by Sean Vanslyke – sean@gosemo.com
Greetings! As the deadline for this column drew near, several thoughts crossed my mind that I'm eager to share. Here are some concise updates for you.
Electricity: Unpredictable summer storms, like the EF-2 tornado in late July near Bertrand on Highway 532, highlight the importance of preparedness. Team SEMO's response and collaboration with first responders was commendable. Let's all have a plan to stay safe during severe weather and power outages.
Broadband: GoSEMO Fiber's growth has been remarkable, with over 9,000 subscribers and 12,000 services (internet, TV, and phone). We appreciate your support as we continue to expand, enriching lives with fiber and without contracts, data limits, or installation fees.
Environmental Protection Agency: The EPA's recent proposal may hinder our mission to provide affordable, reliable power to our communities. The proposed carbon capture and hydrogen technologies' expedited timeframe could force early power plant closures and create challenges for permitting new plants. I stand with electric cooperatives nationwide in opposing this proposal. Share your thoughts at voicesforcooperativepower.com, a network of electric co-op members working together to influence government policies.
Book of the Month: "People usually want to be heard more than they want to be agreed with. Even if neither of them managed to change the other's mind, at the very least they'd have shown each other respect by taking the time to listen. Even if they didn't achieve resolution, they'd both feel lighter when they headed off to bed." Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
#keeppushingforward
Vanslyke is general manager and chief executive officer of SEMO Electric Cooperative.