East River Electric Power Cooperative recently presented service awards to 23 employees with years of service ranging from five to 45 years.
“Congratulations to the 24 recipients of this year’s service awards. I want to express my gratitude to each one of you. The dedication you have shown to East River and your craft is truly extraordinary. Your commitment has played a significant role in shaping East River into what it is today. The number of employees we celebrated exemplifies the true nature of commitment to our workforce.” said East River CEO/General Manager Bob Sahr.
Billing Analyst, Michelle Burggraff, one of this year’s service award recipients, began working at East River 35 years ago. “East River Electric has a high standard for the services that are provided to its members. This high standard carries over into the workforce and East River recognizes it and acknowledges this by giving credit where credit is due. Employees are given a voice through the various committees within the company. The table is pretty much open if you want, or feel the need, to discuss anything with your supervisor or HR. Some days seem long and challenging; believe me, the years pass very quickly. I would advise anyone to take advantage of any opportunity that comes your way so that you may continue to learn and succeed. East River supports the advancement of their employees, which is a huge plus,” said Burggraff.
Paul Lambert, project coordinator, celebrated 45 years at East River. “It is nice that East River carves out some time to formally recognize the employees for their service to the cooperative. Spouses and family members often make a huge sacrifice in supporting the efforts required and it is appreciated that there is acknowledgement for their contribution.
East River celebrated the years of service awards with a luncheon held at the Dakota Prairie Playhouse.
A listing of the awards is as follows:
- Five years: Anne Hall, Kelsey Stone, Melissa Daughtrey, Ethan Roth, Haiden Schmidt, Mitch McNary, Kutler Leighton, Jon Aus
- Ten years: Jennifer Buchholtz
- Fifteen years: Nate Oines, Jennifer Gross, Adam Hansen, Eric Nesheim, Colton Sanderson, Linda Roth
- Twenty years: Jarad Deters
- Twenty-Five years: Jeff May, Chad Nowstrup, Brian Wilkens, Dustin Arthur, Tim Brown
- Thirty-Five years: Michelle Burggraff
- Forty-Five years: Paul Lambert