July 2025
July is a special month when we celebrate our country’s independence. It represents the ratification of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. It gives us an opportunity to honor our great country and enjoy activities with our friends and family, which usually includes some good food and awesome fireworks displays.
One summer tradition of the Mosier family is to spend a week in Cape Charles, Va. We have fallen in love with the small town’s charm and all the amenities it has to offer. The Our Communities column this month features the big Fourth of July celebration they hold each year.
Our Cooperative Focus story this month is also from the Eastern Shore and focuses on the 100th anniversary of the world-famous Chincoteague Pony Swim. It is an amazing event and has a very interesting history. Of course, the 1947 children’s book “Misty of Chincoteague” and the 1961 film “Misty” helped drive its popularity. If you plan to attend, please arrive early and emphasize safety, as they expect record numbers this year.
One of the annual highlights of our July issue is the Cooperative Living Youth Art Contest, which this year was themed: “What Makes America Beautiful.” Once again, all our young artists were truly amazing, and it was certainly tough to choose this year’s winners.
We hope you enjoy this issue of Cooperative Living and have the opportunity to celebrate the freedoms we are so blessed to have in this wonderful country.
Brian S. Mosier, President & CEO
Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives