NEWS RELEASE                                                                                            

May 19, 2020                                                                                                     

Gaines Kiser Presented with SEC President’s Award

Crewe, VA: SEC Line Technician Gaines Kiser recently was presented with a Southside Electric Cooperative (SEC) President’s Award medallion for his efforts during Winter Storm Shirley.  During the power restoration effort, Gaines became aware of a member whose meter base and weather head were damaged by the ice storm.  When the member could not afford to repair her meter base (which is a member’s responsibility), Gaines took on a true leadership role.  With Gaines’ guidance, mutual-aid lineworkers assisting with power restoration from Jackson Electric Membership Corporation (JEMC) out of Georgia, volunteered to pool their money with his and cover the cost of repair for the SEC member. 

“This selfless act embodies the character we look for in our employees,” said Vice-President of Operations Brad Furr. “We were made aware of this only because we were contacted by Eddie Wood, a Foreman with Jackson EMC.  He was moved by this act and wanted to compliment Gaines for his leadership and compassion.  I wish to point out how great a message this sends to those who helped us restore power.  We want to sincerely thank Gaines for his effort, as well as to thank the Jackson EMC employees. While Gaines did not help this member for recognition; however, it seems appropriate to shine a light on his kindness.”

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Southside Electric Cooperative, a not-for-profit, member-owned electric distribution company, has more than 57,700 active services across 18 counties in central and southern Virginia. Headquartered in Crewe, SEC has district offices in Altavista, Crewe, Dinwiddie and Powhatan. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.