The air is already crisp here in northern Indiana, and we’re headed into a season where creature comforts reign supreme — warm sweaters, fragrant candles and, at the end of the month, fall’s crown jewel, which brings with it tables groaning under the weight of pumpkin pies and perfectly browned turkeys. It’s this time of year, as I’m surrounded by plenty, that I’m perhaps most thankful for our cooperative members.

Without this like-minded group — 7,000 strong now — LaGrange County REMC simply couldn’t provide the superior quality in electric and broadband service we offer today. It’s our members who allow for the abundance we bring to the area. 

We’re a not-for-profit organization, meaning we operate at the behest and benefit of our members. We live in a community where most people live close to family, and those ties hold deep and intrinsic value. We’d like to think that, for many, we’re an extension of that group with our commitment to serving our members and uniting them in the common goal of having world-class electric and broadband service.

And the actions of each of our members add up. You recently participated in an election for our current board of directors, and I want you to know I appreciate your effort. It’s these seemingly small pushes that allow us to put in place conscientious contributors who will help us thrive in the years to come.

Another recent round of activity that will have long-lasting impact is your participation in Operation Round Up, the fundraising effort that allows members to round their electric bills up each month. The program, since its inception in 2002, has produced just shy of $600,000 for area nonprofits while costing each member an average of just $6 per year.

I look around LaGrange County and I see we’re not alone in our goals of giving back. There are a myriad of businesses with leaders who think like us and are working hard to provide opportunities for others. Whether it’s the annual sponsorship of youth sports leagues across the county, partnering with the chamber on its initiatives or supporting the nonprofits that are vital to the well-being of our community, they’re stepping up beside us, and for that initiative, I’m thankful.

I’m also grateful for the promise of growth. We’re beginning new broadband installations, and that process is picking up steam. I appreciate the patience of the community as we work to serve new areas. LaGrange County REMC has a long history of excellence, and we plan to continue providing the best in service to our neighbors.

And we can only make that effort with your continued support. So, as you gather around that glittering, feast-laden table this Thanksgiving and you join hands with your loved ones, know your local electric cooperative team counts on and appreciates you and yours.