Pennyrile Electric held its 73rd annual meeting, July 6, 2010, at the Western Kentucky Fairgrounds. The afternoon activities began with music provided by Kim Hayward. Following the entertainment, James W. Lear, Chairman of the Board of Directors, called the meeting to order and welcomed the crowd of over 1,300 people. The colors were posted by the 101st Airborne Division Honor Guard. Brother Larry Wilson gave the invocation, with Kim Hayward singing the National Anthem.

Eston Glover, Jr., President / CEO of the Cooperative presided during the remainder of the meeting and made introductions of the guests.

Lee Harton, Attorney for the Cooperative, reported that a quorum was present as required by the Pennyrile RECC bylaws. The minutes of the previous annual meeting were approved, and Mr. Harton read the official Notice of Meeting and Proof of Publication.

Bill Corum, President of the Kentucky Association of Electric Cooperatives, addressed the group on current legislation concerning carbon emissions and how a “cap and trade” would greatly impact the cost of electricity.

Ernie Peterson, TVA Senior Customer Service Manager, talked about the very positive relationship between TVA and Pennyrile Electric and their continuing commitment to be the best wholesale power supplier possible.

Mr. Glover spoke of the challenges the power industry is facing with environmental and carbon capture legislation, fuel cost issues, power supply issues, and emerging technology innovations; and the steps Pennyrile Electric is taking to meet those challenges. He also reiterated Mr. Corum’s comments, asking members to be aware of legislation, concerning carbon emissions and the future of electrical generation. Mr. Glover also emphasized Pennyrile Electric’s efforts to working safe.

Mr. Glover recognized the fourteen recipients of Pennyrile Electric’s Scholarship program. Each recipient will receive a $1,000 scholarship for the fall semester. The recipients are: Austin Hart, Mary Owens, Karen Latham and Deanna Braxton of the Cumberland District; Justin Jatczak, John Reynolds and Laura Young of the Western District; Brittany Rust, Kevin Wiseman, Mercedes Hightower and Lorin Beatty of the Central District; and Jeremy Bivins, Hannah Collins and Katherine Hindman of the Eastern District.