Members and friends of A&N Electric Cooperative gathered at the cooperative's headquarters in Tasley recently for the Annual Member Appreciation and Arbor Day event. Attendees began lining up as early as 7a.m. for a chance to receive free seedlings and shrubs, engage with local vendors, and learn more about what the cooperative has to offer.
This year A&N welcomed over 500 attendees and a number of local and regional vendors. The event marked the cooperative's sixth consecutive Tree Line USA designation. Virginia Department of Forestry officials were on-hand to commemorate the cooperative's achievement.
A&N Electric Cooperative gave away more than 5,000 seedlings and 100 potted plants. Guests also received gifts upon entry, member gift bags, and the opportunity to win raffle and bingo prizes.
Throughout the day, lineworker demonstrations showcased how cooperative professionals safely climb utility poles to perform maintenance and repairs to power lines. Asplundh hosted a tree planting demonstration, educating attendees on choosing the right tree for a location, preparing planting sites, and determining proper planting depth and position.
There were many family-friendly activities to participate in. Children enjoyed a touch-a-truck experience and worked alongside linemen at the "smurf poles" — short utility poles for hands-on learning. There, kids had the opportunity to open and close uncharged fuses with the guidance of cooperative staff. Children and adults alike enjoyed the photo booth, where they could don hard hats and gloves to pose in a bucket truck in front of a scenic Eastern Shore backdrop.
The Cape Charles Lion's Club served hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, cheese dogs and hand-cut fries while A&N provided ice cream for dessert.
Next year's Member Appreciation and Arbor Day event is slated for April 25, 2026. This event is free and open to the public.