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.

BACK TO SCHOOL, CO-OP KIDS Summer may be winding down, but that means it’s time for a brand-new school year filled with exciting adventures, new friends and lots of opportunities to learn! ​ Whether you’re starting first grade or heading into middle school, August is the perfect time to get organized and set yourself up for success. Pack your backpack, sharpen those pencils, charge your devices and don’t forget one of the most important school supplies of all—a positive attitude! ​ Did you know that electricity and fiber internet help power learning every day? From classroom lights and computers to online homework and educational videos, reliable energy and high-speed internet help students stay connected and ready to learn. Just like your local electric cooperative works hard to keep the lights on, your teachers, parents and school staff are all working together to help you have a great year. August Co-op Kids Club Kit If you’re already a Co-op Kids Club member, watch your mailbox later this month—your August kit will be on its way! Not a Member Yet? There’s still time to join the fun! The Southeastern Indiana REMC Co-op Kids Club is free for children in grades 1–6. Throughout the year, members receive special activity kits, educational projects, fun surprises and opportunities to learn more about electricity, energy and the cooperative difference. Sign up today so your child can receive the August Back-to-School kit and be part of all the exciting things we have planned throughout the year. Visit seiremc.com/coopkidsclub to register, or scan the QR code on this page. We can’t wait to welcome new members and help make this school year the brightest one yet. Have a safe, fun and successful school year from all of us at Southeastern Indiana REMC!

A Simple Recipe August is peak camping season, and whether you’re hitting the backcountry or the backyard, a good trail mix has something for every moment on the trail. A little something sweet, something salty, but most importantly, something with staying power. ​ Your financial plan should work the same way. A well-balanced mix of savings, investments and an emergency fund may give you energy for the long haul and something to fall back on when the path gets rough. ​ Many financial professionals suggest starting with a base of three to six months of living expenses in an emergency fund. From there, regular contributions to a retirement account, even a small amount each month, may support long-term growth. Then consider adding a short-term goal, like a vacation fund or a home repair cushion, to help keep you motivated along the way. ​ Pack your mix thoughtfully, and you can be prepared for wherever the trail takes you. This financial wellness tip is provided by Homestead Advisers, a financial services company established over 30 years ago to help meet the investment needs of communities within the National Rural Electric Cooperative (NRECA) family. Homestead Advisers provides a range of investment advisory services, including financial planning, and serves as the investment advisor and/or administrator for the Homestead Funds, a family of registered mutual funds, from which it receives compensation for serving in those roles. Homestead Advisers Corp., a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of NRECA.

North Dearborn Community Park is giving a rural community a place to gather again. When Brenda Wheat looks across North Dearborn Road from her home, she sees more than a playground, walking path and open green space. She sees families walking after work, kids climbing and riding bikes, parents talking while their children play, and neighbors gathering for farmers markets, Easter egg hunts, and summer evenings at Party in the Park. “It makes my heart happy,” Brenda said. “There’s nothing negative about a park.” North Dearborn Community Park calls itself “a place built by the community, for the community” — and its story reflects that mission. The park did not begin with a large budget, parks department or paid staff. It began with an empty school property, a need for safe outdoor space and one woman running laps around an old parking lot. Brenda lives near the former North Dearborn Elementary School property. After the school closed, the building sat empty while the district considered what would come next. Around that time, Brenda was training for a marathon. With five children and a full family schedule, she often split her miles between early mornings and evenings — and without sidewalks nearby, the old school property was the safest place to run. As she logged miles around the parking lot, Brenda noticed others using the space too. One family would bring their son’s bike in a minivan so he could ride safely on the old school property. That moment stayed with her. The land wasn’t just empty — it represented something North Dearborn was missing. Brenda began asking questions, making phone calls and gathering support for turning the property into a community park. In 2019, she approached the school board about using the land. COVID slowed the process, but she kept working behind the scenes, forming a nonprofit and continuing to push the idea forward. Eventually, the school building was demolished, and North Dearborn Community Park began taking shape through volunteer leadership, grants, donations and community support. From the beginning, the park has been built without tax dollars. Every improvement has been funded through grants, private donations, corporate sponsors and fundraising events. There are no paid employees. A volunteer board governs the park while volunteers maintain it, plan events, write grants and handle the many small needs that come with running a public space. The first major project was a one-mile walking path — exactly one mile, ten feet wide, looping around the property and connecting to existing sidewalks where possible. What started as one runner circling an old parking lot became a safe place for an entire community to move. “As soon as the path was in, it was being used,” Brenda said. “It was almost like people didn’t know they were craving it.” After the path came the playground, which opened this spring. Together, they support the park’s mission: to provide a safe place for the community to move, play and thrive. During our interview, that connection showed up in real time. As Brenda walked the park, a man stopped to show her a photo of his grandson, born that very morning. In a rural community where neighbors can live miles apart and rarely cross paths, the park has changed that. People don’t just use it — they now know one another here. Brenda is the first to deflect credit. Without hesitation, she turns the conversation to the people beside her — Vice President Danielle Bischoff, Secretary Tammy Henson and board member Julie Haydu — who together handle planning, fundraising, events, grant writing and the countless decisions that come with operating a park. “We are a team,” Brenda said. “I cannot do this by myself.” The broader community has stepped in as well. Scout troops and FFA students have completed projects, planted trees and hosted fundraisers. Local teachers have helped with butterfly boxes and pet waste stations. Neighbors and businesses have donated time, equipment and labor to keep things moving. Fundraising remains one of the hardest parts. Grants take time to find and write, and major projects come with major costs. Even unexpected setbacks add up — when the playground was installed, crews discovered a massive footer left from the old school building, adding several thousand dollars and days of extra work. That reality makes every grant, donation and volunteer hour meaningful. SEI REMC Operation RoundUp grant funds helped support fencing around the play area, and grants like it are vital because they help volunteer-led projects move forward without relying on tax dollars. The park’s growth is not finished. The next major project is a bathroom and shelter. Brenda also envisions pickleball courts, pollinator patches and an outdoor amphitheater built into the natural slope of the land. “I want it to blend in,” she said. That unassuming vision is at the heart of the park. Brenda isn’t trying to create something flashy. She wants to bring back the kind of community life that can feel increasingly rare: grass, fresh air, sunshine, children playing and neighbors who recognize one another. The park also carries the history of the land beneath it. For generations, the former school property was a place where families gathered. The school once brought people together. Now, the park is doing the same — becoming the shared gathering point that North Dearborn has been missing. Brenda has seen a dad teaching his child to ride a bike on the path, friends meeting for walks and one runner who trained for a marathon on the park’s one-mile loop. “That’s exactly what the vision was,” Brenda said. She has also watched young people take ownership through volunteer projects. “This is their community,” she said. “When they’re adults, they’ll be able to go past there and say, ‘I planted that tree,’ or ‘I helped build that sign.’” Brenda is humble about her own role, more comfortable talking about the volunteers and the community than herself. She wants people to see what is possible when a community starts somewhere and keeps going. “It doesn’t have to be big,” she said. “Start somewhere.” North Dearborn Community Park started with one idea, one need and one safe place to run. Today, it is growing into a shared heart for the community, built by neighbors who keep showing up.

Every day, Southeastern Indiana REMC members have the opportunity to make a difference in their communities simply by rounding up their electric bill to the nearest dollar. Those spare pennies may seem small on their own, but when thousands of members participate in Operation RoundUp®, those contributions add up to meaningful support for local organizations and projects throughout southeastern Indiana. It’s a powerful example of how small acts of generosity can create lasting community change. Since its inception, Operation RoundUp has provided funding to countless nonprofits, emergency service organizations, schools, youth programs, and community initiatives throughout southeastern Indiana. While each grant may support a different cause, they all share a common goal: improving the quality of life for the people who call our communities home. The concept behind Operation RoundUp is simple. Participating members voluntarily allow their monthly electric bill to be rounded up to the next whole dollar. Those extra cents—typically averaging only a few dollars per year for each member—are pooled together and administered by the Operation RoundUp Board of Trustees. The result is a fund that provides financial assistance to organizations and projects that benefit residents across Southeastern Indiana REMC’s service territory. What makes the program unique is that the impact comes directly from members helping members. No single contribution is large on its own, but when thousands of members participate, the collective impact becomes significant. It’s a powerful example of the cooperative principle of concern for community in action. Over the years, Operation RoundUp grants have helped support a wide range of local needs. Funding has assisted food pantries serving families facing hardship, volunteer fire departments purchasing equipment, youth organizations creating opportunities for children, and community groups working to improve local facilities and services. These investments help strengthen the communities where our members live, work, and raise their families. Each year, organizations throughout our service area submit applications requesting funding for projects that align with the program’s mission. The Operation RoundUp Board of Trustees carefully reviews each application and evaluates how the requested funds will benefit local residents. Their thoughtful stewardship helps ensure member contributions are used responsibly and effectively. In July, the Board of Trustees will once again gather to review applications submitted during the most recent funding cycle. While the projects may vary from year to year, the purpose remains the same: supporting initiatives that create positive and lasting impacts throughout southeastern Indiana. As we celebrate the power of community in this month’s issue, Operation RoundUp serves as a reminder that meaningful change often begins with small acts of generosity. By working together, Southeastern Indiana REMC members continue to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors and help strengthen the communities we all share. That’s the cooperative difference—and that’s the power of community. Looking Ahead The next opportunity for eligible nonprofit organizations to apply for Operation RoundUp® funding will be in December 2026. Learn more about the program and application process at: seiremc.com/operationroundup

Where History Meets Opportunity Located along the Ohio River in southeastern Indiana, Dearborn County blends historic charm, economic opportunity, and strong community connections. From its scenic river towns to its thriving businesses and recreational destinations, the county continues to play an important role in the growth of southeastern Indiana. History is woven throughout Dearborn County’s communities. In Aurora, the nationally recognized Hillforest Victorian House Museum preserves the legacy of one of the region’s most influential families and offers visitors a glimpse into life along the Ohio River during the 1800s. The Dearborn County Historical Society and local museums help preserve the stories, landmarks, and traditions that have shaped the county for generations. Today, Dearborn County continues to build on that foundation through education, business development, and community partnerships. Its location near Cincinnati provides access to major transportation routes, employment opportunities, and regional resources while maintaining the close-knit feel of small-town living. Local schools, Ivy Tech Community College, businesses, and community organizations work together to support workforce development and create opportunities for future growth. Outdoor recreation and community events are an important part of life in Dearborn County. The Dearborn Trail connects Lawrenceburg and Aurora along the Ohio River, offering miles of scenic walking and biking opportunities with beautiful river views along the way. Residents and visitors can also enjoy parks, wildlife areas, and community gathering spaces that encourage people to get outside and stay connected. Throughout the summer, Lawrenceburg’s popular Music on the River concert series brings families, friends, and visitors together for free live entertainment along the riverfront. Local festivals, farmers markets, and community events held throughout the year help showcase the welcoming spirit that makes Dearborn County a special place to call home. Dearborn County also offers a wide variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment experiences. From enjoying a meal with Ohio River views at local favorites such as No-ce Italian American Kitchen to exploring the historic downtown districts of Aurora and Lawrenceburg, there is no shortage of ways to spend an afternoon or evening. Racing fans can even catch the excitement of the Lawrenceburg Speedway, a longtime local attraction that draws visitors from across the region. Agriculture remains an important part of the county’s identity as well. Family farms, orchards, wineries, and local markets contribute to the economy while preserving traditions that have long been part of southeastern Indiana’s way of life. As Dearborn County continues to grow, reliable infrastructure helps support that progress. Dependable electric service and expanding broadband access provide the foundation for businesses to succeed, students to learn, and families to stay connected. Together, these investments help strengthen local communities while preparing the county for future opportunities. From historic landmarks and riverfront communities to thriving businesses and community traditions, Dearborn County reflects the power of people working together to build a vibrant future while honoring the past.

Supporting education, training, and hands-on experience through the cooperative difference. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles is Education, Training, and Information. At Southeastern Indiana REMC, that principle goes beyond sharing information with members—it also means investing in opportunities that help individuals learn, grow, and prepare for the future. Each summer, SEI REMC welcomes students and young professionals into the cooperative to gain valuable real-world experience while working alongside employees in a variety of departments. These opportunities provide hands-on learning that helps participants develop workplace skills, explore potential career paths, and gain a deeper understanding of the services that help power and connect our communities. Throughout the summer, these students will have the opportunity to learn from experienced employees, contribute to meaningful projects, and gain firsthand insight into the day-to-day operations of the cooperative. Whether assisting members, supporting communications efforts, or helping maintain the materials and resources needed to serve our communities, each role plays an important part in the cooperative’s success. Programs like these reflect the cooperative commitment to investing in people. By providing educational and workforce development opportunities, SEI REMC helps prepare future generations for success while strengthening the communities we serve. The knowledge and experiences gained today can help shape tomorrow’s workforce, community leaders, and industry professionals. As we celebrate Community Power this month, we’re proud to support students and young professionals as they build skills, gain confidence, and explore new opportunities. Investing in education, training, and hands-on experience is one more way Southeastern Indiana REMC helps power stronger communities-- today and for generations to come. Benjamin Knowlton Warehouse Department 2025 High School Graduate Ellie Shuter Member Services Department Wilmington College Reagan Hughes Communications Department Ball State University Ethan Vanover Warehouse Department 2025 High School Graduate

Bringing a Taste of the South to Dearborn County When you’re looking for comfort food made from family recipes and served with genuine hospitality, Hankering Southern Kitchen in Aurora offers a dining experience that feels a little like home. Founded by a family originally from Florida, Hankering Southern Kitchen was built on a passion for sharing authentic Southern cooking with the communities of southeastern Indiana. Drawing inspiration from recipes and traditions passed down through generations, the restaurant focuses on serving flavorful dishes made with care, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality. While Southern cuisine is known for its rich flavors and comforting favorites, the experience at Hankering Southern Kitchen extends beyond the food itself. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere reflects the Southern tradition of gathering around the table, sharing stories, and enjoying time with family and friends. It’s a place where guests are encouraged to slow down, enjoy a meal, and feel like part of the community. The owners chose Aurora because they saw many of the same values they grew up with—hard work, strong community connections, and people who appreciate good food and good company. Those values continue to influence everything from the menu to the customer experience. Whether you’re craving a hearty Southern meal, looking for a new local favorite, or simply searching for a place to gather with family and friends, Hankering Southern Kitchen offers a unique taste of Southern hospitality right here in Dearborn County. From recipes rooted in family tradition to a commitment to serving the local community, Hankering Southern Kitchen reminds us that some of the best meals are about more than what’s on the plate— they’re about bringing people together. https://hankeringsk.com/

Connecting with Members All Summer Long Summer is one of our favorite times of year because it gives us the opportunity to get out into the communities we serve and connect with members, students, families, and local organizations. Right before summer started, SEI REMC employees participated in Reality Check at East Central Junior High School, where eighth-grade students gained hands-on experience making real-world financial decisions. Since then, we’ve enjoyed meeting families at the Touch a Truck event at North Dearborn Park and visiting with members at the Jennings, Dearborn, and Ohio County Fairs. From educational programs and community events to county fairs and family activities, these opportunities allow us to build relationships, share information, and celebrate the communities that make our service territory such a special place to call home. Check out a few highlights from our recent adventures around southeastern Indiana—and be sure to look for SEI REMC at more county fairs and community events across our service territory throughout the summer! SEI REMC Employee Spotlight Tyler Wright has been a Fiber Technician with SEI Fiber for the past two years, helping maintain and repair the fiber network that keeps members connected across southeastern Indiana. Tyler’s favorite part of the job is the people he works with, many of whom he considers close friends. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Karley, and their son, Luke, as well as camping and riding side-by-sides with family and friends. Tyler Wright