A Letter to the Community

There’s an old saying that goes, “Adversity doesn’t build character – it reveals it.” When tornadoes and severe weather raged through the Tennessee Valley on April 27 and in the aftermath, I was privileged to witness some tremendous acts of character.

There are so many who lost so much and I have seen them – with the support of friends, family, and often total strangers – show tremendous strength and courage in the face of their losses.

A great many of our customers lost power due to the storms. I’d like to thank all of you for your patience and understanding. I’d also like to especially thank those who took time out to express their appreciation for our efforts. They lifted our spirits and encouraged us when the task seemed insurmountable.

The damage to VEC’s system was the most extensive since the blizzard of 1993.

Some of our veteran line workers – for the first time in their career – were forced to stop while working and run for cover. But when the danger passed, they were back on the job. They worked around-the-clock shifts alongside contract crews and crews from other utilities who came to help us. I’d like to thank them for their hard work and dedication as well. Our supervisors, dispatch center, engineering, and support personnel also worked long hours in a team effort to restore power to our members.

There are many who lost much during this crisis, but there are also many who gave much. The outpouring of donations and support from businesses, churches, civic organizations, and individuals has been remarkable.

To all of those whose tremendous character was revealed by this adversity, I’d like to offer my thanks. I consider it a privilege to work for — and with — you.

Sincerely,

Rody Blevins
President/CEO
Volunteer Energy Cooperative