The Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center in Hermiston was full of energy as more than 500 UEC members and guests gathered for Umatilla Electric Cooperative's Annual Meeting on Saturday, April 19. The event was a resounding success, highlighted by engaging presentations, exciting door prizes, and unforgettable entertainment.
Kicking off the evening, American Legion Post 37 of Hermiston and the Hermiston High School Band shared a special presentation of the American flag. Weston Putman, the event emcee, directed attendees through the event with a video introduction showcasing the UEC Board of Directors, followed by a presentation of highlights from 2024 by Board President Bryan Wolfe and General Manager/CEO Robert Echenrode.In the official business meeting, legal counsel Richard Lorenz shared the a quorum was present and the proposed amendments to the bylaws were passed. Attendees awaited the announcement of the Board election results, which saw Lee Docken re-elected in District 1 and Jeff Wenholz securing another term in District 2.
The UEC executive team including General Manager/CEO, Robert Echenrode, Josh Lankford, Assistant General Manager and Vice Presidents Lisa McMeen and Blake Weathers also answered questions from members including information about construction at UEC headquarters office in Hermiston, growth in the area, energy efficiency, cost increases and more. A full list of those questions and answers will be available soon.
Door prizes, including a free vacation, $600 bill credit, 3D printer and more added to the excitement of the event, with over 30 opportunities for members to win. Nobody goes home empty-handed, though, as each household in attendance received the gift of a Smart Charger, symbolizing the theme for the year, "Charging Forward."
The evening concluded with a performance by Brewers Grade Band featuring Zac Grooms, a group of talented local entertainers.
For more about UEC's Annual Meeting, visit the Annual Meeting event page.