Each year, we host the Annual Membership Meeting as a way to say “thank you” to our members. It is also an opportunity to conduct important cooperative business, including financial updates and director elections. As an electric cooperative, our business model is unique. We are not owned by a group of investors, we are owned by every person who receives electric service from Orange County REMC. That’s why we refer to you as “members” and not “customers.” The Annual Meeting really is an event for you! We enjoy meeting you face-to-face and helping you understand how decisions are made at the REMC, as well as for Orange County Fiber.
This year, we set an attendance record at the event with 534 registered guests and a total of 1,352 in attendance. As usual, our guests enjoyed a fantastic meal served by Schnizelbank Catering. Our youngest members stayed busy in the kids’ area that featured high-energy bounce houses, crafts and temporary air-brush art by our talented employees. Kirby Stailey provided entertainment before the business meeting, while guests enjoyed their meal.
During the business meeting, Director Brian Hawkins was reelected to serve another term as the representative for District 6.
This Annual Meeting marked the end of an era for Danny Easterday, who chose not to seek re-election after 33 years of service on the board of directors.
Three REMC members submitted petitions of nomination to run for the open seat. All three were excellent candidates and Carl Anderson was elected by the members to serve as the new director for District 3 (you can read his bio on the next page). Several photos from the event are also featured on pages 6 and 7.
We wrapped up the meeting with our prize drawings. Every registered member who attended the meeting, and stayed for the duration of the event was eligible to win. The two top cash prize winners were Mary Russell who won $500 and Doris Sneed who won $1,000.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the members who attended the meeting and express my appreciation to the directors and employees who worked so hard to make the event such a success.
