Behind the Switch
A Newsletter Edition
October 9, 2025
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October is Cooperative Month
Let's Celebrate the Cooperative Difference
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CVEA is Guided by the Seven Co-op 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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Join Us For Another Round of Co-op Month Trivia
Show us what you know!
Playing is easy. Each morning, October 21-30, at 10 a.m., we will post a Co-op trivia question on the CVEA Facebook page.
Select your answer to the daily question. All answers must be recorded correctly by the October 30, 8 p.m. deadline.
You can answer one trivia question or all ten. You will get one entry for each correct answer received by the deadline.
Everyone who answers all 10 questions correctly will receive one extra drawing ticket—so choose wisely!
Each entry will be included in a drawing for a $150 CVEA energy credit.
10 Days. 10 Questions. 1 Winner.
Not a Facebook fan? No worries. Questions will stream daily to the homepage at cvea.org. You can email your NAME and FULL ANSWER to activities@cvea.org daily by 8 p.m.
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Help Us Celebrate Community at the Co-op Month Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patch
See below for Pumpkin Patch details
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CVEA's Co-op Month Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patch events begin this weekend in Glennallen! Join us 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 14 local nonprofit organizations who serve our friends and neighbors.
The events take place Saturday, October 11, in Glennallen, and Saturday, October 18, in Valdez. 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 to support the local food bank.
With your donation, you get:
- To pick your own pumpkin from the patch (pumpkin qty. limits per family)
- FREE pumpkin decorating
- A ticket for entry into the drawing for a $150 CVEA energy credit
- A chance to try your luck at the NEW ring toss game for a $5 vendor coupon - sponsored by Copper Valley Telecom
BONUS—make extra food or monetary donations and receive extra drawing tickets.
Please do not bring expired food.
Credit cards will be accepted.
Food Bank Donation Drive:
- All food and monetary donations will benefit the food bank in your district
- Alyeska Pipeline Service Company will match monetary donations up to $3,000 (total—districts combined)
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Start at the Registration Tent
Attendees in both districts will find the registration tent immediately as you enter the CVEA parking area.
At registration, you will:
- Make your food or monetary donation for the Food Bank
- Get your pick-your-own pumpkin ticket(s) *family limits apply
- 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
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$5 Vendor Coupons at the Ring Toss game - Sponsored by Copper Valley Telecom
Don't forget, everyone making a donation at registration gets a chance to try their luck at the NEW Ring Toss game! You could win a $5 coupon to be used at one of our participating sweet or savory food vendors.
Note: cannot be used at participating nonprofit booths
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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—Hosted by the Copper River Basin Child Advocacy Center and the Valdez Youth Wrestling Club
- Play fun games for prizes and enter the coloring contest in the activity tent—Hosted by the Copper River EMS and the Valdez Co-op Preschool
- Pop by the Jazzy Gourmet Popcorn booth—Hosted by Connecting Ties and Valdez High School Close Up
- Enjoy a hot cocoa bar w/toppings—Hosted by Copper Valley Community Library and the Valdez Imagination Library
- Get fired up with make or take s'mores—Hosted by the Copper River Imagination Library and the Hermon Hutchins Elementary 5th Grade Field Trip
- Look fabulous with a fall-themed face painting—Hosted by the Glennallen Nordic Ski Team and the Valdez Renaissance Festival
- Enjoy sweet, fluffy cotton candy—Hosted by Kenny Lake Public Library and the Valdez Torpedos Swim Club
There are additional costs at each nonprofit booth. All proceeds benefit the nonprofit organizations who support the Pumpkin Patch event. Credit cards are accepted.
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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 Glennallen, on October 11, patch-goers can get their fill of great eats at The Roadside Grill and enjoy sweet treats from Ant's Homestyle Bakery.
On October 18, In Valdez, we welcome Klondike Coffee, B's Hive, and Mac It Up Ak.
Glennallen Menu Items:
The Roadside Grill
- Gyro
- Cheeseburger
- Bread Bowls w/ stew
- Corn Dog
- 6pc Chicken Nuggets
- Sides: Crinkle Fries, Curly Fries, Mozzarella Sticks, Onion Rings, and Fried Zucchini
- Bottled water
Ant's Homestyle Bakery
- Pumpkin roll
- Caramel apples
- Mini Pumpkin pie
- Sourdough cinnamon rolls
- Cookies (sourdough snickerdoodle and oatmeal raisin)
- Cakes (Coffee crumb cake and carrot cake)
Valdez Menu Items:
Klondike Coffee
- XXL Cinnamon Rolls
- Whoopi Pie
- Cookies
- Muffins
- Pumpkin Pie Latte, Maple Bar Spiced Chai, Caramel Apple Butter White Mocha, Butterbeer Latte, Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Caramel Apple Energy, Pumpkin Cream Matcha
B's Hive
- Indian Taco
- Zuppa Tascana Soup w/Roll
- Jack-o-Lantern Quesadilla
- Drinks
Mac It Up AK
- Lil Patch Mac
- Mac Attack
- Brisket Mac
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Valdez Parking
CVEA is asking that Co-op Month Pumpkin Patch pickers in Valdez:
- 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
| | Dayville Road Pole Replacement Project | | |
The Dayville Road Pole Relocation and Replacement Project is a critical project as it carries the only line connecting the Solomon Gulch and Allison Creek Hydroelectric Plants to Valdez, and the sole hydropower feed to the community.
The first phase of the project began in August 2024 and focused on relocating a section of line that had become engulfed by water when the Lowe River eroded the surrounding ground below. This phase was completed quickly and phase two began earlier than anticipated last year.
In September 2025, the second phase of the project restarted! During this phase, the line between the Petro Star Switch Building and the new Solomon Gulch Hydroelectric Project substation were replaced. This portion of the project was necessary due to the aging of this critical infrastructure.
This investment will help maintain and improve system reliability, a strategic priority for the Cooperative.
Photos above show CVEA contractor, Sturgeon, completing the pole replacement work on Dayville Road. Photos by Morgan Melton, CVEA Chief Communications Officer.
| | Valdez Duck Flats Pole Replacement Project | | |
The Valdez Duck Flats Pole Replacement Project is essential for maintaining system reliability, as this section of the line delivers electricity from the Solomon Gulch and Allison Creek Hydroelectric Plants, as well as the Cogeneration Plant, to downtown Valdez. The current infrastructure, now 45 years old, has gone beyond the end of its service life and requires replacement.
The first phase of this project began in spring 2025 when a crane was used to set pilings along the Duck Flats in preparation for the new poles. The project was suspended through the busy summer months to minimize disruption for the community, then restarted in September.
By early October, CVEA contractor Sturgeon, had completed the project. New poles and wires were set and the old structures were removed. CVEA thanks the community for their cooperation and patience as our team worked to complete this important project.
This investment will help maintain and improve system reliability, a strategic priority for the Cooperative.
The photo above shows CVEA contractor, Sturgeon, setting wire on the new poles along the Duck Flats in Valdez. Photo by Morgan Melton, CVEA Chief Communications Officer.
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Paperless Pays Off - Deadline
Sign Up by November 3 and be Entered to Win
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You Can Go Paperless with SmartHub Anytime, But You Can ONLY be Entered to Win if You Sign Up by November 3, 2025!
💵 Sign Up for Paperless Billing by November 3, 2025
- Receive a $5 bill credit and be entered to win a $100 CVEA energy credit
- Already using Paperless Billing? As a thank you, existing members will be automatically entered to win a $100 CVEA energy credit
Enjoy the Benefits:
⏱️ Save Time & Stay Organized
💵 Cost-Effective
🔒 Secure & Reliable
🌎 Better for the Environment
💵 Help Your Co-op Save Money - It Helps Our Ability to Keep Rates Low:
- If half of CVEA members were enrolled in Paperless Billing, savings would equal roughly $12,000 each year
Signing up is easy. Scan the QR Code in the image above or click the button below. Need assistance? Find instructions on our Paperless Billing website page, email Customer Service, or give them a call at 907-822-3211 (Copper Basin)/907-835-4301 (Valdez).
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Cindy Butherus
Cindy began her career with CVEA in 2001, contributing in a variety of administrative roles over the years. She’s funny, honest to her core, never afraid to go after her dreams, and able to thrive no matter the situation. After 25 years of dedicated service, she is ready to embark on a new adventure and will officially retire in April 2026. We appreciate her commitment to our community. She will be missed.
Cindy says that she and her husband Randy love to boat, fish, kayak, hike and camp. Cindy loves to cook and do swim aerobics. She is currently working on a second book of poetry and learning the piano. She is a long time board secretary for the Friends of the Valdez Animal Shelter and enjoys volunteering at the groups spay and neuter clinics.
According to Wayne McKinzey, CVEA Chief Operating Officer:
"Cindy is the quiet powerhouse on the team — highly skilled in AutoCAD, the go-to person for all our technical drawings, and always focused on supporting our team and members."
| | CVEA Announces New Chief Operating Officer Barry Jackman | | | | |
Following a strategic hiring process, Copper Valley Electric Association (CVEA) Chief Executive Officer Jaime Matthews is pleased to announce that Barry Jackman has joined the CVEA team as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO). He will succeed Wayne McKinzey, who will retire on January 6, 2026, after 11 years of dedicated service to the Cooperative.
Click the button below to view the complete news release.
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CVEA Team and Board Members Attend Alaska Power Association Annual Meeting | | |
CEO Jaime Matthews, members of cooperative leadership, and board members attended the Alaska Power Association (APA) Annual Meeting in Cordova, Alaska, September 22-26.
Active participation in the Alaska Power Association and attendance at this statewide event is important and supports CVEA's strategic goal of being an advocate for CVEA members. According to CEO Matthews, "The meeting is an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow utility leaders from around the state, discuss current issues, meet with policy-makers, and brainstorm solutions."
Highlights included the launch of the inaugural APA Director Academy board training, a presentation on the Greensparc Data Server Project, a review of state and federal policy positions, discussion regarding the wildfire initiative in the northwest, growing popularity of heat pumps in Cordova and the Southeast, continuing concerns regarding supply chain, housing, and childcare, and recruitment. In addition to the regular meeting, Matthews attended the APA Board Meeting and participated in the Manager's Forum. Board members in attendance all participated in the new APA Director Academy and attended the training focused on the Board's role in increasing influence and building Board consensus.
Finally, the team took an informative, private tour of the Orca Diesel Plant at the Humpback Creek Hydroelectric Project, and staff enjoyed touring the Power Creek Hydroelectric Project, a 6 MW run-of-the-river project.
Above, left to right: Director Catherine Vereline, Treasurer Jan Maslen, Director Andy Hess, Vice President Yvette Delaquito, COO Barry Jackman, Power Generation Manager Steve Williams, and CEO Jaime Matthews, during a tour of the Humpback Creek Hydroelectric Project in Cordova, Alaska.
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CVEA Recognized for Safety Achievements
At the Alaska Power Association Annual Meeting in Cordova, Alaska, CVEA received the Rural Electric Safety Achievement Program (RESAP) certificate. RESAP, is a framework based on a continuous improvement model that draws leadership, operational, and administrative staff toward the goal of strengthening their safety culture.
In receiving this certificate, CVEA was recognized as a safety leader, having demonstrated the Co-op’s commitment to safety not only for staff but the community as a whole.
CVEA is proud of the strong safety culture we promote. Our employees are dedicated to keeping themselves and each other safe, fostering safe work habits, maintaining positive safety attitudes, and contributing to ongoing safety improvements.
It is a great honor to be recognized for this achievement.
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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.
| Cybersecurity Awareness Month | | |
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.
Protecting yourself online doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A few simple habits can dramatically reduce your risk of falling victim to cybercrime. While you can never be “hackproof,” you can become resilient in the online world.
At the heart of online safety are four essential behaviors the team at the National Cybersecurity Alliance calls the Core 4. October is National Cybersecurity Month, and while good cyber hygiene should be practiced year-round, these simple steps will help shield your personal information, protect your online accounts and keep your devices secure.
Check them out by clicking the button below.
| | | Energy Efficiency and Electric Safety Tips | | |
Check For Air Leaks As You Prepare For Winter
As winter approaches, now is the time to inspect your home and business for air leaks around windows and doors. Leaks reduce indoor comfort and lead to higher heating costs.
If you can see daylight around the edges of a window or door frame, or if a window rattles slightly when touched, air is likely leaking.
Caulking and weather-stripping are simple, effective methods for sealing windows. These materials are available in a variety of compounds and forms, each designed for different types of surfaces.
Choose the right product and apply it properly to reduce heat loss, improve comfort and help keep energy usage and electric bills low.
Photo courtesy of Rare Form Properties
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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 costumes, 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
| | | We Want Your Feedback And Ideas! | | |
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.
| | Member Comments and Questions | | |
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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Powering Homes, Empowering Lives
CVEA has excellent opportunities for qualified applicants. View current job opportunities posted on the CVEA website.
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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
| | Stay up to date on our Facebook page or visit us at cvea.org | | |
Copyright © 2023 Copper Valley Electric Association, All rights reserved.
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