2010 HEMC annual meeting enjoyed by all

Haywood EMC’s 71st annual meeting was attended and enjoyed by nearly 700 cooperative members on August 7, 2010. The usual health fair and exhibit hall displaying ways to conserve energy was a draw for many; However, this years entertainment provided by Haywood EMC’s own employees and spouses proved to be a favorite for the second year in a row. The eight separate entertainers sang a variety of southern and traditional gospel songs as well as several written by themselves. This was well attended and enjoyed by everyone.

            At the business meeting members heard President Bob Tucker, Secretary/Treasurer David Noland, and Executive Vice President/General Manager Norman Sloan share highlights of the past year. Pending climate change legislation on the federal level continues to be a primary concern for your electric cooperative as it promises higher electric rates for everyone. The meeting also addressed last winter’s effects on the cooperative and its members due to power outages, and higher bills caused by some of the coldest temperatures consecutively in over 50 years. A new “whole house energy audit and weatherization” program was introduced that can help all members lower their power bill and reduce CO2 emissions.

            President Tucker recognized director David Edwards and presented him an award for 37 years on the board serving the members of Haywood EMC. Mr. Edwards resigned his position on the board effective August 7, 2010 due to personal reasons. Mr. Edwards acknowledged that while he enjoyed his time on the board, he took his position seriously and always based his decisions on what was best for the co-ops membership at large while maintaining stability for the business and affordability for the members. Mr. Edwards received a plaque in appreciation for his outstanding service to the Rural Electrification program, Haywood EMC and the community. Which served as an example to us all.

            Secretary/Treasurer Noland gave the treasurers report which led into the directors election where Jim Boyette, Emmit Wood and David Noland were re-elected and Lucas Sorrells was elected to replace David Edwards.

            Following the business meeting members enjoyed a video on “reflections of the past” with testimonies from past co-op employees Jewel McCracken, Bill Moore & Jay Dendy as well as WLOS retired engineer, Norman Harrill and member Marvin Sutton of Starvin Marvin’s Grocery.