October 2024
October is National Cooperative Month and we get to recognize the many contributions that cooperatives make all around the country. Along with the electric cooperatives we represent, there are over 30,000 businesses that use the cooperative business model. That model is unique because it has members that collectively own the business — they use the product and/or service. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in 2023 cooperatives accounted for 2 million jobs that generated more than $700 billion in annual revenue. Some big-name companies that you may not have realized are cooperatives include Land O’Lakes, Ocean Spray, Ace Hardware and Blue Diamond Growers.
October also means that Halloween is almost here, with pumpkins being carved and set out to light the way for trick-or-treaters. Our Cooperative Focus feature this month is a unique story about a NOVEC member who has created a name for himself as a master pumpkin carver. Be sure to check out the pictures of his amazing creations. Of course, our October issue wouldn’t be complete without traditional pumpkin recipes that you can turn into your own amazing creations.
As we celebrate our 80th anniversary of serving our members, this issue’s Our Communities column gives a brief history of VMDAEC and what a special year it has been. We are honored to be part of the cooperative family and serve the 16 electric cooperatives that represent over 2 million people throughout our three-state area. It is a blessing to be part of an organization that operates in the best interest of our members and their local communities.
Brian S. Mosier, President & CEO
Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives