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Glades Electric Cooperative

O C TO B E R 2016

Hooked on Hope Lori Deaton—captain of Ladyfish Charters based out of Apollo Beach—founded Hooked on Hope with her sister, Mary Ostien, an oncology nurse. Through an annual fishing tournament, the organization helps women with breast cancer. Read more on page 10. PHOTO BY APRIL SPAULDING

Celebrating Our Cooperative Roots PAGE 4 Small Changes Net Big Savings PAGE 26 n

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

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Inside

October 2016 Vol. 5, No. 12

Politics, Presidents and Power 12

Learn the role presidents have played in making public power what it is today. Also In This Issue Side Roads 10 In the Kitchen 16 Great Picture Hunt 18

Travel Journal 20 Festival Roundup 22 Parting Shot 30

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

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Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Celebrating Our Cooperative Roots Our Guiding Principles We all have a code we use to understand right from wrong and to help us make decisions about how to act. The best of these rules, like the Ten Commandments or the Bill of Rights, have been preserved and passed down by previous generations. Unlike utilities that are owned by investors and run for profit, Glades Electric Cooperative is driven by a set of principles we inherited. These guideposts are the Seven Cooperative Principles: XX Voluntary and Open Membership. All who want to use our services and accept member responsibilities are welcome to join us. XX Democratic Member Control. Our cooperative is governed by a board of trustees elected by members, including you. This board supervises our CEO and works with him to ensure the cooperative is run for the benefit of all members. XX Member Economic Participation. All members share in the economic costs and benefits of GEC’s business decisions and plans for the future. XX Autonomy and Independence. Together, we control our own future. If we join with any other organizations, we maintain our own democratic decision-making processes. XX Education, Training and Information. We provide opportunities for education and training for employees and members. We strive to keep members informed about issues important to them and important to other electric cooperatives across the country. XX Cooperation Among Cooperatives. We work together with electric co-ops across Florida and the nation on issues where we have shared interests and common goals. XX Concern for Community. We strive to assist and care for the community in which we all live. We work to attract new jobs and employers to our service territory. Through programs such as Operation Round Up, we help those in need. These Seven Cooperative Principles separate us from for-profit utilities. They guide us daily in our mission to provide safe, affordable, reliable electricity to our members. n

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October is National Cooperative Month Being part of a cooperative means being part of something special. Along with 40,000 other cooperative businesses serving more than 120 million people nationwide, Glades Electric Cooperative celebrates National Cooperative Month in October. “This year’s theme (Cooperatives Build) is excellent because there are so many ways that cooperatives help to build a stronger rural America,” says Paul McGehee, director of business development for GEC. “Our cooperative worked with economic development councils in our local community more than ever last year, helping to create the Glades County Training Center and bring in new business, like Love’s Travel Center.” Cooperatives Build Trust Most co-ops strive to adhere to seven key cooperative principles, which combine to help build trust between the co-op, its members and the community. The first principle, Voluntary and Open Membership, means our services are open to all people willing to accept the responsibility of membership. The second, Democratic Member Control, gives members a voice in the cooperative’s policies and decisions. Through the fifth principle, Education, Training and Information, we enable members to contribute to the development of our cooperative. Cooperatives Build Community The seventh cooperative principle is Concern for Community.

Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through employee involvement in local organizations, through charitable contributions to community efforts and through support for schools. Many GEC employees actively participate in Rotary clubs and help out the Miracle League for Highlands County. Cooperatives Build Jobs Cooperatives generate jobs in their communities, keep profits local and pay local taxes to help support community services. Cooperatives often take part in community improvement programs, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to benefit from the cooperative experience. Cooperatives Build a Better World For more than 70 years, GEC has worked to build a better world by doing more than just bringing electricity to your home. GEC has been dedicated to being a sustaining member of our community, helping businesses become established and grow, providing resources to teachers and students, working with legislators to ensure our members’ interests are met, and helping charitable causes that mean so much to our members and employees. Through a strong focus on our community, GEC plans to continue building our communities for years to come. n Visit www.coopmonth.coop for more information.

Why We Celebrate Cooperatives: We are Different By Adam Schwartz

Every October, cooperatives from all sectors of business across the country celebrate National Cooperative Month. The reason is to recognize the cooperative difference and remind you, the members, about Glades Electric Cooperative’s purpose. Occasionally, I have been somewhat cynical of the many days and months that are celebrated, but National Cooperative Month is truly an opportunity to celebrate. It informs others about our unique business model, which is based on the Seven Cooperative Principles: Voluntary and Open Membership; Democratic Member Control; Members’ Economic Participation; Autonomy and Independence; Education, Training and Information; Cooperation Among Cooperatives; and Concern for Community. For cooperative employees and members who are familiar with the principles, October is a great opportunity to renew our connection to each other and the purpose of our cooperative: to provide exceptional service.

In the U.S., more than 29,000 cooperatives serve in every industry. Cooperatives from different sectors join together during October to educate people in the community about cooperatives. There are more cooperatives in our community than most people realize. Mid-Florida Credit Union, Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida, Ace Hardware, Florida Farm Bureau and Associated Press are just a few. Cooperatives are even represented on the shelves at our local grocery stores through Land O’Lakes, Welch’s, Organic Valley, Cabot Cheese, Sunkist, Ocean Spray and many more. According to the latest data, more than 130 million people belong to a cooperative in the U.S. alone, and cooperatives employ more than 2 million Americans. This speaks to the heart of why we must take every opportunity to celebrate and teach others about the cooperative business model. Plan your own cooperative celebration by buying cooperative products, look to do business with cooperatives here in our local community and be an active member of Glades Electric Cooperative. n O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Sara Teele, who recently transferred from the operations center to the member services department, shares her ideas during Glades Electric Cooperative’s strategic planning retreat. Recognizing the value of the session, Sara and other employees came in on their day off to participate.

Building a Stronger Cooperative Employees, trustees and executive staff come together for strategic planning

As we celebrate National Cooperative Month in October, the board of trustees and executive staff at Glades Electric Cooperative are working hard on a longstanding tradition that annually takes steps to build a stronger cooperative for you, our members. They are organizing the ideas and comments made by a group of employees from 6

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all areas of the cooperative to create GEC’s strategic plan. This plan looks at the things we have struggled with and the things we do well, and builds off them to establish goals for the coming year. Every year all employees, executive staff and trustees are invited and encouraged to participate in our Strategic Planning Retreat at Lake Placid Camp and Conference Center. On August 26, 35 employees and trustees gathered to identify ways to continue building a better cooperative. Even though the employees see each other daily, the

retreat offers an opportunity to identify the priorities of the group and explore them from a variety of perspectives. The group broke into three subgroups of executive staff and trustees, supervisors, and employees so each group contained members of different departments—from member services to engineering to accounting. This year, much of the discussion focused on our continuing effort to ensure our employees, members and the community are kept safe while we provide reliable, affordable electric service. The group also discussed

the benefits of our automated metering infrastructure and the technological implementations GEC is making to ensure the system is used to its fullest potential. CEO Jeff Brewington commented on how small ideas can turn into lasting improvements at the cooperative, and said he looks forward to implementing the ideas generated at this year’s retreat in the coming year. Building a stronger cooperative is just one way the employees, executive staff and trustees at GEC work hard to be neighbors working for neighbors. n

The seven cooperative principles are something Glades Electric Cooperative does not take lightly. Each principle has a meaning to the cooperative, and we strive to meet those principles each and every day.

ÂŠRuralite Services 2016

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Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Operation Round Up Monthly Report Almost 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 September 1, your Charitable Trust Board of Directors has approved $960,873.15 in disbursements. These funds have provided assistance with food, emergency lodging, disaster relief and specific

emergency needs for 603 individuals and/or families and 133 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. n 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.

Take Your Giving to the Next Level Glades Electric Cooperative members may increase their charitable giving by participating in Operation Round Up Plus. By opting into this program, members may choose to add to their normal roundup amount, adding whatever amount they choose ($1 minimum). Individual donations also are accepted at any time. Stop by your local GEC office or call (863) 946-6200 to participate in Operation Round Up Plus.

Susan Watkins Celebrates 20 Years of Service to GEC Susan Watkins is the face and the voice to members calling and coming into Glades Electric Cooperative’s Moore Haven office. On August 16, she was recognized for 20 years of loyal, dedicated and unselfish service by CEO Jeff Brewington. Susan has worked in the Member Services Department throughout her tenure at GEC, including supervising the front desk and now as the call center supervisor. Her experience and extensive skills are a valuable asset to the cooperative. Megan Randolph Earns Loss Control Certification In August, CEO Jeff Brewington presented Safety Manager Megan Randolph with a certification she spent three years working to achieve. In her effort to become a certified loss control professional through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Megan traveled to the University of Wisconsin School of Business in Madison four times during the course of the program to participate in workshops and complete a 40-hour individual project focusing on fire protection in the workplace. Megan’s achievement helps GEC foster a safety culture to ensure our employees, members and the community are kept out of harm’s way as GEC continues to provide safe, reliable, affordable electric service. n 8

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Charitable Trust Board of Directors Jack Wilson District 1 Moore Haven Beverly Eaves District 2 Hendry County Kelly Brantley District 3 Ortona/Palmdale Dori Evans District 4 Lakeport Lori Thompson District 5 Venus/Hicora Lee Andrus District 6 Highlands Park Elsa Miller District 7 Lorida David McCadam District 8 Lake Josephine Paula Byars District 9 Okeechobee The Charitable Trust Board of Directors will meet at 1 p.m. October 20 in the Lake Placid office.

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Side Roads

Discoveries Off the Beaten Path

Hooked on Hope Charter fishing captain creates charity to help women with breast cancer By Pam Windsor

Postcards From Florida

Lynn Haven

ll Fuentes

loria Harve

Photo by G

This photo of a dragonfly was taken at a park in Lynn Haven. “Since I have been taking photos, I have a new apprecation for the simple things in life,” says Gloria Harvell Fuentes. “I love dragonflies. They come in so many colors and sizes and zip around everywhere.” 10

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Lori Deaton started fishing at a young age and soon discovered she had a real talent for the sport. As she got older, she began working on fishing charters and quickly moved into the position of first mate. It was not long before the boat captains she worked for began encouraging her to launch a charter fishing business of her own. “They said, ‘You’re beyond doing what you need to do for a first mate,’ ” she recalls. “‘You’re good enough to go out on your own and do this, and be successful at it.’ ” She took their advice. For the last 15 years, Lori has been at the helm of Ladyfish Charters in the Tampa Bay area. She has run a thriving charter fishing operation—quite an achievement for a woman in a male-dominated field. Business owner and friend Tom Bradley has been out with Lori several times. He describes her as one of his favorite guides. “She’s an awesome captain,” Tom says. “She’s hardworking and she fishes with live bait, so she’s out there at daylight catching bait before she picks up her clients. She’s enthusiastic, fun and makes sure everyone has a good time. “I’ve also been down to Boca Grande fishing tarpon with Lori and I’d put her up against any man down there.” Lori credits her success to her passion for fishing and her excitement at sharing it. “I still get super-excited when somebody reels in a big fish,” she says, “and I don’t take one minute for granted of being out there. I try to make an entire experience out of it, whether the fish are biting or not. There’s so much nature, so many different kinds of beautiful things around us to enjoy.” Grateful to be able to do what she

loves, Lori says she began looking for a way to give back. She supported area fishing tournaments that raised money for different charities in the past and decided to start one of her own. With her sister, Mary Ostien, an oncology nurse, Lori created Hooked on Hope Inc. to raise money to help women with breast cancer. Proceeds from the nonprofit organization benefit the University of South Florida Breast Health Program run by surgeon Dr. Charles E. Cox. The major fundraiser for Hooked on Hope is an inshore fishing tournament every October—which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month—at Marina Cove and the Magnuson Hotel in St. Petersburg. Contributions come from team entry fees, sponsorships and donations. The event starts with a Friday night kick-off reception that includes a silent auction, dinner, live entertainment, a celebrity guest speaker and a personal story from a breast cancer survivor. The next morning, Lori and 30 to 40 other captains have breakfast together before heading out with guests to fish for snook, trout and redfish in the catch-andrelease tourney. Thanks to an anonymous donor, 60 breast cancer fighters and survivors who prefer not to fish are treated to all-day pampering at the hotel. The tournament ends with everyone gathering for an awards ceremony. Ice Sports Forum, owned by Tom Bradley and his wife, DeDe, has sponsored the tourney since it began eight years ago.

A Batty Solution at UF

Lori Deaton has fished most of her life, and enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for the sport with others. Above, Lori nets a fish as guests Stephanie Poole, left, and Katie Brown celebrate. Right, Stephanie and Lori show off a redfish, a tasty light tackle sport fish. Opposite page, Lori at the helm of her vessel.

“The thing with Lori is she’s all in,” DeDe says. “Her heart’s really in it. I’ve seen the value over the years in what Lori and her team do for these women. I see where the money goes. It goes directly to help Dr. Cox and the USF Breast Health.” Hooked on Hope has raised more than $250,000 to buy equipment for the facility and help women with costs not covered by insurance. The organization also gives one-time grants to help patients in need. “The money from Hooked on Hope stays in the community and helps support women at the USF Breast Health Center,” says breast cancer survivor Elizabeth Diaz. “Whether it’s a grant or items like compression garments or bigger things that have come from Hooked on Hope, it all goes to help the patients.” Lori admits she is proud of what the group has been able to accomplish, but credits the volunteers who make up the grassroots organization as the ones who have done all of the “real” work.

“You should meet my committee,” Lori says. “These people, these volunteers, work so hard. I’m surrounded by brilliance and love.” She is happy to be in a position to help bring them together to help others. “Look at how blessed my life is,” Lori says. “I get to be on the water every single day. I’m surrounded by the beauty of nature every single day. I’m just so blessed and so glad for the opportunity to be able to give back.” n The annual inshore fishing tournament is the second weekend of October. This year’s event is October 7-8. For more information about the Hooked on Hope event or to make a donation, go to hookedonhope.org. For more information on Ladyfish Charters, visit ladyfishcharters.com.

When fire destroyed Johnson Hall in 1987, a colony of bats occupying the attic of the University of Florida building was left homeless and soon inhabited the concrete bleachers of James G. Pressly Stadium at the track and Scott Linder Tennis Stadium. The odor and stains from urine and guano and the bats’ close proximity to spectators were a nuisance, so the University Athletic Association decided to build a structure for them to live undisturbed and at a safe distance from humans. The Bat House was built in March 1991. In September 1991, several thousand bats were captured from the stadiums, transported and released in the Bat House. The following evening, the bats emerged and found other places to live. The Bat House sat vacant. But in 1995 the bats moved in permanently, and the colony continued to grow. In 2009, the internal structure of the house collapsed from the weight of the bats and the urine-soaked wood. It was rebuilt and the Bat Barn was added in 2010. About 300,000 bats occupy the two structures, consuming an estimated 2.5 billion insects nightly. That is more than 2,500 pounds. n

The University of Florida Bat Barn, left, and Bat House are on the north side of Museum Road across from Lake Alice on the UF campus. Bat photos courtesy of J. Scott Altenbach

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Ted Case, executive director of the Oregon Rural Electric Cooperative Association, spends much of his time roaming the halls of the state Capitol in Salem, trumpeting the electric cooperative message to state legislators. Photo by Mike Teegarden

Politics, Presidents and Power By Jennifer Brown

As the 2016 presidential candidates debate current issues facing the country, many rural Americans—whether they know it or not—owe the ease of access to electricity to a man who served in office more than 80 years ago. But Franklin D. Roosevelt was not the only president who played a large role in electrifying the country. Ted Case, executive director of the Oregon Rural Electric Cooperative Association, has spent the past three years sharing what he learned as he studied numerous presidents’ roles in making public power what it is today. Case began his research while working 12

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as a lobbyist for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association on Capitol Hill. “NRECA had a wonderful library in Arlington,” he says. “Iconic photos of leaders and presidents lined the walls. It started me thinking. I didn’t know a whole lot of the history and where the presidents fit into it. I realized there was not a real body of work on it.” His interest led him to presidential libraries around the country, where curators brought him boxes filled with letters and speeches—including original notes—from such presidents as Lyndon

B. Johnson and Harry Truman. “It was just fascinating what I found—things no one else had uncovered,” Case says. “Electric co-ops had more impact on the presidential campaigns than I imagined.” His work culminated in “Power Plays,” a 250-page book that explains how several U.S. presidents—from Roosevelt through George H. Bush—transformed rural electrification. “The book has struck a chord with people,” Case says. “People have come up to me and said, ‘I was there on Truman’s whistle-stop tour.’” A 52-year-old Klamath Falls, Oregon, native, Case has a bachelor’s degree in communications and political science from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington, and a master’s degree in fiction writing from Johns

Hopkins University in Maryland. “I’ve always been interested in the presidency, even as a kid,” he says. “In college, I started to think, ‘I want to be in D.C.’ I’ve been able to merge my professional life with an inherent interest in the U.S. presidency.” In 1985, Case’s interest led him to Washington, D.C., for Ronald Reagan’s second presidential inauguration. Due to bad weather, the outdoor proceedings were cancelled and moved indoors. Disappointed, Case was determined. “I called up and asked if I could get into the inauguration,” he says. “I was asked, ‘Are you a member of Congress? No? Then you’re not invited.’ ” “I didn’t get inside,” he says with a laugh. In 1986, Case became a staff member for Congressman Bob Smith during his bid for re-election. Smith’s Eastern Oregon territory covers 90,000 square miles and includes 10 electric cooperatives. Case’s position took him on another route to D.C. the following year. “NRECA approached me about a job lobbying issues such as the federal hydroelectric program,” he says. “It was a difficult decision to leave Capitol Hill because it’s an exciting place to work. I really toiled over it. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.” He spent 11 years in D.C. before returning to his home state. Since 2008, Case has been executive director of the Oregon Rural Electric Cooperative Association. He describes his work as “largely legislative,” and spends a lot of time at the state Capitol in Salem when the legislature is in session. Several times a year, he takes his work to Washington, D.C. Case says his work with politicians is an uphill climb. “My biggest challenge is convincing legislators and other leaders that electric cooperatives are locally controlled and don’t need mandates telling them how to do business,” Case says. “It’s also a challenge to convince a Portland-centric legislature that rural Oregon should have a voice, too.” Many urban Oregonians who do not

President John F. Kennedy looks on as National Rural Electric Cooperative Association General Manager Clyde T. Ellis signs the NRECA-U.S. Agency for International Development contract in the Oval Office on November 1, 1962, in the midst of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Photo courtesy of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

President Harry S. Truman, right, and Ellis chat at a breakfast at the Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C., where the former president spoke to members of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Photo courtesy of Harry S. Truman Library & Museum

Then-Vice President George H.W. Bush greets high school students visiting the nation’s capital in 1983 with the Washington Youth Tour. During the 1992 campaign, then-President Bush clashed with electric cooperatives over satellite television legislation. Photo courtesy of NRECA

get their electricity from the Bonneville Power Administration think they do, “which allows me to describe how different we are,” Case says. “We’re 95 percent

carbon free, but we don’t get a lot of credit for that contribution. Hydropower doesn’t get the respect it deserves.” Case is working on his next book project, “Poles, Wires and War,” which takes a close look at LBJ, electric cooperatives and Vietnam. Johnson strongly supported electric co-ops as he watched them transform his home state of Texas. He believed co-ops could do the same in Vietnam, and supported pilot projects to electrify the country. O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

Presidential Memorabilia Merges Politics, Collecting By Mike Teegarden

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt addresses a crowd in Barnesville, Georgia, in 1938. Photo courtesy of the National Archives

“People have no idea the extent that rural electrification played a role in the Vietnam War,” Case says. “Lyndon Johnson was convinced it was a key part of his campaign to win the South Vietnamese’s hearts and minds. He thought they could beat back communism. They tried, but with tragic results. The Viet Cong blew up dams and cut power lines. It’s not the same as Texas Hill Country.” Although Case’s interest in politics remains behind the scenes—he has no interest in running for office—several family members have served the public. His aunt, Mary Lou Reed, was a state senator in the Idaho Legislature. Her son, Bruce Reed, served as Joe Biden’s chief of staff and President Bill Clinton’s domestic policy adviser. Another relative, Bryant Williams, served as a Klamath County commissioner. Case’s concerns for the future of electric co-ops are forefront in his mind as the presidential election approaches. “How do we become relevant to the White House again?” he asks. “We have to get on their radar screen and ask, ‘What is your plan for reliable, affordable power?’” n For more information, go to tedcaseauthor.com.

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“I guess it was a little bit by osmosis,” he says. “I had an interest in politics and an interest in stamp collecting.” Steve Ferber has never met a U.S. presiThe two loves eventually merged. His dent, but he certainly knows a lot about them. He and his wife, Lori, have more first big attempt at cashing in happened than 10,000 presidential memorabilia when Steve was 19. It was 1973 and items in stock at their warehouse. Richard Nixon was about to be inauguTogether, they own Lori Ferber rated as president. Presidential Memorabilia. Steve hired an artist and had a porThe company bears Lori’s name trait card of Nixon designed. After havbecause “she works harder than I do,” ing 4,000 cards printed, he drove from his home in New York to Washington, Steve says. D.C., to have the cards postmarked. His The items they sell range in price intent was to capitalize on Nixon’s inaufrom 99 cents to more than $15,000. guration and sell the cards. “The more expensive items tend to While showing a lot of initiative, the be presidential autographs,” says Steve. idea was about as successful as Nixon’s He says he is often questioned about presidency. Steve still has plenty of why he carries such a wide price range those cards available today. of collectibles. Steve has refined his business model “Collecting is for everybody,” he says. in the past 40 years. Steve, 62, got his start collecting in “I used to sell at shows and exhibijunior high or high school. tions through the years,” he says. “I had He can’t remember which. fun and I was making some money at it at a young age.” Those shows are how he got Lori interested. He says he dragged her along when they were still dating and in college. Eventually, she starting enjoying them, too. Today, Steve and Lori do most of their business through the internet. They recently moved their office and warehouse to a new location to better house their growing collection. Steve says there are three types of collectors: The hardcore collector, which is the smallest group and getting smaller; those who have an interest in a Steve displays a Herbert Hoover campaign banner produced in 1928 particular president; and during Hoover’s run for the presidency during the Great Depression. casual buyers who show up Measuring 3 feet by 3 feet framed, the rare item was hand painted every four years, when a by C.N.R. Banner of Weatherly, Pennsylvania, in the same style as was popular for traveling circuses. It retails for $1,295. new president is elected.

At left , Steve Ferber with a rare Barry Goldwater cowboy hat from the 1964 presidential campaign. It is signed by several celebrities, including Ronald Reagan. Above, an original copy of the Chicago Daily Tribune that erroneously declared Dewey the victor in the 1948 presidential election. Below, a collection of JFK memorabilia. Photos by Mike Teegarden

John F. Kennedy is the most collected president, followed by Ronald Reagan and Abraham Lincoln, Steve says. “Today we sold a Frisbee from Ronald Reagan’s inauguration,” he says, noting it went for $20. While the entire presidential genre appeals to Steve, his past ties with the newspaper publishing industry make one item stand out a little more than others. “I would say that for me that would probably be the Dewey defeats Truman newspaper,” says Steve. Prices on that iconic Chicago Daily Tribune newspaper front page from November 3, 1948, range from $2,500 to $3,500, depending on its condition. When the paper was printed, it sold for 4 cents. Other than election years, Steve says current events have little effect on buying patterns. “Sometimes, when a president passes away there might be some pickup, but other than that it is pretty steady,” he says. With 40-plus years in the business, Steve and Lori are well known in the

collecting community. Those contacts are how they acquire a lot of their items. “We’ve been doing this for so many years that so many people know who we are,” Steve says. “Items come from just about everywhere. I don’t think a day goes by when somebody doesn’t contact us about a collection of items from their parents that passed away and they think they have found the Holy Grail.” That prized collection usually includes Life magazine copies with photos of Kennedy on the cover. Steve says he has to deliver the bad news that there is little value in those magazines. But sometimes he gets to deliver good news about the value of an item. “We had someone contact us that had an item from the Kennedy inauguration,” Steve says. It was a plaque from one of the inaugural events. Steve did some research

and discovered an old photo showing the plaque on the dais with Kennedy standing there. “That $300 item went from $300 to $10,000,” he says. Steve has a simple criteria to judge how collectible an item is. “To have value it has to have scarcity and demand,” he says. n For more information, contact Lori Ferber Collectibles at lori@loriferber.com or call (888) 4779222. Visit www.loriferber.com to see items for sale. O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

In the Kitchen

Recipes That Satisfy

A Taste of Vietnamese Cuisine Expand meal possibilities with flavors from Asia Curry Chicken in Coconut Cream Step 1: Marinate/bake chicken thighs 3 pounds boneless chicken thighs with or without skin, cut in thirds 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon pepper 2 tablespoons canola oil 1 tablespoon curry powder 2 cloves garlic, crushed

Toss chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oil, curry powder and garlic. Spread chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil. Let the chicken marinate for about 15 minutes, then bake at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes or until crisp and golden. Save liquid from chicken to use in step 3. Step 2: Bake potatoes 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cut into chunks 1 large sweet potato, cut into chunks 1 large carrot, cut into chunks 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon curry powder 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Spread on a baking sheet and put on the bottom rack of the oven to bake with the chicken. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Step 3: Final braising/cooking 2 tablespoons red curry paste 2 tablespoons canola oil 14-ounce can coconut milk 2 14-ounce cans coconut water or chicken broth, or 1 tablespoon chicken soup base mixed with 1½ cup water 16

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

Unique flavors—including coconut water, coconut cream and red curry—meld for a tasty chicken dinner. Photos by Trang Bui

1/2 onion, cut into chunks 2 stems lemongrass, cut in 2-inch pieces 3 stems green onion, cut in 1/2-inch pieces

Heat oil, onion, garlic and lemongrass in a large skillet over medium-high heat for two minutes. Stir in curry paste and liquid from baked chicken. Cook 2 more minutes. Reduce heat to medium. Add coconut cream, coconut water or chicken broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then add baked chicken and cook for 5 minutes more or until tender. Add roasted potatoes and green onion. Serve with French baguette or rice.

Asparagus and Crab Soup 5 cups chicken broth 1 tablespoon salt 1 teaspoon sugar

21/2 tablespoons corn or potato starch, mixed with 21/2 tablespoons cold water 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1 pound fresh green asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces ½ pound sliced mushrooms 2 shallots, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon canola oil 8 ounces fresh or canned crabmeat Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Chinese parsley for garnish

Combine broth with salt and sugar in a medium pot. Bring to a boil. Add asparagus and mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes. Add the starch mixture and stir gently until the soup thickens. While the soup is actively boiling, add the eggs and stir gently. Reduce heat and simmer. Heat the oil in a skillet. Add the

first round a few strips of egg crepe, 1 piece of lettuce, 2 tablespoons jicama mixture (no juice), 2 pieces of tofu (or 3 to 4 pieces Chinese sausage), 1/2 teaspoon hoisin sauce mix, 2 or 3 basil leaves and a sprinkling of peanuts. Make sure the filling is neatly stacked. Fold the top edge over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll into a cylinder. A perfect bo bia is about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Serve the rolls whole or cut in half.

Banana Cake Banana cake served on a bed of coconut tapioca sauce is a sweet way to end a meal.

shallots and garlic. Stir-fry until lightly brown. Add the crabmeat and pepper to taste. Stir-fry over high heat for 1 minute. Serve soup in an individual bowl. Spoon crabmeat on top and garnish with parsley and pepper.

Bo Bia/Jicama Salad Rolls 1 large jicama, shredded 1 large carrot, shredded 4 eggs 6-ounce piece of fried tofu, cut into ¼-inch strips, or half of a package of Chinese sausages, thinly sliced and stir-fried for 2 minutes 1/2 cup hoisin sauce or plum sauce 1 tablespoon Sriracha hot sauce, optional 1 head green-leaf lettuce, washed, drained and cut into small pieces Asian basil leaves 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts 24 8-inch dried rice paper rounds 3 tablespoons canola oil Salt

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick pan over moderate heat. In a bowl, combine the eggs and a sprinkle of salt; beat well. When the pan is hot, pour in a third of

the beaten eggs and quickly swirl to cover the bottom of the pan. Cook until firm, about 1 minute. Flip the egg crepe and cook another minute. Transfer the crepe to a plate. Repeat with the remaining egg batter. When the crepes are cool enough to handle, cut into ¼-inch strips and set aside. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over high heat. Add jicama, carrot, ½ cup water and ½ teaspoon salt. Toss well and cook for 3 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to a dish. Combine the hoisin sauce and chili paste in a small bowl and set aside. Set up a work station by placing the ingredients in the order in which they will be needed: rice papers, egg strips, lettuce, jicama mixture, tofu or Chinese sausage, hoisin mixture, basil and peanuts. Fill a large bowl with hot water. Prepare two plates, working with two rice paper rounds at a time. Dip one, edge first, into the hot water and turn to wet it completely. Lay the round down on the plate. Repeat with the other round on the second plate. This allows you to work with one while the second rests. Neatly place on the top third of the

10 to 12 large ripe bananas, sliced ¼-inch thick 2 14-ounce cans coconut cream 1 cup sugar 1 cup cornstarch 3 small loaves of bread or 1 whole baguette (not rustic), torn into small pieces 8 tablespoons butter, melted

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Whisk coconut cream, sugar and cornstarch in a large bowl. Add banana and bread; mix well. Mix in melted butter. Grease two 8-inch round pans or two cupcake pans. Divide batter equally, almost to the rim. Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until golden brown. Coconut Tapioca Sauce 14-ounce can coconut cream 14 ounces water ½ cup sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1/3 cup tapioca, soaked in lukewarm water for 5 minutes Crushed peanuts

Combine the first four ingredients in a small saucepan. Heat on medium heat until boiling, then add tapioca. Stir well, cooking until tapioca turns clear. Spread a layer of sauce on a plate, then top with a slice of cake and crushed peanuts. Recipes courtesy of Trang Bui

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

The Great Picture Hunt

Photo Tips from David LaBelle

How It Looks or Feels “Don’t just show me what somebody is doing, show me how your subject feels about what they are doing,” I teach. I see thousands of photographs a year of people doing things: fishing, fighting, building, dancing and, most recently, hunting Pokémon. But few published images reveal how someone feels about what they are doing. Most photos published in journalistic publications are of portraits or people doing something. Real, spontaneous moments are rare because they require too much of an investment of time to capture. They are too expensive to produce. Consequently, we are bombarded with a plethora of published pictures that are mere records, proof the photographed showed up. I call these “We were there” pictures. But pictures that express honest human emotion get my attention. Just as words or actions can reveal the intent or character of our heart, captured fragments of our expressions or gestures can say a lot about what we feel. Emotions are born in the heart, climb up into the eyes and move the muscles on the face. We see joy, sadness, anxiety, fear, hope, love and many subtle emotions.

Here are a few thoughts/ techniques that should help you make more real pictures: • Ask questions that evoke expressions. The next time you are photographing somebody doing something, ask them why they do a particular thing. What does it mean to them? Be prepared to capture the answer in the emotion the face and body language offer. This one technique can be the difference between making photographs that engage or those dismissed with a casual glance. • Observe and anticipate. Wait for fleeting moments when your subject quits doing, drops their guard and momentarily internalizes the experience. Be quiet, watch and anticipate those unguarded moments when people quit posing and reveal how they feel about what it is they are doing. Are they bored, excited, indifferent? The visual storyteller is separated from the photographer by the ability to capture real, unguarded moments. Documenting beautiful human behavior requires observation, anticipation, patience and quick reflexes. • It is not over when it is over. Stay alert. Often it is when the cameras are turned off and a microphone removed that the subject

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 applies many of the lessons he learned during his magical boyhood years in rural California to photography. For more information, visit www. greatpicturehunt.com.

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

Above, Rockies fans react to a comefrom-behind home run at Coors Field in Denver. Right, during a Memorial Day parade, a woman expresses her deep grief over the death of a local citizen killed in Afghanistan. Photos by David LaBelle

reveals the most and offers the richest, honest emotion. • Consider captions. Help the reader share the experience by explaining what your subject’s expression is in reaction to. What question was asked that stirred the expression? • Challenge yourself to show the “why.” Photographs that tell me why, not just how, are usually rich with informational and emotional layers. One of the best examples of “why” came from a student in a basic photography class. The assignment was to spend some time with a subject, visit him or her several times and produce a biographical profile on the individual with a narrative line. The student captured pictures of a young woman working at her job as a server, doing chores and resting at home. But her best pictures were of the heavyset woman working out feverishly at a gym. She even provided a

detail picture of the woman’s dinner plate at home showing the tiny portions of healthy food. It was obvious the woman was on a plan to lose weight. But why? Her final picture in the essay—a beautiful, old-fashioned wedding dress hanging in the young woman’s closet— whispered her motivation. No more words were needed. With one photograph, the student had answered the “why.” The young woman was getting married soon and wanted to be able to fit into the dress her mother had worn when she married. Remember: There is a huge difference between what someone looks like when they are doing and how they feel about what they are doing. n

ESN346-01_7.5x9.75_Layout 1 9/9/16 11:05 AM Page 1

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ing Solomon was one of the wealthiest rulers of the ancient world. His vast empire included hoards of gold, priceless gemstones and rare works of art. For centuries, fortune hunters and historians dedicated their lives to the search for his fabled mines and lost treasure. But as it turns out, those mines hid a prize more beautiful and exotic than any precious metal: chrysocolla. Prized by the wisest king of the Bible. Known as the “Wisdom Stone,” chrysocolla was considered a powerful talisman of healing and calming energy. Ancient rulers of the Biblical era relied on it for guidance and now this legendary treasure can be yours with our stunning Earth & Sea Chrysocolla Necklace. Call today to bring home 325 carats for ONLY $49! Nothing like it on Earth. The mesmerizing swirls of color in chrysocolla come from a unique combination of elements found in the rich mineral deposits of copper mines. When miners find a vein of blue-green, all digging stops so that the delicate chrysocolla can be extracted by hand. Masterpieces of natural art. Our Earth & Sea Chrysocolla Necklace features a strand of polished, enhanced chrysocolla ovals—and silver-colored beads—that meet at a gorgeous teardrop pendant. Every chrysocolla is unique, showcasing a canvas painted by Mother Nature herself. Your satisfaction is guaranteed. Wear the Earth & Sea Chrysocolla Necklace for a few weeks. If you aren’t convinced that it’s one of nature’s most elegant creations, simply send it back within 60 days for a full refund of your purchase price. But once you experience this gorgeous gemstone for yourself, we’re betting that you’ll want to share King Solomon’s secret with the world!

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Travel Journal

Satisfying the Appetite for Wanderlust

Rah, Rah, Gators! Pick a place with a descriptive name like Gatorama (www. gatorama.com) or Gatorland (www.gatorland.com) and you know you have arrived in Gator Country—not the football Gators, but the overgrown lizard-like amphibians that populate Florida’s swamps, creeks and riverbanks. Many of Florida’s state parks and national wildlife refuges feature boat tours, boardwalks and kayaking to see gators in their native habitats. At various attractions across the state, you can see and touch real gators—from babies to grandfathers. Learn about their lifestyle, their culture and why they like to bask in the sun all day (the short answer is they are cold-blooded). Alligator Farm As a kid, our elementary school class from East Palatka regularly made field trips to St. Augustine, mostly for Florida history lessons. A trip to the Alligator Farm (www.alligatorfarm.com)— now called the Alligator Farm Zoological Park—was a class favorite because we got to be outdoors and see the legendary gators, including an albino one, and all kinds of exotic crocodiles and reptiles. Visit today and you can see colorful and exotic birds from

around the world, five species of monkeys and even zip line on two separate treetop courses. It is an accredited zoo that also supports research and education. Gatorland Become a trainer for a day, wrestle a real gator or take a behind-the-scenes tour to the gator-breeding marsh at Gatorland in Orlando. At the 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve, see gators jump high into the air at the Gator Jumparoo show and watch as a trainer catches and wrestles with an 8- to 9-foot gator. The 1,200-foot Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and the new wheelchair-accessible Gator Gauntlet Zip Line, which opened in January 2016, cap off a day in the swamp. Gatorama Originally opened in 1957 by Cecil Clemons, Gatorama in Palmdale offers Uncle Waders Catch a Gator Pond, gator feedings and Big Gator Bare Backin’. Wanna-be paleontologists can excavate the Gator Dig to find real gator relics. According to legend, Clemons said the top two things tourists wanted to see in Florida were orange groves and gators. The attraction still

Florida native Pamela A. Keene is a freelance journalist who specializes in travel, gardening, personality profiles and feature writing. The avid traveler also is a photographer and accomplished sailor. Her website is www.pamelakeene.com.

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

Bella Barker, granddaughter of Gatorama owners Patty and Allen Register, holds a young gator in the Uncle Waders Catch a Gator pond. Photo by Allen Register

has an Old Florida feel. Owners Allen and Patti Register farm gators to supply meat to the public. It also hosts a Gator Hatching Festival each summer. Travel Tips • A new car rental option is like Airbnb for cars. Turo. com allows you to rent from a private owner for a fraction of the cost of a rental agency. • To add a layer of security in hotels, bring along a rubber door stop, like the kind you use to prop a door open. When you are in for the night, slip the door stop under the

door from the inside, facing outward. It will deter someone from entering your room. • When you are away from home, protect your identity by collecting extra checkbook refills, Social Security and Medicare cards and your valuables and either locking them in your home safe or taking them to a bank safety deposit box. As an added measure of security, buy a good shredder and periodically destroy documents with personal identification information. Check with your accountant about how long to keep certain financial records. n

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Festival Roundup

Things to See and Do

September 30-October 2, Pensacola Pensacola Seafood Festival Enjoy grilled conch, seafood gumbo, oyster croquettes, soft-shell crab, coconut shrimp, Caribbean crab cakes and more. www.fiestaoffiveflags.org; (850) 433-6512

September 30-October 2, Destin Destin Seafood Festival Harborwalk hosts the event, which features delicacies from the sea, entertainment and crafts. www.destinseafoodfestival.org

October 1, Marathon The Marathon Games Hosted by the Florida Keys Country Club, the Keys-style pentathlon features swimming, kayaking, standup paddling, driving frozen “golf” balls and a footrace. Singles and two-person teams can register. Proceeds support local charities. www.marathonflorida.com

October 1, Sebring Oktoberfest/Firematics Enjoy beer tastings, German food and live music in downtown Sebring as teams of fire departments from

Florida compete and showcase their skills with extrication demonstrations, an obstacle course, and putting out contained and advancing fire houses.

River, Lake Istokpoga, Charlotte Harbor, Hancock Lake, Charlie Bowlegs Creek and Arbuckle Creek.

www.VisitHighlandsCounty.com; (863) 381-6467

October 7-8, Panama City Jazz-By-the-Bay Festival Presented by the Gulf Jazz Society, listen to six bands playing 10 hours of various styles beginning at 6 p.m. Friday and resuming at 1 p.m. Saturday at Oaks By The Bay Park in St. Andrews. Admission is free.

October 1, Pensacola 4th Annual Shindig on the Sand More than 70 musical acts help raise money for Gulf Coast Musician’s Healthcare. Music starts at noon at the Flora-Bama.

http://mofac.org

(850) 784-2106

www.florabama.com

October 1-2, Jay 27th Annual Peanut Festival Peanuts star in the family-friendly event from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gabbert Farm. A large number of antique tractors and farm equipment are displayed. (850) 675-6823

October 5-December 1, Avon Park Florida Waterworks Art Exhibit: Friends, Teachers, Students What began as a canoeing trip among friends has evolved into an exhibition. See how these artists interpret locations such as Peace

October 7-9, Key Largo 5th Annual Songfest Nashville songwriters liven up three stages with jazz, blues, rock ‘n’ roll, country and contemporary pop. www.keylargosongfest.com; (305) 619-0172

October 7-9, St. Augustine Annual Greek Festival Hosted by Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church at the Special Events Field on Castillo Drive, the nation’s oldest city celebrates with music, food and dancing. Admission is $5. Children 14 and younger are free with a paying adult, as are active-duty military and their immediate family. www.stauggreekfest.com

October 7-9, Panama City Beach The Pirates of the High Seas Fest Pier Park and Captain Anderson’s Marina host swashbuckling fun that includes parades, scavenger hunts, pirate invasions, sword-swinging showdowns and a fireworks display re-enacting The Battle of the Seven Seas. Admission is free. www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

Barktoberfest

October 7-9, Mount Dora 42nd Annual Bicycle Festival More than 1,000 cyclists of all ages enjoy a variety of rides, food and festivities.

Two- and four-legged attendees have a great time at an annual pet-adoption that raises awareness about pet rescue and animal care Saturday, October 1, at Lake Placid’s Stuart Park. Activities include pet blessings, photos with Santa, a pet costume contest, rainbow bridge dedication, clowns, food and music. All donations of food, supplies and money benefit local nonprofit animal rescue groups. All pets onsite are ready for forever homes. For more information, visit www.facebook. com/barktoberfest.lakeplacid or call (863) 441-0351.

October 8, Avon Park Avon Park Oktoberfest Celebrate with a beer garden, food, art and craft vendors, kids activities, musical entertainment, historical fun, library activities and the Peter Powell Roberts Museum at the Avon Park Community Center from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

www.mountdorabicyclefestival.com; (352) 383-2165

www.theapcc.net

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Submit Events Want to share a familyfriendly event? Please send details to info@florida currents.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, please include it along with photo credit information. October 8-9, Munson 13th Annual Munson Community Heritage Festival Revisit life in the early days through a collection of historical displays and demonstrations from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Krul Lake Recreation Area. www.munsonheritagefestival.com; (850) 957-5707

October 12-16, Key Largo 4th Annual Humphrey Bogart Film Festival See a rotating selection of Bogie classics hosted by the screen legend’s son, Stephen. www.bogartfilmfestival.com

October 13-15, Panama City Gulf Coast Bluegrass and Folk Music Festival The fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Bay County features music, workshops, food vendors and arts and crafts at Under the Oaks Park. Tickets are $10 for Thursday and Friday, and $15 for Saturday. www.facebook.com/gulfcoastblue grassandfolkfestival; (850) 763-2076

October 14-15, Islamorada 15th Annual Casting for Cats Trophies are awarded in artificial, bait and fly divisions and for the largest catfish during the ladies’ backcountry tourney that supports the charity dedicated to controlling the feral cat population in the Upper Keys. The event kicks off at 5 p.m. Friday at the Islander Resort with a silent auction, raffles and a litter box dig filled with prizes. That opens to the public at noon

8th Annual Corn Maze and Fall Fun Festival Weekends through November 6, visit Sweet Season Farms in Milton and navigate your way through an 8-acre corn maze, enjoy more than 20 farm-themed activities such as the corn popper jumping pillow and the cow train, and learn about agriculture while enjoying tasty food. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission prices vary. For more information, visit www. sweetseasonfarms.com or call (850) 675-3573. Photo by Sweet Season Farms

Saturday. Anglers fish from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, with a banquet and awards at 6:30 p.m. www.castingforcats.org; (305) 6642012; sharellen@netzero.net

October 14-15, Sebring 4th Annual Haunted Hammock The spooktacular event features a terror tram tour through the forest at Highlands Hammock State Park, a no-scare kid zone and friendly forest trail, carnival-style games, live DJ entertainment, costume and other contests, and food vendors. (863) 386-6094

October 14-16, White Springs Suwannee River Quilt Show/Sale More than 200 quilts are displayed throughout Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy boutiques, demonstrations, lectures, quilting supply vendors and food. Admission to the show is $5. www.floridastateparks.org; (386) 397-7009

October 15, Sebring 4th Annual Round of Beer This tasting event features more than 30 beers from various brewers, food from area restaurants and music. Proceeds benefit the Children’s Museum of the Highlands.

October 19, Islamorada “Immerse Yourself” Authors Richie Kohler and Charlie Hudson talk about their book, “Mystery of the Last Olympian,” at a free lecture at 7 p.m. at the History of Diving Museum, MM 83.

www.VisitHighlandsCounty.com; (863) 385-5437

www.divingmuseum.org; (305) 664-9737

October 15, Milton Fenner Ride Take a ride through the Blackwater State Forest, with 100-, 62-, 40- and 18-mile options. Starts and finishes are at the Milton Community Center. The ride benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida.

October 20-21, Tampa Traces of Cuba Ybor City Museum State Park unveils an exhibit highlighting how Cuba shaped Tampa’s cultural heritage. Enjoy Cuban food and entertainment and presentations from experts on Tampa’s early Cuban immigrant communities.

www.bbbsnwfl.org; (850) 433-5437

www.paddleguru.com; ruthholland@ specialolympicsmonroe.org

www.lubee.org/event/12th-annualflorida-bat-festival; (352) 485-1250

October 24, Key West Heroes and Villains 5K Run/Walk Dress up as your favorite superhero or villain. Prizes are awarded for the most creative, best group, scariest and funniest characters. The race starts at 6 p.m. at the Southernmost Beach Cafe. www.themeruns.com; (305) 747-8563

October 27, Ona Cattle and Forage Field Day University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences celebrates its 75th anniversary at the Range Cattle Research and Education Center with a morning program, lunch and several field tours. Registration is $20. https://rcrec-fd-2016.eventbrite.com; (863) 735-1314

October 29, Panama City Beach Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Honor breast cancer survivors, remember those lost, and help raise funds and awareness to help end the disease by participating in a 5K walk at Aaron Bessant Park. Registration is at 7 a.m. The walk starts at 8 a.m. www.makingstrides.acsevents.org; (850)785-9205 x3509; melanie.row@ cancer.org

October 22, Key West 4th Annual Stone Crab Eating Contest Celebrate the start of stone crab season at the Keys Fisheries Market and Marina. A fee is required.

October 29, Panama City Beach Back to the ’80s Book on over to the Bay County Public Library between 1 and 4 p.m. for, like, a totally radical time experiencing the 1980s in music, trivia, memorabilia and snacks. Win a prize for the most righteous clothes in the 1:30 p.m. costume contest and watch the movie “Mannequin” at 2:30 p.m. Fun for all ages.

www.keysfisheries.com; (866)743-4353

(850) 522-2107

www.ybormuseum.org; (813) 247-1434

October 15-16, Key West Standup Paddle Invitational Navigate a two-mile paddleboard and beach obstacle course at Higgs Beach to support the Special Olympics Florida-Monroe County.

October 22, Gainesville 12th Annual Florida Bat Festival The Lubee Bat Conservancy gives visitors a chance to get up close with giant fruit bats during a tour of the conservancy grounds from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The facility normally is not open to the public. The event features bat-themed crafts, educational exhibits, games for children, bounce houses and bat experts. Admission is $8 for ages 13 and older, $5 for ages 5-12 and free for those 4 and younger.

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Outdoor Pursuits

Enjoying the Natural World Around Us

Time to Hit the Trail Thousands of miles of hiking trails criss-cross Florida, including the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail that stretches from one tip of the state to the other. A sampling of popular fall hikes in the Panhandle includes Juniper Creek, a scenic 8.8-mile trail near Milton, and the Ft. Pickens Trail, a 7.3-mile stretch of sand along the Gulf Island National Seashore outside of Pensacola. South-central Florida also has its share of great hikes. Two favorites are Highland Hammock State Park near Sebring, which features nine short nature trails that can be walked individually or in a series, and Golden Orb Trail at Long Key State Park. The Golden Orb is a short, 1.2-mile hike, but it offers scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and botanical surprises around every corner. If you are up for a challenge, consider the Garden

Any pair of comfortable shoes is adequate for short, casual hikes on developed trails. However, for longer distances or off-trail travel be sure to have footwear made for the task. The pair that’s right for you depends on many factors, including proper fit, how far you usually hike, on what type of terrain and in what weather conditions. Photo by Ruslan Dashinsky

of Eden Trail near Bristol. This 3.3-mile trek is considered one of the toughest—yet most beautiful—day hikes in the state. You might consider tackling it in March or early April, when the flora is in full bloom and—if you start hiking now—your fitness should be at its peak. For more information about these and other hikes, check out one of the dozens of informative Florida trail guides at your local library or bookstore. You also can look up trails online. An excellent website is www.floridahikes. com, which features interactive maps that show trail locations throughout the

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 having the opportunity to write about the outdoors and other subjects for more than 30 years.

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state, the latest hiking news, tips and smartphone apps. Celebrate the Outdoors All Month Long October is Florida Greenways and Trails Month. It’s a great time of year to explore Florida on foot, bike, canoe or horseback. Visit one of the state’s 174 award-winning parks, trails or historic sites. For more information, log on to www.floridastateparks.org. Butterfly Bonanza Monarch butterflies by the thousands visit Florida on their annual migration. They can be found throughout the state this time of year, but a favorite gathering place for the butterflies and butterfly lovers is St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is the site of an annual butterfly festival. This year’s event is Saturday, October 22. It will feature speakers, tours, butterfly

tagging demonstrations and plenty of photography opportunities. For more information, visit www.fws. gov/saintmarks. A Quick and Easy Repair for a Missing Zipper Pull A paperclip can provide a quick fix for a broken zipper pull. Thread it through the zipper assembly where the pull was attached. No paperclip handy? Not a problem. You also can use a keyring, a split ring or heavy fishing line as a replacement pull. Got a Tip or a Whopper? Send us your favorite outdoor tip, photo or story. If selected for publication, we will send you $25 for one-time use of the item. When sending a photo, identify people and pets, and tell us the story behind the picture. Email your submission to info@ floridacurrents.com. 

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

High-Quality Surge Protection Offered by Glades Electric Glades Electric Cooperative is proud to offer members a new choice in home surge protection with Meter Treater, manufactured by M-Ti. This Florida-based company’s meter-base protection devices have been protecting Florida homes since 1986. M-Ti also manufactures superior surge protection devices for commercial and industrial applications. The company has earned a reputation for innovative design, high-quality workmanship and friendly, responsive customer service. Our members deserve nothing less! Contact a GEC office for more information. n

Church of the Month

First Baptist Church of Lake Josephine 111 Lake Josephine Drive Sebring, FL 33872

It Pays to be a Member of Glades Electric Cooperative! Glades Electric Cooperative offers you three ways to earn credits on your monthly billing statements. XX

$10 Paperless Bill Credit Winners

All members enrolled in eBill and selecting paperless billing are entered into a monthly drawing. Five lucky winners automatically receive $10 credits on their billing statements. XX

$10 Automatic Draft Credit Winners

All members enrolled in automatic payments from their bank account or credit card are entered into a monthly drawing. Five lucky winners automatically receive $10 credits on their billing statements. XX

$25 Florida Currents Reader Credit Winners

All active GEC members are entered into a monthly drawing for a $25 credit on their bill. Two winners are selected each month. To claim the credit, you must call (863) 946-6200 or sign your name to this page and mail it to: Glades Electric Cooperative, P.O. Box 519, Moore Haven, FL 33471.

$10 eBill Winners* Sharon McClaskey—No. 122022-001 American Tower—No. 15114-016 Seminole Tribe of Florida—No. 107950-131 Danny P. Rasmussen—No. 113316-001 Donald and Vickie Cravens—No. 112009-001 * Credits appear on September billing statements

$10 Draft Winners* Lois Becker—No. 114735-001 Steven and Ruth Hartshorn—No. 111989-001 Lisa Johns Osceola—No. 77784001-003 Alico Inc.—No. 157-030 Robert Walker—No.119488-001 * Credits appear on September billing statements

Glades Electric Cooperative

$25 Florida Currents Reader Winners*

M AY 2016

John E. Whidden III—No. 77791498-002 Mary Young—No. 114630-001 * To claim the Florida Currents Reader credit, winners must call (863) 946-6200 or sign their name to this page and mail it to the GEC office.

Members Gather for Annual Meeting Neighbors enjoyed conversation, refreshments, informational booths, an update on the state of their cooperative and lots of door prizes at the 71st annual Glades Electric Cooperative Annual Membership Meeting on March 19. Read more on page 4.

Recap of 71st Annual Meeting

PAGE 4

Make Electrical Safety a Priority PAGE 28

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Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Fact or Fiction: Don’t be Fooled Small changes in habits net big savings in efficiency By Abby Berry

We have heard the old wives’ tales: eating carrots will greatly improve your eyesight, cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis, watching too much TV will harm your vision. There also are misconceptions about home energy use. Don’t be fooled by common energy myths. Myth: The higher the thermostat setting, the faster the home will heat (or cool). Many people think that walking into a chilly room and raising the thermostat to 85 degrees will heat the room more quickly. This is not true. Thermostats direct a home’s HVAC system to heat or cool to a certain temperature. Drastically adjusting the thermostat setting will not make a difference in how quickly you feel warmer. The same is true for cooling. The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees during summer months and 68 degrees during winter months. Myth: Opening the oven door to check on a dish does not really waste energy. While it can be tempting to check the progress of that dish you are cooking in the oven, opening the oven door wastes energy. Every time the oven door is opened, the temperature inside is reduced by as much as 25 degrees, delaying the progress of your dish. More importantly, it costs you more money. If you need to check the progress of a dish, try using the oven light instead. Myth: Ceiling fans keep your home cool while you are away. Many people think this is true, but ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. Ceiling fans circulate room air, but do not change the temperature. A running ceiling fan in an empty room adds to your electricity use. Remember to turn off fans when you are away and reduce your energy use. Myth: Reducing my energy use is too expensive. Many consumers believe that reducing energy use requires expensive upfront costs, like buying new, more efficient appliances or making construction upgrades to an older home. The truth is that consumers who make small

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changes to their energy-efficiency habits—such as turning off lights when not in use, sealing air leaks and using a programmable thermostat—can see a reduction in energy consumption. Energy efficiency does not have to be difficult. Focus on small changes to save big. To learn more about ways to save energy, visit www.gladesec.com or call (863) 946-6200. n

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Plugged In

Using Electricity Safely and Efficiently

Opportunities Abound at Utilities The next generation of utility employees brings new technology skills

Jodie Thomas’ college friends were surprised at her career choice. She is content creator for Umatilla Electric Cooperative in Hermiston, Oregon. Her friends are still on the job hunt. “I think there’s a misconception about what’s available career-wise,” Jodie says. “People think if you’re not a lineman, you can’t work for the electric company.” Contrary to popular belief, electric utilities offer a career for nearly every discipline. This is due, in part, to new technology and growing territories, but also to a graying, retiring workforce. During the next five years, America’s electric cooperatives expect to hire nearly 15,000 people to fill jobs ranging from information technology specialist to lineworker. Investor-owned utilities, municipal power systems and private power line contractors also need thousands of skilled workers to keep our nation’s energy grid running safely and reliably. Despite high demand, good pay, excellent benefits, opportunities to advance and a stable long-term outlook, the industry faces a shortage of workers. Rob Carr, chief financial officer

By Caitlyn May

The New Workforce

52.8 50.6

2014 Q1

52.7

52.0

52.6

51.3

2014 Q2

52.5

53.5

52.7

51.2

2014 Q3

2014 Q4

2015 Q1

Reflected in millions, the number of younger workers the Pew Research Center says were looking for work in 2014 and 2015. Shown in dark green are the millennials, ages 18 to 34, as of 2015. They have overtaken Generation Xers—those ages 35 to 50, shown in light green—as the largest part of the workforce. 28

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for Tanner Electric Cooperative in Washington, sees the retirement exodus firsthand. He says the change has advantages and drawbacks. “You lose experience and knowledge when people retire, but you get the new guys who are willing to use the iPad and smartphone,” Rob says. “They’re more acceptable to technology in their daily job. They want to use their computers.” The fact utilities lean toward new hires with technology skills is good news for tech-savvy millennials. In its 2016 State of the Millennial Report, Generation Opportunity noted the unemployment rate for those ages 18 to 29 is about 8 percent—well above the 3.7 percent of those older than 29. For Jodie, steady employment came a few months ago. She says she already is impressed with the cooperative culture. “I was recently in Portland for a conference for work, and I was surprised about the sense of community,” she says. “There’s always someone to reach out to, to ask how to do things.” Michael Hengel also is new to the cooperative community. Unlike Jodie, he is no stranger to the job market. Michael spent nearly 40 years in the newspaper industry before taking a position in corporate communications at Valley Electric Association in Nevada. After five years as an editor at the Las Vegas Review Journal, Michael accepted an early retirement. He says he had no intention of rejoining the job market. But he says the opportunity at Valley Electric was too good to pass up. “It was using my skillset to help the community,” Michael says. “In the sense of the co-op I work for, they’re getting more into technology and high-speed communications, so they need someone to help communicate that message to the community. That’s where the opportunity for me came in.”

In Memoriam The Glades Electric Cooperative family is saddened at the loss of Betty Coxe, wife of Board of Trustees President Jack Coxe, on September 10, 2016. Betty was loved as a wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many in our community. Married 68 years, Betty and Jack raised three children: Susan Benton, Linda Cooney and John Jr. (deceased). Betty is also remembered by her eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. The family fondly remembers the Coxe home being open to neighborhood kids and anyone seeking shelter with an unconditional welcome. The community fondly thinks back on Aunt Betty being a loving caretaker and family matriarch. Jack asks that any recognition of his beautiful wife Betty be made to Good Shepherd Hospice House on Hammock Road in Sebring (863-402-1066). n At left, interns Nico Cipollini and Hannah Mason fly a drone outside Valley Electric Association offices— a sign of how new technology is being incorporated.

Michael and Jodie illustrate the wide range of experience and skills being recruited by publicly owned utilities that are looking to fill positions being vacated by retirees and to introduce new programs and technologies. Positions that had not existed before are being filled by people who never thought their skills could lead to jobs in the electric utility industry. “My day is looking at press releases and engaging on social media, seeing what’s being written and working on the

message and graphic design,” says Jodie. It is a job that did not exist in that form until recently. Ten years ago, there was no social media to check, and the software Jodie uses to craft the cooperative’s message was rudimentary compared to today’s tools. Retirements have opened up career opportunities and reshaped existing jobs. “Technology is becoming a huge part of the co-op business,” Michael says. “Tech is driving everything now, and it requires a higher level of skill.”

Michael says each new piece of technology cooperatives install in a community creates even more new jobs—from hourly to salaried positions. “As we set up these networks, it means we need installers, technicians and communicators,” he says. Utilities are recruiting employees to help manage and support new services offered through high-speed networks. “The business is growing quite a bit, and when a business grows, it presents opportunity,” Michael says. n O C TO B E R 2 0 1 6

Parting Shot

Readers Share Their Special Photos

Fall Colors in Florida

As fall arrives, the autumn flowers begin to bloom. “In getting ready for my Halloween trail just north of Fountain, it was mighty difficult to think of screams and terrors when beautiful purple flowers were blooming,” says Nancy Stevenson. “Yellow and purple seem to dominate the colors of autumn in my neck of the woods, although there are many other colors that one just wants to capture in a single moment. “The delicate threads extending from each flower bunch is, for me, a gentle reminder of how quickly time passes from one season to the next.” n Photo by Nancy Stevenson, Fountain, Florida Florida Currents pays $25 for interesting photos printed in the magazine. Email your best shots (one photo per email message) to photos@floridacurrents.com. Please include your name, address, phone number and the story behind the image. Photos must be high resolution, at least 700KB. Smaller file sizes are too small for good reproduction. The odds of your photo being selected improve if you elaborate in your submission so we understand the full story behind the picture. Tell us what makes your photo special.

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OAR194-01_7.5x9.75_Layout 1 9/9/16 11:09 AM Page 1

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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 808 N. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 (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 Shannon Hall, Secretary/Treasurer, District 4 Lakeport and Brighton, (863) 946-3242 Donnie Lundy, Trustee, District 1 Moore Haven, (863) 946-0402 Barney Goodman, Trustee, District 2 Hendry County, (561) 414-8737 Dr. John Huysman, Trustee, District 3 Ortona and Palmdale, (863) 946-2911 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. October 20 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 Chief Assistant Margaret Ellerbee Dir. of Business Development Paul McGehee Dir. of Employee Services Yvonne Bradley Dir. of Engineering Travis Turner Dir. of Operations Tracy Vaughn

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FL-153

CEO’s Message

Neighbors Working for Neighbors It’s that time of year when we keep a keen eye on our weather services. Not so many days ago, we were intently watching a weather system designated Invest 99L. Forecast tracks indicated the system was zeroed in on the heart of our territory, and it was likely to reach hurricane status before landfall. Our storm plan was initiated. To our fortune and answered From left, Kyle Altman, Wyatt Larsen, Brian Rhymes, Jeremy Kennedy, prayer, Invest 99L travWesley Griffis and Jacob Whidden prepare to head out. eled a more southern route heading to the Gulf of Mexico. They worked at CFEC through Unfortunately for our friends to the Sunday night. Labor Day morning they north, this path led to strengthening of were off to Tallahassee to assist Talquin the storm. Electric Cooperative with their recovery, A week later, the storm slammed into where they worked until Thursday night. the Big Bend area of Florida’s west coast Our crews finally made it home Friday as Hurricane Hermine. Their Labor Day afternoon. weekend became a labor of restoring I thank our men for their exceptional power to tens of thousands. work. I also thank those who remained In situations like this, the rural electric and helped at home, as we were not cooperatives of Florida join together and without our own outage issues from the help one another in the recovery. outer bands of Hermine and the continOn Friday of Labor Day weekend, six ued storms of this season. employees from our line crew volunAs I write this, Invest 93L is out there teered to head north and lend a hand. and projected to affect Florida’s east Jacob Whidden, Wesley Griffis and coast. It’s good to know that should a Jeremy Kennedy from our Moore Haven storm develop and damage our system division and Kyle Altman, Brian Rhymes beyond our means to recover alone, and Wyatt Larsen from our Lake Placid the members of the Florida Electric division loaded up four bucket trucks Cooperative Association are there to help and two line trucks and traveled to us: Neighbors working for neighbors. Chiefland to assist Central Florida Electric Cooperative.