After 30 years in the classroom, retired Switzerland County teacher Doris Eads still believes the greatest lessons begin with caring for children. When Doris Eads talks about her 30 years in education, she doesn’t begin with lesson plans, textbooks or report cards. She begins with children. She remembers second graders running across the playground asking her to tie their shoes, visiting families in their homes when parents couldn’t make it to school, and former students recognizing her decades later to share how one teacher helped shape the course of their lives. ​ At 91 years old, Eads has been retired for nearly three decades, but her passion for teaching is as strong as ever. ​ “You were there for the kids,” she said. “You weren’t there for anything special for yourself. You were there because they needed you.” ​ A Dream Worth Working For Eads grew up in Harlan County, Kentucky, as one of 10 children. Money was scarce, but she knew from an early age that she wanted to become a teacher. ​ “I never have ever wished that I had done anything except teach,” she said. “That’s what I always wanted.” ​ After graduating from high school, she attended Union College before earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati and later her master’s degree from Purdue University. The journey wasn’t easy. After marrying and starting a family, she worked nearly 10 years in an accounting office, carefully saving money so she could return to college and finish her education. ​ “When you want something badly enough,” she said, “you do it.” ​ Her determination paid off. Her teaching license qualified her to teach students in any grade from first through eighth, something that was uncommon at the time, and that flexibility eventually allowed her to teach every elementary grade from first through sixth. ​ Finding Home in Switzerland County Early in her career, Eads taught in Cincinnati before moving her family to Switzerland County in search of a quieter, safer place to raise her children. The move meant leaving behind a higher-paying teaching position, but it was a decision she never regretted. ​ “We made the move for the kids,” she said. ​ She began teaching at Jefferson-Craig Elementary before later serving at Pleasant Elementary, where she accepted an unusual role as both principal and classroom teacher. While managing the daily operations of the school, she also taught combined fifth- and sixth-grade classes with more than 40 students. ​ “It was quite a hard thing,” she recalled with a smile. ​ Later, she returned to Jefferson-Craig, where she continued teaching until retiring in 1997 after a 30-year career. Along the way, Switzerland County became much more than the place she worked. ​ “I can sit out on that porch, and it’s just the calmness and the quietness,” she said of the farm her family has called home for more than 50 years. “I love living here. This is the place that I was meant to be.” ​ Seeing Every Child Whether she was teaching second graders or sixth graders, Eads believed every child deserved to feel seen. When she had a second-grade classroom with 42 students packed wall-to-wall, she knew individual attention would be difficult, so she created her own solution. Older fifth- and sixth-grade students came into her classroom to read with younger children, practice math facts and encourage them while she worked with small groups. ​ “I brought in a lot of different kinds of programs,” she said. ​ She also tutored students before school, stayed after school when needed and wasn’t afraid to visit families at home if parents couldn’t make it to school. ​ “If your mom had eight or ten children and couldn’t come to school,” she said, “then you made time to go to her.” ​ Her goal wasn’t simply to teach reading, writing and math. ​ “I tried to look at what they needed.” ​ That philosophy extended beyond academics. She wanted school to be a place where children felt welcomed, encouraged and excited to learn. ​ “When they saw that you could do things in school that were fun and you still learned,” she said, “they came.” ​ The Two D’s Toward the end of each school year, Eads shared one lesson that many of her students still remember today. She would tell them they could accomplish anything in life if they graduated with two D’s. ​ The students always looked confused. “D’s, Mrs. E? Those aren’t good.” She would smile before explaining. “The two D’s are desire and determination.” ​ “You can go to college and do anything you want to if you have the desire and the determination.” ​ Those words weren’t just something she taught—they were how she lived. ​ Years later, former students have stopped her in restaurants, doctor’s offices and stores simply to say thank you. One former student, now working in a dermatologist’s office, told Eads something she has never forgotten. ​ “You are the inspiration that made me want to go on and do something better for myself.” ​ “I look at these kids now,” she said, “and I see them owning businesses, serving their communities and raising families. I’m so proud of them.” ​ Advice for a New School Year As another school year begins, Eads knows classrooms look much different than they did when she retired. Technology has changed how teachers teach and how students learn, but she believes the most important part of education hasn’t changed. ​ Her advice to teachers is simple. “Relax,” she said. “Make it fun. Make them want to be in school.” ​ Children, she believes, learn best when they know someone truly cares about them. She also encourages families to make time for one another. ​ “I think families need to do more family things together,” she said. “Children have very little time to just be children anymore.” ​ Whether it’s riding bikes, sharing meals or simply spending time together without busy schedules getting in the way, she believes those moments matter just as much as anything learned inside a classroom. ​ A Life That Still Inspires Although retirement ended her teaching career, it didn’t end her desire to serve others. She remains active in her church and regularly joins her pastor in singing at local nursing homes, bringing music and encouragement to residents throughout the area. She has also overcome tremendous personal challenges, including recovering from a stroke through the same determination she encouraged in her students. ​ “You can’t give up,” she said. “If you give up, you’ve lost. As long as you’re fighting, you’re a winner.” ​ Looking back over more than nine decades of life, Doris Eads doesn’t measure success by awards or titles. ​ She measures it by the lives she helped shape. ​ Every teacher hopes their students will remember something they learned. For Doris Eads, the lessons her students carried with them were never just reading, writing or arithmetic. They were kindness, perseverance, believing in themselves and caring for others. ​ And if those students remember just two things, she hopes they’re the same two lessons she taught every year: Desire and determination can take you anywhere.

Operation RoundUp® Awards $75,800 in First 2026 Grant Cycle The strength of a community is often measured by the organizations that serve it. From food pantries and volunteer fire departments to youth programs, healthcare initiatives and community improvement projects, these organizations make a difference every day—and this summer, Southeastern Indiana REMC’s Operation RoundUp® program helped provide additional support for their work. During its July meeting, the Operation RoundUp® Board of Trustees awarded $75,800 in grants to 35 nonprofit organizations serving communities throughout Southeastern Indiana REMC’s service territory. This year’s first grant cycle was made even more impactful thanks to a $25,000 contribution from Hoosier Energy, Southeastern Indiana REMC’s wholesale power supplier. That partnership allowed the Board of Trustees to extend the reach of local giving and support even more worthwhile projects across the region. Each grant application was carefully reviewed by the volunteer Board of Trustees, who evaluated community needs, project goals and the potential impact of every request. The result is funding for a diverse range of organizations that provide essential services, strengthen local communities and improve quality of life for residents across southeastern Indiana. “The success of Operation RoundUp® isn’t measured simply by dollars awarded,” said Keith Mathews, CEO of Southeastern Indiana REMC. “It’s measured by the lives that are touched through these organizations and the lasting impact they have on our communities. We’re especially grateful to Hoosier Energy for partnering with us to expand that impact this year.” The organizations receiving grants this round represent a wide variety of missions, but they all share a common purpose: making our communities stronger places to live, work and raise a family. Congratulations to the 2026 Round 1 grant recipients. To learn more about the Operation RoundUp® program or view a complete list of this year’s grant recipients, visit www.seiremc.com/operationroundup.

Where Heritage, Community, and the Ohio River Come Nestled along the Ohio River in southeastern Indiana, Switzerland County is a community where history, natural beauty, and hometown pride continue to shape everyday life. From its scenic river views and historic downtown to community festivals, local businesses, and outdoor recreation, the county offers a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates both its past and its future. Founded in 1814 by Swiss immigrants, Switzerland County is best known as the birthplace of America’s first commercial winery. The town of Vevay, established by the Dufour brothers, remains the heart of the county and is home to beautifully preserved architecture, locally owned shops, restaurants, and gathering places that reflect generations of community pride. While its rich history is an important part of its identity, it’s the people, traditions, and close-knit communities that continue to make the county special today. Throughout the year, residents and visitors come together to celebrate everything that makes Switzerland County unique. The annual Swiss Wine Festival, held each August along the banks of the Ohio River in Paul Ogle Riverfront Park, honors the area’s Swiss heritage with live entertainment, local food, arts and crafts, grape stomping, and family-friendly activities. It’s a celebration of the county’s past while bringing neighbors and visitors together to create new memories. There’s no shortage of ways to experience Switzerland County. Spend the morning exploring Vevay’s historic downtown, browse locally owned shops and the Community Art Center, tour the historic Musee de Venoge, or enjoy a performance at the Hoosier Theater. Stop for lunch overlooking the Ohio River before heading to Belterra Casino Resort for entertainment, dining, golf, or a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re visiting for a festival or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon along the river, Switzerland County offers something for everyone to discover. The county’s welcoming spirit continues to attract people from near and far. In recent years, artist and entrepreneur Kat Von D chose to make Vevay her home, restoring the historic Benjamin Schenck Mansion and embracing the slower pace and sense of community that define the area. Her appreciation for Switzerland County reflects what many residents already know—that its rich history, scenic beauty, and strong community make it a truly special place to call home. Like many communities across southeastern Indiana, Switzerland County continues to grow while preserving the values that have defined it for generations. Local businesses, community organizations, festivals, and historic landmarks all contribute to a strong sense of connection and pride. Whether you’re discovering its wine-making heritage, enjoying a local event, or simply taking in the beauty of the Ohio River, Switzerland County reminds us that the strongest communities are built on shared traditions, welcoming neighbors, and a deep appreciation for the place we call home. Sources: Switzerland County Tourism, Switzerland USA, Travel Indiana

A Balanced Energy Mix Powers Reliability When you flip a switch, you expect the lights to come on. Delivering that reliability takes more than power lines and substations—it also depends on where the electricity comes from. ​ Across the country, electric cooperatives use a balanced mix of energy resources to provide safe, reliable and affordable electricity to the communities they serve. Rather than relying on a single fuel source, cooperatives benefit from a diverse portfolio that helps reduce risk, manage costs and keep power flowing during changing weather conditions, fuel market fluctuations and periods of high demand. ​ According to the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), the nation’s electric cooperatives receive their electricity from a variety of generation sources: 36% Natural Gas 23% Coal 15% Nuclear 15% Non-Hydro Renewables (including wind and solar) 9% Hydroelectric 1% Other Sources ​ Each resource plays an important role. ​ Natural gas provides flexibility and can quickly respond to changing electricity demand. Coal and nuclear power offer dependable, around-the-clock generation that helps maintain grid reliability. Renewable energy sources such as wind and solar continue to grow, providing clean energy when conditions are favorable, while hydroelectric power delivers renewable electricity where water resources are available. ​ No single energy source can meet every need at every hour of every day. That’s why a diverse energy portfolio remains one of the greatest strengths of the cooperative model. Different generation resources complement one another, helping ensure electricity is available whether it’s a hot August afternoon, a cold winter morning or a calm day with little wind. ​ As a member of Southeastern Indiana REMC, your electricity is supplied through Hoosier Energy, our generation and transmission cooperative. Hoosier Energy works continually to balance reliability, affordability and responsible resource planning to meet the long-term needs of the members we serve. ​ Reliable electricity doesn’t happen by chance. It comes from thoughtful planning, strategic investments and a balanced approach to energy generation. By utilizing a variety of fuel sources, electric cooperatives are better positioned to deliver the dependable power our members count on today while preparing for the energy needs of tomorrow. ​ ​ Source: National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, 2024 generation data.

Roxano's Italian Restaurant Located in the heart of Vevay on Ferry Street, Roxano’s Italian Restaurant has become a favorite gathering place for families, friends, and visitors looking to enjoy a casual meal in a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch after exploring town or gathering around the table for dinner, Roxano’s offers something everyone can enjoy. ​ The menu features a variety of classic Italian favorites, from handcrafted pizzas and their famous breadsticks to hearty spaghetti, fresh salads, sandwiches, and other family-friendly dishes. It’s the kind of place where booths fill with families sharing a pizza, friends catch up over dinner, and neighbors enjoy good food and even better company. ​ After spending the day exploring Vevay’s shops, museums, riverfront, or historic sites, Roxano’s is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal together. The casual atmosphere makes it easy to linger over dinner, share a basket of breadsticks, or celebrate life’s everyday moments with family and friends. It’s the kind of hometown restaurant that has become part of the community’s story and one that visitors are sure to remember. ​ With its comfortable atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious Italian cuisine, Roxano’s is a great place to experience the hospitality and small-town charm that make Switzerland County special. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting Vevay for the first time, you’ll feel right at home.

Smart Ways to Save Money, Time & Energy This School Year August marks the return of early mornings, busy schedules, homework, sports practices and family activities. Whether you’re sending children back to school, heading back to college or simply settling into a new routine, a little planning now can save time, reduce stress and even lower your energy bill. ​ Here are a few simple ways to start the school year off right. ​ Start with an Energy Checkup Before the busiest season of the year begins, take a few minutes to make sure your home is operating efficiently. Replace your HVAC air filter to improve airflow and help your cooling system operate more efficiently. Adjust your programmable or smart thermostat to match your family’s school and work schedules. Turn off lights, televisions and gaming systems when no one is using them. Seal drafts around doors and windows to keep conditioned air where it belongs. ​​ Small improvements can add up over time, especially during late-summer heat when your air conditioner is working its hardest. ​ Power Down the “Invisible” Energy Users Many electronics continue using electricity even after they’re turned off. ​ Chargers, gaming consoles, televisions, computers and kitchen appliances can quietly draw power 24 hours a day. ​ Consider plugging entertainment centers and computer stations into advanced power strips that automatically reduce standby power when devices aren’t in use. It’s an easy way to save energy without changing your daily routine. ​ Make Mornings Easier Busy mornings don’t have to feel rushed. Try creating a simple evening routine: Pack lunches the night before. Charge laptops and devices overnight. Lay out clothes before bedtime. Review the next day’s schedule as a family. A little preparation can help everyone start the day with less stress. ​ Use Technology to Your Advantage Technology can simplify everyday tasks when used wisely. ​ Artificial intelligence tools can help students brainstorm ideas, summarize information or create study guides, while parents can use AI to organize schedules, build grocery lists or plan weekly meals. ​ Remember, AI works best as a learning assistant—not a replacement for critical thinking. Encourage students to use these tools responsibly while continuing to develop their own problem-solving and communication skills. ​ Make Safety Part of the Routine As everyone settles back into school-year schedules, don’t forget a few important safety reminders: Watch for children boarding and exiting school buses. Slow down in school zones. Stay alert for students walking or riding bicycles. If you’re tackling outdoor projects before fall, always contact Indiana 811 before digging to have underground utilities marked. ​ A little extra awareness helps keep everyone safe. ​ Prepare Today for a Better Tomorrow Back-to-school season is about more than new backpacks and fresh notebooks. It’s an opportunity to reset routines, build good habits and make choices that benefit your family all year long. ​ Whether you’re replacing an air filter, enrolling in Budget Billing, exploring SmartHub or simply finding new ways to save energy around your home, small steps today can lead to lasting savings tomorrow. ​ At Southeastern Indiana REMC, we’re here to help you make smart choices every season. Save Money Beyond Your Electric Bill Back-to-school season can strain any household budget. ​ Southeastern Indiana REMC offers several programs that can help make managing expenses easier throughout the year. ​ Budget Billing averages your electric costs into a more predictable monthly payment, helping reduce seasonal bill fluctuations. ​ Automatic Payments ensure your bill is paid on time every month. ​ SmartHub allows you to monitor your electric use, review payment history, pay your bill and manage your account anytime from your computer or smartphone.

From county fairs to back-to-school events, here’s a look at a few ways SEI REMC connected with our communities this month. Ripley County Health Department Back to School Bash Local County Fairs Jefferson County Franklin County Switzerland County Ripley County SEI REMC EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT DEBRA STEPHEN Debra Stephen has been with SEI REMC for 19 years and currently serves as the Document Imaging Clerk in the Accounting Department, where she helps organize and preserve important financial records. Debra enjoys the friendships she’s built with her coworkers and takes pride in working for a cooperative that serves its members and communities. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, J.R., their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and is active in her church, where she plays piano, teaches Bible classes and sings gospel music.

Preparing Today for Tomorrow August often feels like a bridge between seasons. As families prepare for a new school year and summer begins to wind down, many of us naturally start thinking ahead. Whether it’s organizing schedules, finishing outdoor projects, or planning for the months to come, preparation helps make life’s transitions a little smoother. ​ The same is true for your electric cooperative. ​ While many people associate summer with high energy demand, August is also an important time for Southeastern Indiana REMC to begin preparing for the changing seasons ahead. Our employees continue inspecting equipment, maintaining rights-of-way, upgrading infrastructure, and planning future improvements to ensure we’re read to provide the reliable service our members expect—not just today, but throughout the fall and winter months. ​ Reliability doesn’t happen by accident. It takes year-round planning, ongoing investment, and dedicated employees who are committed to maintaining a safe and dependable electric system. Every inspection completed, every pole replaced, and every mile of line maintained contributes to the reliability you count on every day. ​ Preparation isn’t limited to our electric system. As we continue expanding SEI Fiber and enhancing the services we provide, we’re also investing in the technology and infrastructure that help keep our communities connected. These investments are made with the future in mind because we know our members depend on reliable connectivity just as much as reliable electricity. ​ This time of year is also a good reminder for all of us to prepare at home. Replacing your HVAC air filter, reviewing your home’s energy use, locating underground utilities before beginning outdoor projects, or exploring programs like Budget Billing are simple steps that can make a meaningful difference in the months ahead. ​ One of the things I appreciate most about serving a cooperative is that we share a common goal with our members: planning for the future. Because Southeastern Indiana REMC is locally owned by the members we serve, every decision we make is focused on providing long-term value, maintaining reliability, and strengthening the communities we call home. ​ As summer comes to a close, I encourage you to take a few moments to prepare for the season ahead. And rest assured that while you’re planning for your family, your cooperative is planning for you. ​ Thank you for your continued trust and membership. Keith Mathews CEO, Southeastern Indiana REMC

Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, quietly providing hot water for showers, laundry, dishes, and more every day. Because it operates behind the scenes, it’s easy to overlook how much energy it uses—until it’s time for a replacement. ​ Water heating is typically the second-largest energy use in most homes, behind heating and cooling. If your current water heater is older or becoming less efficient, replacing it with a qualifying energy-efficient model can help reduce energy use while continuing to provide the reliable hot water your family depends on. Today’s high-efficiency electric and heat pump water heaters are designed to do more with less energy. Heat pump water heaters, in particular, use advanced technology to move heat rather than generate it, making them one of the most energy-efficient water heating options available. The result is dependable hot water, lower operating costs, and energy savings that continue year after year. ​ If you’re planning to replace your water heater, choosing an energy-efficient model is an investment in both comfort and long-term savings. To help make that investment more affordable, SEI REMC offers rebates on qualifying residential water heaters. ​ Ready to Save Energy Behind the Scenes? Learn more about qualifying water heaters, rebate requirements, and how to apply at: seiremc.com/waterheaterrebate DID YOU KNOW? Water heating is typically the second-largest energy use in your home, behind heating and cooling. A high-efficiency water heater can help reduce energy use while providing the dependable hot water your family relies on every day. RESIDENTIAL WATER HEATER REBATES Heat Pump Water Heater Up to $500 Rebate Wi-Fi Enabled Electric Storage Water Heater $200 Rebate

A 10-Minute DIY Project That Helps Your Air Conditioner When August temperatures soar, your air conditioner works overtime to keep your home comfortable. One of the easiest ways to help it run more efficiently takes just 10 minutes—checking and replacing your HVAC air filter. ​ A clean air filter improves airflow, helps your system run more efficiently, reduces wear and tear, and can even improve your home’s indoor air quality. Why Your Air Filter Matters As your filter collects dust, pollen, pet hair and other airborne particles, airflow becomes restricted. When that happens, your HVAC system has to work harder, leading to: Higher energy use Increased wear on your system Reduced cooling performance Poorer indoor air quality Step 1: Turn off your HVAC system. Switch your thermostat to “Off” before removing the filter. ​ Step 2: Locate the filter. You’ll usually find it behind a return air grille or inside the furnace or air handler. ​ Step 3: Inspect the filter. If it’s dirty or little light passes through it, it’s time for a replacement. Step 4: Install the new filter. Make sure the airflow arrow points toward the HVAC unit. ​ Step 5: Check it regularly. Inspect your filter monthly during cooling season and replace it every one to three months, depending on your home and lifestyle. Choosing the Right Filter Use the filter size and rating recommended by your HVAC manufacturer. A filter that’s too restrictive can reduce airflow and decrease system performance. Small Task, Big Benefits Changing your air filter is one of the simplest ways to improve your HVAC system’s efficiency. Combined with annual maintenance and smart energy habits, this quick DIY project can help keep your home comfortable while reducing energy use. ​ Take a few minutes this month to check your air filter. Your air conditioner—and your electric bill—will thank you.

August is a great time to tackle outdoor projects like planting trees, installing a fence, replacing a mailbox, or refreshing your landscaping. Before you start digging, however, take a few minutes to look both below and above ground for potential utility hazards. ​ Even small projects can damage underground utility lines if you don’t know where they’re located. Striking an electric, gas, water, or communications line can cause injuries, power outages, costly repairs, and service disruptions for your neighborhood. ​ That’s why Indiana law requires homeowners and contractors to contact Indiana 811 at least two full working days before digging (excluding weekends and holidays). The service is free, and utility companies will mark the approximate location of public underground utility lines with paint or flags so you can dig safely. ​ Keep in mind that Indiana 811 marks public utility lines leading to your meter. Private lines serving landscape lighting, irrigation systems, detached garages, or other outdoor features typically are not marked and may require a private utility locator. ​ Safety doesn’t stop at ground level. Before beginning any outdoor project, look up and be aware of overhead power lines. Ladders, long-handled tools, tree limbs, and building materials can all come dangerously close to energized lines. If trees are growing near power lines, never attempt to trim them yourself. Contact Southeastern Indiana REMC for assistance. ​ When adding new landscaping, think ahead. Trees planted too close to power lines can create safety hazards as they mature and are a leading cause of power outages during storms and high winds. Choosing the right planting location today can help prevent problems for years to come. ​ It’s also important to keep pad-mounted transformers and other electrical equipment accessible. Avoid planting shrubs, installing fences, or placing decorative landscaping around utility equipment. Maintaining a clear working space allows utility crews to perform maintenance safely and restore service more quickly during outages. ​ A little planning before your project begins can save time, money, and frustration later. By contacting Indiana 811 before digging, staying aware of overhead power lines, and keeping utility equipment accessible, you’ll help protect your family, your property, and the reliable electric service your community depends on.

Simple Steps That Pay Off This Fall August may still bring hot afternoons, but cooler days are just around the corner. A little attention now can help your lawn, garden and landscape finish the season strong while preparing them for fall and next spring. ​ Give Your Lawn a Boost Summer heat can leave grass looking tired. Continue mowing at the recommended height, avoiding the temptation to cut it too short. Taller grass shades the soil, holds moisture and discourages weeds. ​ If rainfall has been scarce, water deeply but less often to encourage deeper root growth. Hold off on heavy fertilizing until early fall, when cooler temperatures allow grass to make better use of nutrients. ​ Refresh Flower Beds Remove faded annuals and trim back plants that have finished blooming. Deadheading many flowering plants encourages additional blooms into early fall. ​ Pull weeds before they spread seeds, and add a fresh layer of mulch around trees, shrubs and flower beds to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds and give your landscape a tidy appearance. Prepare Your Garden Continue harvesting vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers and beans to encourage continued production. ​ As crops finish, remove dead or diseased plants to reduce the risk of pests and disease next year. Healthy plant material can be composted, while diseased plants should be discarded. You can even extend your growing season by planting cool-weather crops like lettuce, spinach or radishes. ​ Think Ahead Before putting away summer equipment, clean garden tools, sharpen mower blades and store hoses properly to extend their life. ​ Take a walk around your property and inspect trees for damaged or dead limbs left behind by summer storms. Removing weakened branches now can help prevent property damage during fall and winter weather. ​ Small Steps, Big Benefits A few hours of outdoor maintenance in August can save time and effort later in the year. By caring for your lawn, garden and landscape now, you’ll enjoy healthier plants this fall and give them a head start for next spring.