A Love Letter to Paris, Arkansas

Getting to Know David Kendrick

What does it really take to keep the lights on? In this episode of The Next Greatest Thing, longtime Right-of-Way Supervisor David Kendrick shares stories from nearly two decades at Arkansas Valley Electric, the importance of maintaining reliable right-of-way, and one unforgettable encounter with a swarm of bees while working in the field. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the people and work that keep power flowing across the River Valley.

Don’t Assume It’s Safe: Electrical Safety Myths Debunked

We use electricity constantly, but most people never stop to think about the risks hiding in everyday routines. In this episode, Kerri Taylor from Safe Electricity [https://safeelectricity.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] shares simple, practical safety tips that could protect your home, your devices, and your family.  Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Introduction to the episode & guest Kerri Taylor from Safe Electricity [https://safeelectricity.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 02:00 – What Safe Electricity does and why electrical safety education matters 06:30 – How modern homes use more electricity than ever before 08:45 – Outlet overloads, extension cords & warning signs homeowners miss 13:20 – Smart home technology and hidden electrical risks 16:15 – DIY electrical work vs. hiring a professional electrician 19:00 – Lithium-ion battery safety: phones, laptops, e-bikes & more 23:00 – Safe charging habits and why charging devices in bed is dangerous 25:40 – Electrical safety tips for kids and teens 29:30 – Vehicle accidents involving power lines & what NOT to do 32:45 – Pool safety, docks, lightning & outdoor electrical hazards 36:15 – The “taco” explanation for weather watches vs. warnings 37:15 – Tree climbing, substations, drones, fishing & overhead power line safety 40:30 – How parents can teach electrical safety in a way kids will remember 45:00 – Common electrical safety myths debunked 48:30 – Why you should ALWAYS assume a downed power line is energized 50:15 – Kerri's most important electrical safety takeaway 53:00 – Where listeners can find trusted electrical safety resources

Getting to Know LaDonna Holman

Go behind the scenes with LaDonna Holman as she shares what it takes to keep payroll, accounting, and member services running smoothly at Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative. From her 12-year journey with the co-op to the family culture that makes it all worthwhile, this episode highlights the people and purpose behind the scenes.

What Linemen Want You To Know

Go behind the scenes with AVECC lineman Eric Shelton as he shares what really happens when the lights go out. From storm restorations and safety tips to the heart behind the job, this episode offers a new appreciation for the crews working to keep the power on.

Getting to Know Journeyman Lineman, Landon Blair

Long hours. Mountain backroads. Storm calls at midnight. Meet Landon Blair and hear why serving his community as a journeyman lineman is more than a career, it’s a calling.