The top rural development official in the Obama administration told co-op leaders that they have an important role to play in expanding job opportunities and the quality of life in rural America. “I want to join with those asking you to lead the charge,” said Dallas Tonsager, undersecretary for rural development in the Department of Agriculture. “I challenge each of you to be a catalyst for new growth and vitalities in your communities.”

Free giveaways of energy-saving light bulbs by co-ops in Indiana and Illinois recently hit the one million mark, resulting in substantial reductions in electric consumption. The 18 member co-ops of G&T Hoosier Energy, Bloomington, Ind., distributed the compact fluorescent bulbs to consumers over a two-and-a-half year period. The CFL campaigns took place in the co-ops’ service areas in central and southern Indiana and southeastern Illinois.