Tracking Blue Ridge Electric’s history

Decade-by-decade, a new book traces the history of the upstate electric power retailer Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative.  “A History of Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative” commemorates 75 years of a member-owned utility and was assembled in house.  Forty-five year Blue Ridge employee Terry Ballenger authored the book.  Denise McCormick directed the design and layout, assisted by marketing employees Liza Holder and Amy Childress.  The date for Blue Ridge’s actual founding was August 14, 1940.  Blue Ridge had humble beginnings, but today provides service to more than 64 thousand households. The 75th anniversary last week featured drop-ins in the lobby of each of the offices.  Copies of “A History of Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative” can be purchased at any Blue Ridge office for $10 dollars each.