The SEI REMC Co-op Kids Club was created to help young members learn more about electric, fiber, safety, and the cooperative difference in a fun and engaging way. Since launching the club, we have enjoyed welcoming families, sharing hands-on activities, and introducing kids to the many ways their local cooperative serves the community. As we continue building the program, we’re thinking about how we can make the Co-op Kids Club even more meaningful, accessible, and fun for families throughout our service territory. Because schedules can be busy for families, we are discontinuing the in-person Co-op Kids Club meetings and focusing our efforts on new ways to keep kids connected to the co-op. Families are encouraged to sign up to receive a FREE Kids Club Kit each quarter. The kits, which will be mailed to your home, include kid-friendly activities, seasonal surprises, educational resources, and more. It’s FREE and it’s a great way for kids to learn more about what it means to be part of a cooperative. Thank you to the families who have participated in the Co-op Kids Club so far. We’ve enjoyed the opportunity to meet and work with your kiddos! We look forward to continuing to grow the club in ways that are exciting, useful, and accessible for families across southeastern Indiana. To sign up for the SEI REMC Co-op Kids Club, visit our website or contact our office for more information.

July is a month filled with celebrations of independence. Across southeastern Indiana, families will gather for cookouts, community festivals, parades, and fireworks displays as we celebrate our nation’s founding and the freedoms we enjoy every day. As I reflect on Independence Day, I’m reminded of another value that has played an important role in shaping our communities: cooperation. While independence is something we cherish, many of the things that make our communities strong are built through people working together. Strong schools, thriving local businesses, community organizations, volunteer efforts, and cooperative utilities all share one thing in common—they succeed because people invest in something larger than themselves. That principle is at the heart of Southeastern Indiana REMC. As a cooperative, we are different from most businesses. We are owned by the members we serve, and our success is measured not only by the services we provide but by the positive impact we have on our communities. Every day, our employees work to deliver reliable electricity and fiber internet, but our purpose extends beyond maintaining infrastructure and technology. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for the members and communities we serve. That mission influences the decisions we make and the investments we prioritize. It can be seen in our support of local organizations, educational programs, scholarships, youth leadership opportunities, energy-saving initiatives, and community events. It can be seen when employees volunteer their time to local causes and when members participate in programs that help strengthen our communities. Most importantly, it can be seen in the relationships we build with the people we serve. In today’s world, it can sometimes feel like we are more disconnected from one another than ever before. Yet time and again, we witness the opposite throughout southeastern Indiana. We see neighbors helping neighbors after storms. We see volunteers stepping forward to support local causes. We see businesses, schools, churches, and civic organizations working together to create opportunities for future generations. These moments remind us that community remains one of our greatest strengths. As a member of Southeastern Indiana REMC, you are part of something much larger than a utility provider. You are part of a cooperative that exists because people believe in working together to improve life for everyone. That belief continues to guide us as we invest in new technologies, support local communities, and prepare for the future. Thank you for being a member of Southeastern Indiana REMC and for the trust you place in us. Together, we continue to demonstrate the power of community every day. I wish you and your family a safe, happy, and memorable Independence Day. Keith Mathews CEO, Southeastern Indiana REMC

Some numbers tell a story bigger than what first appears on the page. At Southeastern Indiana REMC, one of those numbers is 982. That is the combined number of years current employees have served the cooperative. Behind those 982 years are lineworkers, member service representatives, tree trimmers, engineers, fiber employees, accountants, leadership, and support teams who have helped carry the cooperative through decades of change. The tools have changed. The technology has changed. The systems have grown. But the heart of the work remains the same: serving members and showing up when they need us most. Dianna Jeffries, who marked 40 years with the cooperative this June, has seen Member Services evolve from handwritten paperwork and in-person payments to online tools, digital payments, account systems, and new communication channels. “Before computers, we did everything on paper,” Dianna said. “Pink paper was for connects. Yellow paper was for disconnects. The servicemen took those papers into the field, brought them back, and we figured final bills by hand.” Today, members can manage much of their account online through SmartHub and other digital tools. While the technology has changed, Dianna says one thing remains the same. “What has stayed the same is our friendly faces and friendly voices,” she said. “A lot of members still like talking to a live person instead of a machine.” That cooperative spirit is especially evident during major outages. “When other co-ops came to help after storms, you’d look out and see the parking lot full of line trucks,” Dianna said. “It gave you chills. Co-ops come together in a time of need.” George Bultman, who celebrated 36 years as a full-time employee this June, has watched field operations evolve through advances in mapping, equipment, and technology. “The mapping program has been one of the best things to happen to the co-op,” George said. “It helps you connect the dots and find better ways to do the work.” Yet for George, relationships remain just as important as technology. “If you show people respect, that makes a difference,” he said. Weather continues to be one of the greatest challenges in providing electric service. Line Foreman Gary Thomas remembers a severe Christmas snowstorm when crews worked around the clock to restore power. At one point, he recalls sitting in a truck beside a pond, eating Christmas dinner with fellow linemen while monitoring a nearby aerator fountain. When the fountain stopped, they knew power was out again—and it was time to return to the lines. Stories like these represent what years of service truly mean: holidays spent away from family, employees answering phones during outages, crews working through severe weather, and departments working together when members need help most. “Our members are everything to us,” Dianna said. “They’re the reason we’re here.” Behind the numbers are the people who have done that work year after year. Their combined 982 years of service are more than a measure of time—they reflect dedication, resilience, local knowledge, and the cooperative spirit that continues to power Southeastern Indiana REMC forward. Employee Service Snapshot Current employees counted: 81 Combined years of service: 982 Longest-serving employee: 48 years Employees with 5+ years: 51 Employees with 10+ years: 36 Employees with 20+ years: 19 Employees with 30+ years: 9 Employees with 40+ years: 2

Community power isn’t just electricity. It’s neighbors, members, employees, and local leaders working together to improve life in southeastern Indiana for generations. In the early 1930s, most rural homes across America lived without electricity. While cities enjoyed the convenience of electric lights, refrigeration, and modern appliances, many families in southeastern Indiana still relied on kerosene lamps, wood stoves, and hard manual labor to complete everyday tasks. Bringing electricity to sparsely populated rural communities wasn’t considered profitable by traditional utilities. Rather than accept being left behind, local residents came together to create something different. In 1939, Southeastern Indiana REMC was established as a member-owned electric cooperative with a simple but powerful goal: bring reliable electric service to the communities that needed it most. The work wasn’t easy. Early crews set poles by hand, built miles of electric line across fields and hillsides, and connected homes that had never before experienced the convenience of electricity. For many families, the first light switch represented more than power—it represented opportunity, progress, and a better quality of life. The impact was immediate and far-reaching. Electricity transformed daily life for rural families, allowing homes, farms, schools, and businesses to operate more efficiently and opening the door to new opportunities for growth and prosperity. What began as a handful of members working toward a common goal grew into a cooperative serving thousands of homes, farms, and businesses across southeastern Indiana. Over the decades, Southeastern Indiana REMC continued to evolve alongside the communities it serves. Investments in infrastructure, technology, and reliability helped ensure members received safe, dependable electric service through changing times and growing demand. Through storms, economic shifts, and technological advancements, the cooperative remained focused on delivering the reliable service members depend on every day. While the tools and technology have changed dramatically since 1939, the cooperative spirit that built Southeastern Indiana REMC remains the same. Members continue to guide the cooperative through elected leadership, helping shape decisions that impact the future of their communities. Employees work every day to maintain and improve the systems that power homes, schools, farms, healthcare facilities, and businesses throughout the region. In recent years, that spirit of community led to the next chapter in the cooperative’s story. As access to high-speed internet became increasingly important for education, healthcare, business, and everyday life, members expressed a growing need for reliable broadband service. A 2019 survey revealed overwhelming support for expanded internet access, helping pave the way for the creation of SEI Fiber. Much like the cooperative’s efforts to bring electricity to rural communities decades earlier, SEI Fiber was built on the belief that where you live shouldn’t determine your access to essential services. Today, fiber internet is helping connect students to educational opportunities, enabling remote work, supporting local businesses, improving access to healthcare, and strengthening the quality of life for families throughout southeastern Indiana. The cooperative’s impact extends beyond electric and fiber services. Through scholarships, youth leadership programs, energy efficiency initiatives, charitable giving, educational opportunities, and community events, Southeastern Indiana REMC continues to invest in the people and places it serves. Programs like Operation RoundUp® help support local organizations and projects, while educational programs help prepare future generations of community leaders. Today, the cooperative’s impact can be seen across southeastern Indiana—in homes powered by reliable electricity, businesses connected through fiber internet, students pursuing educational opportunities, and communities strengthened through local support and investment. While the services have evolved over the decades, the focus has always remained on improving the quality of life for the members and communities we serve. More than 87 years after the first poles were set, Southeastern Indiana REMC remains committed to safely providing reliable electricity and diversified services to the members and communities it serves. While the technologies have changed, the cooperative’s commitment to improving quality of life throughout southeastern Indiana remains as strong as ever. From bringing electricity to rural farms to expanding fiber internet across southeastern Indiana, Southeastern Indiana REMC’s story has always been about people working together to create a better future. That’s the power of community. And it’s a legacy that continues to grow with every generation.

Summer often means time away from home, whether you are heading out for a long weekend, taking a family vacation, or spending more time outdoors. But even when you are miles away, a reliable internet connection can help you keep an eye on what matters most back home. Smart home technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected while you are on the go. With the right devices and a strong home internet connection, you can monitor your home, manage energy use, and enjoy greater peace of mind during summer travel. Video doorbells and security cameras allow you to check in from your phone, see package deliveries, and know when someone approaches your home. Smart locks can help you let in a trusted neighbor, family member, or pet sitter without hiding a spare key. Smart plugs and lighting systems can make it look like someone is home by turning lights on and off at scheduled times. Leak and flood sensors are especially helpful when no one is home to spot a problem. These small devices can be placed near washing machines, water heaters, basement floors, and under sinks to detect pooling water and send an alert to your phone. When paired with a reliable home internet connection, they can help homeowners respond quickly before a small leak becomes a costly repair. For SEI Electric SmartHub users, staying connected can also include updates about electric service at home. If power service is disrupted while you are away, SmartHub can help keep you informed so you are not left wondering what is happening back home. Smart thermostats are especially useful during the summer months. You can adjust the temperature while you are away, reduce unnecessary energy use, and cool the house back down before you return. These tools are only as dependable as the connection behind them. Many smart home devices rely on steady upload and download speeds to send alerts, stream video, and respond in real time. A strong fiber internet connection helps keep those devices working smoothly, even when multiple systems are connected at once. Before leaving for vacation, take a few simple steps to make sure your smart home setup is ready: Test your cameras, sensors, and smart locks. Make sure your apps are updated. Confirm that alerts are turned on. Check that devices are connected to Wi-Fi. Restart your router if it has been a while. Share access only with trusted contacts. Technology cannot replace good planning, but it can make being away from home a little easier. Whether you are checking the front porch, adjusting the thermostat, getting an alert from a sensor, or receiving a service update through SmartHub, smart home monitoring gives you more visibility and control from wherever summer takes you. With reliable fiber internet supporting your connected devices, you can spend less time worrying about home and more time enjoying the season. Fun Things to Check While You’re Away Smart home tools are not only helpful in an emergency. They can also be a fun way to stay connected to home while you are on vacation. Pool or hot tub monitor For homes with a pool or spa, smart monitors can track water temperature and, in some cases, water quality. You could check from the beach and know whether the pool will be ready when you get home. Smart pet camera or treat dispenser If pets are staying home with a sitter, a smart pet camera can let you check in, talk to your pet, or even toss a treat remotely. Smart garden or soil moisture sensor A sensor can show whether outdoor plants, garden beds, or planters need water. Some systems can connect to smart irrigation, so you can water plants from your phone. Smart bird feeder camera For a lighter example, some smart bird feeders send photos or videos when birds visit. It is not exactly home security, but it is a charming way to feel connected to home while you are away.

Upgrade your home comfort system and enjoy cooler air, better efficiency, and valuable rebates from SEI REMC. When the summer heat settles into southeastern Indiana, your cooling system can quickly become one of the biggest energy users in your home. If your air conditioner runs constantly, struggles to keep rooms comfortable, or leaves your home feeling humid and sticky, it may be time to consider a more efficient solution. Today’s high-efficiency air-source and dual fuel heat pump systems are designed to keep your home cool and comfortable while using less energy than many older HVAC systems. That means you can enjoy reliable indoor comfort during the hottest months of the year while using less energy and reducing cooling costs compared to many older systems. In addition to cooling your home, modern heat pump systems help control humidity, improve airflow, and maintain more consistent temperatures throughout your living spaces. Many homeowners find that upgrading their HVAC system not only improves comfort but also helps eliminate hot spots and uneven cooling from room to room. One of the biggest advantages of these systems is that their benefits don’t end when summer does. Airsource and dual fuel heat pumps provide year-round comfort, keeping your home cool in the summer and efficiently heated when temperatures drop. In fact, heat pumps work by transferring heat rather than generating it, making them one of the most energy-efficient options available for both heating and cooling. Whether you’re looking to improve comfort, reduce energy use, or replace an aging HVAC system, investing in a high-efficiency heat pump can provide long-term value for your home and family. With cooler summers, efficient winter heating, and energy savings that add up year after year, these systems help make your home more comfortable no matter what the Indiana weather has in store. Comfort Upgrades Aren’t Cheap. We’re Here to Help. SEI REMC understands that replacing or upgrading your HVAC system is a significant investment. That’s why we offer rebates for qualifying air-source and dual fuel heat pump systems to help make energy-efficient comfort more affordable. Available Rebates: Tier 1 — $300 Tier 2 — $400 Tier 3 — $500 Ready to Upgrade Your Comfort? Learn more about qualifying systems, rebate requirements, and how to apply: seiremc.com/airsourceheatpumprebate

Create a welcoming space for relaxing, connecting, and enjoying summer. For generations, front porches served as gathering places where neighbors stopped to talk, families relaxed after a long day, and communities stayed connected. This summer, bring that tradition back by creating a porch that feels inviting, comfortable, and ready for conversation. A few simple updates can transform your porch into an outdoor space you’ll enjoy all season long. What You'll Need ► Outdoor seating ► Outdoor cushions or pillows ► Potted flowers or hanging baskets ► Outdoor lighting or string lights ► Small side table ► Broom and cleaning supplies ► Welcome mat ► Seasonal décor Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate Sweep away dirt, cobwebs, and debris. Wipe down railings, windows, furniture, and light fixtures to give your porch a fresh, clean appearance. Step 2: Add Comfortable Seating Create a place where people want to linger. Whether it’s a pair of rocking chairs, a porch swing, or a small seating area, comfortable seating helps turn a porch into an outdoor living space. Step 3: Bring in Color Add flowers, hanging baskets, or potted plants to create a welcoming atmosphere. Choose colorful blooms that thrive throughout the summer months. Step 4: Create a Cozy Atmosphere Add outdoor pillows, a welcome mat, and soft lighting. String lights or lantern-style fixtures can make your porch feel warm and inviting after sunset. Step 5: Make Time to Enjoy It The most important step is using your porch. Enjoy your morning coffee, wave to neighbors, invite friends over, or simply relax and enjoy the fresh air. Sometimes the best community connections start with a simple conversation. A Quick Community Reminder A welcoming front porch does more than improve curb appeal—it creates opportunities for neighbors to connect, conversations to begin, and communities to grow. Small moments spent outdoors can help strengthen the sense of community that makes southeastern Indiana such a special place to call home. This summer, pull up a chair, slow down for a while, and enjoy the simple power of connection.

The Power of Connection Close to Home In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to become caught up in busy schedules, endless notifications, and the demands of daily life. Yet despite being more connected through technology than ever before, many people find themselves craving something deeper: genuine human connection. That's because strong relationships and a sense of community aren't simply nice to have—they are essential to our overall well-being. Research consistently shows that people who maintain meaningful social connections tend to experience greater happiness, lower stress levels, and a stronger sense of purpose. Strong community ties have also been linked to improved resilience during difficult times. While no one can avoid life's challenges, having a network of supportive people can make those challenges feel far less overwhelming. One of the greatest benefits of community is the sense of belonging it provides. Knowing that you are part of something larger than yourself can bring comfort, encouragement, and stability. A friendly conversation with a neighbor, a familiar face at a local event, or a simple act of kindness can make a lasting impact. These everyday interactions remind us that we are connected and that our presence matters. Those connections often grow stronger when people become actively involved in their communities. Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to build relationships while making a positive difference. Whether helping at a food pantry, supporting a local school event, assisting with a community fundraiser, or participating in a neighborhood cleanup, volunteering creates opportunities to serve others while fostering a deeper connection to the community. Community events provide another way for those relationships to grow. Farmers markets, county fairs, festivals, concerts, and local celebrations bring people together to share experiences, support local businesses, and strengthen community ties. These gatherings help transform communities from places where people live into places where people truly belong. Many of the strongest connections, however, are built through everyday interactions. A simple introduction, checking in on a neighbor, or lending a helping hand can foster trust and create a stronger sense of connection. While these gestures may seem small, they often form the foundation of supportive, resilient communities and serve as an example for future generations. At its core, community is about people showing up for one another. It's found in shared experiences, everyday conversations, and the willingness to lend a helping hand when it's needed most. By investing in those connections, we create stronger neighborhoods, healthier communities, and more fulfilling lives—not just for ourselves, but for everyone around us.

Where History, Adventure, and Community Come Together Located along Indiana’s eastern border, Franklin County is a place where rich history, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm come together to create a community full of character and connection. From the scenic beauty of Brookville Lake and the Whitewater River to historic churches, canal towns, and local attractions, Franklin County offers something for visitors and residents alike to experience and enjoy. Established in 1811 and named after Benjamin Franklin, the county has deep historical roots that continue to shape the area today. Some of the county’s earliest settlers helped establish Little Cedar Grove Baptist Church near Brookville in the early 1800s. The church remains one of Indiana’s oldest church buildings still standing on its original foundation and serves as an important reminder of the county’s early history and pioneer spirit. Franklin County is also known for its connection to Indiana leadership and government. Governors James B. Ray, Noah Noble, and David Wallace — often referred to as the “Brookville Triumvirate” — all lived in Brookville and served consecutive terms as Governor of Indiana. Their legacy remains an important part of the county’s story. Today, Franklin County continues to balance its historical significance with opportunities for recreation, tourism, and community growth. Outdoor recreation plays a major role in the area’s identity, with Brookville Lake and the Whitewater River attracting visitors for boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and camping throughout the year. The county is known as an outdoor recreation destination, offering activities that allow families and visitors to experience the natural beauty of southeastern Indiana. The historic town of Metamora continues to draw visitors with its canal-era charm, unique shops, live entertainment, and local attractions. Guests can explore the Whitewater Canal Trail, enjoy performances at the Metamora Opry Barn, visit local art galleries and studios, or experience the area’s history through museums and historic sites. Franklin County also offers opportunities to slow down and enjoy local restaurants, wineries, breweries, festivals, and community events throughout the year. In Brookville, the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) gives visitors the opportunity to sip, stroll, and shop while exploring the downtown area and supporting local businesses. Like many rural communities across southeastern Indiana, Franklin County continues to grow while maintaining the strong community values and welcoming atmosphere that make it special. From scenic river views and recreational opportunities to historic landmarks and hometown businesses, the county remains a place where residents and visitors alike can feel connected to both the past and the future.

Supporting local organizations and projects that make a difference across our communities. Applications for the next round of Operation RoundUp® grants will be accepted throughout the month of June. Nonprofit 501(c) organizations serving communities within the SEI REMC service area are encouraged to apply for funding support through the program. Operation RoundUp® grants help support projects and organizations that make a meaningful impact throughout southeastern Indiana. Over the years, funding has helped benefit youth programs, volunteer fire departments, food pantries, educational initiatives, community improvement projects, outreach organizations, and many other nonprofit services that strengthen the communities we serve. Because applications are only accepted twice each year — during the months of June and December — organizations are encouraged to prepare and submit their applications during the open application period. At Southeastern Indiana REMC, Concern for Community is one of the cooperative principles that guides us. Through Operation RoundUp®, our members continue to help support organizations that are working every day to improve lives, provide resources, and create opportunities throughout our local communities. Every application represents an opportunity to invest back into the places we call home. Whether supporting local families, educational programs, emergency services, or community outreach efforts, Operation RoundUp® funding helps make meaningful projects possible across our service area. Learn More or Apply: seiremc.com/operationroundup _____________________ How Operation RoundUp® Works Through Operation RoundUp®, SEI REMC members help support local projects and organizations simply by rounding up their monthly electric bill to the next whole dollar. While each individual contribution may only be a few cents, those small amounts come together to create meaningful support for programs and initiatives throughout our service area. By participating in Operation RoundUp®, members play a direct role in helping local organizations continue important work within our communities. From supporting youth programs and emergency services to helping nonprofit organizations provide resources and outreach, every contribution helps create a lasting impact close to home. Together, SEI REMC members continue to show how small acts of generosity can make a big difference across southeastern Indiana.How Operation RoundUp® Works

From local sponsorships to live line safety demonstrations, SEI REMC is committed to supporting and serving the communities we call home. At Southeastern Indiana REMC, being part of the community means more than providing reliable electric and fiber service. As a cooperative, we believe in staying actively involved in the communities we serve and supporting the people, organizations, and events that help southeastern Indiana thrive. Through local sponsorships and educational outreach opportunities, SEI REMC invests in programs and initiatives that strengthen community connections and safety awareness throughout our service area. SEI REMC sponsorships help support local fairs, festivals, school programs, nonprofit events, youth activities, community projects, and many other organizations that bring people together throughout the year. These partnerships allow us to remain visible and engaged while helping support events and activities that positively impact our local communities. Another way SEI REMC stays connected to the community is through Live Line Safety Demonstrations. These hands-on presentations help teach the dangers of electricity and the importance of power line safety to students, emergency responders, farm safety groups, and community organizations throughout the region. During the demonstration, audiences see firsthand what can happen when trees contact power lines, equipment strikes overhead lines, or downed wires come into contact with vehicles. Using real electrical equipment similar to what SEI REMC crews work with in the field, the demonstrations provide valuable safety education in a way that is engaging, memorable, and impactful. At SEI REMC, community involvement is not just something we do — it is part of who we are as a cooperative. Whether supporting local events, promoting electrical safety, or partnering with organizations across our service territory, we are proud to continue building strong connections throughout the communities we serve. INTERESTED IN PARTNERING WITH SEI REMC? Learn more about sponsorship opportunities or request a Live Line Safety Demonstration for your school, organization, or community event. LEARN MORE SEIREMC.COM/SPONSORSHIPS SEIREMC.COM/LIVELINEDEMO

Nixie’s Burgers continues a long-standing tradition of great food and hometown history in Brookville. Some restaurants are known for their food, while others become part of the community’s story. In Brookville, Nixie’s Burgers has been both for generations. Originally opened in 1939 by Nixie Biltz as a burger restaurant and billiards hall, Nixie’s quickly became a gathering place where friends, families, and neighbors came together over fresh burgers and conversation. Over the decades, the restaurant became a familiar part of life in Franklin County, passing through several owners while continuing the traditions that made it special. Jerry Teufel operated Nixie’s through the 1980s and 1990s, and many local stories were created around the card games and conversations that filled the back room over the years. Steve “Smokey” Hounchell later carried on the restaurant’s legacy through the 2000s and 2010s. Now, beginning a new chapter in 2024, Nixie’s continues serving the fresh burgers it has long been known for while bringing a refreshed look and feel to the historic restaurant. Stepping inside Nixie’s feels like stepping into a piece of Brookville history. The walls are filled with memories and local character, creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming, familiar, and deeply connected to the community. While the burgers remain the star of the menu, visitors can also enjoy chicken sandwiches, fish sandwiches, and other classic favorites. Interestingly, Nixie’s and Southeastern Indiana REMC share something else in common — both were established in 1939. For generations, both have remained connected to the communities they serve while continuing to grow and evolve over time. Whether you’re a longtime local or simply passing through Franklin County, Nixie’s Burgers offers more than just a great meal. It’s a place where history, community, and hometown flavor continue to come together one burger at a time.