Rain didn't dampen the spirits of approximately 2,000 people who showed up at Coweta-Fayette EMC's annual meeting.

Each year, the company combines good old-fashioned fun with the EMC's annual business meeting, allowing the members the opportunity to participate in both.

Surrounding a full-sized carousel were carnival games and cotton candy for the kids, kiosks with information about a variety of products and services, and even some adult game booths.

From balloons and popcorn for the kids to a treasure chest key for each registered member, there were goodies for everybody.

EMC president and CEO Michael Whiteside reported to the standing-room-only crowd that the electric membership cooperative had completed a very good year.

Increasing the number of customers it served by 33 percent over a five-year period, the company also gained another 20,000 natural gas customers after deregulation of the natural gas industry.

According to Whiteside, the company has prepared well for Y2K by replacing some equipment and upgrading others.

“We've tested and feel confident that we're ready for Y2K,” he said.

After the meeting, EMC member James Goodrum left the grounds with a big smile on his face. Hanging in until the last bit of business was accomplished, Goodman was pleased when his name was drawn from a huge barrel and the grand prize was awarded.

With a choice of a brand new Snapper riding lawn mower or a complete computer system, Goodman picked the computer.

“I Just bought a lawn mower, or I'd get that,” said the Sharpsburg resident, with a chuckle.

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