Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative ran out of barbeque at its 80th annual meeting, but that didn’t diminish the enthusiasm of the record number of members who showed up at the unique setting.
This year, the South Pittsburg, Tennessee, co-op scored The Caverns, a subterranean venue on the fringe of the co-op’s service territory that hosts live music events, including the acclaimed PBS series “Bluegrass Underground.”
More than 1,000 members showed up, with some driving nearly 100 miles to be there.
That’s nearly triple normal attendance, said SVEC President and CEO Mike Partin, noting there were many first-timers and younger members among the crowd.
“It was a great opportunity for us to share our story with a different demographic,” he said. “We got a lot of exposure to a lot of new faces just because we stepped out of our comfort zone.”
He said the co-op has been inundated with positive member feedback since the Aug. 8 meeting.
“Our message to other co-ops is: Think outside the box about member engagement and use the annual meeting as a tool.”
Partin said he got the idea to celebrate SVEC’s milestone anniversary at The Caverns during a conversation with neighbor Todd Mayo, who owns the venue and relocated it to the Pelham Valley last year.
Staff members and the board were initially skeptical, he said. SVEC typically schedules its annual meetings in a school and rotates the location to make it convenient for members.
“We worried, ‘Will they come this far?’” he said. “And, gosh, they certainly did.”
More than 1,000 members—a record crowd—gathered for SVEC’s 80th annual meeting in The Caverns, the subterranean music venue in the co-op’s service territory. (Photo By: SVEC)
All activities took place underground, including the business meeting, information booths for SVEC’s propane and broadband teams and an electric vehicle display. A photo-op bucket featured a lineman and a co-op director dressed in a caveman costume. Local bluegrass band Track 145 provided the music.
The huge turnout did have one drawback. SVEC planners are accustomed to provisioning for about 300 members at annual meetings. This year, they ordered enough barbeque for 500.
“We had over 1,000 folks,” said Partin. “So, we got grills, and we went out and bought every hotdog in a 20-mile radius.
“The members didn’t complain. They were excited about the venue. And a lot of new folks came and heard about the exciting things the co-op is doing.”
Cathy Cash is a staff writer for NRECA.
Trevathan joins TECA team
NASHVILLE – Today the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association announced that Celia Trevathan is joining the organization as member relations coordinator. Trevathan will assist with the association’s youth education and leadership training programs.
“I appreciate the work that TECA does for rural and suburban Tennessee, and I am pleased to be a part of its efforts,” says Trevathan, a former STEAM educator for Metro Nashville Public Schools. “I am excited to use my background in education to help young people build leadership skills and a better understanding of co-ops.”
“Programs like the Youth Leadership Summit, Washington Youth Tour and 4-H Electric Camp are helping prepare a new generation of young leaders, and we think these are wise investments in the future of the communities we serve,” says David Callis, executive vice president and general manager for TECA. “Celia’s experience in education is going to add value to our youth programs, and we are excited to have her on our team at TECA.”
Electric co-ops light the midway to start the 2019 Tennessee State Fair
NASHVILLE – Jamie Perrigo, operations superintendent for Tri-County Electric Membership Corporation in Lafayette, flipped the switch to light the midway and officially start the 2019 Tennessee State Fair on Friday, Sept. 6, in Nashville. Tennessee’s electric co-ops have sponsored the opening ceremony of the fair since 2014.
Attendees of the opening ceremony heard from legislators, elected officials and others, including Nashville Mayor David Briley and Trent Scott, vice president of corporate strategy for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association.
“The fair is a celebration of life in Tennessee – specifically rural Tennessee,” said Scott. “There are exciting things happening here in Nashville, but it is important that we not overlook what happens out there – past the city limits signs in rural and suburban Tennessee. Rural Tennessee is home to 37 percent of the state’s population and 30 percent of personal incomes. What happens out there matters. It matters to the people who live there, but it should matter to everyone. Co-ops are proud to serve rural Tennessee and advocate for rural communities every day. We’re also proud to be here tonight to kick off the 2019 Tennessee State Fair.”
The fair runs Sept. 6 – 15 at the Fairgrounds in Nashville. Learn more at tnstatefair.org.
Tennessee co-ops respond to Hurricane Dorian
NASHVILLE – While most Tennesseans enjoyed a long Labor Day weekend, several lineworkers from Tennessee’s electric co-ops were heading to Georgia and North Carolina to assist with Hurricane Dorian recovery efforts. Twenty-two lineworkers – ten from Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation in Brownsville and 12 from Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative in South Pittsburg – are traveling to the coast to restore power to areas affected by Hurricane Dorian. The powerful storm is expected to impact coastal areas of Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas later this week.
“Lineworkers have a desire to serve others,” says David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “It always impresses me how quickly our crews volunteer to help, even without knowing the conditions they will face or how long they will be away from their families.”
The uncertainty of Dorian’s track has made preparations far more difficult than usual. If the storm ultimately makes landfall along the South and North Carolina coast, Tennessee may be asked to send additional crews.
Statewide trade associations like the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association coordinate mutual aid assistance for co-ops in their respective states. When a state determines that it needs assistance, requests are made to surrounding states. The statewide organizations in those states work with their local co-ops to organize crews and make arrangements for lodging and food. Working out details ahead of time allows crews to respond quickly when a need arises.
Tips to slay the (energy) vampires in your home
NASHVILLE – The little vampires who ring your doorbell on Halloween night aren’t the only ones you should be afraid of. Electricity vampires are all over your house—all year long.
Electrical vampires are appliances and electronics that continue to pull electricity, even when they are turned off.
According to the US Department of Energy, vampires account for up to 5 percent of the energy in your house. To save you from a witch hunt, electric co-ops offer a list of the most likely vampires in your house:
If an electrical device has a continuous display, like a digital clock, if it charges batteries, like your mobile phone charger, or if it has a remote control, like your TV—it’s a vampire.
The best way to stop these vampires is to unplug them when you’re not using them. You may also consider purchasing power strips so you have to pull just one plug to stop a group of electronics from using vampire electricity.
Change of Venue: A Tennessee Co-op Triples Attendance With an Underground Annual Meeting
Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative ran out of barbeque at its 80th annual meeting, but that didn’t diminish the enthusiasm of the record number of members who showed up at the unique setting.
This year, the South Pittsburg, Tennessee, co-op scored The Caverns, a subterranean venue on the fringe of the co-op’s service territory that hosts live music events, including the acclaimed PBS series “Bluegrass Underground.”
More than 1,000 members showed up, with some driving nearly 100 miles to be there.
That’s nearly triple normal attendance, said SVEC President and CEO Mike Partin, noting there were many first-timers and younger members among the crowd.
“It was a great opportunity for us to share our story with a different demographic,” he said. “We got a lot of exposure to a lot of new faces just because we stepped out of our comfort zone.”
He said the co-op has been inundated with positive member feedback since the Aug. 8 meeting.
“Our message to other co-ops is: Think outside the box about member engagement and use the annual meeting as a tool.”
Partin said he got the idea to celebrate SVEC’s milestone anniversary at The Caverns during a conversation with neighbor Todd Mayo, who owns the venue and relocated it to the Pelham Valley last year.
Staff members and the board were initially skeptical, he said. SVEC typically schedules its annual meetings in a school and rotates the location to make it convenient for members.
“We worried, ‘Will they come this far?’” he said. “And, gosh, they certainly did.”
More than 1,000 members—a record crowd—gathered for SVEC’s 80th annual meeting in The Caverns, the subterranean music venue in the co-op’s service territory. (Photo By: SVEC)
All activities took place underground, including the business meeting, information booths for SVEC’s propane and broadband teams and an electric vehicle display. A photo-op bucket featured a lineman and a co-op director dressed in a caveman costume. Local bluegrass band Track 145 provided the music.
The huge turnout did have one drawback. SVEC planners are accustomed to provisioning for about 300 members at annual meetings. This year, they ordered enough barbeque for 500.
“We had over 1,000 folks,” said Partin. “So, we got grills, and we went out and bought every hotdog in a 20-mile radius.
“The members didn’t complain. They were excited about the venue. And a lot of new folks came and heard about the exciting things the co-op is doing.”
Cathy Cash is a staff writer for NRECA.
Conover recognized by colleagues
NASHVILLE – American Mainstreet Publications presented The Tennessee Magazine editor Robin Conover with the Lynne Christenson Award of Excellence at the organization’s annual meeting this week in Alabama.
American Mainstreet Publications is an advertising cooperative owned by electric co-op statewide publications. The Lynne Christenson Award of Excellence is presented to an AMP member who exemplifies the work ethic, tenacity and professionalism of Lynne Christenson, former advertising manager for Kentucky Living Magazine. Christenson was a passionate advocate for electric co-op magazines before losing a battle with cancer in 2015.
“Robin exhibited a strong and steady hand guiding the National Country Market membership through its rebranding as American MainStreet Publications,” said Mona Neely, editor of Colorado Living Magazine and AMP board member. “She has kept the board focused on supporting our team as it works to make AMP relevant in an ever-changing and fast-moving marketplace. She did this all while maintaining the excellence of her own magazine and excelling as an amazing photographer.”
“A team leader who gave 110% all the time, dreamed big, thought outside the box and followed through to make thing happen is how I would describe Lynne Christenson,” said Conover. “Lynne was a mentor and a dear friend of mine. I am humbled and honored to receive this award. She was a passionate leader who always had the mission of the electric cooperatives and our magazines at heart. As advertising manager for Kentucky Living, Lynne led our national sales cooperative, National Country Market, now known as American MainStreet Publications. She helped define how we approach sales and advertising with our national network of electric cooperative magazines. Lynn was a good friend, and I am honored to receive this award.”
“Robin’s talents are no secret, and we enjoy when others recognize and honor those talents,” said David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “We are fortunate to have her on our team.”
“National advertising is increasingly important to our magazines,” said Conover. “AMP plays an important role in recruiting high-quality advertising for the statewide publications. This revenue helps us offset cost and to create better, more effective magazines.”
Laura Beth Laden joins TECA staff
NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association, a trade association representing the state’s 23 electric cooperatives, announced recently that Laura Beth Laden is joining the association as communications administrative assistant. Laden has interned with TECA for the past two years.
“I have enjoyed working with co-ops and the team at TECA,” says Laden. “I grew up around electric co-ops, and I understand how important they are to the communities they serve. I am excited to have this opportunity to work with co-ops across the state.”
Laden will oversee magazine advertising and assist the communications staff with various projects. She is a native of Savannah, where her father, Bob Laden, served as CFO for Tennessee Valley Electric Cooperative until his recent retirement. Laden is currently completing a degree in accounting from Lipscomb University in Nashville.
“We are pleased to have Laura Beth join our communications staff on a permanent basis,” says Robin Conover, vice president of communications for TECA. “Laura Beth has Tennessee roots and brings a fresh perspective to our team at TECA.”
Move over and save a life
NASHVILLE – If you’re driving on Tennessee roads, what should you do if you approach a utility vehicle stopped on the shoulder with its flashing lights activated? According to the state’s Move Over law, motorists must slow down or move over, or you could be fined for not complying.
Tennessee’s “Move Over” law was passed in 2006 to protect first responders like police officers, firefighters and paramedics. In 2011, Tennessee’s electric cooperatives led a coalition to revise the state’s move over law to include utility workers as well.
The requirements of Tennessee’s move over law are simple. On a four lane road, if safety and traffic conditions allow, a driver approaching a utility vehicle with flashing lights should move into the far lane. On a two lane road or when changing lanes is not possible, a driver should reduce their speed.
Electric co-op vehicles aren’t the only utility vehicles covered; service vehicles used by municipal electric systems, telephone companies and utility districts are also protected by the law.
Electric lineworkers face many dangers – high voltage, heights and extreme weather conditions. Despite these challenges, one of the most dangerous parts of their job is working alongside busy roadways, often only feet away from passing cars
“We have had cars come through at high rates of speed, hitting the cones we have set up and clipping the outriggers that we have down to support the trucks,” says Greg Bryant, line foreman for Gibson Electric Membership Corporation in Trenton, Tenn. “I think people care, they just don’t pay attention like they should.”
“When we are in the bucket or up a pole, we can clearly see into passing cars, and it is shocking how many drivers are looking at their phones,” says Bryant, who shares this important tip. “Put the phone down and pay attention. Lives are on the line.”
“July marks the 8th anniversary of the expansion of the law, but too many drivers either don’t know about it or simply don’t care,” says David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Associaiton. “Our lineworkers perform an important job for our community. Changing lanes or slowing down to give them a little space is a simple courtesy that could save a life.”
More information about the law is available at moveovertennessee.org.
August 2019 Commkit
2019 Washington Youth Tour delegates return home
NASHVILLE – 185 students, teachers and co-op chaperones have returned from a week in our nation’s capital as delegates of the 2019 Washington Youth Tour. The annual event, sponsored by the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and the state’s 23 electric co-ops, provides young leaders with an opportunity to explore the nation’s capital, learn about government and cooperatives and develop their leadership skills. Students were selected for the trip by writing short stories titled “Electric Cooperatives – Connecting Communities” that explain how co-ops provide communities with much more than electric power.
“We take great pride in recognizing the best and brightest from across Tennessee,” said Todd Blocker, vice president of member relations for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and tour director. “By honoring their accomplishments through programs like the Washington Youth Tour, we show these future leaders that their co-op cares about the future. We want these young people to come home with a better understanding of their nation and new passion to serve their community.”
Tennessee’s Youth Tour delegates saw the White House and memorials to past presidents Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Delano Roosevelt as well as monuments honoring the sacrifices of veterans of World War II and the Vietnam and Korean Wars. During visits to the museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the touring Tennesseans saw and experienced natural, historical and artistic treasures. Other fun stops included historic homes of former presidents — George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Jefferson’s Monticello — as well as Ford’s Theater and a boat cruise down the Potomac River. The group also paid a solemn and sobering visit to Arlington National Cemetery where the delegtes laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns.
For many, the highlight of the trip was hearing from Holocaust survivor Ms. Esther Starobin at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Her advice to the delegates was, “Don’t be a bystander in this world. You have to know history and pay attention to it. Get involved and learn as much as you can with more than a single viewpoint.”
The group was welcomed to the U.S. Capitol by Sens. Lamar Alexander and Marsha Blackburn and members of the Tennessee congressional delegation who posed for photos and answered questions.
While in D.C., winners were announced in the statewide competition for the Robert McCarty Memorial Scholarships. Jacob Coble from Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative, Alyssa Hampton from Fayetteville Public Utilities and Melanie Garcia from Appalachian Electric Cooperative were awarded $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000 Robert McCarty Memorial Scholarships for having the first, second and third place papers of the more than 10,000 papers submitted across the state.
McCarty was an employee of Volunteer Energy Cooperative and longtime chaperone on the annual Youth Tour. McCarty lost a battle with cancer in 2015, and sponsoring cooperatives renamed the scholarships in honor of his love for young people.
Keslin Moore, a senior from Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative was awarded a $10,000 Cooperative Youth Ambassador Scholarship. Moore was a 2018 delegate of the Washington Youth Tour. In the year following the tour, delegates who remain engaged with their sponsoring cooperative and complete certain community service requirements are eligible for the scholarship. Moore’s name was randomly selected from among the 50 delegates from across the state who completed the requirements.
“An investment in these young people is also an investment in the communities we serve,” said David Callis, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “These are exceptional students, and our hope is that their youth tour experience empowers them to return home and make a difference in their communities.”
President Lyndon Johnson inspired the Washington Youth Tour in 1957 when he encouraged electric cooperatives to send youngsters to the nation’s capital. In the years since, more than 6,000 young Tennesseans have been delegates on the Washington Youth Tour.
Youth tour scholarships awarded in Washington, D.C.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tennessee’s electric cooperatives awarded $16,000 in scholarships to Washington Youth Tour delegates on Tuesday evening, June 18, in Washington, D.C.
Keslin Moore, a senior from Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative was awarded a $10,000 Cooperative Youth Ambassador Scholarship. Moore was a 2018 delegate of the Washington Youth Tour. In the year following the tour, delegates who remain engaged with their sponsoring cooperative and complete certain community service requirements are eligible for the scholarship. Moore’s name was randomly selected from among the 50 delegates from across the state who completed the requirements.
Jacob Coble from Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative, Alyssa Hampton from Fayetteville Public Utilities and Melanie Garcia from Appalachian Electric Cooperative were awarded $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000 Robert McCarty Memorial Scholarships for having the first, second and third place papers of the more than 10,000 papers submitted across the state.
McCarty was an employee of Volunteer Energy Cooperative and long-time chaperone on the annual youth tour. McCarty lost a battle with cancer in 2015, and sponsoring cooperatives renamed the scholarship in honor of his love for young people.
More than 135 high school Juniors from across the state are in the nation’s capital this week for the 2019 Washington Youth Tour. The annual event teaches students about public policy, history, leadership and electric cooperatives. The tour is coordinated by local electric cooperatives, the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
“An investment in these young people is also an investment in the communities we serve,” said David Callis, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “These are exceptional students, and our hope is that their youth tour experience empowers them to return home and make a difference in their communities.”
Delegates will return home on Thursday, June 20, but they have already experienced a great deal on this year’s trip. For many, the highlight of the trip was hearing from Holocaust survivor Ms. Esther Starobin at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Her advice to the delegates was, “Don’t be a bystander in this world. You have to know history and pay attention to it. Get involved and learn as much as you can with more than a single viewpoint.” Learn more about Ms. Starobin’s story on the Holocaust Memorial Museum website.
Young leaders depart for Washington, D.C.
NASHVILLE – More than 135 students from across Tennessee are headed to Washington, D.C., as a part of the 2019 Washington Youth Tour. The annual event, which begins on Friday, June 14, provides young leaders with an opportunity to explore the nation’s capital, learn about government and develop their leadership skills.
The Washington Youth Tour is sponsored by the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and local electric cooperatives from across the state. Students were selected for the trip by writing a short story titled “Electric Cooperatives – Connecting Communities” that explains how co-ops provide communities with much more than electric power.
Delegates on this year’s trip will visit museums and monuments, including the White House and the Capitol Building. The group is also scheduled to meet with Sens. Alexander and Blackburn as well as other members of Tennessee’s Congressional delegation.
“Each year Tennessee co-ops provide education, leadership and scholarship opportunities to hundreds of students from across Tennessee,” said David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “Today’s young people are tomorrow’s teachers, Senators, doctors and entrepreneurs, and we’re investing in a brighter future for these young leaders and the communities we serve. Youth tour gives these students the opportunity to experience history and democracy up-close, and we hope they return with a deeper appreciation of America and a desire to serve their communities.”
President Lyndon Johnson inspired the tour in 1957 when he encouraged electric cooperatives to send youngsters to the nation’s capital. In the years since, more than 6,000 young Tennesseans have been delegates for the Washington Youth Tour. Politicians, business leaders, authors and athletes are Washington Youth Tour alumni, including Apple CEO Tim Cook.
The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association provides leadership, advocacy and support for Tennessee’s 23 electric cooperatives and publishes The Tennessee Magazine, the state’s most widely circulated periodical. Visit tnelectric.org or tnmagazine.org to learn more.
Seven smart ways to save energy this summer
NASHVILLE – With the long, hot days of summer just around the corner, Tennessee’s electric co-ops provide these simple tips to save energy and money.
“There are some small things you can do to have a big impact on your electric bill,” says Todd Blocker, vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “Taking a little time now can pay off big as temperatures rise.”
Use blinds and shades to keep your cool inside. Close draperies on windows in direct sunlight to keep the heat out.
Make wise choices with the thermostat. The smaller the difference between the outside temperature and the thermostat setting will reduce your cooling bill. Keep your thermostat as high as you can while remaining comfortable. We recommend 75 degrees. Programmable thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature when you are not home or awake.
Keep your HVAC unit in good working condition. Be sure your filters are clean. This is a cheap but essential thing to do every month or so. Schedule regular maintenance to clean and maintain your system.
Use fans to increase comfort. Running a fan will allow you to increase your thermostat setting by 4 degrees without reducing comfort, but remember to turn fans off when you leave the room. You can also use bathroom and kitchen fans to move humidity outside.
Seal the hot air out. A tube of caulk and some weather stripping can go a long way. Seal cracks to keep hot air out and cool air in.
Avoid using appliances and lights that create heat. Replace traditional lighting with LEDs that produce no heat. On hot days, avoid using ovens or stoves and instead use the microwave or grill outside.
Plant some trees. This takes some time to pay off, but it will eventually. Trees can shade your home and have a significant impact on your energy bill. Just be sure to remain mindful of your electric cooperative’s right-of-way. Don’t place trees underneath power lines, and call to have underground utilities located before performing any digging task.
Visit our efficiency resource guide on tnelectric.org or contact your local electric co-op for more tips and suggestions.
July 2019 Commkit
The following resources are available for use in July.
Other Resources
Social Media
Posts for July
July 1 – Move Over for utility workers in Tennessee. It’s the law. #moveoverTN [LINK TO ARTICLE ABOVE ON YOUR WEBSITE OR AT TNELECTRIC.ORG.]
July 2 – Their job is dangerous enough. #moveoverTN
July 3 – A motorist’s guide to utility work sites and Tennessee’s Move Over law #moveoverTN #Infographic [LINK TO http://tnelectric.org/2017/06/27/move-over/]
July 4 – “America is hope. It is compassion. It is excellence. It is valor.” – Paul Tsongas
July 5 – Electric co-ops provide power and opportunity to 71 percent of Tennessee. #cooportunity
July 8 – Tennessee’s Move Over law requires motorists to slow down or change lanes when approaching a utility vehicle with flashing lights. Learn more at moveovertennessee.org. #moveoverTN [LINK TO https://youtu.be/uem13hqAaZE]
July 9 – Tennessee’s electric co-ops work to make the communities we serve places where ideas take hold, products are crafted and opportunity is abundant. Learn more at http://tnelectric.org/cooportunity#cooportunity [INSERT IMAGE BELOW]
July 10 – You can help them get home safely. #moveoverTN
July 11 – When you think about all the ways we use and depend on electricity to power our lives, it’s easy to see its value continues to shine! #cooportunity
July 12 – Looking for plans for the weekend? Check out The Tennessee Magazine’s calendar of events. [LINK TO TNMAGAZINE.ORG/EVENTS]
July 15 – It pays to be safe. Visit everydaysafe.org for tips to keep your family safe around power lines.
July 16 – Do you know your eScore? Visit [CO-OP SITE OR 2ESCORE.COM] for information and incentives to make your home more comfortable and efficient.
July 17 – Post photo of crews behind the scenes. Explain how their work keeps the lights on. [PHOTO]
July 18 – Lineworkers face many dangers: High voltage. Heights. Bad weather. You. Pay attention and move over. #moveoverTN
July 19 – Link to Letter to the Editor above at local paper or on your own site.
July 22 – Lineworker is the 9th most dangerous job in America. Do your part to make it a little safer and #moveoverTN
July 23 – Opportunity isn’t found. It’s made. Electric co-ops support the creators, innovators, makers, dreamers and everyday Tennesseans who are redefining success. #cooportunity [INSERT IMAGE BELOW]
July 24 – State law requires motorists to move over or slow down when passing roadside utility vehicles. #moveoverTN
July 25 – The best way to honor a veteran is to hire one. Electric co-ops are committed to honoring and employing veterans, military service members and their spouses. Learn more: [Insert link to Serve Our Co-ops; Serve Our Country website: http://www.servevets.coop] #NationalHireAVeteranDay [OR POST PHOTO OF CO-OP EMPLOYEES WHO ARE VETERANS]
July 26 – Each day, electric co-ops enable the communities we serve to prosper. Learn more about how co-ops help empower growth in rural and suburban Tennessee at http://www.tnelectric.org/cooportunity. #cooportunity [INSERT IMAGE BELOW]
July 29 – Post photo of crews behind the scenes. Explain how their work keeps the lights on. [PHOTO]
July 30 – Electric co-ops provide power and opportunity in the communities we serve. #cooportunity [SHARE VIDEO BELOW]
June 2019 Commkit
The following resources are available for use in June.
Other Resources
Social Media
Posts for June
June 3 – Electric co-ops provide power and opportunity to 71 percent of Tennessee. #cooportunity
June 4 – Want to make smart energy choices this summer? Save money with these great tips. [LINK TO EFFICIENCY ARTICLE ABOVE ON YOUR WEBSITE]
June 5 – Share article from tnmagazine.org. [LINK TO ARTICLE ON TNMAGAZINE.ORG]
June 6 – Electric co-ops provide power and opportunity in the communities we serve. #cooportunity [SHARE VIDEO BELOW]
June 7 – Do you know your eScore? Visit [CO-OP SITE OR 2ESCORE.COM] for information and incentives to make your home more comfortable and efficient.
June 10 – Tennessee’s electric co-ops work to make the communities we serve places where ideas take hold, products are crafted and opportunity is abundant. Learn more at http://tnelectric.org/cooportunity#cooportunity [INSERT IMAGE BELOW]
June 11 – It pays to be safe. Visit everydaysafe.org for tips to keep your family safe around power lines.
June 12 – Looking for plans for the weekend? Check out The Tennessee Magazine’s calendar of events. [LINK TO TNMAGAZINE.ORG/EVENTS]
June 13 – #TNWYT
June 14 – #TNWYT
June 16 – Today is #FathersDay . We celebrate the dads on our team who power their home and their community. [POST PHOTO OF LINEMAN WITH THEIR CHILD/CHILDREN]
June 17 – #TNWYT
June 18 – #TNWYT
June 19 – #TNWYT
June 20 – Post photo of crews behind the scenes. Explain how their work keeps the lights on. [PHOTO]
June 21 – Today is the first day of #summer. Check out these tips to prepare your AC unit for the hot days ahead from energy.gov [LINK TO https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner]
June 24 – This Lightning Safety Awareness Week, we hope you’ll keep these #StormSafety tips in mind and be #EverydaySafe.
June 25 – Remember this #StormSafety tip: When you hear thunder roar, go indoors! LightningSafetyAwarenessWeek #EverydaySafe
June 26 – Opportunity isn’t found. It’s made. Electric co-ops support the creators, innovators, makers, dreamers and everyday Tennesseans who are redefining success. #cooportunity [INSERT IMAGE BELOW]
June 27 – Why risk it? If you find yourself caught in a storm, quickly seek shelter indoors until it has passed. #LightningSafetyAwarenessWeek #EverydaySafe #StormSafety
June 28 – Each day, electric co-ops enable the communities we serve to prosper. Learn more about how co-ops help empower growth in rural and suburban Tennessee at http://www.tnelectric.org/cooportunity. #cooportunity [INSERT IMAGE BELOW]
Co-op leaders discuss Tennessee issues with DC lawmakers
NASHVILLE – More than 50 electric co-op leaders from Tennessee traveled to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, April 30, to talk with members of the Tennessee congressional delegation about issues important to the state’s rural and suburban communities.
During meetings with lawmakers, co-op leaders discussed energy, connectivity and other topics, including:
Lawmakers were also invited to visit their local co-ops to meet employees, attend annual meetings and tour co-op facilities.
“We bring co-op leaders to Washington, D.C., to build relationships,” said David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “We want lawmakers to know and trust us, and we want them to think about us as they make decisions. Visits like this provide us with a valuable opportunity to educate lawmakers about co-ops and our communities.”
Photos from the event are available online.
Utility worker assault bill progresses
Senator Todd Gardenhire (R – Chattanooga) has successfully moved Senate Bill 481 though the Senate. It passed by a vote of 27-5 on March 18. This legislation includes utility workers among other first responders and will subject offenders that commit assault against them to enhanced penalties.
The bill has also been approved by the House of Representatives. In a rare show of bi-partisan sponsorship in this General Assembly, Representative Darren Jernigan (D – Nashville) successfully shepherded the legislation with minimal opposition. Only Governor Lee’s signature remains for this change to become law.
“Linemen and other utility workers should certainly be counted among first responders in the communities they serve,” says Mike Knotts, vice president of government affairs for TECA. “This legislation shows the support that these community heroes have from their co-ops and from state lawmakers.”
The pace of activity in the 2019 General Assembly has peaked as many Committees have closed and bills are moving quickly toward the House and Senate floors. The focus of the legislature is shifting to formation of the state’s budget, and TECA will be working diligently to see that budget priorities that benefit electric co-ops are heard by the Finance committees.
Chief among them is funding of the Tennessee Broadband Accessibility Grant Fund for which Governor Lee has proposed $20 million of new funds. In 2018, the Legislature increased Governor Haslam’s request by 50% in the final budget ($10 million proposed, $15 million funded). Key members of the Finance Committees have expressed interest in a similar increase for 2019, but additional funding is by no means assured.
TECA continues to track other important pieces of legislation moving through the 2019 General Assembly.
Increased Penalty for Illegal Drone Use
Senate Bill 306 by Senator Jon Lundberg (R – Bristol) and Representative Bud Hulsey (R – Kingsport) has been signed into law by Governor Bill Lee.
This legislation increased the penalty to a Class E felony for operating a drone over a critical infrastructure facility without the consent of the owner. This makes a violation punishable by one to six years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000.
The law defines critical infrastructure facility to include “An electrical power generation system; electrical transmission system, either as a whole system or any individual component of the transmission system; or electrical distribution substation.”
It was previously a misdemeanor offense, which made enforcement of the violations a low priority of law enforcement. Should your cooperative feel the need to notify your local authorities of violations, you may now let the call center know that the crime is a felony and warrants dispatch of officers to investigate.
Cooperative Broadband Clarifications Passes House 81-8
Having already been passed by the Senate on a unanimous vote, House Bill 172 by Pat Marsh (R – Shelbyville) was considered by the House of Representatives on Monday, April 8. The bill clarifies elements of the Broadband Accessibility Act to encourage competition in co-op-served areas. After a brief discussion (Debate on the bill can be viewed here) the bill passed on a vote of 81–8.
Dunavan joins team at TECA
NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association, a trade association representing the state’s 23 electric cooperatives, announced recently that Mallory Dunavan is joining the association as political affairs coordinator.
“I am excited to be part of the team at TECA,” says Dunavan. “Electric co-ops are important to the communities they serve, and co-ops have a great reputation in Nashville for standing up for rural and suburban Tennesseans.”
Dunavan will assist with the association’s legislative outreach and grassroots efforts. A native of McKenzie, she is a 2017 graduate of the University of Tennessee with a masters degree in public policy & administration. Before coming to TECA, she served as a lobbyist for McCord Government Relations.
“It may seem far off for many of us, but the actions taken in Nashville and Washington, D.C., can have real consequences for the consumers we serve,” says Mike Knotts, vice president of government affairs for TECA. “It is important for co-ops to work with lawmakers to be sure they understand how co-ops work and what we do. We are excited that Mallory is joining our team.”
May 2019 CommKit
Tennessee co-ops receive $6.2 million in state grants for broadband
NASHVILLE – Gov. Bill Lee announced Monday that five electric co-ops in Tennessee will receive more than $6.2 million in broadband accessibility grants. Electric co-ops received nearly half of $14.8 million in state grants awarded by the state.
“Rural and suburban Tennessee cannot grow and prosper without access to reliable, high-speed connectivity,” says David Callis, executive vice president and general manager for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “Tennessee’s electric co-ops are responding to this need and making significant investments to bring this service to the homes and businesses they serve. The state’s broadband accessibility grant program speeds the process of expanding high-speed internet to communities that have no other options.”
“I am pleased to announce that we are getting our rural areas up to speed and expanding broadband in the areas that need it most,” said Lee. “I am committed to ensuring connectivity in every corner of our state as broadband impacts our goals for health care, education, economic development and beyond.”
According to the FCC’s 2018 Broadband Deployment Report, nearly one in four rural Tennesseans lack access to broadband. In addition to the $20 million included in Gov. Lee’s recommended budget for fiscal year 2020, these grants will continue to close the access gap ensuring rural Tennesseans have the tools needed for growth and prosperity.
The six Tennessee co-ops receiving a total of $6,296,177.61 in this round of state grants include:
Learn more about electric co-op broadband in Tennessee on our Co-op Broadband page.