Managers Message

Dear Members:

February 9th marked the 71st annual meeting of the Benton Rural Electric Association. The theme for the annual meeting was "Utilities in Transition." The theme exemplified the dramatic changes electric utilities will encounter in developing new generation as a result of legislation addressing climate change, global warming and green house gas.

Kirk Johnson, Vice President of Environmental Policy for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) located in Washington, D.C. was the keynote speaker. Kirk addressed the various climate change proposals currently before the U.S. Congress and the various state legislatures. He noted that the proposals being considered would have a major impact on future electric rates and the national economy.

He also reported that the proposed technology to reduce green house gases does not exist commercially at this time. Kirk encouraged all members in attendance to become familiar with the facts and debate regarding climate change, global warming, and green house gas. He also encouraged everyone to contact their local legislators and members of Congress regarding these matters. To understand how you can engage these issues see pages 28 & 29 of this Ruralite.

The following 2007 scholarship recipients each received an $8000 continuing education scholarship and read their essays:

During the business portion of the annual meeting, the following individuals were elected by the membership to the Benton Rural Electric Board of Trustees.

District #4 West Richland & Rural Areas Mr. Mark Platt

District #5 Sunnyside Area Mr. Fred Guyer

District #6 Mabton/Satus Area Mr. Kyle Shinn

Congratulations to the newly elected trustees and many thanks to all of those who participated in and worked to make this annual meeting another great success-after all "That’s the Cooperative Way!"