The GFWC Book Lovers Study Club continued celebrating everyday heroes by recognizing local power linemen. Craig Grissom, manager of the Russellville Electric Department/Warehouse, presented an informative meeting on the lineman’s duties.

An electric lineman’s job is tough work. It is recognized as part of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the United States, with more than 19 workers in every 100,000 killed on the job every year.

Becoming an electrical lineman requires technical instruction, as well as on-the-job training, with a starting point of earning a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require a basic knowledge of algebra and trigonometry. Community colleges, trade schools and technical schools provide technical instruction.

Lineman responsibilities include installing, maintaining, repairing and replacing electrical power lines and stringing power lines between poles. They also inspect and test other equipment, including conductors, voltage regulators and switches. The job requires climbing poles and transmission towers and using truck-mounted buckets.

Members expressed their appreciation through a signed card for all the work the linemen do for our community. On behalf of the club, program chairman Debra Spillers gave a gift certificate to Grissom for presenting the program.

The January meeting took place at Russellville Methodist Church’s ministry center. Sheila Upchurch served as hostess.

Michelle Sibley reported the club’s health and wellness committee donated another $300 to Dr. Maynard for one of his patients with special needs. Sibley, chairman of the club’s environment community service committee, encouraged members to clean up the trash in their streets and in the greater community in support of the club’s anti-litter project.

The club mentioned plans for its March 16 Cancer Walk. More details are available on page A1. Gayle McAlister was appointed chairman of the nominating committee for 2024-2026 club officers. The meeting adjourned with the reading of the club’s Collect.