Behind the Switch
A Newsletter Edition
October 10, 2024
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October is Cooperative Month
CVEA Reminds Members of the Co-op Difference
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Guided by the Seven Cooperative Principles | |
This October, more than 30,000 cooperatives across the U.S. are celebrating National Co-op Month. It is a time to reflect on all the aspects that set cooperatives apart from other types of businesses, but more importantly, it is a time to celebrate the power of co-op membership.
Cooperatives, including CVEA, are guided by the Seven Cooperative Principles: Voluntary and open membership; Democratic Member Control; Members' Economic Participation; Autonomy and Independence; Education, Training, and Information; Cooperation Among Cooperatives; and Concern for Community.
Because we are a co-op, we can adapt to our local members' needs, providing the programs and services you care about most. That is the power of community-led co-op membership.
Our mission is reliable power. Our purpose is people - the local communities we are proud to serve.
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Kids' Co-op Month Challenge | |
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It's Co-op Month and we want to see what our youngest members know about the Seven Cooperative Principles. We have included an Energy Explorers Crossword puzzle below. You can complete it for fun or in hope of a prize. Just click on the image below, print a copy, fill in the answers, and bring it to the CVEA office in your district or email it to activities@cvea.org by 5 p.m., Thursday, October 31. Make sure to write your youth's name and age, the participating CVEA member's name, and a contact phone number on your entry. All entries received by the deadline will be entered into a drawing for a $15 Subway gift card.
(One prize per district. Open to youth ages 5-12.)
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CVEA's Co-op Month Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patch Event is Just Around the Corner
See below for Pumpkin Patch details
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Click above image to enlarge
CVEA's Co-op Month Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patch events are just around the corner! Mark your calendar for a fun-filled, family-friendly Saturday that demonstrates what COMMUNITY is all about.
Pick your favorite pumpkin from the patch and enjoy pumpkin decorating, games and activities, a fall-themed photo booth, warm food, and tasty treats all while supporting 16 local nonprofit organizations who serve our friends and neighbors.
The events take place Saturday, October 12, in Valdez, and Saturday, October 19, in Glennallen. Fun for the whole family goes from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the CVEA office parking lot in each district (while supplies last).
Admission to the pumpkin patch
Bring nonperishable food item(s) or a monetary donation for the local food bank. With your donation, you get:
🎃 One FREE pumpkin per person w/minimum donation (family limits apply)
🎃 Option to stay and decorate your pumpkin(s)
🎃 Entry into the drawing for a $150 CVEA energy credit
🍎A chance to try your luck at the NEW 'Apple Grab' for a $5 vendor coupon -
Sponsored by Copper Valley Telecom
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BONUS - make extra food or monetary donations and receive extra drawing tickets. More donations = More chances to WIN!
Expired food cannot be accepted
Credit cards will be accepted
Food Bank Donation Drive
- All food and monetary donations will benefit the Food Bank of Valdez and the Copper River Basin Resource Council Food Bank in Glennallen
- Alyeska Pipeline Service Company will match monetary donations up to $2,500 (total - districts combined)
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Nonprofit FUNdraisers
Attendees at the Pumpkin Patch can enjoy seven fun booths that support local nonprofit organizations who work hard for our communities:
- Snap & print a 4x6 picture at the fall-themed photo booth
- Play fun games for prizes and enter the coloring contest in the activity tent
- Pop by the Jazzy Gourmet Popcorn booth
- Enjoy a hot cocoa bar w/toppings
- Get fired up with s'mores - make or take
- Look fabulous with a fall-themed face painting
- Enjoy sweet, fluffy cotton candy
All proceeds benefit the nonprofit organizations who support our event. Watch the video below for our 2024 partners.
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NEW Valdez Location
Attention Valdez - if you are not yet aware, the Valdez Pumpkin Patch has moved locations! This year's event will take place onsite at the CVEA office parking lot. We appreciated the use of Kelsey Plaza and their helpful team, but we are excited to bring this one-of-a-kind Co-op Month event home.
This change will allow us to utilize indoor space in the CVEA garage and the back room at the Elks Lodge, providing some areas to get away from the weather, and moving off the water will get us further from the cold and wind. Special thanks to the Elks Lodge for use of their back room and parking areas for this event.
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Valdez Event and Parking Map
CVEA is asking that Co-op Month Pumpkin Patch pickers:
- Park in designated Pumpkin Parking areas
- Forego parking on the streets when possible
- Avoid parking in front of the CVEA and Elks Lodge buildings; these areas will be closed off
- Enter the event on foot through CVEA's regular parking lot entrance off Fairbanks Drive
You will find the registration tent immediately as you enter.
At registration, you will:
- Make your food or monetary donation for the Food Bank
- Get your pick-your-own pumpkin ticket(s)
- Get entered into the drawing for a $150 CVEA Energy Credit
- Get instructions for what to expect
- Get excited at all the fun things to do at the Pumpkin Patch
Click map below to enlarge or print
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Sweet and Savory Food Vendors
CVEA encourages community members to bring your appetite to the Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patch. We are joined by sweet and savory food vendors, offering tasty bites in each district.
In Valdez, on October 12, patch-goers can enjoy The Love's Kitchen, B's Hive, and Sarah Dolge's Gluten Free Cupcakes.
On October 19, In Glennallen, we welcome PDG Catering, Sarah Dolge's Gluten Free Cupcakes, and Sticky Fingers Bakery.
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Don't forget, everyone making a donation at registration gets a chance to try their luck at the NEW Apple Grab for a $5 coupon to be used at one of our participating food vendors. (Sponsored by Copper Valley Telecom) | |
Dayville Road Relocation Project | |
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Since the 2006 flooding in Valdez, the waters of the Lowe River have gradually eroded the ground surrounding CVEA structures and power lines along Dayville Road. This erosion has continued each year, threatening the stability of the structures. As the only line connecting the Solomon Gulch and Allison Creek Hydroelectric Plants to Valdez, and the sole hydropower feed to the community, relocating the structures being engulfed by water became a top priority.
The relocation project began three years ago, with a goal of moving the most vulnerable section of the line 150 feet away from the river. However, the project faced several delays. It took three years to secure a permit from the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, followed by the need for an easement from a landowner to cross their property. Additionally, materials for the project took eight months to arrive.
Despite these challenges, contractors commenced work on August 26 and completed the first phase of the project by September 21. CVEA Project Manager Todd Stahley expressed satisfaction with the progress, saying, "Once the project started, everything has gone very smoothly. I'm pleased with the progress and relieved that this critical section of line has been moved away from the dangerous situation on Dayville Road."
The second phase of the project is set to begin in 2025, focusing on replacing the aging wooden poles that space from the Petro Star switch building to the Solomon Gulch Hydroelectric Plant.
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This fall, CVEA contractors are conducting a comprehensive inspection of every wood pole on the transmission line to assess their condition and plan for future replacements. The previous inspection in 2014 involved a labor-intensive and expensive process of digging 18 inches down, installing wraps, and drilling holes.
After exploring more efficient alternatives, the team opted for the Resi Drill Method this year. This method uses a 1/8-inch drill bit to measure drilling resistance and feed force of the wood as it penetrates the pole, and supplies the user with data to make a clear statement about the condition of the wood. By comparing the resistance readings with earlier tests, the team can accurately gauge the amount of pole decay.
This approach not only allows for better prediction of when poles will need to be replaced, but also eliminates the need for digging and wrapping, making the inspections more efficient and cost-effective for the Cooperative.
Five weeks into the project, CVEA's contractor, Alamon, had completed 347 poles. Some poles had ants, but very little, if any damage. Zero bad, or reject, poles had been found. The project is on schedule for completion in October.
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CVEA Leadership Attends the Alaska Power Association Annual Meeting in Fairbanks | |
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CEO, Jaime Matthews, Vice President Yvette Delaquito, Secretary Dan Stowe, and Directors Jan Maslen and Andy Hess, attended the Alaska Power Association (APA) Annual Meeting in Fairbanks, Alaska, September 10-13.
Attendance at this statewide event is important. According to CEO, Matthews, "The meeting is an excellent opportunity to network with fellow utility leaders from around the state, discuss current issues, meet with legislators and policy-makers, brainstorm solutions, and celebrate successes. It was a good meeting with a lot of important information."
Highlights included a presentation on the Greensparc data server project, a review of state and federal policy positions, a discussion on the developing APA Director Academy that would offer board members educational courses based on Alaska-specific electric energy issues, grant funding, energy storage, regulatory burdens, and the high cost of diesel fuel. In addition to the regular meeting, Matthews attended the APA Board Meeting, where she was elected to serve as Treasurer, and participated in the Manager's Forum. Board members in attendance enhanced their governance skills through a training focused on the Board's role in ensuring safety at the Cooperative.
Finally, a highlight of the trip was an informative tour of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and the Solar Array. Commissioned in 2018, it was at the time, the largest photovoltaic system in the State of Alaska. In 2024, it produces enough electricity to power 55 homes.
Above, CEO Matthews, Director Hess, and Director Maslen during the tour of BESS.
For a recap of the APA Annual Meeting, written by Crystal Enkvist, APA Executive Director, click the button below.
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Want to win a
$50 CVEA Energy Credit?
Answer our October
digital newsletter poll
by 6 p.m., October 14.
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| What is your favorite thing about the CVEA Co-op Month Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patch? | | | Congratulations to Jeanette Sutherland, winner of CVEA's September e-Newsletter poll. | |  |
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CVEA Employee Spotlight
Nathanael Bengtson
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Nathanael "Nate" Bengtson is a key member of the CVEA team! With seven years of service as the Fleet Mechanic, Nate plays a crucial role in ensuring that the vehicles are always in top shape for the staff. His skills in diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing equipment are invaluable to the team.
Beyond that, his willingness to help with additional tasks like event setups and building maintenance shows his dedi-cation and versatility. Nate is a great asset to have on board!
According to Dirk Williams, CVEA Operations Manager, "Nate has been doing a great job supporting our line crew by keeping the equipment maintained and repaired. CVEA appreciates the work that Nate does!"
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Behind the Switch
Photo Contest
Watch November
e-News for Information!
Photo: Adobe Stock-Paul
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Electricity Remains a Good Value | |
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Heading out to lunch? The average cost of a fast-food combo meal is $12. That's more than twice as much as the average annual daily cost of electricity. In today's world, you will not find many items that cost less than $5. It is harder and harder, if not impossible, to purchase a gallon of milk, a loaf of bread, a carton of eggs, or a cup of coffee to-go for that; but did you know that an average days' worth of electricity costs less than $5? At $4.79, the average annual cost of electricity per day is consistent with or lower than all the items mentioned.
While this doesn't take the sting out of high costs, it does demonstrate that electricity has remained a good value, especially considering its increased importance in our lives. So, the next time you crave your morning coffee or a tasty Big Mac ®, or enjoy your favorite podcast, video game, or TV series, consider the value of electricity and how it enhances your quality of life for less than you pay for those luxuries.
Remember, CVEA cares about you, the members we serve, and understand that electricity is more than a commodity, it is a necessity. That's why your Cooperative will continue working hard to power your life, reliably and affordably.
The average annual daily cost of electricity is based on 2023 combined average costs for Valdez and Glennallen. Other costs are based on current prices averaged between the Valdez and Glennallen districts. The cost of a fast food combo meal is based on an average of Anchorage McDonald's prices. Big Mac ® is a registered trademark of McDonald's Corporation. McDonald's Corporation does not endorse or sponsor this material.
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Cybersecurity Awareness Month | |
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Did you know the average household with internet access owns about 17 connected devices? That figure covers a wide range of electronics, including smart phones, computers, streaming devices, smart speakers, home assistants and more. Given our increasing reliance on internet-connected technologies, the likelihood of new cyber threats is ever-present.
October is National Cybersecurity Month, and while good cyber hygiene should be practiced year-round, we would like to share a few cybersecurity tips to help you bolster your online safety.
Click the read more button below for cybersecurity tips.
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Heading into winter each year, inflows at Solomon Gulch stop and the lake level begins to fall as water is used to generate hydroelectricity. During this time, CVEA backs off Solomon Gulch to manage water use and brings the Cogeneration Plant online, using fuel to generate the majority of CVEA’s winter requirements. This is called the winter generation season, and it typically runs from October through May.
CVEA urges members to prepare for the winter generation season, when fuel costs and typically higher usage, create higher electric bills. Members can easily see these impacts by reviewing their bill. Separate line items denote the amount each individual member is charged for generation, transmission, and fuel costs associated with their electric usage. Current and past bills can be viewed by using SmartHub.
CVEA also encourages members to take control of their power bill by becoming more efficient with their energy usage. Often, a substantially higher winter bill is not only caused by additional fuel costs, but increased usage during the coldest, darkest time of the year. Many often think rates have increased, when in fact, rates stayed the same and it was higher usage that caused the bill to increase. You can view historical rates on the website.
Finally, take advantage of CVEA's energy calculator. The energy calculator can help members determine which commonly used appliances and household items have the greatest impact on their power bill, creating awareness and fostering smart changes. Preparing a home for winter is the first line of defense against high energy consumption during winter months.
Visit cvea.org for ways to reduce energy consumption and lower monthly bills. If you have questions about the winter generation season or your bill, click the button below.
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Energy Efficiency and Safety Tips | |
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Get Credit for Making Energy Efficiency Improvements
If you recently made or plan to make energy efficiency improvements to your home, you may be eligible for federal tax credits. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 empowers homeowners to save money on energy efficiency improvements and upgrades. Homeowners can save up to $3,000 annually to lower the cost of efficiency upgrades by up to 30 percent.
A few upgrades covered through the IRA include new exterior doors, windows, insulation, heating/cooling equipment and other major appliances.
If you completed an upgrade this year or you are considering one, visit the Energystar website, by clicking the button below, to learn if you qualify for a tax credit.
Source: energystar.gov
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Don't Let Electrical Hazards Haunt You This Halloween
Halloween is a fun time of year for both kids and adults. Nonetheless, the decorative lights, fog machines, black lights and animatronics, can quickly turn this fun holiday, spooky due to potential electrical hazards.
Remember the following tips to help lessen the risks:
- Inspect electrical decorations; look for cracked or frayed wires or loose connections
- Before decorating, check the instructions to see how many light strings can be connected together
- Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, walls or other firm supports; do not use nails or tacks that could puncture light strings
- Always provide well-lit walkways and porch lighting for trick-or-treaters; keep walkways clear as masks can impair vision
- Make sure decorative lighting is protected from weather and a safe distance from anything flammable like dry leaves and shrubs
- Turn out all lights and decorations before you go trick-or-treating or to bed
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Stay Safe While Trick-or-Treating This Halloween
A few safety tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission can protect children who plan to go trick-or-treating this Halloween.
- Treats - Warn children not to eat any treats before an adult has carefully examined them for evidence of tampering
- Flame Resistant Costumes - When purchasing a costume, masks, beards, and wigs, look for the Flame Resistant label; to minimize the risk of contact with candles or other sources of ignition, avoid costumes made with flimsy materials and outfits with big, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts
- Costume Designs - Purchase or make costumes that are light and bright enough to be clearly visible to motorists; they should be short enough to prevent tripping and falling
- Pedestrian Safety - Young children should always be accompanied by an adult or an older, responsible child; all children should WALK, not run from house to house and use the sidewalk if available, rather than walk in the street
- Choosing Safe Houses - Children should go only to homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome
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National Fire Prevention Week
Join CVEA in observing National Fire Prevention Week, October 6-12. Let's prioritize safety together and take a moment to review the fire safety measures included in this electrical fire safety checklist:
- Inspect smoke alarms
- Inspect switches & outlets
- Never use damaged cords
- Use lamps & appliances correctly
- Know the basics of your electrical panel
- Develop (or review) your home or work escape plan
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We Want Your Feedback And Ideas! | |
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Have Feedback on the e-Newsletter or Ideas For Articles?
CVEA's goal is to meet your communication needs. If you have feedback or topics you would like to see included in a future issue of Behind the Switch - A Newsletter Edition, send us an email by clicking the button below. We will review thoughts and ideas and do our best to make adjustments and include member suggestions throughout the year.
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Member Comments and Questions | |
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Copper Valley Electric wants to know what members have to say, and our team is on hand to answer questions you may have.
If you have comments or questions on any CVEA topic, email Customer Service by clicking the link below.
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CVEA has excellent opportunities for qualified applicants. View current job opportunities posted on the CVEA website. | |
- October 10 I 10 a.m. I CVEA October Board Meeting - Glennallen
- October 12 I 10-2 p.m. I Valdez Co-op Month Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patch, CVEA parking lot
- October 19 I 10-2 p.m. I Glennallen Co-op Month Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patch, CVEA parking lot
- November 21 I 10 a.m. I CVEA November Board Meeting - Valdez
- November 28 I Thanksgiving Holiday - CVEA Offices Closed
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Copper Valley Electric Association | info@cvea.org | 907-822-3211 | www.cvea.org
Mile 187 Glenn Highway, PO Box 45, Glennallen, AK 99588
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Stay up to date on our Facebook page or visit us at cvea.org | |
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Copyright © 2023 Copper Valley Electric Association, All rights reserved.
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