Florida Currents February 2015

Glades Electric Cooperative

F E B R UA RY 2015

Picturesque Lake Placid

The founding of Glades Electric Cooperative is among the historic scenes recorded in the town’s murals

Page 12 Why You Should Attend the Annual Meeting

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Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Members acknowledge that $3.96, plus actual postage, is the cost to publish 12 issues a year of Florida Currents (USPS8300). Published by Ruralite Services Inc., 5605 NE Elam Young Pkwy., Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-for-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—the magazine serves the communications needs of consumer-owned electric utilities in Florida. Preferred Periodicals postage paid at Hillsboro, OR 97123 and at additional mailing offices.

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Celebrating 70 Years of GEC Official Notice Glades Electric Cooperative Annual Meeting

March 21, 2015 Glades Electric Cooperative Inc.’s 2015 Annual Meeting is Saturday, March 21, 2015, at Osceola Middle School, 825 SW 28th St. in Okeechobee, Florida.

The purpose of the meeting is to elect Trustees, vote on proposed By-Law One lucky member will drive home a 2004 Ford Explorer. changes and hear officers’ annual reports. Registration, entertainment and voting begin at 8 a.m. The business meeting begins at 10 a.m.

Join us for great entertainment, fun and prizes, including a 2004 Ford Explorer for one lucky member. Please plan to attend!

Inside

February 2015 Vol. 4, No. 4

Picturesque Lake Placid 12

Murals salute town’s history in larger-thanlife form.

Also In This Issue Side Roads 10 In the Kitchen 16 Great Picture Hunt 18

Travel Journal 20 Festival Roundup 22 Outdoor Pursuits 24

Your utility pages: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 25, 26, 28, 29, 32

F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 5

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Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Why You Should Attend Glades Electric Cooperative’s Annual Meeting on Saturday, March 21, is all about informing you about the co-op, hearing your thoughts and improving service to you It’s that time of year again: annual meeting time. Glades Electric Cooperative Inc. invites you to attend Saturday, March 21, at Osceola Middle School in Okeechobee.

The GEC staff and management look forward to gathering with you—members of the cooperative community—to catch up, hear what you have to say, and enjoy good entertainment and fellowship.

This event is not only a chance to visit with members of our cooperative community. It also is a great opportunity to learn about programs offered by GEC and get to know your cooperative staff.

The annual meeting makes it possible for the cooperative to gather feedback from you by providing a forum for you to tell us how we can better serve you and your family. This is an occasion to

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discuss and learn more about the issues affecting local communities.

It also is an opportunity for you to exercise one of the greatest benefits of being a member of an electric cooperative: voting for the board of trustees.

GEC is not owned by far-away investors, and it is not run by an appointed board of directors. It is run by a democratically elected board of trustees—a board that is given the privilege to serve because of your vote.

GEC’s directors are citizens of your community. They are concerned with the issues you face every day because they face them, too.

A democratic and open election is one of the many elements that makes your electric cooperative stand out from other utilities. Having a voice in who makes the major decisions that directly affect your life and your family is a right we all share as Americans.

We all vote for our state and federal congressional representatives, but not every American has the right to vote for those who will represent community interests within their electric utility.

You have that right, so why not exercise it?

Rest assured, no matter what happens, GEC remains dedicated to providing you with safe, reliable and affordable electric service. You are encouraged to take part in helping GEC improve how it delivers that service.

Please join us on March 21 at your annual meeting. We promise to make it worth your while. 

Touchstone Energy Balloon to Appear at GEC Annual Meeting Glades Electric Cooperative is excited to welcome the world record-setting Touchstone Energy hot air balloon to the 70th Annual Meeting in Okeechobee. You are invited to come and see this dynamic balloon and create a lasting memory with your family.

The colorful eight-story balloon holds 77,000 cubic feet of hot air, is heated by dual propane burners and could hold well more than 2.2 million light bulbs. Due to its unique size, vibrant colors and broad audience appeal, the Touchstone Energy balloon generates excitement in any setting. More than 10 million people have seen the balloon, which has generated extensive media coverage while attending balloon events, state fairs, community festivals, cooperative meetings and other special functions across the country.

Flown by a team of top ballooning pilots—including winners of national and world flying honors—the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives’ balloon was part of a successful Guinness World Record Flight on December 8, 2001, for sending a record number

of hot air balloons (15) across the Continental Divide from Breckenridge, Colorado. Altitudes exceeding 15,500 feet and speeds of 55 miles per hour were achieved during this record-setting flight.

The three-balloon Touchstone Energy balloon team serves as goodwill ambassadors for Touchstone Energy Cooperatives across the country, promoting their core values of integrity, accountability, innovation and commitment to community.

Touchstone Energy is a national branding program adopted by more than 750 of the nation’s electric cooperatives dedicated to providing superior service. The Touchstone Energy balloons are owned and operated by Cooperative Balloon Associates LLC, comprised of 10 Touchstone Energy Cooperatives in Illinois. It is the second longest-running hot air balloon program in the country.

To learn more about Touchstone Energy Cooperatives and the Touchstone Energy balloon, visit www.cbaballoon.com or www. facebook.com/CoopBalloon.

F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 5

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Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

In this photo from 1985, Glades Electric Cooperative celebrates its 40th anniversary. This year marks GEC’s 70th anniversary.

Florida Rural Electric Credit Union

Plan for Your Retirement Start saving for it now with an IRA from Traditional or Roth IRAs. Certificates or accumulation accounts. For more information, call (800) 542-1246.

Federally insured by the NCUA

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F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 5

GEC’s Board of Trustees Glades Electric Cooperative’s mission is to provide exceptional service

Jack Coxe President District 8

Jim Aul Vice President District 7

Russell Henderson Secretary/Treasurer District 3

Donnie Lundy District 1

Shannon Hall District 4

Ladd Bass District 5

Lee Henderson District 6

Angela Hodges District 9

Barney Goodman District 2

Students Encouraged to Apply for Special Cooperative Programs High school juniors and seniors residing in the Glades Electric Cooperative service territory are encouraged to apply for one of the cooperative’s student programs.

Juniors can apply for the 2015 National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Washington Youth Tour.

This all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., is June 13-18. Applications must be submitted no later than February 16.

Seniors can apply for one of eight $4,000 scholarships offered by the Glades Electric Educational Foundation Inc. Winners will be selected based on financial need, academic achievement and leadership. Applications are due no later than March 2.

Applications for both the Washington Youth Tour and Glades Electric Educational Foundation Scholarships can be submitted to a GEC office or the guidance counselor at area high schools.

F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 5

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Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Operation Round Up Monthly Report More than 70 percent of Glades Electric Cooperative members participate in Operation Round Up, which helps people in GEC’s service area who have exhausted normal avenues of financial assistance.

Sign up today, and your electric bill will be rounded up to the nearest dollar. The extra is placed in the fund for deserving individuals and organizations.

As of January 5, your Charitable Trust Board of Directors has approved $850,587.19 in disbursements. These funds have provided assistance with food, emergency lodging, disaster relief and specific

emergency needs for 553 individuals and/or families and 121 community organizations.

The trust does not fund utility bills (electric, phone, water and gas) or budgets of organizations.

Organizations in counties served may apply for funding for a specific need or project.

The Charitable Trust Board of Directors meets monthly to review applications for funding.  If you know of people who need and deserve assistance and live within our service area, encourage or help them to complete an application. Applications can be picked up at each of our three offices: Moore Haven, Lake Placid and Okeechobee.

Tap Into Savings With the Co-op Connections Card One of the ways Glades Electric Cooperative looks out for you is with the Co-op Connections Card. The nationwide membership program is designed to save you money on everything from prescriptions and home goods to restaurant dining and hotel rooms. The card does not cost you anything.

It is a benefit of GEC’s partnership with Touchstone Energy Cooperatives.

To browse national and local offers, incentives and discounts that come with using the Co-op Connections Card, visit www.connections.coop.

A search feature allows you to locate goods and services by zip code.

Please support the local merchants who participate in the program.

Credit Winners

Kelly Brantley District 3 Ortona/Palmdale Dori Evans District 4 Lakeport Lori Thompson District 5 Venus/Hicora

David McCadam District 8 Lake Josephine

Winners should call (863) 946-6200 or sign their name on this page and mail it to:

F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 5

Beverly Eaves District 2 Hendry County

Jerry Chasteen District 7 Lorida

Elizabeth Head No. 116528-001 Steven C. Irving No. 112355-001

8

Jack Wilson District 1 Moore Haven

Lee Andrus District 6 Highlands Park

$25

Florida Currents $25 Credit Glades Electric Cooperative P.O. Box 519 Moore Haven, FL 33471

Charitable Trust Board of Directors

Paula Byars District 9 Okeechobee

Church of the Month

Lorida Church of the Brethren P.O. Box 149 Lorida, FL 33857

The Charitable Trust Board of Directors will meet in Moore Haven at February 19 at 1 p.m.

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Side Roads

Discoveries Off the Beaten Path

Building the Best Rod for the Job Charter fishing captain insists on using top-notch equipment—which means he makes it himself

By John N. Felsher

Postcards From Florida

Florida State Museum, Pensacola

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Photo by VI

Part of the Historic Pensacola Village, the T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum houses artifacts from West Florida’s rich heritage. The museum—which recently celebrated its 55th anniversary—has three floors, with permanent exhibits on the first floor, changing exhibits on the second floor and a large gallery for traveling exhibits on the third floor.

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Not satisfied with just any fishing rod off the rack, Randy Towe knew at an early age that he wanted the best equipment.

His mother didn’t quite see it that way.

“When I was 10 years old, I asked my mother to buy me a $200 custom fishing rod, and she said no,” Randy recalls.

“I did convince her to buy the individual parts and I’d figure out how to put them together. I figured out what went where, and then started putting together and wrapping rods in my room. I really got interested in rod building. It kept me off the streets doing other things.”

Born in Fort Lauderdale, Randy grew up riding his bicycle to fish along the banks of local canals. For the past three decades, though, the 51-year-old has operated Captain Randy Towe’s Fishing Charters out of Islamorada.

He fishes for such offshore and backcountry charters species as snook, redfish, barracuda, permit, tarpon, swordfish, marlin and anything else that swims near the Florida Keys.

However, he still wants only the best rods for each situation—and that usually means he builds his own.

“I’m a real stickler on having the best fishing rods,” Randy explains.

“Sometimes, the most expensive rod is not always the best. I’m fortunate that I make my own fishing rods so I can specifically make rods for certain jobs. I have about 70 different rods that are all matching.”

Randy also makes custom fly, spinning, trolling and casting rods for various clients when not fishing. Depending on the size, style and extra touches the client wants, Towe’s Signature Series Handmade Rods sell from $300 for backcountry rods

Randy Towe wraps one of his custom fishing rods.

to $1,400 for big offshore rods.

“I make all types of rods for freshwater and saltwater applications—everything from fly rods to heavy offshore trolling rods,” Randy says. “I build exactly what the customer wants. I make anything that customers want, how they want it to feel and exactly what they want to do with it.”

When someone orders custom rods, Randy first quizzes the customer. He asks the person what type of rod he wants, and what he plans to do with it.

Randy also asks the customer how he wants it to look. Some people prefer specific colors to match their boat, company logo or their favorite sports team.

“Some people like a lot of designs and bling,” Randy says. “Some people are more interested in the function, feel and action of a rod. I build a lot of rods in specialized lengths and actions for specific things customers want. Some people don’t know what they want, so I make a generic rod for them.”

Attention, Golfers!

When Randy and the customer work out the details, Randy selects a blank— simply a length of fiberglass or graphite.

Graphite offers anglers more sensitivity to tempt finicky backwater fish, but can break more easily. Generally stronger and heavier, fiberglass works better for trolling and bottom fishing.

From that single piece, Randy designs the rod. He cuts the blank to the proper length and adds guides, reel seats, grips and other components.

“Most people like cork grips, but cork is getting difficult to find and very expensive,” Randy says. “If I’m using cork for grips, I start with cork rings and custom shape them on a lathe. I don’t use pre-formed cork. Once I attach the grips and the reel seat, I put the tip on it and space out the guides. I locate where the rod bends and where the guides should go. Once I determine where the guides should go, I tape them on and wrap them. Once I do the wrapping, it goes to a finishing process where I apply three coats of clear epoxy.”

One rod might take about four manhours to build, but that may be spread throughout several days or even a few weeks. Some steps, such as applying epoxy, require drying time.

Since Randy guides about 260 days a year, he must work on rods when not fishing, making appearances at sporting shows or doing other things guides must do to stay in business.

Randy often has several rods in process. One time, he may cut blanks to size. Another time, he may apply guides or handles to 20 or more rods. The next time, he may apply epoxy to some rods and wrap others while those rods dry.

“I try to do the same thing on several rods at once,” he says. “I don’t just take one rod and build it from start to finish.”

His average wait time is four weeks.

“People can buy many factory production rods that look good, but don’t function even close to what a good custom rod can do,” Randy says. n For more information or to book trips, call Randy at (305) 394-2667 or see www.captrandytowe.com.

We are looking for your photos and stories identifying what you consider to be the best golf hole in the state of Florida. If your submission is published in an upcoming article in Florida Currents, you will earn $25.

Your favorite golf hole can be the most challenging, most unique, most fun, prettiest, longest, shortest or most crooked—something that sets it apart from all others.

Tell us, in detail, why that hole is your favorite. Include the name of the golf course, location (town), hole number, yardage, par count and— most importantly—why it is the best.

Share your personal experience.

All submissions must include a photo at the hole. You get extra points—and increase the likelihood of being selected for publication—if you include you or your friends in the picture. Be sure to identify everyone, including the photographer. Also make sure your photo is high resolution—at least 1 megabyte in size.

Email it to info@floridacurrents.com.

Please include the words Best Golf Holes in Florida in the subject line.

Submissions must be received

by March 9, 2015. Only published submissions earn $25.

Photo courtesy of VISITFLORIDA.com

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Picturesque Lake Placid Murals salute town’s history in larger-thanlife form

By Marcy Chapman

A herd of mooing cattle charge forward. The air is alive with sounds of “Yahoo, c’mon boys,” and thundering hooves rush past. The ground is pounded. Whips snap and crack. Droves of cattle are on the move.

The site of all this activity is a giant, soundenhanced mural, 175 feet long by 30 feet high, in Lake Placid.

The massive artwork, “Cracker Trail Cattle Drive,” is floodlit by the sun on the side of a supermarket.

Forty-six of these splendid outdoor murals span more than 30,000 square feet in this arty central Florida town, recognized as the Caladium Capital of the World. As visitors turn nearly every corner, they encounter not only a plethora of the flowering plants, but another artistic conversation piece catches their eye.

Lake Placid’s mural project has revived the town’s economy and added to its charm, putting it on the map. After a nationwide search, Reader’s Digest recognized the town’s distinctiveness in 2013, voting Lake Placid “America’s Most Interesting Town.”

Remarkably, the first brushstroke of this creative undertaking began in Pennsylvania when Harriet and Bob Porter were introduced to each other by a friend while riding on a train. This lucky encounter

A portion of the “Cracker Trail Cattle Drive” mural Keith Goodson produced on the Winn-Dixie supermarket wall in Lake Placid. Cracker Trail drives traveled north of Lake Placid on what is now Route 98. Registered brands on the cattle all belong to Highlands County cattlemen.

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60 years ago resulted in a venture that initiated the awakening of a sleepy town.

The Porters, now married 58 years, have since journeyed many miles together. But as newlyweds, their traveling was limited and always involved a fishing trip.

Years later, wishing to offer his wife a vacation other than fishing, Bob said to Harriet, “This time I will take you anywhere you choose.”

Harriet chose Florida’s Sea World. During that trip, Bob decided he would come back to Florida and buy a place.

They did return. While visiting in Fort Myers in 1982, a forecasted storm forced a quick evacuation.

The Porters scrambled inland to safety. They drove until they reached Lake Placid, the first inhabitable place they encountered, and stopped.

“It was serendipity,” Harriet says. “The trip resulted in our buying a small home in Lake Placid and staying in it only one night. And then we left and didn’t see it again for another year.”

From 1982 until 1992, the now-retired Porters enjoyed touring the country by motorcycle, from Key West to Canada. Riding through Vancouver Island, British Columbia, they happened upon Chemainus, known as “The Little Town That Did.” They learned it had been brought back from financial disaster by its murals.

As they left, Bob announced to Harriet, “We’re going to paint murals in our town.”

More than 20 years ago, Harriet and Bob founded the Lake Placid Mural Society. Although they do not paint the murals, they inspired the ongoing effort.

“At that time, Lake Placid harbored about 15 derelict stores, walls covered with black mold and mildew,” recounts Harriet, president of the mural society.

After murals started appearing, a few business owners jumped on the bandwagon and began improving their property. This fueled more murals and the creation of businesses that now reap great rewards for the town, especially during tourist season.

Restaurants, motels, gas stations and shops stay busy.

Harriet hosts guided bus tours of the murals.

“The hour-and-a-half tour often spurs people to return to visit Lake Placid again and again,” she says.

“I frequently hear visitors comment that they learn something new every time they take the tour.

“When the bus tours first began, 45 to 55 people would come into town, and up to $1,500 would pour into the city in a matter of hours. As tourism has grown, we now see about 160 to 200 people a day in season. They come in droves. It is hard to keep count.”

Harriet and Bob also helped found the town’s 10,000-square-foot Caladium Arts and Crafts Cooperative, where visitors enjoy beautiful fine art, created mostly by area artists.

“The murals have had a very positive impact both on our community and our visitors,” says Eileen May, a member of the mural society board and executive director of the Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce. “People come into the chamber and frequently say, ‘I just fell in love with your town.’”

The mural society works hand in glove with the chamber. Its welcome center houses the society’s Mural Art Gallery, where artists’ initial renderings of the murals are displayed.

Ideas for new works come mostly from the mural society. A piece of history is often the subject. The crux of the idea and the size of the wall chosen for the project are given to a selected artist who, granted

free rein, determines the viewpoint and begins work on a black-and-white rendering. When approved, the artist submits a full-color painting created to scale.

Next, the project goes to the wall, becoming a largescale piece. Completion can take weeks to months.

New murals keep this an ongoing project, requiring the acquisition of funds to hire artists and buy supplies. Services of an artist range from $1,000 to $10,000. Maintenance of the works—buying paint and repainting—costs $4,000 to $6,000 per mural.

Initially, the mural society did typical fundraising events such as garage sales and dinners. Now, murals have sponsors that include families coming together to front a project. Hospitals, corporations and the society itself sponsor murals.

Support also comes from sales of self-guided tour books available in 16 locations around town.

“They are the society’s bread and butter,” says Harriet.

In the beginning, a few artists donated their time to paint the murals. Today, the job is a desirable paid position, gaining artists referrals for other jobs.

Left, Bob and Harriet Porter founded the Lake Placid Mural Society more than 20 years ago to revitalize the town. They are featured in a mural titled “Town of Murals: How It All Began,” which was done by Keith Goodson to honor the couple.

The mural also depicts Keith, who has done many of the murals, and other artists.

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Titled “Ink Spot,” this mural by Chad Hickey features the Lake Placid Journal, the hometown newspaper. The Dalmation puppies are tearing the first paper published by longtime owners Lamonte and Emmalene Moore.

Highland County lakes offer unsurpassed bass fishing, captured in this mural by Keith Goodson. It won first place in the prestigious national competition for billboards and murals sponsored by Air Brush magazine. The bass appears to leap out of the wall.

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“Artists like to paint in Lake Captain Theodore Webb was one of the first caladium growers in the 1930s. He owned the first and only service station between Sebring and West Palm Beach and sponsored the Placid because they never Golden Gloves Boxing Club, known as the Thursday Night Fights. His Studebaker was one of know where this exposure the first cars in town. This mural by Richard Currier was completed in 1999. will lead them,” Harriet says. murals. He has a gallery in Lake Placid, where he “Sometimes, in tourist season, paints, sells his art and teaches classes. there will be 60 people watching them paint.”

In January 2014, Keith completed a mural titled Thus far, 26 artists have participated, some from “Town of Murals: How It All Began” to honor Bob as far away as Oregon and British Columbia. and Harriet. It is designed to represent all the murals “Exposure for the artists has resulted in their and artists, past and future, with an unfinished porartwork being shown as far away as the Czech tion reflective of future murals.

Republic, Scotland and New Zealand, and it often As the ideas for more murals come to light, the ends up in publications,” Harriet says. “Professionals project will keep growing—and so will picturesque come to write about the murals for magazines, and Lake Placid. videos have been put together that are seen all over “Even the small projects—like the murals on trash the Internet.” containers—stir interest and bring people to look To augment the grand pieces, 17 smaller murals around town,” says Bob. “The more variety of art have been painted on trash containers and placed as you can get up and out spurs merchants to get more companion pieces to the large wall murals. artistic with stores, and the more murals there are, Keith Goodson, a renowned artist from the more people talk.” n Auburndale, Florida, has painted many of the

Muralist Takes on the Wall in Lake Placid When he was 16 years old, Keith Goodson chose not to play football or take up typical teen pursuits. Instead, he retreated to his studio to paint.

“I am just a kid in a grown-up body,” Keith says. “I knew I had some kind of gift early on. I was always known as the artist. This was solidifying to me growing up. I knew what I was going to do, who I was and that I had been given a gift that needed to be perfected.”

The self-taught artist had his first art show at the age of 18.

“I learn and get inspiration from the techniques of other artists,” Keith says. “I glean from the past, starting with the art from the 15th century right up to today.”

At 20, he started working for a movie studio near Lakeland, Florida, painting murals and backdrops.

Getting wind of a town called Lake Placid that had two outdoor wall murals and planned more, Keith decided he wanted to paint the third one.

Bob and Harriet Porter—founder of the town’s mural society—reviewed his portfolio and hired him to paint the mural titled “Bassin’.”

“Everyone was so excited about my mural that I entered it into a national competition and won first place,” Keith says.

The man now known as the Lake Placid mural artist is responsible for 14 of the 46 murals gracing the town.

Following his early success, Keith and his wife moved to Lake Placid, and he started to work on more murals.

“I was a young guy trying to take on the wall when I began the 175-feet-wide Cracker Trail Cattle Drive mural,” Keith says with a laugh. “I just picked up a brush and started painting on that large wall with no grid or transfer. I was lucky I had enough wall at the end.”

It took him five-and-a-half months of grueling work to complete the job, climbing up and down the seven tiers of scaffolding that soared 30 feet high.

Today, Keith approaches each new creation more methodically. He uses sidewalk chalk to make a centering grid

Keith Goodson paints a Florida panther as part of a mural celebrating the diversity of Lake Placid.

and cross sections to transfer his original design to the wall. He tries to paint in the lines without delay in case it rains.

“You need to lock in the lines fast,” he explains. “If rain sneaks up on you, you have to start again.”

Keith is responsible for much of the restoration and maintenance the massive artworks require, and he creates new pieces.

“The type of paint muralists use has evolved over the years as a result of new, improved chemistry,” says Keith.

“Currently, murals are painted with theme paint—the same as theme parks use. It is a heavy acrylic emulsion and very durable. Final heavy coats of a vinyl sealer provide a second layer of UV protection. This is the key to longevity.”

The designs for Keith’s murals result from his gift for creation. After focusing

on a particular subject and doing some research, he retreats to assimilate it.

“I go off and relax and let the information digest in my mind,” he says. “Then I get that spark of creativity and go into the studio and put it all in sketch form. At that point, it goes to Harriet and Bob Porter and the Mural Society board for approval.”

In addition to viewing and having the opportunity to buy Keith’s art at his new gallery, visitors can watch him paint and take classes from him.

“The fulfilling work I have done in Lake Placid has really helped move my art career forward,” Keith says. “An artist doesn’t have to speak as much as his portfolio does. My endeavors here have enabled me to grow.”

For more information about Keith Goodson and his work, visit www.keithgoodson.com.

F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 5

15

In the Kitchen

Recipes That Satisfy

Peanuts: An American Staple “Affordable, nutritious and delicious, peanut butter is a staple found in most American homes,” says Leslie Wagner, executive director of Southern Peanut Growers. “While some parts of the country prefer their foods hot and spicy, others prefer savory or sweet.

“But no matter where you go, families love making peanuts or peanut butter a key ingredient in their favorite recipes.”

Pennsylvania PB&C Bars Crust 1 cup butter, melted 2 cups peanut butter 3/4 cup brown sugar 21/4 cups granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 5 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped

Topping 11/2 tubs chocolate frosting 1 cup peanut butter, melted 1 cup salted peanuts, chopped

Heat oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, combine butter, peanut butter, sugars, salt, eggs and vanilla; mix well. Add flour and baking powder; mix thoroughly.

Spread on a 10-by-15-by-2-inch ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.

Spread frosting over crust. Drizzle melted peanut butter over chocolate.

Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of peanut butter and chocolate. Let set until topping is firm. Refrigerate cookie sheet to accelerate firming process, if desired.

Cut into bars.

Makes 12 bars

Courtesy of www.peanutbutterlovers.com

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Peanut butter and chocolate come together for a rich and tasty treat.

Carolina Dreaming Appetizer Meatballs 1/2 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup fig preserves 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced or grated 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground 1/4 teaspoon red pepper, ground 11/4 pounds ground turkey

4 green onions, finely chopped (including green tops) 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped 1 large egg 1 teaspoon salt Diced green onion tops or chopped parsley (optional)

Heat oven to 425 F. Whisk together the peanut butter, preserves, Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice until well blended.

Add the ginger, black pepper and red pepper; mix well.

Place approximately half of the peanut

Fun Peanut Facts It takes about 540 peanuts to make a 12-ounce jar of peanut butter.

XX There are enough peanuts in one acre to make 30,000 peanut butter sandwiches.

XX

butter mixture into a mixing bowl. Add the turkey, onions, parsley, egg and salt to the bowl. Mix lightly but thoroughly.

Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place 1 inch apart on a lightly greased rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven.

Brush the tops of the meatballs with the remaining peanut butter mixture. Return the pan to the oven, and bake for 5 to 8 minutes or until nicely browned. Remove from the oven. Arrange on a serving plate, and sprinkle with diced green onion tops or parsley.

Makes 24 meatballs

Courtesy of www.peanutbutterlovers.com

Nutty Jalape単o-Chicken Stuffed Peppers 12 large jalape単o peppers, partially split open and seeded 1/2 cup peanut butter 1 cup chicken, cooked and shredded 3 ounces bacon pieces, cooked 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 cup cornflakes, crushed

Heat oven to 350 F. Place the peppers in a medium bowl. Cover with boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and pat dry.

In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, chicken, bacon and cheese.

Fill each jalape単o with the mixture.

Smear each pepper with mayonnaise, and roll in the cornflakes. Place peppers on a nonstick baking sheet. Bake until golden, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Enjoy the rich and creamy taste of peanut butter in a variety of recipes, including appetizer meatballs, above, and chicken-stuffed jalape単o peppers, top.

Makes 12 peppers

1 pound ground turkey 2 cups coconut curry broth 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 cup no-salt crunchy peanut butter 2 cups black beans without salt, cooked

Courtesy of www.peanutbutterlovers.com

In a large Dutch oven, brown the turkey

Pacific Rim Chili

until the meat turns white. Add the coconut curry broth, red pepper, black pepper and peanut butter. Simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chili thickens. Add the cooked beans and heat through.

Garnish each bowl with a spoon of low-fat coconut milk, if desired.

Serves 4

Courtesy of National Peanut Board f e b r ua r y 2 0 1 5

17

The Great Picture Hunt

Photo Tips from David LaBelle

Critiquing Photographs

Dog lovers like dog photos of all kinds. However, it’s important to draw a distinction between likable photos and good photos. The two are not necessarily the same. What makes this photo stand out is the story it tells and its compelling composition. It also doesn’t hurt that it has a cute puppy as its central subject.

What you like and what is ‘good’ can be very different I still remember an editor pointing to a picture on her wall and pronouncing, “That is a good photo.” I took exception to her proclamation.

“Good” is an interesting word. It involves educated judgment and discernment, especially by those who know the subject.

I would not be a good judge of fashion or architecture because I know nothing about either subject.

I know what I like, but my wife is the first to point out my clothing choices are anything but good. However, I have found that when it comes to photography, everyone thinks they are an expert.

Many people get excited when they see subject matter in a photo they like and exclaim, “Now that is a great picture.”

For some, any picture with a cat in it is a good picture.

For others, it might be a sports star or a pretty woman.

It doesn’t matter that a

Photo by David LaBelle

picture is out of focus, as long as it contains a subject dear to their heart.

While I try to avoid words such as bad or ugly, I must confess when it comes to a herd of people scattered haphazardly in a frame, with faces the size of pinheads, I can say the photograph is truly bad and ineffective.

Ah, yes, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

What I advocate when judging anything—particularly photography—is to differentiate between what we like and what is truly good.

Sometimes the two are one and the same. Sometimes they are not.

A photograph—just like a

David LaBelle is an internationally known photographer, teacher, author and lecturer. He has worked for newspapers and magazines across the United States and taught at three universities. He grew up on a frog farm in rural California, roaming the creeks and hills with his coon dogs. Many of the lessons he learned during those magical boyhood years have been applied to photography and teaching the essence of this artform. For more information, visit www.greatpicturehunt.com.

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person—can lack certain qualities and still be good because it possesses compelling elements or evokes a mood.

To say a photograph is good or bad isn’t helpful.

What are the characteristics that contribute to its goodness or badness?

For me, a photograph has to have at least one star— one compelling element— to be interesting. What follows are stars I look for in photographs.

• A story. Photographs that tell stories grab and hold attention even if they lack some technical qualities. In my opinion, content—what is happening in the photograph—is king. Most readers forgive technical flaws if the story is good.

• Dramatic lighting. A picture can lack a story, yet still get my attention because of its dramatic lighting.

Sometimes light is the star.

• Compelling composition. Like a bad story told well by an engaging narrator,

some photographs are interesting because of the angle from which they are made or the way elements are arranged. Ideally, composition is the hallway that leads us to the subject, but sometimes the arrangement is so compelling it becomes the star.

• Stunning color.

Sometimes it is the rich colors in a photograph that draw us in and stir our imagination. I have seen photographs without a clear subject, where vibrant colors working either in harmony or opposition caught my curiosity and even moved me emotionally.

• Timing. Sometimes the moment, the timing of a photograph, is so unusual or surprising that we cannot help but look. Someone snaps a picture of a deer jumping over a car or fish leaping from the water. These photographs have a “wow” factor. People stop and study them, and shake their heads in disbelief at how the photographer happened to catch the moment. 

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Travel Journal

Satisfying the Appetite for Wanderlust

Perfect Pairings Made in Florida Who doesn’t think of chocolate as the perfect present for a sweetheart, spouse, friend or special family member for Valentine’s Day? Pair any kind of chocolate— dark, milk, white, Belgian, Italian, German—with fresh Florida strawberries and you will make a sweet impression.

Floridians are blessed with a mild climate throughout the winter, making it the ideal location for fresh produce.

The folks in Plant City in the southcentral part of the state have earned the title, “The Winter Strawberry Capital of the World,” because from December through the end of March, certified growers are picking and shipping juicy ripe berries worldwide.

“Florida is the No. 2 strawberry producer in the U.S. behind California,” says Glenda McNary, communications and member services manager with the Florida Strawberry Growers Association (www. flastrawberry.com).

While there are few youpick farms in the state, growers often share their harvest at local roadside stands—a perfect place to find a freshto-you romantic treat this Valentine’s Day.

About That Chocolate!

Peterbrooke Chocolatier (www.peterbrooke.com) has more than 20 locations in Florida, including several in its hometown of Jacksonville.

Phyllis Lockwood Geiger opened her first store in the San Marco area in 1983 and introduced a new product: chocolate-covered popcorn.

It was a hit that launched the brand and is still the most popular seller today.

Most stores are in Northeast Florida, but Peterbrooke also is in Tallahassee, Ocala, Orlando and South Florida, too.

Next month, a 24,000square-foot factory opens on the west side of Jacksonville.

Fabulous Fudge Headquartered in Michigan, Kilwin’s (www.kilwins.com) is known for its fudge. With 33 locations across Florida, a trip can be easy. Each store makes fudge, nut candies and other treats daily on the premises.

Chocolate Novelties For specially crafted treats, plan a trip to New Port Richie, north of Clearwater and St. Petersburg, to check out Chocolates by Michelle (www. chocolatesbymichelle.com).

Florida native Pamela Keene is a freelance journalist who specializes in travel, gardening, personality profiles and feature writing. A certified sailing instructor, in her spare time she races her Morgan 25 sailboat. Her website is www.pamelakeene.com.

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Photo courtesy of Florida Strawberry Growers Association

Owner Michelle Palisi hand makes many of the chocolate novelties, including turtles, chocolate-covered cherries and her most popular item, cinnamon caramel popcorn.

With advance notice, she teaches classes in chocolate making. The store also sells supplies, molds and the actual chocolate so you can concoct your own specialized chocolate goodies all year long.

A Top Pick for Breakfast For some good eats, check out Sarasota’s Toasted Mango Café (www.toastedmangocafe.com) on North Tamiami Trail.

It recently was named the top diner in Florida for breakfast by www.msn.com.

Founded by two former waitresses, it serves breakfast and lunch seven days a week.

February’s Travel Tips This is the time of year to: • Start planning your summer vacation by surfing the Internet and checking out bargain travel deals.

• Renew—or apply for— your passport.

• Sign up for alerts from bargain travel websites, including www.airfarewatchdog.com.

For easier airport security clearance, US News and World Report Travel recommends you check out the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs; wear slip-on shoes to reduce your time in the security area; scout out the people ahead of you in line and avoid waiting behind parents with strollers or diaper bags; and wear a smile, which goes a long way to make the experience less stressful. 

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This Valentine’s Day, show your wife, mother, sister or friend you really care —

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Festival Roundup

Things to See and Do

January 28-February 1, Key West Key West Food and Wine Festival Top chefs and restaurateurs showcase their culinary creativity and the Keys’ indigenous cuisine. Attendees can participate in a slew of food-related adventurous events, brewing competitions and more. Visit website for all festival happenings.

February 7, Islamorada Layton Garden Club’s Annual Flea Market Enjoy a pancake breakfast, then browse and buy island treasures, baked goods, crafts and art from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at MM 68.5. Layton Garden Club raises monies for Keys-based charities.

www.keywestfoodandwinefestival.com; (800) 474-4319; (305) 304-5218

February 7, Pensacola Pensacola Double Bridge Run The 15K at 7 a.m. takes runners across Pensacola Bay and Santa Rosa Sound. The 5K at 8:30 a.m. is open to runners and walkers.

February 2-3, Middle and Upper Keys Florida Keys Concert Association The Alexander String Quartet presents chamber music on Monday at the Marathon High School Performing Arts Center and Tuesday at Island Community Church, MM 83.3, Islamorada. Doors open at 7 p.m. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. www.floridakeysconcerts.com; (305) 451-0665; (305) 240-0061

February 5, Pensacola Glenn Miller Orchestra Come hear the jazz and big-band sounds of the world-famous group from 7 to 9 p.m. at the National Naval Aviation Museum. Tickets are $30. www.navalaviationmuseum.org; (850) 453-2389

February 6-8, Key West 29th Annual Civil War Heritage Days Festival Civil War re-enactments, the roar of cannon fire and the sight of soldiers in uniform greet visitors at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The event features a sea/land battle with schooners, period demonstrations, campsite tours, a blockade runners’ trial, a memorial service in Clinton Square and a parade down Duval Street. www.floridastateparks.org; (305) 292-6850

February 6-8, Hollywood 44th Annual Tribal Fair Features include live music, Native American dancing, a drum circle, wildlife show, Seminole clothing contest, fine arts and crafts. www.semtribe.com; (866) 625-5374

February 7, Perdido Key Pirates Flotilla Boat Parade The Pirates of Lost Treasures annual Pirate Flotilla Parade invades the Intracoastal Waterway.

Journey with the armada as it sets sail from Holiday Harbor Marina through the Intracoastal Waterway, ending at the Flora-Bama Lounge. www.visitperdido.com; (850) 492-4660

February 7, Tavernier Coral Isles Church Winter Festival From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the church, MM90, enjoy live music, great food, activities for kids and a spa for dogs. Shop at a huge yard sale, buy goods from local vendors and artists, and shop for merchandise donated by area businesses.

Admission is free.

(305) 393-0214

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(305) 849-0149

www.doublebridgerun.com; (850) 434-2800

How to Submit Events Want to include a family-friendly event in an upcoming listing? Please send details to info@floridacurrents. com. Include the date, town, times and a way for readers to get more information. Please submit the item at least 60 days before the event. If you own rights to a high-resolution photo promoting your event, attach it along with photo credit information.

February 7-8, Marathon 21st Annual Pigeon Key Art Festival The outdoor festival showcases the works of more than 80 artists and craftsmen, music and food from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Marathon Community Park, MM 49. Admission is $7.

February 13-21, Clewiston Hendry County Fair and Livestock Show A youth livestock program, pageant, exhibits, parade and midway rides are part of the fun.

www.pigeonkeyartfestival.com; (440) 477-7203

www.hendrycountyfair.com

February 9-10, Middle and Upper Keys Florida Keys Concert Association Pianist Michael Brown performs Monday at the Marathon High School Performing Arts Center and Tuesday at Island Community Church, MM 83.3, Islamorada. Doors open at 7 p.m. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m.

February 14, Bradenton Valentine’s Day Contests Mixon Fruit Farms hosts two contests beginning at 2 p.m. Adults compete to finish 20 Hershey’s Kisses the fastest. Kids 12 and younger race to eat a free orange swirl ice cream the fastest.

www.floridakeysconcerts.com; (305) 451-0665; (305) 240-0061

February 13, Bradenton Big Band Valentine’s Show Ocean’s Eleven, an 11-piece jazz band, performs at Mixon Fruit Farms from 6 to 9 p.m. Soft drinks, food, beer and wine are available for purchase. www.mixon.com

February 13, Pensacola Annual Krewe of Lafitte Mardi Gras Parade Watch the only illuminated nighttime parade in Pensacola with marching bands and floats and great throws as the Krewe of Lafitte kicks off Pensacola Mardi Gras celebrations. The route begins at Spring and Garden streets at 8 p.m.

(850) 436-7638

February 13-14, Key West 55th Annual Key West House and Garden Tour Tour elegant and unique private homes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Transportation between homes is not included. Tickets are $30. Proceeds benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation. www.oirf.org; (305) 294-9501

www.mixon.com

February 14, Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade Catch beads, doubloons and moonpies at this family-oriented parade in the historical downtown area. The parade starts at 2 p.m. from Spring and Garden streets. www.pensacolamardigras.com; (850) 436-7638

February 14-21, Wauchula 74th Annual Hardee County Fair It is all about the kids, with livestock exhibitions, pageants, arts and crafts competitions, a citrus program, midway rides and lots of food. www.hardeecountyfair.org

February 16-17, Middle and Upper Keys Florida Keys Concert Association An evening of opera highlights is presented Monday at the Marathon High School Performing Arts Center and Tuesday at Island Community Church, MM 83.3, Islamorada. Doors open at 7 p.m. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. www.floridakeysconcerts.com; (305) 451-0665; (305) 240-0061

February 13-15, Okeechobee 77th Annual Brighton Field Day A PRCA rodeo, Seminole clothing, arts and crafts, native dance troupe, wildlife shows and more are featured at the Fred Smith Rodeo Arena.

February 16-22, Big Pine Key 31st Annual Winter Star Party Some 600 astronomers from around the world gather to view southern constellations, comets and stars in the Lower Keys. Lectures, programs and workshops round out the event.

www.rezrodeo.com; (863) 467-6039

(352) 213-6308; registrars@scas.org

February 27-28, Sebring Highlands County Quilt Show Some 260-plus quilts and vendors are featured at the Highlands Today Center at the county fairgrounds, 781 Magnolia Ave. (863) 453-3585

February 28, Marathon Crane Point Street Fair Local arts and crafts, a presentation by the entrepreneurs of Keez Beez organic raw honey and more are part of the Crane Point Museum and Nature Center street fair from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Street artists create chalk masterpieces on Fourth Street as part of the two-day event Saturday, February 7, courtyard. Admission and Sunday, February 8, at Flagler Park in Okeechobee that showcases fine artists, craft artisans, food, is free. Entry to the museum and nature entertainment and a children’s art area. For more information, visit www.okeechobeemainstreet.org. trails is $12.50 for adults, $11 for seniors 65 and older, and February 19-22, Islamorada February 21-22, Key West $8.50 for children younger than 14. Reservations are recommended for the trolley tour, which is 20th Annual Miami Boat Show Poker Run 50th Annual Old Island Days Art Festival included in the museum admission price.

More than 100 teams embark on a four-day Oil paintings, watercolors, sculpture, (305) 743-3900 or (305) 743-9100; escape as leading powerboat manufacturers photography and other works by artists from www.cranepoint.net take their newest creations on display in the around the United States are featured at the Miami International Boat Show to the water. annual juried fine art show on lower Whitehead February 28, Islamorada and Caroline streets from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.flpowerboat.com; (954) 545-1414 Pops in the Park and Pet Parade www.keywestartcenter.com; (305) 294-1243 The Keys Community Concert band presents a February 20, Bradenton free concert at 4 p.m. at the ICE Amphitheater, February 27, Key Largo and Islamorada Mixon’s Health and Business Fair Founders Park, MM 87 bayside. Bring your furry Vendors offer hearing, eye, blood pressure, Private Edens Garden Walk friends and blankets; no chairs are provided. glucose and other screenings to keep you This self-guided tour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.keyscommunityconcertband.org; healthy and fit from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mixon showcases private tropical gardens. Stroll through (305) 853-7294 Fruit Farms. Event includes prize drawings.

Francis Tracy Garden Center, MM94, and listen to music, enjoy a plant sale and art show, and sip www.mixon.com February 28-March 1, Bradenton complimentary beverages. Tickets are $25.

Orange Blossom Festival www.gardenclubupperkeys.org; (305) 393-2976 February 21, Bradenton From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, visit Mixon Fruit A Taste of Mixon’s Farms to see the world-famous Wallenda highFebruary 27-28, Islamorada Use a special “passport” to sample all kinds of wire troupe, an antique car show, a kid zone, yummy treats, earning a stamp at each station Backcountry Fly Championship Series music, food, pony rides, bounce houses, bungee and a coupon for that item from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tournament anglers compete to catch the most jumping and more than 70 crafters.

The passport qualifies you for a drawing to win inches of snook and redfish. The field is limited www.mixon.com more than $350 in prizes. to 30 boats. www.mixon.com (305) 393-2156; captbackbone@gmail.com February 28-March 1, Islamorada Islamorada Winter Classic February 21-22, LaBelle February 27, Marathon A new, family-formatted boat tournament Swamp Cabbage Festival An Evening with Bobby Nesbitt features nine offshore target species. Trophies Celebrating Local Heroes is the theme of the The singer/pianist performs celebrated cabaret are awarded to the top boats in weight and event that features a parade, car show and other and great American standards at 8 p.m. at release categories, private vessel, charter and entertainment.

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F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 5

23

Outdoor Pursuits

Enjoying the Natural World Around Us

Florida is a Haven for Birdwatchers The key to birdwatching is knowing where to find them.

Fortunately, that is not hard to do here. Florida is flush with bird habitat.

Birds have three basic needs: food, water and cover.

All three are plentiful in undeveloped areas along Florida’s coasts, rivers and lakes.

Here are a few of the state’s most popular birding spots: • J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

This area of Sanibel Island is a year-round birding paradise.

Late winter and spring offer some of the best prospects.

• Dry Tortugas National Park. Located 70 miles west of Key West, it is accessible only by ferry or boat. It may be hard to get to, but it’s worth the effort, especially during the spring when thousands of brown noddies and sooty terns nest there.

• St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. The Panhandle doesn’t get as much press as other parts of the state, which makes it one of the best-kept secrets. St. Marks is a must-visit for birders, but there also are excellent

A good pair of binoculars, a spotting scope or a long camera lens allows birders to get a closeup view of their quarry, such as this great blue heron feeding in a marsh in South Florida.

Photo by Rob Hainer

birding opportunities along the Apalachicola, Blackwater and other rivers in the region.

• The Everglades. No list is complete without it. Not only is it a haven for birds, but visitors are likely to see lots of other wildlife as well.

Outdoor 101: Identifying Animal Tracks The ability to find, identify and follow animal tracks is a valuable outdoor skill. It’s also a lot of fun. Invest in a good field guide, such as “Animal Tracks” by Roger Tory Peterson, or download an app.

There are many to choose from, including MyNature Animal Tracks, $4.99 to $6.99,

Many of Curtis Condon’s fondest memories involve outdoor adventures with friends and family, whether fishing with old school buddies, backpacking in the mountains of the Northwest with his sons or bird watching along the Gulf Coast with his wife. He feels fortunate to have had the opportunity to write about the outdoors and other subjects for more than 30 years.

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and iTrack Wildlife, $14.99.

Did You Know?

• Most fish are camouflaged. They tend to be darker on top, gradually lighter on the sides and lightest on their bellies. This makes them less visible to predators above and below them.

• Bass have fixed irises and no eyelids. The amount of light reaching the retina is regulated by pigment in the eye that shades the photosensitive cells.

• Catfish have a keen sense of smell, which is why anglers use bait with strong odors to attract this tasty fish. 

Florida Currents reader Michael MacEachran caught this 22½-inch yellowtail snapper near Marathon in mid-December. Not a bad catch, considering most of this fish species do not exceed 16 inches long.

Photo submitted by Virginia MacEachran

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

A Revolution in Operations

Investing in a Smarter Grid Denotes co-op/PPD areas receiving federal stimulus funding for smart grid projects.

Advances in digital technology are making the nation’s electric grid faster, better, smarter You might not notice when you plug in your toaster or your iron, but the nation’s electric grid is undergoing a digital revolution. Advances in technology are transforming how electricity is made and moved. In time, these changes will greatly improve the efficiency and reliability of electric power.

Rural electric cooperatives have helped lay the groundwork for this transformation with a $68 million smart-grid research project funded in part by the U.S. Department of Energy. A group of 23 co-ops in 12 states deployed an array of new technologies and installed more than 270,000 pieces of equipment. Four years later, electric cooperatives have a better understanding of how to move forward and modernize the electric system.

Despite their relatively small size, electric co-ops are adopting these new technologies at a faster rate than larger utilities in part because they stand to gain more. Co-op service territories cover 75 percent of the nation’s land mass, serving some of the most rugged and remote regions. New automation software can minimize these challenges by enabling the utility to manage parts of the system remotely, saving the co-op—and members—money.

Here are some of the benefits these upgrades offer member-consumers: • Reliability. New digital meters can send information about outages back to the co-op’s operations center. Armed with this information, linemen will not have to spend nearly as much time looking for the cause of an outage, and restoration times will decrease. In addition, new smart feeder switching can enable co-ops to reroute power during certain outages, minimizing the number of members who lose power.

• Efficiency. Digital meters can provide consumers with data about their energy use. Consumers have discovered broken appliances, safety hazards and other problems using data supplied by their meter. More frequently, the data gives consumers a better idea of how they use electricity—and how they can lower their bills.

Digital meters can send electric-use data to the co-op, eliminating the need for meter reading, which saves money. In the case of co-ops that estimate use or have their members report their own use, digital meters will improve consistency and accuracy in billing. New technologies also can help the co-op reduce the amount of electricity lost in transmission.

In the longer term, smart-grid technology will change how we use electricity. Armed with more information, consumers will have more control.

They will be able to generate and store their own electricity, and use that electricity more efficiently. In the future, when you use your phone to see if you remembered to turn off your iron, remember that your electric co-op helped bring about the revolution that made that feat possible. 

$600 million in smart-grid investments Thanks to different partnerships among the federal government and electric cooperatives, public power districts and NRECA’s Cooperative Research Network, more than $600 million will be invested to deploy digital smart-grid technologies and improve service for co-op consumers in 28 states.

Source: NRECA, www.energy.gov/recovery

Smart Grid: Before and After “Smart grid” isn’t easily defined. It means many things to many people. Electric co-ops advocate smart-grid technology that benefits consumers by making electricity move more efficiently and affordably. Data exchange and two-way communications are key. = Information & Communication

Without “smarts,” the electric grid does a great job of getting electricity from a power plant to your home, although information is limited. Electric co-ops must get electricity-use data by manually reading meters. That information is then passed back to consumers in a monthly bill. All system upkeep is done manually, meaning co-op staff must travel to maintain all parts of the grid.

With smart-grid technology, information and communications are wide open.

You can monitor electric-use information from your home, and your co-op can do the same remotely. The grid itself can be monitored electronically, making outages easier to pinpoint and repair. Smart grid encompasses information exchange, automation, system visibility, control and, most importantly, the ability to save consumers money.

Source: National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Graphics by Funnelinc.com

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25

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Linemen Geared Up for Safety

By Abby Berry

Glades Electric Cooperative linemen Mike McDuffie, left, and Kyle Altman, in the bucket, wear personal protective equipment whenever they work near power lines.

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What dangles 40 feet in the air and works near dangerously high voltage? It’s not Superman. It is your electric co-op lineman. Linemen work in extreme conditions to provide safe, reliable electric service. It takes a lot of gear to keep them safe. Glades Electric Cooperative linemen are required to wear the following personal protective equipment when on the job.

• Fire-resistant clothing. While linemen do everything possible to prevent them, unexpected fires can happen. They typically occur with an arc flash—an explosion that results from a low-impedance connection to a ground phase in an electrical system. Fire-resistant clothing will self-extinguish, limiting injury due to burn.

• Insulated gloves. Linemen must wear insulated rubber gloves when working on any type of electrical line. These gloves provide protection against electrical shock and burn, and are tested at 30,000 volts. Protective gloves—usually made of leather—are worn over the insulated gloves to protect the rubber from punctures and cuts.

• Hard hat. No matter how tough or hardheaded our linemen are, they still need protection.

Insulated hard hats are worn at all times to protect them from blows and falling objects.

• Steel-toe boots. These heavy-duty boots are typically 16 inches high and designed with extra support in mind. The height of the boot shields linemen from gouges, and serrated heels provide a better grip when climbing poles. The steel toe provides sturdier support and protects from objects that could pierce the feet.

• Safety goggles. Linemen must wear protective goggles or glasses, whether working on electrical lines or clearing rights of way. This protects them from loose debris and other hazards.

These items make up the basic PPE. While working on electrical lines, linemen also may be required to wear equipment belts, tool pouches, safety straps and other types of equipment. A lineman’s gear usually weighs about 50 pounds. That is a lot of extra weight when working in hazardous conditions.

The next time you see a lineman, thank him for keeping the lights on. But more importantly, thank him for the hard—and often dangerous—work he does, day in and day out. n

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27

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Chalo Nitka Festival Upcoming The 67th annual festival and rodeo marks the end of the Glades Youth Livestock Show

The 67th annual Chalo Nitka Festival kicks off Saturday, March 7, at 10 a.m. with a parade from Riverside Drive along Avenue J. Festival grounds open on Tenth Street at 11 a.m.

Begun in 1949 as a celebration of Moore Haven’s newly tarred Main Street—now Avenue J—the first festival featured colorful floats and a parade of high school bands from LaBelle, Pahokee, Belle Glade and Moore Haven.

Christened the Chalo Nitka Festival—Seminole for Day of the Big Bass—the annual event features a fishing tournament saluting the black bass, beauty pageants culminating

The Unconquered Seminole leads the parade every year.

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in coronation of a queen, a parade, carnival rides, arts and crafts, food booths and special exhibits by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, including alligator wrestling, Native American clothing contests, and arts and crafts exhibits.

“The Chalo Nitka Festival is really the Glades County Fair,” said Glades County Economic Development Council executive director Tracy Whirls. “Like fairs in small towns across America, it features homemade food and arts and crafts, carnival rides and beauty queens, but with a special twist, celebrating Glades County’s traditional friendship with the Seminole Tribe of Florida.”

The early days of the festival coincided with the beginning of the Seminole Tribe’s efforts to promote tourism.

“Before the casinos, when the tribe was just beginning its ranching operations, tourists who saw Seminoles capture alligators for their meat and skins thought the Indians were wrestling the gators and often paid to watch them do it,” Tracy said. “Soon the Seminoles were wrestling alligators and selling their beautiful patchwork clothing, dolls and specialties like fry bread at roadside attractions throughout the state.”

Residents of the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation in northern Glades County soon became an integral part of the annual festival. Their involvement continues today.

While many think of it as the annual event held the first Saturday in March, the festival actually is the culmination of a weeklong series centering on the Glades Youth Livestock Show and Sale, which begins Monday, March 2, with the PeeWee and Dairy Shows and ends Thursday, March 5, with the Pee Wee Parade and Livestock Auction.

Founded in 1969, the Glades Youth Livestock Association was formed to give the youth of Glades County an opportunity to raise and show farm animals and the community a place to host the annual show and sale and the rodeo that follows.

“Only in Moore Haven are you likely to see the Chalo Nitka queen cleaning her steer’s stall in the show barn or trading her tiara for a cowboy hat to compete in the barrel races once the show is over,” Tracy said, adding that among the other popular annual events are the Kissthe-Pig contest during the Youth Livestock sale, in which local politicians and other celebrities bid for the right to make an opponent kiss

James Holt of the Seminole Tribe of Florida takes charge during an alligator show at a previous festival.

and believing that you can outrun a wild cow.”

the pig to raise funds for the Moore Haven High School Scholarship Foundation or Project Graduation.

Frontier Days Rodeo The Chalo Nitka Festival and Ranch Rodeo kicks off at 7 p.m. Friday, March 6, and

continues at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 7, with bull riding, barrel racing and the wild cow milkin’ contest. Kids 10 and younger can enter the calf scramble. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids 6 to 12 and free for those 5 and younger with paid adult admission.

“Wild animal events prove to be the most popular, not just from a crowd-pleasing standpoint, but from the perspective of local cowboys and cowgirls,” Tracy said. “Skills involved include hanging on for dear life even after common sense tells you to let go,

Pancakes and a Parade The festival on March 7 traditionally begins with a pancake breakfast from 7:30 to 10 a.m. sponsored by Project Graduation at Moore Haven Elementary School.

Parade entries line up on Riverside Drive at 10 a.m. and wind up on Avenue J, ending near the festival grounds.

Glades County elected officials, dignitaries representing the Seminole Tribe of Florida, royalty from area festivals, including the Chalo Nitka Queen and her court, participate in a range of conveyances, ranging from convertibles to swamp buggies, horses to ATVs, golf carts to boats.

Craft and food booths open at 11 a.m. on the festival grounds, with opening ceremonies at 11:30 a.m.

A variety of live entertainment—from alligator wrestling to clogging—are scheduled throughout the day. 

55th Annual Chalo Nitka Big Bass Tournament February 28 at Alvin Ward Park Purported to be the oldest fishing tournament in Florida, according to Florida Sportsman magazine, the Chalo Nitka Big Bass Tournament hearkens back to the days before catch-andrelease rules were established, when strings of bass an arm length’s across were displayed during the Chalo Nitka Festival and live bait was not a dirty word among professional anglers.

The tournament starts from safelight until 1 p.m. Saturday, February 28, at Alvin Ward Park in Moore Haven. The entry fee is $25 a person. There is no age limit, but each person on the boat must pay the entry fee. Cash pay-outs are guaranteed: $1,000 for first, $500 for second, $300 for third, down to $50 for seventh.

There is a mystery gift for lucky 13th place. The angler weighing in the biggest bass and wearing a 2015 Chalo Nitka T-shirt will win an extra $100. A critter division is sponsored by Ahern’s Shell, giving the angler who brings in the largest mudfish, garr or catfish a chance to win $100.

Money received from entry fees is used for prizes, polygraph testing and a donation to projects for the youth of Glades County. Entry forms are available at the EDC office (the old Chamber building), 998 U.S. Highway 27 South, Moore Haven, or online at www.chalonitka.com For more information, contact the EDC at (863) 946-0300.

F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 5

29

Parting Shot

Readers Share Their Special Photos

Educational Excursion

A mother sandhill crane takes her baby to a pond in Parrish, teaching the colt the lay of the land.

“The last four years a sandhill pair have been breeding on my property,” says Brian Edwards. “Anything with a reflective surface—vehicles, French doors, sliding doors—are not safe from attack from the highly protective adult male who sees his reflection and considers it a threat.”

Brian photographed mother and child exploring near his pond.

“Aside from my truck being scratched from end to end, you have to admire their parental skills,” Brian notes.

Photo by Brian Edwards, Parrish

Want to See Your Photo Printed?

Florida Currents pays $25 for interesting and humorous photos printed in the magazine. We are looking for images of kids in entertaining situations, animal antics, funny signs, heartwarming expressions ... something special that says “wow” or puts a smile on your face and includes a story.

Not all photos are suitable for this page. The image needs to be high resolution, at least 700KB in size. Smaller file sizes are too small for good reproduction, and will not be considered. The odds of your photo being selected improves if you elaborate in your submission so we understand the complete story behind the picture. Remember: Other people are sending in photos, too. What makes yours stand out?

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LIMIT 1 - Save 20% on any one item purchased at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon, gift cards, Inside Track Club membership, extended service plans or on any of the following: compressors, generators, tool storage or carts, welders, floor jacks, Towable Ride-On Trencher, Saw Mill (Item 61712/62366/67138), Predator Gas Power Items, open box items, in-store event or parking lot sale items. Not valid on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/21/15. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

LOT NO. 95275 60637/69486/61615 Item 95275 shown

SUPER COUPON

9" x 72" 2 PIECE STEEL LOADING RAMPS • 1000 lb. Capacity

SAVE $55

$

LOT NO. 44649 69591/69646 Item 44649 shown

44

99

REG. PRICE $99.99

LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last.

Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/21/15. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

• No Hassle Return Policy • Lifetime Warranty On All Hand Tools

$ 800-423-2567. Cannot Freight.com or by calling 30 days from original after our stores or Harbor LIMIT 5 - Good at discount or coupon or prior purchases last. Non-transferable. Original be used with other l receipt. Offer good while supplies coupon per customer per day. purchase with origina ted. Valid through 5/21/15. Limit one coupon must be presen

R !

PE ON SU UP SAVE $ 300 CO

NCH 12,000 LB. ELECTRICROWI L AND NT CO TE MO RE TH WI E BRAK89 AUTOMATIC0813 /618 LOT NO. 68142/61256/6

$2999999

Item 68142 shown

$

399

REG. PRICE $599.99

discount . Cannot be used with other s last. by calling 800-423-2567 supplie or HarborFreight.com or l purchase with original receipt. Offer good while er per day.

LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores ses after 30 days from originaValid through 5/21/15. Limit one coupon per custom purcha prior or coupon ted. or l coupon must be presen Non-transferable. Origina

• 550 Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com 800-423-2567

12/16/14 10:02 AM

OFFICES Open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday 26733 U.S. Hwy. 27 East/P.O. Box 519 Moore Haven, FL 33471 (863) 946-6200 Fax: (863) 946-2150 214 SR 70 West Lake Placid, FL 33852 (863) 531-5000 111 SW Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 467-5111

POWER INTERRUPTION NUMBER Moore Haven .............................(863) 946-6200 Phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends and holidays.

Please have your location or account number handy when you call.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES John “Jack” Coxe, President, District 8 Lake Josephine, (863) 655-3056 James “Jim” Aul, Vice President, District 7 Lorida, (863) 441-0441 Russell Henderson, Sec./Treas., District 3 Ortona and Palmdale, (863) 946-0865 Donnie Lundy, Trustee, District 1 Moore Haven, (863) 946-0402 Barney Goodman, Trustee, District 2 Hendry County, (863) 983-7324 Shannon Hall, Trustee, District 4 Lakeport and Brighton, (863) 946-3242 Ladd Bass, Trustee, District 5 Venus and Hicoria, (863) 441-2227 Lee Henderson, Trustee, District 6 Highlands Park, (863) 633-9281 Angela Hodges, Trustee, District 9 Okeechobee, (863) 801-3140 The next meeting of the Board will be at 9 a.m.

February 19 at the Moore Haven headquarters office. Any changes to this schedule will be posted in the lobby of all three district offices.

EXECUTIVE STAFF CEO Jeff Brewington CFO Jennifer Manning CTO Jesse Wallace Dir. of Business Development Paul McGehee Dir. of Employee Services Yvonne Bradley Dir. of Engineering Travis Turner Dir. of Member Services Margaret Ellerbee Dir. of Operations Tracy Vaughn

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CEO’s Message

An Incredible Milestone Wow: 70 years of service! What a milestone. A lot has changed at your cooperative during those years, and yet a lot remains the same.

We still operate in a very rural, mostly agricultural area with fewer than five members per mile of line. It is a beautiful part of the state that most on the coast and many tourists have no idea exists. This remoteness is precisely why big utilities would not provide electric service to our area 70 years ago: There was just not enough profit to be made with so few meters spinning.

It remains that way to this day.

Jeff Brewington We can thank the determined residents of the Glades from so many years ago for the privilege of the electric service we enjoy today. Those brave souls came together and started an operation that has grown to an electric facility valued at more than $100 million and serving small hunting camps to an enormous citrus plant along with the homes of 12,000 residents.

Just around the corner we celebrate the uniqueness of Glades Electric Cooperative with the occasion of its annual meeting—the gathering of members to hear the state of operations, elect future leaders, receive gifts, win prizes and, most importantly, enjoy the fellowship of a great and exceptional group of people.

It is hard for me to believe, but I have been a part of this history for 34 years now: first as an employee at United States Sugar Corporation for 19 years, keeping tabs on its capital credits within the cooperative, and for the past 15 years as a cooperative employee. Both careers have been gratifying, but I must say I have enjoyed serving you most.

I look forward to seeing you soon at the celebration of our cooperative’s 70th anniversary.