Along these LINES M AY/JUNE 2021

Explore State Parks Page 12 ALSO INSIDE >> Manager’s Report Page 4 DEMCO Essay Winners Receive $2,000 Scholarships Page 17

Lake Claiborne offers a variety of ways to get back to nature. PHOTO BY CHERE COEN

/DEMCOLouisiana DEMCO.org

001_LACountry_DEMCO_0521 no label.indd 1 4/30/2021 11:30:25 AM 13496 Mueller LA Ad.indd 1 3/19/21 3:58 PM STATEWIDE MESSAGE

Committed to a Co-op Culture for All Through the years, Equal Access for All have different needs and perspectives. We you may have When Louisiana electric co-ops were welcome diverse views on all issues under noticed we talk founded, each member contributed an consideration by the cooperative. The a lot about how equal share to gain access to electricity that more viewpoints we hear, the better we Louisiana electric benefited individual families and the larger can reflect the needs of all corners of our cooperatives are local community. We still operate with that community. different. sense of equity and inclusion. Our business Louisiana electric co-ops were built by Inclusion model sets us and belong to the diverse communities and While the priority is providing safe, reliable apart from other consumer-members we serve. Membership and affordable energy, we also want to be a utilities because is open to everyone in our service territory, catalyst for good in our communities. CEO Jeff Arnold we adhere to seven regardless of race, religion, age, disability, Because your electric cooperatives are guiding cooperative gender identity, language, political perspec- local, revenues stay in your community. In principles that reflect core values of tive or socioeconomic status. turn, cooperatives invest in your diverse honesty, transparency, equity, inclusiveness By paying your electric bill each month, community base through scholarship and service to the greater good of the you’re a member of the co-op. Every programs, charitable giving, educational community. member has an equal voice and vote when programs and more. Louisiana electric Electric cooperatives have a unique it comes to co-op governance. This ties cooperatives strive to make long-term and storied place in our country’s history. back to our guiding principles of equitable decisions that improve and enrich the We democratized the American dream economic participation and democratic communities we serve. by bringing electricity to rural areas when control of the cooperative. While today’s world is radically different for-profit electric companies determined We encourage all members to vote when from when Louisiana electric cooperatives the effort too costly. Back then, cities your cooperative holds director elections. were founded, our values have stood the were electrified but rural areas were not— We invite all members to participate in test of time and remain just as relevant creating the original rural-urban divide. co-op meetings to weigh in on discussions today. We recognize today’s co-op Newly established electric lines helped that set co-op policies and priorities, such members expect more, and my pledge to power economic opportunity in rural as high-speed internet, renewable power you—the consumer-members we proudly areas. Today, that spirit of equity and and energy-efficiency programs. serve—is to promote a cooperative culture inclusion is a vital part of our co-op DNA. We know members of our community of inclusion, diversity and equity for all.

Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives Inc. Staff ALEC Members CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Beauregard Electric Cooperative Inc. Jeff Arnold J.R. Hickman Teddy Welch CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Claiborne Electric Cooperative Inc. Beama Pierce Mark Brown Lane Davidson DIRECTOR OF LOSS CONTROL DEMCO Aarron Graham Daniel Berthelot Richard “Dickie” Sitman SAFETY COORDINATOR Jefferson Davis Electric Cooperative Inc. Derek Seal Michael Heinen Kirk Weldon DIR. OF MEMBER ENGAGEMENT South Louisiana Electric Co-op Association Addie Armato Brian Rivet Roger Dale DeHart CREDIT UNION Washington-St. Tammany Electric Co-op Inc. Robin Plunket, manager Joe Jarrell Dennis Glass Jody Overhultz, representative Explore Louisiana’s Associate Member Board of Directors Panola-Harrison Electric Cooperative Inc. Diverse State Parks President J.R. HIckman Page 12 Vice President Dennis Glass Secretary/Treasurer Michael Heinen NRECA Director Jeff Arnold Local Pages ...... 4, 5, 8, 17, 20, 21 In the Kitchen ...... 10

MAY/JUNE 2021 3 Manager’s Report BOARD OF DIRECTORS Randy Pierce ASCENSION CEO & General Manager Elinda Taillon EAST BATON ROUGE Steve Irving Randy Lorio, Vice President And just like that, it’s summer. Along with the usual May and June celebrations—Mother’s Jill McGraw Day, Memorial Day and Father’s Day—families are busy planning for a summer of fun. We EAST FELICIANA are all looking forward to getting out and about, even while we continue to practice health Mike Anderson and safety protocols. Read the story on Louisiana State Parks on pages 12-14 to find some Glenn DeLee great options for summer adventures. LIVINGSTON The downside to Louisiana summers is they also bring the beginning of hurricane season Danny Berthelot, President June 1. Last year, although Cristobal, Marco, Laura and Sally dodged DEMCO’s service areas, Leslie Falks Hurricane Delta was one of the worst weather events to impact the DEMCO system since Dennis Lott, Secretary-Treasurer Hurricane Gustav and the Flood of 2016. With weather, the only thing we know for certain is ST. HELENA that weather is uncertain. Last year we considered ourselves fortunate—even with the direct hit Tresa Byrd of Hurricane Delta. Whether it’s wind, rain, lightning or ice, severe weather presents significant Richard Sitman challenges to the power grid. TANGIPAHOA We never know when weather may cause an electrical outage or who will be affected, and Melissa Dufreche it is tough to predict how long outages may last. Remember to plan for what you’ll do if the WEST FELICIANA power is out for anyone in your home or family with special needs, such as infants or elderly Kevin Beauchamp family members who require life support, oxygen or refrigerated medication. We mention these things because we care. Serving you, our members, is the most important CEO & GENERAL MANAGER thing we do. It is in our mission statement, our vision statement and found throughout our Randy Pierce values. We care about you. Our board of directors is made up of members just like you. We value VP, FINANCE the democratic process that represents you and guides the business of the cooperative. We care Mike Johnson about your safety, your pocketbook and the reliability of the service we provide. VP, MARKETING AND MEMBER SERVICES Although the pandemic may limit member involvement, we will be holding our Annual David Latona Meeting. We feel this is an important cog in the wheel of a healthy cooperative and its member engagement. Information can be found in this issue regarding the virtual event. VP, HUMAN RESOURCES And just like the summer, this time is packed with co-op projects and improvements that Russchelle Overhultz, CEBS will help us serve you better. The smart meter rollout is moving forward, and we will launch DIRECTOR, ENGINEERING website and mobile app updates June 28 to help you spend less time managing your account so Matt Gibson you have more time to enjoy your busy life. DIRECTOR, OPERATIONS No matter how busy and hectic our lives are, any changes we make at DEMCO are with you Mark Phillips in mind. We wish you a safe and happy spring as we welcome summer.

Mission DEMCO is focused on enhancing the quality of life for members by providing safe, reliable Annual Meeting and competitively priced energy services. DEMCO Headquarters Volume 36, Issue 3 16262 Wax Road, Greenwell Springs, LA 70739 Along These Lines (USPS 4089) is published bimonthly by the Association of Louisiana Saturday, May 15, 10 a.m. Electric Co-ops Inc., 10725 Airline Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70816, in partnership with For more information, visit DEMCO.org. Pioneer Utility Resources. Annual Subscriptions: Members $1.51, Nonmembers $5. Postmaster: Send form 3579 to 10725 Airline Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70816. Lucky Account Contest Four lucky co-op members have a chance to win $25! Your account number is listed on your Periodicals postage paid at Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70821 and additional mailing offi ces. mailing label, but to win you must also nd it in the pages of the magazine. To claim your prize, call 225-262-2160. DEMCO is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

4 MAY/JUNE 2021

004-005_LACountry_DEMCO_0521.indd 4 4/13/2021 3:21:49 PM DEMCO Board Representatives Reelected To Serve Members Four directors previously appointed to DEMCO’s board were reelected to three-year terms. Each expressed their gratitude to the cooperative’s members for their support. Elinda Taillon, a lifelong resident of Ascension Parish, was appointed to the board in November 2020 to fulfill the unexpired term of Clarence Brock. Taillon serves DEMCO members in District 1, Ascension Parish. She retired from BASF Corp. after 37 years of service. Jill McGraw, a lifelong resident of the Zachary area, was appointed to the board in February 2018 to fill the unexpired Elinda Taillon Jill McGraw term of Ann Samuel. McGraw serves DEMCO members in District 2, East Baton Rouge Parish. Leslie Falks, a lifelong resident of Livingston Parish and local business owner, was appointed to the board in 1987. Falks serves DEMCO members in District 7, Livingston Parish. He is a local business owner. Tresa Byrd, a lifelong resident of St. Helena Parish, was appointed to the board in March 2020 to fill the unexpired term of Frank Johnson. Byrd serves DEMCO members in District 11, St. Helena Parish. She has worked for the St. Helena Parish Police Jury since 1994. n Leslie Falks Tresa Byrd

Honoring All Who Gave Their Official Notice: Lives To Protect Our Freedom Annual Meeting On behalf of the employees, management, staff and DEMCO Board of Directors, we wish In accordance with provisions of all our members a happy and safe Memorial Day, Monday, May 31, as we honor those Article III, Section 3.03 of the bylaws of who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. (Account No. 80066351001) DEMCO, notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of the Members of the Corporation will be held at DEMCO’s headquarters facility, 16262 Wax Road, Greenwell Springs, LA, Saturday, May 15, 2021. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. In accordance with Article IV, Section 4.05 of the corporation bylaws, notice is hereby given that the following persons have been nominated by the official nominating committee to fill the four positions on the Board of Directors in which vacancies occur this year. By Nomination: Elinda Taillon, District 1 Jill McGraw, District 2 Leslie Falks, District 7 Tresa Byrd, District 11 More information about participating is posted at DEMCO.org and on DEMCO social media platforms. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY MICHAEL FLIPPO

MAY/JUNE 2021 5

004-005_LACountry_DEMCO_0521.indd 5 4/13/2021 3:22:18 PM STATEWIDE NEWS ALEC Hires Youth Tour Alumnus ‘My heart will always be with electric co-ops’ Youth Tour and Youth Leadership Council alumnus Daniel Bischoff has joined the Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives as a communicator intern. He recently graduated from Louisiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communication with a concentration in digital advertising. While enrolled at LSU, Daniel was awarded a football scholarship for serving as an equipment manager for the Tiger football team that earned National Championship, SEC Championship and College Football Playoff titles. Daniel represented Washington-St. Tammany Electric Cooperative on the Louisiana Youth Tour trip to Washington, D.C., in 2016. He was selected by his peers to represent Louisiana on the Youth Leadership Council. This trip of a lifetime opened doors for Daniel, who interned for the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Daniel attended NRECA annual meetings in San Diego, Orlando and . “Daniel is one of our shining stars,” says Addie Armato, director of member engagement for ALEC. “Youth Tour is designed to provide students from our rural areas a springboard into early adulthood and leadership. Daniel has used this platform to its fullest potential.” Daniel will spend the next few months working on communication projects at the statewide association and visiting co-ops around the state to learn about available job opportunities. He plans to continue his education by attending graduate school in the fall. “My goal is to one day work in the highly competitive sports equipment market,” Daniel says. “I like the drive of competing for market share, but my heart will always be with the electric cooperatives. They have opened so many doors for me and given me so many opportunities.” “Daniel is a true champion,” Addie says. “He has the personality and the drive to succeed in his future endeavors. I hope he spreads his wings and Daniel Bischoff proudly wears his three LSU football title flies high, but then I want him to come back home to nest at one of our great rings in his LSU graduation photo. Louisiana electric cooperatives.” n Scholarships Available From ALEC Partners Altec, Altec Capital and Osmose will award Applicant’s Name: four $500 scholarships at the ALEC Annual Parents or Guardian: Meeting for fall semester 2021. X Recipient must be a Class of 2021 high school graduate. Member Co-op: X Applicant must be the child of an ALEC member co-op. Home Address: X The one-time award can be used for any college or university. City: ZIP: X Recipient must provide verification of a minimum 2.5 GPA before scholarship monies are awarded. Telephone Number: X Mail to Ed Amedee, 1443 City Place, Gonzales, LA 70737. High School Attended: X Entry must be postmarked by June 21, 2021. Altec is not responsible for mail delivery. Please supply a copy of your high school transcript to verify the 2.5 GPA requirement.

6 MAY/JUNE 2021 Training for Field Work The Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives provides many programs and services to its member cooperatives, including hands-on training. ABOVE AND BELOW: The Louisiana Superintendent and Foreman’s Association joined ALEC to host Underground School. RIGHT: ALEC conducted pole-top rescue training sessions at Washington-St. Tammany Electric and other member cooperatives. PHOTOS BY DEREK SEAL

MAY/JUNE 2021 7 DEMCO

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors Some years, lightning kills more Americans than tornadoes or hurricanes. Don’t take chances with this deadly force of nature. During a storm: • Go inside a building and stay away from windows. • Do not seek shelter under a tree. • Move to low ground, but avoid open fields. • Do not touch metal objects such as golf clubs or bicycles. • Inside a car is relatively safe, but do not touch interior metal. • If your hair stands on end, you may be a target. Crouch low on the balls of your feet and keep your knees and PHOTO BY SCS PHOTOGRAPHY hands off the ground.

enhancedComing in July Website, Billing & Mobile App Features

DEMCO is committed to providing the best service SMART to our members. With enhanced MyDEMCO account SOLUTIONS. features, we are putting the power in your hands.

With these innovative management tools, you’ll be SMART able to take control of your account like never before. MANAGEMENT. Starting in July, your bill will look different and you will be issued a new account number. In the coming months, be on the lookout for additional information from DEMCO. SMART LIFE.

SAME DEMCO, BETTER FEATURES Visit DEMCO.org for more details

8 MAY/JUNE 2021

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Spring Greens

Sugar Snap Peas With Ricotta Salata and Mint 1 tablespoon olive oil ⁄ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 8-ounce packages trimmed sugar snap peas ¼ teaspoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint 1½ ounces ricotta salata, crumbled 1½ teaspoons grated lemon rind (about ⁄ cup)

Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil to pan and swirl. Add peas. Sauté 3 minutes PHOTO BY KATIE WILCOX or until crisp-tender. Stir in mint, lemon rind, pepper and salt. Sprinkle with cheese.

10 MAY/JUNE 2021 Spring Pea and Radish Salad “Despite the forecast, ½ pound fresh wax or 2 tablespoons honey green beans 1 teaspoon dried tarragon live like it's Spring.” ½ pound fresh sugar snap ¼ teaspoon kosher salt peas ¼ teaspoon coarsely 2 cups water ground pepper —Lilly Pulitzer 6 large radishes, thinly sliced

Snip ends off beans and peas. Remove strings from peas. Spring Greens Pasta In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil over high heat. 16 ounces spaghetti ½ cup white wine Add beans and reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 4 to 5 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cups vegetable broth minutes. divided 1 cup frozen peas Spring Greens Add peas. Cover and simmer until beans and peas are 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon lemon zest crisp-tender, another 2 to 3 minutes. Drain. ¼ teaspoon crushed red (approximately 1 lemon) Toss beans and peas with radishes. Stir together honey, pepper 4 tablespoons fresh lemon tarragon, salt and pepper. Drizzle over vegetables. 12 ounces marinated juice (approximately 1 artichokes lemon) 1½ cups asparagus, cut into 1 cup Parmesan cheese, 1-inch pieces divided ¼ teaspoon salt 4 cups fresh baby spinach Sautéed Spring Greens With Bacon and Mustard Seeds ¼ teaspoon pepper Fresh parsley 2 ounces thick-cut bacon, 1¼ pounds mixed young Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. You will use the finely diced spring greens—such same pot of water to blanch asparagus and cook pasta. Add as dandelion, mustard, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin asparagus to the boiling water. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until olive oil collards, Tuscan kale color brightens. 1 large shallot, thinly sliced and spinach—stems and inner ribs trimmed, Reduce heat. Using a slotted spoon, remove asparagus 1 hot red chile, seeded and leaves cut into ribbons finely chopped from boiling water and place in a strainer. Do not drain Salt 1 tablespoon yellow water. Run cold water over strainer with asparagus to stop mustard seeds Freshly ground pepper cooking. Set asparagus aside. 1 tablespoon white wine After asparagus is blanched and just before you add the vinegar pasta, start sauce. In a large, deep sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic. In a large skillet, cook the bacon in the olive oil over Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes or until just fragrant. Add white moderate heat, stirring until golden, about 3 minutes. wine and let simmer for 1 minute. Add vegetable broth. Stir Add the shallot, chile and mustard seeds. Cook until to combine and let mixture simmer for 7 to 10 minutes. softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the greens, and season with While sauce simmers, add pasta to boiling water. Cook salt and pepper. Cook, tossing frequently, until wilted and until al dente, generally on the low end of the recommended tender, about 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in the vinegar and serve. cooking time on the pasta package. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining into colander. Once wine and veggie broth is done simmering, add artichokes, asparagus and peas. Cook over medium heat for Strawberry Spinach Salad 1 to 2 minutes to warm. 4 ounces goat or feta 11 ounces baby spinach, Add cooked pasta, ½ cup to ¾ cup Parmesan, lemon cheese, crumbled prewashed juice, lemon zest (reserve some for garnish) and toss 1 cup pecans, lightly 1 pound strawberries , together. Add some of the reserved water as needed. Stir toasted hulled and quartered to combine. Simmer a minute or two so spaghetti absorbs ¼ cup red onion, thinly Salad dressing sliced some of the broth. Add spinach. Stir to combine. The dish is ready as soon as the spinach wilts. Combine all ingredients. Dress with balsamic or poppy Top with Parmesan and lemon zest to taste. seed dressing.

MAY/JUNE 2021 11 Explore Louisiana State Parks By Cheré Coen

A paddler passes through Castle, a great cypress at Chemin-A-Haut State Park. PHOTO COURTESY OF LOUISIANA OFFICE OF TOURISM

Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser loves replied with the first thing that came to Early in his term, Nungesser made to relate a time when a young girl put him mind: the historic town of Natchitoches, it a point to visit the state’s 21 parks, all on the spot. He was traveling throughout which predates New Orleans by four governed under his office—a division of the South, encouraging audiences to visit years, and Toledo Bend, the South’s largest the Louisiana Department of Culture, at least one place in Louisiana outside of human-made, artificial lake. Recreation and Tourism. In his tour, New Orleans. “I went home and told my wife we need however, Nungesser concluded from “I would say, ‘I guarantee you won’t be to go there,” he says with a laugh. various feedback initiated from the public disappointed,’” Nungesser explains, adding They visited Natchitoches for two days, that the state parks needed a facelift. that Louisiana was home to numerous then booked a cabin at Toledo Bend, where “I learned very quickly that we were 20 unique historic sites and 21 state parks. they hired a charter fisherman, caught years behind,” he says. A young girl stood and asked him plenty of fish and cooked them up on site. In 2019, the Office of State Parks for his favorite Louisiana destination. A “We absolutely had a great time,” he says, upgraded the park system, refurbishing native of “The Crescent City,” Nungesser adding it is vital to take your own advice. the beaches in the coastal state parks and

12 MAY/JUNE 2021 SPOTLIGHT

inland parks with lake beaches, Chemin-A-Haut views and accessibility, hiking, birding and upgrading campsites and Chemin-A-Haut State Park overlooks a chance to spot bald eagles that nest along sewer hookups and Bayou Bartholomew near the Arkansas the lake. Highlights include the 3,000-foot renovating the wave pool line, 13 miles northeast of Bastrop. The surfaced nature trail and instructional and bathrooms at Bayou park derives its name from the French welcome center at South Toledo and a Segnette near New Orleans. word meaning “high road” because the swimming pool at North Toledo. Some state parks added bayou was used as a transportation route overnight options, such as Lake for many years by Native Americans. Chicot and the Louisiana Bruin State Park east of Winnsboro The park offers 26 campsites, 14 cabins, State Arboretum near the Mississippi River. It now a group camp, and several hiking and Hikers who enjoy studying nature as much offers two standard cabins, both ADA equestrian trails. In the summer, both the as a good walk love accessible, and one deluxe cabin that bayou and swimming pool are available for and the Louisiana State Arboretum, both sleeps up to eight people. visitors to enjoy. located in the center of the state. It is an In response to customer feedback, The park’s main calling card, however, easy drive between both sites. Chemin-A-Haute—13 miles northeast of remains the highly photographed Castle. Park trails circumvent Lake Chicot Bastrop—now offers full campsite hookups. The giant cypress tree dates back centuries. and the park’s diverse woods, while the Eight parks now offer glamping Rent a canoe or kayak—or bring your neighboring arboretum offers easy hikes options—rustic tents that give visitors a own—to paddle out to this 1,000-year- through 300 acres of natural growth. primitive experience with nature, old cypress that contains a hollow cavern Chicot stretches across 6,400 acres of but with a bit of glamour. Heavy- 20 feet in diameter. It is large enough for rolling hills and around Lake Chicot, with duty tents cover a wooden platform visitors to peek inside. cabins and primitive campsites scattered raised off the ground. Inside are queen throughout. In addition to educational mattresses, benches, shelving and Lake Claiborne hiking trails, the park offers mountain bike heaters. In warm weather, Since a good part of Louisiana revolves trails, a boat launch, boat rentals and a zippered flaps may be opened around water, most Louisiana state parks fishing pier. for cross ventilation. include water sources, which appeal to The arboretum preserves a unique those who fish. The 6,400-acre Lake landscape that ranges from the Walker Claiborne at Lake Claiborne State Park Branch flatlands of Lake Chicot to rolling In the northeast corner of Louisiana, comes stocked with largemouth bass, ridges. Just about every type of Louisiana a plantation had seen better days—one bream and white perch, to name a few. vegetation grows within its acreage. reason the owner named it “Poverty Visitors may also use the lake for For more information about Louisiana Point.” Underneath the fields, however, lay swimming and water sports when the flora, fauna and native history, the LaFleur something invaluable: earthen mounds weather warms, and the protected beach Nature Center features educational exhibits. created before the Mayan pyramids. The is perfect for small children. massive Native American community The park contains 12 miles of hiking became one of North America’s most and mountain biking trails through Visitors come to Bogue Chitto north of impressive archaeological sites. woodlands. Many of the cabins that sleep to enjoy the slow- “The area is renowned for world-class six to eight are nestled within the woods moving river that gives the park its name. archaeological features consisting of a and along the shore, creating a perfect Paddlers love to ply Bogue Chitto’s complex array of earthen mounds and hideaway with views. waters, but when the heat of summertime ridges dated between 1700 and 1100 B.C.,” arrives, rent a tube from Louisiana River says naturalist Kelby Ouchley of Monroe, Toledo Bend Adventures for a slow float downstream. author of “Bayou Diversity.” “There is an The top dog for fishing in Louisiana This year, 10 miles of mountain bike excellent museum, hiking trails and regular remains Toledo Bend—the South’s largest trails were added to the park’s existing interpretive programs.” human-made reservoir that straddles Texas 4 miles, along with a new trailhead and The Poverty Point World Heritage Site on the western side. The lake has been education center. Trails offer a variety of itself is not a state park, but is listed by named the No. 1 bass lake in the nation by terrain, so beginning mountain bikers will the U.S. Department of the Interior as a Bassmaster magazine several times, and enjoy the trail as much as experts. National Historic Landmark. Near the town has been the site of the Bassmaster Elite Additional glamping opportunities of Delhi, about 15 miles south, Poverty Series Tournament the past five years. also were added to the park this spring, Point Reservoir State Park offers cabins— There are two state parks at Toledo bringing the total number of glamping many of which are right on the reservoir— Bend: South Toledo Bend State Park and units to 10. hiking, a marina and, if you’re lucky, North Toledo Bend State Park. Both offer migratory birds and an occasional bear. overnight accommodations, waterfront Story continues on page 14

MAY/JUNE 2021 13 Louisiana State Parks Continued from page 13 Beaches Ten Louisiana state parks contain beaches—whether on the Gulf at Grand Isle State Park, Vermilion Bay at Cypremort Point State Park, Toledo Bend reservoir or along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain at in Mandeville, just north of New Orleans. Grand Isle, South Toledo Bend and Fontainebleau offer new glamping options for visitors to camp near water.

Park Events Although spring and summer offer many special events, because of the state’s balmy climate, any time is a great time to visit Louisiana state parks. Bird walks and guided nature hikes allow visitors to spot wildlife and migratory birds visiting along the Mississippi Flyway and Louisiana’s unique wildlife that comes alive when the weather warms. Historic sites are featured year-round, with reenactments. Historians and park rangers also discuss historic properties and unique landscapes, offering living history tours of the Acadian Farmstead at Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site near St. Martinville. The Louisiana Dutch Oven Society offers monthly cooking demonstrations.

Discounts Louisiana State Parks offer 50% off day-use facilities for active-duty military, veterans, retirees, members of the National Guard and reservists with current photo identifi- cation from these organizations. Emergency responders receive 15% off all park facility rentals Mondays through Thursdays. Seniors 62 and older, with ID, get 50% off campsite stays through December 31. For those who book a state park cabin or campsite, use the code WELCOMEBACK to receive the fourth night free. n Lake Bistineau State Park in Doyline has Discover what’s happening at Louisiana's camp sites, a picnic area, hiking trails and a state parks. For updated information, check few boat launches to make the most of the www.crt.state.la.us/louisiana-state-parks/ almost 30-square-mile human-made lake. news-activities/calendar-of-events/index. PHOTO COURTESY OF LOUISIANA TRAVEL

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Networking About Economic Development Cooperative employees met representatives of the Louisiana Economic Development Department during a recent round-robin event. Participants included Kay Fox and Mike Luttrell, Beauregard Electric; David Latona, Toma Holland, Heather Verrett and Toni Johnson, DEMCO; Eric Gautreaux, Jeff Davis Electric; Brett Ledet, SLECA; Johnny Bruhl, Washington-St. Tammany Electric; and Jeff Arnold, Addie Armato and Daniel Bishcoff, Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives. PHOTOS BY ADDIE ARMATO

16 MAY/JUNE 2021 DEMCO

2021 DEMCO Essay Contest: Four Students Win $2,000 Scholarships Final judging of the 44th annual DEMCO Settlement High School. (Account No. essay contest was held via Zoom Tuesday, 80221787002) March 2, from 6 to 8 p.m. Essays were “The DEMCO essay contest provides submitted by 174 eleventh graders so many learning opportunities for representing 25 schools in DEMCO’s participating students to gain a better seven-parish service area: Ascension, East understanding of electric cooperatives,” Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Livingston, St. said DEMCO CEO and General Manager Helena, West Feliciana and Tangipahoa. Randy Pierce. “It’s a wonderful annual The four winners of $2,000 event that demonstrates our commitment scholarships are Allie Slater, Central High to co-op members, to education and to Allie Slater Nia Jerro School; Nia Jerro, Central High School; the communities we serve.” Destiny Kelly, Denham Springs High Other finalists were Aubre Broussard, School; and Madison Brignac, French Dominic Graphia and Brady Vidrine, Denham Springs High School; Skylar Hale and Emma Millican, Central High School; Cody Flurry, Live Oak High School; Whitney Leblanc, Zachary High School; and Sarah Lindrew, St. Joseph’s Academy. Due to COVID-19 health Destiny Kelly Madison Brignac and safety precautions, the contest took place via Zoom. DEMCO has hosted the annual essay Students presented their contest since 1978, with the customary essays to judges and members prize of an all-expense-paid trip to of DEMCO staff and board. Washington, D.C., to participate in the Contestants were judged on NRECA Youth Tour. Due to COVID-19, their oral essay presentation the 2021 trip was canceled. This year’s DEMCO CEO Randy Pierce watches the 12 student finalists and knowledge about rural prize is a $2,000 scholarship award, compete in the DEMCO 2021 essay contest via Zoom. electrification and DEMCO. comparable to the value of the trip. n DEMCO Scholarship Opportunity Sign Up for Bank Draft DEMCO members who pay their bill by One-year scholarships will be awarded to marketing and member services. bank draft are eligible to win a $50 gift DEMCO member-students in a random The number of scholarships awarded card. Winning account numbers are drawing at the DEMCO annual member- fluctuates each year as funds permit. published in each issue of Along these ship meeting May 15. (Account No. 80044652001) LINES. It’s easy to be eligible to win. DEMCO member-students attending DEMCO is allowed to use unclaimed Sign up for bank draft at DEMCO.org or a Louisiana public college or university deposits, refunds and other money owed call 1-844-MyDEMCO. are eligible for $1,250 for each of two to former members to provide funding Congratulations to these winners: consecutive semesters to help with tuition. for the scholarship program. Account numbers 80260198001, “This year, DEMCO is very pleased For eligibility requirements and to 80204783001, 80133518002 and to provide scholarships to 28 students,” apply by May 7, visit DEMCO.org/ 487701002. says David Latona, vice president of community/DEMCO-scholarships. n

MAY/JUNE 2021 17

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In-Person Meetings Resume For the fi rst time in more than a year, the Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives Board of Directors, right, gathered in March for an in-person meeting. Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, previous meetings were conducted via teleconference. The Meter School Planning Committee, below, also recently met at ALEC’s offi ce. Participants were, from left, Kenny Boycher and Richard Schmidt, Beauregard Electric Cooperative; Marc Aucoin, DEMCO; Aarron Graham, ALEC; Joe Langlois, DEMCO; Brennon LaBouve, Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative; PHOTO BY DEREK SEAL and Derek Seal, ALEC.

PHOTO BY ADDIE ARMATO

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020-021_LACountry_DEMCO_0521.indd 20 4/5/2021 10:43:13 AM DEMCO

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