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I, like most people, occasionally allow myself to get exasperated. It is not the correct reaction but sometimes.... today it's one of those days. We obtain our electric power through a small electric co-op with roughly 25,000 members. I can remember receiving the first bill which showed a $17.00 facility fee. I called asking about it and found out it was charged every month etc etc. Ok, fine we used less than 500 kw and could properly budget winter and summer. The years have gone by, our usage has increased slightly, the co-op has changed slightly. Now we pay $27.50 facility fee and rate for 1st 500 kw is higher than over 500kw. The local payment processing has been outsourced to Alabama. Today, I received another survey. I have learned that these surveys are a precursor of changes coming in the next fiscal year. Let's see, I think they will be putting in another solar farm that probably won't pay for itself, and they will begin using variable rates for peak hours (which will be interesting with the over/under 500kw rates). I know I sound like a little old lady unwilling to change. That isn't the truth, I believe change is essential for human growth. However, I will lament the loss of the personal touch in business. It seems most business is now conducted via text message, phone trees, computer voices and digital payments. Wonder how close we are to 2001: A Space Odyssey? When will Hal shut down our life support systems as non-essential?