July 2024 | Congrats, Roger! | Busy Month: Annual Meeting and May 26 Storms

Posted: July 1, 2024 at 9 a.m.

By Sean J. Vanslyke | sean@gosemo.com

Amid recent events like storms, we can’t overlook an important milestone: the retirement of Team SEMO’s Roger Clark. Roger retired since our last issue, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to him. After more than 28 years of dedicated service to SEMO Electric Cooperative’s members and GoSEMO Fiber’s subscribers, Roger has decided to hang up his gear. Starting as a journeyman-lineman and ending his career as a serviceman who took pride in his territory, Roger’s contributions have been invaluable. Thank you, Roger, for your outstanding service. Enjoy your retirement and fish on!

We are truly blessed to be part of the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. The assistance we received from fellow cooperatives to help restore power underscores our commitment to helping others in times of need. This spirit of mutual support drives us to build strong relationships in Jefferson City, Washington, D.C., and across the country. Relationships matter. This principle extends to our personal lives as well. Be there for others. You never know when you might need a hand, a hug, or simply a prayer.

A big shout-out to Team SEMO for their dedication to safety throughout May. Despite numerous events, including the annual meeting and severe storms, we navigated and completed our tasks successfully. Our work is never truly finished, as we operate in a challenging 24/7 environment. We chose this path, and we are proud to be here, ready to serve you.

Book of the Month: “Do you have a notepad handy? Why not write down five good things you’re grateful for now? Give thanks to the birds singing outside, the smells from your kitchen, the comfort of your chair. Each is a gift.” Our Daily Bread by Sheridan Voysey

Sean is the CEO/GM of SEMO Electric Cooperative and GoSEMO Fiber.

Team SEMO’s Roger Clark and his wife, Tammy, say goodbye as they step into retirement, likely filled with canoeing and fishing. We wish them joy and relaxation.
During storm restoration efforts, there is an intentional focus on ensuring that breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, hotel rooms, clean restrooms, and other essentials are seamlessly provided without notice. For instance, Team SEMO’s Josh Carmack is seen vacuuming the meeting room at 11:12 p.m. At 3:45 a.m., the breakfast crew will arrive to prepare for the day ahead.
Relationships Matter: During storm restoration efforts, (left to right) Lieutenant Governor of Missouri Mike Kehoe, Senator Jason Bean, Representative Jamie Burger, Representative Donnie Brown, and Representative Barry Hovis visited southeast Missouri to see storm damage and made an unscheduled stop to tour SEMO Electric Cooperative’s Emergency Operations Center.