Community News

The American Public Power Association (APPA) awarded Concord Electric Systems a National Commendation for their work restoring power to homes and businesses in Forest City, N.C., following Hurricane Helene.

Mayor Bill Dusch presented the award during February’s City Council Work Session and recognized Concord’s lineworkers for their service and dedication.

“When our neighbors needed help, they did not hesitate to volunteer. They worked long days in tough conditions, and they did not quit until the lights were back on,” said Dusch.

Long-time Concord Electric Systems lineworker and Overhead Coordinator, Jackie Rushing, shared that 95% of Forest City’s system was down when they arrived. A team of nine Concord Electric Systems lineworkers spent seven days there cutting trees, replacing broken power poles and damaged transformers, repairing power lines, and helping with cleanup and service work.

Along with Jackie Rushing, the team from Concord included Larry Barbee, Chris Aldridge, Syrus Dellinger, Tim Furr, Triston Langston, Clint Meece, Chandler Rice, and Jason Sartain.

“I can’t say enough about these guys right here,” said Rushing. “We left an impression when we left of what Concord gets every day from us. The people there were coming out onto the streets, out of their houses, just congratulating us and said they’ve never seen anyone get power on so quick. These guys did a heck of a job, and I was proud to be there with them and would go out of town again with them.”

Concord Electric Systems participates in the APPA’s Mutual Aid Network, which coordinates with utilities and authorities during widespread power outages. It was through a mutual aid agreement that Concord’s team went to Forest City, N.C. on September 29, 2024, to help the community recover from Hurricane Helene.

Officials with the Town of Forest City called the Concord team a “godsend” and were so appreciative of their support that they invited crew leader Jackie Rushing to be their special guest at the town’s annual tree lighting ceremony. As Jackie helped to light their Christmas tree, it was a special moment that symbolized the town’s resiliency and the power of community – joining forces through mutual aid to not just restore power but restore lives.