February 2014 ~ Peoples Bank

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Kindness Campaign

Paul Durr has been working at Willmut Gas – one of Sempra U.S. Gas & Power’s two natural gas utilities in the Southeast – for nearly 20 years. During that time, he has worn several hats, from being a cashier to working in construction. Durr, currently a service technician, can now add “hero” to his many job titles.

Last fall, Durr was conducting natural gas leak surveys at a business in Seminary, Mississippi, located across the street from an elementary school. While performing his work, he noticed three teachers struggling to carry a student, who appeared to be unconscious and experiencing some health issues.Durr immediately stopped what he was doing and asked the teachers if they needed help. As it turned out, they were trying to carry the third grader to a nearby health clinic to save time. Without hesitation, Durr took over and carried the child in his arms to the clinic, which was several blocks away from the school. Upon arrival, doctors said the child was experiencing a seizure. Even though Durr was working at the time of the medical emergency, he said he never gave a second thought to lend a helping hand.

“I thought about my own grandson,” said Durr. “I could not just stand there and watch the little boy suffer. I wanted to do something to help.” Durr didn’t tell anyone about his act of kindness, but word quickly spread around the community and a thank you letter landed on the desk of Karl Ficken, president of Willmut Gas.

“I was not surprised to hear about Paul’s appropriate response to the emergency,” said Ficken. “He is a person who cares about his fellow employees, Willmut Gas customers and the public at large.”

Durr, who lives Sempra U.S. Gas & Power’s core value of positively contributing to the community that he lives and works in, has down-played his role in helping to save the child’s life. He says he did what anyone would have done in that same situation.

“Paul exemplifies what Willmut Gas believes – that we don’t just work in our communities; we are part of them,” said Ficken. “Paul challenges each of us to keep our eyes open, identify those in need and have the courage to get involved.”

The child made a smooth recovery and is doing fine. Willmut Gas recently recognized Durr for his heroic efforts during a company luncheon.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Collins Progress

The new Collins branch has been making quite a bit of progress lately. It should not be too much longer until it is ready to open for business! The Collins branch employees have been closely watching the building process and have submitted the picture below of the roof trusses that were delivered this week.