UCEMC crews to assist with hurricane recovery efforts

September 18, 2020

Carthage, TN. Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation is sending two crews of lineworkers and equipment to assist Baldwin Electric Membership Corporation with recovery efforts near Gulf Shores, Alabama. Hurricane Sally slammed the Gulf Coast with winds and heavy rain, leaving more than a half million residents without power.

“We’re proud of our linemen for volunteering to assist the Baldwin EMC crews,” says UCEMC General Manager Jimmy Gregory. “They will be working long days in difficult conditions, but they were quick to respond to the call for help. We ask that the public keep them and their families in your thoughts and prayers while they are away.”

Nine UCEMC linemen from the Livingston and Carthage Districts headed South early Friday to help restore power in the hurricane ravaged Gulf Shores area. It is unclear how long they will be in Alabama. These nine linemen from UCEMC are joining other co-op lineworkers from across Tennessee who will be assisting with hurricane recovery efforts. The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association in Nashville is coordinating requests for mutual aid and makes travel and lodging arrangements for crews who respond. “It is an honor to work alongside so many brave and selfless individuals who leave behind family and the comforts of home to serve strangers in need,” says David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “Godspeed, gentlemen, and thank you for the important work you do.”

L-R front row: Doug Regan (Liv); Brandon Rigsby (Car); Corey Gregory (Car); Tim Reid (Liv); Devan Copeland (Liv); Jonathan Washer (Car); T.J. Hillabrand (Liv) L-R top: Spencer Anderson (Car); Adam Jolley (Car)

 

UCEMC is a member-owned cooperative that provides safe, reliable and affordable power to more than 50,000 homes and businesses in the Upper Cumberland.