eastern Mennonite 11/13 City of Winchester Elementary School in Rockingham University in Harrisonburg. The 1,200 members out for 3 ½ hours County, said he was nearly tricked on Rockingham Ruritans coordinate the Equipment failure “hock” during one of his earlier bees, event with media partners WVPT and but getting the definition saved him. the Daily News-Record. WVPT, the 11/15-18 System-wide outages “Is it ‘hawk,’ as in the bird?” he said, Harrisonburg-area PBS affiliate, will air Ice storm recalling what he was thinking to the event on March 16. himself. “It’s always fun when you’re If you want to support the bee 11/30 Battlefield Estates and Old Furnace Road areas in the spelling bee. It’s just the luck of financially, contributions can be made 700 members out for 1 hour the draw.” out to “Rockingham District Ruritans” Equipment failure Mrigank may have a tiny disadvantage and mailed to Bill Amonette at 772 because his practice partners at home Kauffmans Mill Road, Luray, VA 22835. svec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 23 This article is part of a series featuring area youth programs SVEC participates in across Participating in 4-H: our service territory, highlighting the programs’ contributions to leadership It’s Not Just What’s in the Ring development and community involvement. by Cammie Tutwiler, SVEC Writer a Youth Meat Quality Assurance cowboy and the great sheepdini.” program. “It teaches conduct codes, Clark said that she participated in When a student decides to proper ways to administer medications Share-the-Fun and 4-H camp, where participate in a 4-H show, it is not and correct animal gear, among other she was a camper then a teen counselor. a decision entered into lightly. The things,” she said. “As a teen counselor, I was able to responsibilities are considerable — All members must also complete a connect with children I hardly knew getting up at 6 a.m, feeding and record book for their animals. Lydia and make their time at camp as watering the animals, walking and Parlett, 13, from Page County, said the enjoyable as possible,” she said. bathing them and cleaning out their books are done for a number of Learning how to interact with others stalls. In addition to what everyone reasons. “You have to keep track of is a big part of the 4-H experience. sees at the fairs, a lot goes on behind the animal’s health history, develop Before showing their animals, the the scenes in preparation for the big a budget and keep up with project participants usually write letters and event. This includes completing record expenses, to show if we made a profit visit potential buyers. books, participating in obstacle courses or loss on our project,” she said. The Lydia’s sister, Ella, 11, said that they and visiting potential buyers of books are then graded based on make a card that tells more about their animals. completion and correctness. them — what they are showing and Highland County 4-H participant when and what they do at the fair Developing Multiple Skills Caleb Blagg, 10, found even more to do that week. Along with the tasks students must by designing two posters for extra She said, “We go out to the complete to raise a healthy, show- credit — one about a sheep’s eyesight businesses and talk to them in worthy animal, most are involved in and one about the brain. Besides person. The card has pictures of my other 4-H-related activities. Coby working on the project book, he said animal and me.” Housden, 13, from Page County, has there are fun competitions, which participated in public speaking, include obstacle courses and photography and singing. costume contests. “It takes a lot of concentration and “In the obstacle course I took my memory, and I’ve learned how to lamb into the show ring and walked it control my breathing while singing around a barrel, in and out of a pen, and speaking,” he said. and guided it to jump over a sack,” he Senior Page County 4-H member said. “For the costume contest you Laura Clark, 17, said that for educational write a story to be read while you walk purposes, all members have to attend your animal around. I have done a

Above: Through 4-H, Coby Housden of Page County has developed a number of skills. Left: Sydney and Anna Armstrong are from Highland County.

Her brother, Nevin, 11, added, “They are allowed to keep the card so they can try to find us and remember what we look like. You need to contact many buyers so that you may sell your animals. We have some training at our meetings about how to contact a buyer.” Housden noted that he was nervous the first few times he communicated with potential buyers, but grew more confident with experience. “One of the best ways to sell your

24 | Cooperative Living | March-April 2019 Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative Laura Clark of Page County has shown animals and participated in 4-H camps. Ella, Nevin and Lydia Parlett are from Page County. animal is to have multiple buyers at happy, basically. I work with the get to go in and do your best and that the fair supporting you,” Blagg said. animals to teach them to brace, and to me is a blast!” she said. “I always send thank-you letters when they brace properly it makes Participating in 4-H gives students afterwards.” them look more appealing to the judge.” the chance to develop life skills such as Housden said the experience of responsibility, accountability and hard The Main Event showing is exciting. “I keep my mind work — all while having fun. Before the letters and meeting the on my animal. Animals can sense Coby is the son of Scott and Tammy potential buyers, the students work when you are upset or tense, so I talk Housden; Laura is the daughter of hard to raise a solid animal. Once the to them and rub them to keep them Trenton and Nicole Clark; Caleb is animal is selected, the preparation calm. Right before entering the ring, I the son of Matt and Tina Blagg; Lydia, begins with training. keep my mind on why I am there, ‘to Ella and Nevin are the children of Josh “I work to get the animal to walk show the animal that I raised,’” he said. and Rachel Parlett; Sydney, Anna and good and have it get used to me,” Lydia Sydney Armstrong said being in the Zach are the children of Cole and Parlett said. “I spend time with it and ring is really fun. “All your hard work Leslie Armstrong. The families are all try to get it to come to me and feed it has led up to this final moment. You electric cooperative member-owners. out of my hand.” Housden said: “The first thing I do is spend time with my animals, so they learn to trust me. They learn I am their master and they can trust me. I do this by talking to them, touching them, and just spending a lot of time with them.” Highland County 4-H participant Sydney Armstrong, 17, said that everyone has different ways of preparing their animals for the fair, but that in her family, “it’s all about working with the animals every day and putting in the extra effort to make sure the animals are ready on show day.” Her sister, Anna, 15, agreed, and said, “If you don’t have a bond, the animal will not do what you would like them to do in the ring.” Blagg noted that he focuses on setting the lamb up for inspection. “The judge makes us walk our lamb somewhere else so they can see all of its qualities. I prepare by building up the lamb’s muscle and practice bracing the lamb.” Once the students are ready to show their animals, the emotions are mixed. Ella Parlett said: “In the ring, I’m In addition to showing, Caleb Blagg of Highland County has also designed posters for 4-H projects. svec.coop March-April 2019 | Cooperative Living | 25