October 2025

October is Co-op Month

Co-ops are unique and operate using a different business model than other companies. We are guided by seven cooperative principles, which are at the core of what we do and how we serve our members and communities.

Our Cooperative Principles in Action:

1. Voluntary & Open Membership: Our services are available to any person willing and able, regardless of race, gender, social, political, or religious discrimination.
2. Democratic Member Control: Members elect their board of directors, who make important decisions to guide the co-op.
3. Members’ Economic Participation: When the co-op does well financially, that success is shared with members through patronage capital.
4. Autonomy & Independence: There are many electric co-ops in the country, but we operate as an independent entity.
5. Education, Training, and Information: We invest in education for our members and employees to continue to empower our communities.
6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives: Co-ops have an extensive networkto connect with other co-ops. When a storm hits our service area, linemen from other co-ops gear up to assist in restoration efforts.
7. Concern for Community: We love to support our communities far and wide through a variety of programs. Every year, we give back through Stuff the Bus, Toys for Tots, grants, community donations, and more.

This month, we’re celebrating YOU, our member-owners!

Take part in our co-op month giveaways by participating in our programs and services.

• To celebrate October being co-op month, we are doing a drawing that includes all members. No action is needed.
  • 4 members will win a $25 bill credit
• Sign up for Paperless Billing
  • 5 members will win a $20 bill credit
• Submit a photo for our photo contest
  • 1 member will win an electric weed trimmer
• Enroll in Operation Round-Up
  • 2 members will win a mini electric chainsaw (1 newly enrolled member, 1 member already enrolled)
• Enroll in Auto Pay
  • 1 member will win an electric leaf blower

On November 3, we’ll choose winners for each program. If you have questions or need assistance in participating in any of these programs, give us a call at (800) 831-8629 or email us at acec@acecwi.com.

Save a Stamp & Enroll in Auto Pay

Auto Pay is a worry-free payment option. You can enroll with a checking or savings account, or a credit card. Log in to your SmartHub account to enroll today.

Benefits of Auto Pay:

• Save money on stamps
• No late payments from mail delays
• Your bill is automatically withdrawn on your due date
• No need to worry about late fees when your bill is automatically paid

 

We Offer STEM GRants

STEM Grants are available up to $1,000 for projects academically focused in the areas of science, technology, engineering, or math! Our goal is to award grants to as many classrooms as possible in our service area. Help us spread the word about this grant opportunity to schools and organizations that may qualify. Learn more at www.acecwi.com/stem-grant. Examples of grant projects awarded in the past include:

• DNA Models
• Aquaponics
• Super Solar Learning
• Graphing Calculators

 

Energy Assistance

Have you ever wondered what the WI Non-Taxable Program line item is on your bill? All members have this on their bill and pay into this program required by the state of Wisconsin. Half of the funds collected go towards energy conservation programs (in our case, Focus on Energy), and the other half goes towards low-income energy programs. As we enter heating season, you may qualify for assistance with your energy bill. To learn more, contact the agency in your area:

 

Free Energy-Saving Kits

Get your free energy-saving kit this month from Focus on Energy. Choose between a bath, shower, or comfort kit. Visit focusonenergy.com/free or call (800) 762-7077 to order your free kit. One kit per member per year.

Residential Rebate finder

Not sure what rebates you qualify for? Check out Focus on Energy’s residential rebate finder! Enter your information to search for qualifying rebates. Explore rebates available at focusonenergy.com/get-started.

 

Energy Tip

Safety Message

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Keep these tips in mind to reduce your cyber risk:

1. Use long, complex passwords. This is the first line of defense between a criminal and your sensitive information.
2. Enable multifactor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security for your accounts.
3. Keep software updated. In addition to new features, updates often fix security flaws.
4. Look out for phishing and scams. Don’t fall for fake emails, texts, or social media messages.

 

Recipe

Pumpkin Bars with Creamy Icing
Recipe from Jeff Presley of Adams, WI

Prep Time – 45 mins
Cook Time – 20-25 Mins

Pumpkin Bars

• 2 c sugar
• 2 c flour
• 1 c oil
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 16 oz pumpkin
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Creamy Icing

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 4 c powdered sugar
• 6 Tbsp butter or margarine
• 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions for Pumpkin Bars

1. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour into an ungreased 15×10 jelly roll pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before applying icing.

Instructions for Creamy Icing

1. Cream softened cream cheese and butter, then gradually add all the powdered sugar. Beat together until everything is well blended, then stir in the vanilla.
2. Frost pumpkin bars after they have cooled, and enjoy!