Currents News from Georgia's electric co-ops * Compiled by Amy Schneider A breath of fresh air Electric cooperatives get outdoors for good causes T wo Georgia electric membership cooperatives (EMCs) recently put the " fun " in " fundraiser " with recreational activities designed to raise money for people and organizations in their service territories. Washington EMC in Sandersville held its inaugural Tee It Up for Charity Golf Scramble on March 14 at Twin City Country Club in Tennille. The event raised about $9,000 for the cooperative's Operation Round Up and Bright Ideas programs. Operation Round Up, which is funded largely through members' voluntary donations by rounding up monthly bills to the nearest dollar, supports charitable causes and nonprofit organizations in the community. Bright Ideas grants help local teachers implement innovative educational projects. Reynolds-based Flint Energies holds an annual fishing tournament called Linemen for Little Ones. The tournament raises money to provide Christmas gifts and food to local children and families in need. This year's event was held March 16 at Lake Blackshear in Cordele. The event drew more than 70 participants and raised more than $22,000. Recreational activities such as golf, fishing and clay shoots are common methods used by EMCs to raise funds. This month, Coweta-Fayette EMC in Palmetto will hold its second Swing Fore Operation Round Up Golf Tournament at the Newnan Country Club on May 9. The tournament benefits the co-op's Operation Round Up program. Chad Davis, vice president of fi nance and administration at Washington EMC, takes a swing. Clayton Batts (left) and Chris Massey snagged the largest bass at the tournament. Members of Flint Energies' Linemen for Little Ones committee gather at the annual fi shing tournament. Participant Mitch Sheppard attacks his tee shot during the Tee It Up for Charity Golf Scramble on March 14. 14 Georgia Magazine May 2024 COURTESY FLINT ENERGIES COURTESY WASHINGTON EMC COURTESY WASHINGTON EMC COURTESY FLINT ENERGIES