Tri-County EMC - Current Lines Newsletter

Welcome to the September edition of Current Lines newsletter, a monthly publication of Tri-County EMC. Below are a few samples of the articles in this current newsletter. To read the full article, just click on the "Click here to read more" link.

A Year of Highs and Lows
A summary by C. Hill Bentley, CEO

C. Hill Bentley
CEO

It's hard to believe that two-thirds of 2005 has come and gone. School is back in session and cooler fall weather is in sight. In thinking about the past months, I realize that we have experienced a roller coaster-like ride.

January started out with a few very cold days and nights. Actually, on January 25, Tri-County set an all time peak for electric usage. Then the weather moderated. The coming months saw lower than normal temperatures, higher than normal humidity, lower electric consumption, and higher than normal gas prices. But, what does this mean for you, the member? Lower kWh sales should mean lower electric bills. What we are experiencing is just the opposite. Click here to read more.

Power Online

Beginning Sept. 1, Tri-County EMC members will have a new way to pay their bills. Simply log onto tri-countyemc.com. You can pay by credit card, debit card or e-check. You'll also be able to view previous bills and energy usage. Save time and a stamp. It's just another great reason to log on to your cooperative's award-winning Web site. Look for your password on your September bill. Your user name is your account number.

Over the next month, watch for other great new features including an interactive energy calculator, an online storm and outage reporting center and updated tips for energy savings. Getting more from your energy is just a click away.

Local Student Explores Cooperative Leadership Conference

Jones County High School Senior Benjamin "Ben" Sexton joined close to 50 Georgia students at the FFA/FCCLA Center in Covington to learn about cooperatives. For three days in July, participants explored the cooperative way of doing business while strengthening their leadership skills and simply having fun. Click here to read more.

New Energy Services Representative

Tri-County EMC members have a new resource for energy efficiency and electric usage information. Jonathan Stewart started his duties as Tri-County's new energy services representative in August.

Stewart, a native of Jones County, began his duties with the EMC as a meter reader in 1998. He advanced to working with the line crew. In 2002, Jonathan became a meter technician where he maintained the utility's nine substations, two radio towers, tested meters and installed SurgeGuard products.

"His knowledge of our distribution system, meters and programs will help to make a smooth transition into his current position as energy services representative," states VP of Energy Services Greg Mullis. Stewart will perform on-site energy audits, safety demonstrations and assist with Tri-County's Green Power and SurgeGuard programs. "I look forward to continue to work with our members and to provide services that will help them save their hard-earned dollars," says Stewart. You can reach him at (478) 986-8119 or 1-866-254-8100, ext. 8119.

>> Jonathan Stewart is your new source for energy efficiency. <<

Graduate and undergraduate students can receive scholarships through Operation Roundup. A total of $2,000 will be awarded to students this fall. Applicants are scored on academics, financial need and a demonstrated commitment to their community. Priority will be given to nontraditional students. Each year, the Tri-County EMC Operation Roundup Foundation Scholarship is offered in the spring and fall. The deadline is Oct. 15. For more information, call (478) 986-8126 or 1-866-254-8100, ext. 8126 or visit www.tri-countyemc.com.

AARP Mature Driver Safety Class

Tri-County EMC and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) will offer two Mature Driver Safety classes. The first class will take place October 5 and 6. The second session will be held December 7 and 8. Both classes will take place in Tri-County's Community room in Gray from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Participants must attend both days of either session. Attendees will learn how to avoid accidents and traffic violations and develop defensive driving techniques. The cost is $10 per person. To register, call (478) 986-8126 or 1-866-254-8100, ext. 8126.

During a Storm is No Time to Prepare for a Power Outage

Summertime in the southeast means hurricane season, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted another above average year of activity for the 2005 season, which runs through November. For Georgians this means a greater threat of violent weather. From summer's winds and rain to winter's ice storms, catastrophic events that can interrupt power are always a possibility. Having a plan for inclement weather and a well-stocked emergency kit is important for your home and family. Click here to read more.

A programmable thermostat can be installed on any central heating or cooling system, including a heat pump. Do-it-yourself models are available at most home improvement stores. Professionally installed models are available from heating and cooling contractors. With either, you can find savings of 10 to 20 percent annually. (6573-01)