A cool, drizzly morning couldn’t dampen the spirits of around 300 Wood County Electric Cooperative members who gathered under the pavilion at Governor Jim Hogg City Park in Quitman on Saturday, Nov. 1 for WCEC’s Annual Meeting. The meeting took place amidst the Wood County Old Settlers Reunion, creating a lively atmosphere filled with local flavor and fellowship.

Since the early 1900s, the Old Settlers Reunion has been a cherished local tradition, held annually in August. This year, the reunion took place from Oct. 29-Nov. 1, with WCEC serving as the Heritage Sponsor. The new timing and partnership lent a fresh feeling, while keeping the heart of the tradition alive.

Along with the members-only business meeting at 11 a.m., attendees were able to enjoy all the sights and sounds of the reunion. Local vendors, food trucks and games made it a true community-wide celebration. 

WCEC CEO and General Manager Trey Teaff shared updates on the co-op’s construction plan and ongoing efforts to improve service and reliability throughout the area. He also discussed initiatives by the cooperative’s generation and transmission provider to increase generation capacity and switching capabilities.

Kenneth Langley, board president, announced the retirement of $1.2 million in capital credits, which will be distributed to members in December. Members with credits of $250 or less will see credits applied to their December bills, while those with credits of $250 or more will receive checks by mail. Credits will appear on bills mailed between Dec. 9-30, reducing the bill by the credited amount. For pre-pay accounts, credits will be applied as a pre-purchase of electricity.

Langley noted an uncontested director’s election. Per WCEC bylaws, members shall be deemed to have elected the single candidate by consent. Incumbents Cathy Roberts (District 5) and Kim Galyean (District 6) were re-elected.

Following the meeting, members enjoyed the always-popular prize drawings made possible by WCEC’s generous vendors and partners. Ten members received a $100 electricity credit: Dorothy Applegate, Terry Davis, Mineola; Joe Crain, Brenda Hunter, Charles Patrick, Susan Resnik, Ray Wyrick, Quitman; David Earhart, Elisabeth Thompson, Yantis; and Bridget Fallon, Hawkins.

The grand prize winner of the $500 VISA gift card, drawn from members present at the meeting, was Ron Kapphahn.

The 2025 Annual Meeting was a memorable event, marked by fellowship, fun and a sense of community pride. Even with new dates and a fresh setting, the cooperative spirit that has defined WCEC for more than 85 years remains as strong as ever.