Issuu

Glades Electric Cooperative

N OV E M B E R 2015

Untangling Your Roots

Discovering who you are is all about deciphering the origins of your genes. Read more about the genealogy movement on page 12. PHOTO BY BRANDON POMRENKE

Giving Thanks for Cooperatives

PAGE 4

Clean Power Plan’s Negative Impact PAGE 6

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. Postmaster: Please send address corrections to 5605 NE Elam Young Pkwy., Hillsboro, OR 97124. HOW TO CONTACT FLORIDA CURRENTS

Have a problem receiving your edition of Florida Currents? Utility members should contact the local utility office listed on the back cover. Nonmembers should contact Ruralite Services, 5605 NE Elam Young Pkwy., Hillsboro, OR 97124; (503) 718-3717; email info@floridacurrents.com. Subscription services: Nonmember subscriptions $12 (U.S.) per year; $25 (foreign) per year. Prepayment required. Allow 4 to 8 weeks for first issue. Be sure to identify which local edition you want to receive. Order online at www.floridacurrents.com. Extra copies: $2 each, pre-payment required. Supply is limited. Identify edition, month and year. Contact Ruralite Services. Reprint permission: Direct all requests to Ruralite Services. MANUSCRIPTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS

Please do not send unsolicited materials. If interested in writing for Florida Currents, query first. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for writer’s guidelines. Address requests and queries to Ruralite Services. DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

Contact Jessah Willis National Country Market 611 S. Congress Ave. Suite 504 Austin, TX 98704 (800) 626-1181 or (512) 441-5200 www.nationalcountrymarket.com PRINTED IN FLORIDA

Trend Offset Printing Services 10301 Busch Drive North Jacksonville, FL 32218 © 2015 Ruralite Services Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Inside

November 2015 Vol. 5, No. 1

Untangling Your Roots 12 The quest to discover who you are and how you fit into your family requires deciphering the origins of your genes. Also In This Issue Side Roads 10 In the Kitchen 16 Great Picture Hunt 18

Festival Roundup 22 Outdoor Pursuits 24 Parting Shot 30

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

NOVEMBER 2015

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Giving Thanks for Cooperatives At Glades Electric, we are thankful for you, our members

For many people, the things for which they are truly thankful are those they once had to do without. Take electricity. Eighty years ago, nearly 90 percent of rural America was living in the dark—forced to rely on iceboxes to cool food, kerosene lamps for light and woodstoves for cooking. Today, people rightfully expect electricity to be there at the flip of a switch. Think about how inconvenient it is when you have even the slightest power disruption—no television or Internet, no microwave or coffeemaker. Electricity has forever changed our lives. This is the time of year to express our thankfulness and gratitude. We at Glades Electric Cooperative are appreciative of many things: you, our members; our employees; our mission; the principles at the core of who we are; and the history that reminds us of how we arrived where we are today. Cooperatives Born to Fill Unmet Need In the early 1930s, electricity lit up America’s cities, but in rural America, the end of daylight meant darkness. Seeking to lift the country out of the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt looked to boost farm productivity. He created the Rural Electrification Administration in 1935 to offer lowinterest loans to companies that would extend electric lines into the countryside. Enter the farmers and countless other rural folks. They asked the REA if those loans would be available to them if they were to band together to form electric cooperatives focused on meeting the need,

Right, as your friends and neighbors, Glades Electric Cooperative employees are involved in the community. They serve on boards and volunteer as coaches. They help members. 4

NOVEMBER 2015

not making a profit. The answer was “yes.” Across the nation, the countryside soon saw the light. In 1945, GEC was born. Cooperatives Not-for-Profit This is one of the biggest differences between GEC and investor-owned utilities. Increasing the bottom line is not even a small part of what we are about. Our primary mission is to take the power generated by our wholesale power provider—Seminole Electric Cooperative—and deliver it safely, affordably and reliably to our members. There are no quarterly earning demands from faraway investors with little, if any, connection to our community. Cooperatives Owned by Those They Serve If you receive electricity from GEC, you are more than a customer. You are a member. As a member, you are an owner of this cooperative and have a say in how it operates.

Our Board of Trustees consists of members just like you. All members can either run for the Board or vote in the election at our Annual Meeting each spring. We are a shining example of democracy in action. Cooperatives Cooperate Cooperatives band together to help each other out. For example, if a storm hits our service territory, cooperatives from unaffected areas—even from other states—will send line workers to help restore power. The cooperation goes beyond just cooperative employees. The power of united electric cooperative members can influence the course of public policy, too. Together, more than 42 million members represent more than 900 electric cooperatives throughout the United States. That grassroots strength allows us to have our voices heard in state capitals and in Washington, D.C.

Cooperatives Serve Their Communities— and With More Than Electricity Because we are local organizations with no faraway shareholders and those we serve are our owners, we are committed to our communities. Often, you will find co-op employees volunteering as Little League coaches, dance instructors and 4-H advisers, and serving on boards, councils and commissions of organizations that help our communities thrive.

Above and opposite page, in the early days of electric cooperatives, utility poles were put in place by hand. Photos courtesy of the National Archives (above) and Next Greatest Thing (opposite page)

As you sit down at the Thanksgiving table this year and think about the things for which you are thankful, we hope you will include your electric cooperative on that list. At GEC, we are thankful for you, our members, and the history that has brought us from darkness to light. n NOVEMBER 2015

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

A Negative Impact on You EPA’s Clean Power Plan will drive up power costs, jeopardize reliability By Mark Hayes

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized its rules regulating greenhouse gas emissions from power plants—dubbed the Clean Power Plan— on August 3. The rules are designed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from power plants by 32 percent below levels recorded in 2005. Given its complexity and far-reaching nature, it might as well be called the National Energy Policy Regulation of 2015 because it will have significant consequences for how we generate, distribute and use electricity in this country for decades to come. During the past two years, electric cooperatives across the country have worked hard to ask EPA to go back to the drawing board and develop a plan that is more achievable and affordable. Together, electric cooperative advocates submitted more than 1.2 million comments to EPA about these rules— nearly 30 percent of all the comments EPA received from all interested groups.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s final rule on carbon pollution emission guidelines for existing power plants is contained in two volumes covering 1,560 pages. 6

NOVEMBER 2015

Florida submitted 25,559 of those comments asking EPA to take a step back. Despite that effort, EPA put the pedal to the metal and finalized the rules. We asked cooperative members to submit comments because EPA’s rule will raise the price of electricity and could endanger the reliable power we work hard to provide every day. Despite claims from EPA, this rule will increase monthly electric bills. It is not yet clear by how much, but the previous proposal had a national average increase of 10 percent in 2025, with some states seeing higher increases and other states seeing lower increases. And that is 10 percent above any inflation-adjusted, otherwise normal, projections. Part of the cost increases will come from premature closure of power plants that are in good working condition. Like any business, cooperatives plan a specific life span for these assets and spread out the costs over several decades to keep electricity affordable for members. If we are forced to shut down those plants early, we not only lose that source of affordable power, but have to buy replacement power from the marketplace with less price-point predictability. You—our members—end up paying twice. That is just not fair, especially since the Clean Air Act says EPA is supposed to consider the “remaining useful life” of a power plant when setting standards. The possibility of closing power plants also raises concerns about reliability. Plants are connected points on which electric grid operators rely for power. Without these assets, there will be increased stress on the grid—especially during extreme weather events. EPA expects cooperatives and other utilities to make up the lost power with additional renewable resources, natural

gas and energy efficiency. Each of these options is a good component of an overall energy mix, and cooperatives across the country have been developing new technologies to harness them. But each also has its disadvantages. Cooperatives make it a priority to balance all energy sources and help consumers save money by conserving energy. But the final rule puts us in a rush to transition to more renewable resources and natural gas without considering the time needed to build new infrastructure—such as natural gas pipelines and more electric transmission lines—to make those resources more realistic for cooperative members, including those in Florida. EPA is in uncharted waters with this incredibly complex scheme, and it is

difficult to predict how the timeline will play out. Each state covered by the rules has a few years to submit a plan to EPA demonstrating how the state will comply with the mandate. Florida’s plan will have a big impact on what electric cooperatives and the other utilities in our state must do and how much it will cost. Rest assured. While that work is going on, we continue to stand up for our members. We are fighting for you and have joined with cooperatives from across the country in seeking legislative and legal remedies to protect your interests. n

The 1,300-megawatt Seminole Generating Station is considered one of the cleanest coal plants in the nation, with Florida ratepayers investing more than half a billion dollars in pollution control technology. Nonetheless, the plant is targeted for early closure under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Power Plan. Photo courtesy of Seminole Electric Cooperative

Mark Hayes writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, which serves the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. NOVEMBER 2015

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 September 29, your Charitable Trust Board of Directors has approved $912,332.34 in disbursements. These funds have provided assistance with food, emergency lodging, disaster relief and specific

emergency needs for 583 individuals and/or families and 126 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.

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:

NOVEMBER 2015

Beverly Eaves District 2 Hendry County

Vacant District 7 Lorida

Julia Ashton No. 199-002 Bruce Butler No. 22077-001

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 Emanuel Christian Church 136 Avenida Del Club Clewiston, FL 33440-8365

The Charitable Trust Board of Directors will meet in Lake Placid November 24 at 1 p.m.

NE W

ly e et th th h G on or wit m f 0 . 0 es 20 LK 40 nut of TA i m ice EM pr W

“My friends all hate their cell phones… I love mine!” FREE No Car t n C Co trac h a rger Here’s why.

Say good-bye to everything you hate about cell phones. Say hello to Jitterbug. “Cell phones have gotten so small, I can barely dial mine.” Not Jitterbug®, it features a larger keypad for easier dialing. It even has an oversized display so you can actually see it.

$14.99

$19.99

was 200 NOW 400

Operator Assistance

24/7

911 Access

FREE

No add’l charge

FREE

YES

30 days

Long Distance Calls

“I had to get my son to program it.” Your Jitterbug set-up process is simple. We’ll even pre-program it with your favorite numbers.

Voice Dial Nationwide Coverage Friendly Return Policy

More minute plans available. Ask your Jitterbug expert for details.

“I tried my sister’s cell phone… I couldn’t hear it.” Jitterbug is designed with an improved speaker. There’s an adjustable volume control, and Jitterbug is hearing-aid compatible.

“My cell phone company wants to lock me in on a two-year contract!” Not Jitterbug, there’s no contract to sign and no penalty if you discontinue your service. “I’ll be paying for minutes I’ll never use!” Not with Jitterbug, unused minutes carry over to the next month, there’s no roaming fee and no additional charge for long distance.

“I don’t need stock quotes, Internet sites or games on my phone, I just want to talk with my family and friends.” Life is complicated enough… Jitterbug is simple. “What if I don’t remember a number?” Friendly, helpful Jitterbug operators are available 24 hours a day and will even greet you by name when you call. “I’d like a cell phone to use in an emergency, but I don’t want a high monthly bill.” Jitterbug has a plan to fit your needs… and your budget.

Monthly Plan Monthly Minutes

Available in Blue and Red.

Order now and receive a FREE Car Charger for your Jitterbug – a $25 value. Call now!

“My phone’s battery only lasts a couple of days.” The Jitterbug’s battery lasts for up to 25 days on standby. Enough talk. Isn’t it time you found out more about the cell phone that’s changing all the rules? Call now, Jitterbug product experts are standing by.

NEW Jitterbug5 Cell Phone Call toll free today to get your own Jitterbug5. Please mention promotional code 101571.

1-888-779-5931

www.jitterbugdirect.com 47637

We proudly accept the following credit cards.

IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: WEMTALK offer valid on 400 minute plan and applies to new GreatCall customers only. Offer valid until plan is changed or cancelled. Jitterbug is owned by GreatCall, Inc. Your invoices will come from GreatCall. All rate plans and services require the purchase of a Jitterbug phone and a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage and service is not available everywhere. Other charges and restrictions may apply. Screen images simulated.There are no additional fees to call GreatCall’s U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. Monthly minutes carry over and are available for 60 days. If you exceed the minute balance on your account, you will be billed at 35¢ for each minute used over the balance. Monthly rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges. Prices and fees subject to change. We will refund the full price of the GreatCall phone and the activation fee (or set-up fee) if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will be deducted from your refund for each minute over 30 minutes. You will be charged a $10 restocking fee. The shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. ©2015 Samsung Electronics America, LLC. ©2015 GreatCall, Inc. ©2015 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

Side Roads

Discoveries Off the Beaten Path

A Mermaid’s Tale Underwater performer remains forever connected to Weeki Wachee Springs By Pamela A. Keene

Postcards From Florida

Zolfo Springs

R Photo by

obert Ster

rett

Charlie Creek flows along Brookside Bluff in Zolfo Springs. This photo was taken adjacent to the retirement community in Brookside Bluff, where a trail leads to the creek and offers a nice spot to relax and enjoy the view while sitting in the shade of live oaks covered in Spanish moss. 10

NOVEMBER 2015

Almost 60 years ago, the crystal clear waters of the Weeki Wachee River and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park beckoned a young Emilia Victoria Vergara to the underwater world of mermaids. From 1957 through 1961, she swam 18 performances a week in the park’s worldfamous underwater mermaid show, entertaining audiences from around the world with feats of grace, beauty and athleticism. “When I started swimming in the shows, there were only two girls in each performance, and we didn’t wear mermaid tails when we swam,” says the spunky 76-year-old, now known as Vicki Smith, who still has a trim figure, a bright smile and sparkling eyes. “We fed the fish and interacted with other underwater creatures to entertain the crowds,” says Vicki. “And, of course, we stayed underwater by learning to take breaths from the submerged air hoses, then holding our breath as we did our routines. Some of the girls in my day could hold their breath for as long as three minutes.” Stunt swimmer and promoter Newt Perry opened the underwater mermaid show at Weeki Wachee Springs in 1947. A 65-seat submerged theater with a glass wall allowed viewing into the main room of the springs. Using the idea of synchronized swimming with an underwater twist, Newt created a world of mermaids that drew guests to the remote part of the state to the large spring that feeds the Weeki Wachee River. Newt installed compressed-air hoses and an underwater air lock for the mermaids to use during the 30- to 40-minute shows. The mermaids originally swam in one-piece bathing suits, sometimes adorned with short tutus. “Between shows, we’d take tickets, serve

At 76, Vicki Smith is the oldest living mermaid from shows at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Today, Vicki performs in monthly alumni shows. Opposite page, a young Vicki during a show in 1957—the year she dove into her life as a mermaid.

as greeters, talk with the audience and sign autographs or have our photos taken with guests,” Vicki says. “There were usually six or seven shows a day, and each of us would swim in three or four of those and did live announcing in the audience when we weren’t swimming.” In 1960, ABC Paramount bought the lease to the show and brought in “a lot of movie stars and hoopla,” Vicki says. “We went from two to three girls in a show to as many as eight or 10, and we began doing choreography to music piped underwater,” she notes. “Our costumes became more elaborate with beautiful tails, and our routines told stories. We became much more Hollywood.” The next year, Vicki married and left her life as a mermaid—at least for a while. She lived a conventional life in Knoxville, Tennessee, as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, grocery wholesale buyer and sales representative for Procter & Gamble. Vicki returned to Weeki Wachee for reunions—a chance to reconnect with women who swam as her contemporaries and the younger mermaids who followed. When she retired in 1992, Vicki

Saluting the Military

and her husband, Jack, moved back to Florida. They found a comfortable home with a shady deck that overlooks the banks of the Weeki Wachee River. “Even though we lived in Tennessee for most of our marriage, the magic of the springs and my passion for the waters of the Weeki Wachee River drew me back,” Vicki says. “I joke that I moved back to the Weeki Wachee River, and Jack followed me here.” In 1997, at the 50th mermaid reunion, a group of alumni were asked to do a show. That led to formation of the Legendary Sirens—former mermaids who now swim several shows the first weekend of each month. Vicki joined the Sirens in 2004 and regularly performs with the group. “At 76, I’m the oldest living mermaid, and truly love being able to do shows and meet guests,” she says. Vicki’s love of the springs and river goes deeper than the fond memories of her time as a mermaid. She volunteers at the park’s Archives Cottage, identifying

mermaids in photos, and is a lifetime member of the Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park—a volunteer group committed to the environmental protection of the springs and river, and that raises funds for improvements. Today, the park is owned and operated by the State of Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Recreation and Parks. The property encompasses nearly 570 acres—53 of them submerged as the springs. The underwater theater can seat up to 400 people. The park offers animal shows, picnic areas, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, boat tours and Buccaneer Bay waterpark. “Over the years, I’ve seen many changes in Weeki Wachee, but it continues to be an irreplaceable part of my life,” Vicki says. “The water from the river and the springs just flows through my veins. It’s a fragile and feminine river, and that’s why I’m so passionate about it. It’s a spiritual thing to be part of the river, and I’ll always be connected to it in so many ways.” n

As Veterans Day approaches, you need not look far for military personnel to thank for their service. According to Enterprise Florida, the state’s 20 major military installations and defense-associated businesses account for more than 758,000 jobs in Florida and provide an economic impact of $73 billion a year. The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity reports the military accounts for about 10 percent of the state’s economy. Defense is the third-largest contributor after agriculture and tourism. The Gulf of Mexico is a key training ground for both the Air Force and the Navy. In addition to bases throughout the state, Florida has two complexes devoted to joint training, two U.S. Coast Guard air stations, a dozen other Coast Guard stations and a Marine Corps support facility. Florida also is home to three major commands: U.S. Central Command (the Middle East); U.S. Special Operations Command (counterterrorism); and U.S. Southern Command (the Caribbean and Central and South America). Florida Gov. Rick Scott is committed to maintaining Florida as the most military-friendly state in the nation. The Florida Defense Support Task Force is a legislatively mandated council whose mission is to preserve, protect and enhance Florida’s military missions and installations.

The nation’s first female F-35 pilot, Air Force Lt. Col. Christine Mau, prepares to take off from Eglin Air Force Base. Photo by USAF Staff Sgt. Marleah Robertson

NOVEMBER 2015

Roots Untangling Your

Discovering who you are is all a matter of deciphering the origins of your genes

Before Florida was a nesting area for snowbirds, an agricultural hotspot and known worldwide for its sandy beaches, it was a frontier. Native American tribes worked their land as immigrants encroached on the territory from Greece, Italy and Spain, along with people from By Victoria Hampton southern and eastern states. Cultures came together and changed the landscape of the state forever. These were the Florida pioneers who shaped the lives of future generations. Some of them may be your ancestors. Our ancestral roots are buried in the depths of courthouses, cemeteries and archives—where birth and death certificates, land deeds, news articles, photographs and other historical documents are stored for safe keeping. Accessing them was once a long, tedious, expensive, often frustrating process. In the 21st century, we access our heritage differently. Genealogy has transformed into a technological and scientific discovery. With the rise of technology, many of these documents are now available online. Online databases and DNA testing are changing the way people get information about their ancestors, while professional genealogists, genealogy hobbyists and societies unite As a volunteer with Find A Grave, Donna McPherson of Bartow uses a soil probe to locate a specific grave for another researcher. a community searching for Photo by Joyce Goodman answers about its heritage.

NOVEMBER 2015

Without the help of modern tools, genealogy hobbyist Donna McPherson— who recently moved from Fort Meade to Bartow—says her search would have ended in disappointment. “I wouldn’t be able to do it,” she says, noting her ancestors came into Florida and “scattered throughout the state. I’d have to run everywhere.” Online genealogy resources are a combination of web databases such as Cindy’s List, Crestleaf and My Heritage, and resources that focus on specific historical topics, such as the American Civil War Research Database and Daughters of the American Revolution. The main site Donna uses is Ancestry. com—the largest for-profit genealogy

Personal Stories of Family Discovery: Unearthing the Good, the Bad and the Ugly Genealogy can be a wild ride that forces you full speed ahead into the unknown of your ancestry. Sometimes you find fun facts about people you are related to and what they accomplished. Other times, there is a skeleton in the closet that was forgotten by the family, but not by history records. Each person interviewed for this article shared the good, the bad and the surprises they experienced when discovering their heritage. “I took a DNA test a couple years ago because they needed people to check out the package. I didn’t think much of it. Then I was contacted by a new cousin match through Ancestry.com. She came up as my first cousin. I don’t know about you, but I know all my first cousins. ‘Oh, this is a mistake,’ (I thought) but honestly the DNA doesn’t lie. I looked at the picture on her profile and she had my mother’s eyes. We tentatively started exchanging emails. She was adopted. I have a new cousin because of a DNA test, and we talk about once a week. At first you’re like, ‘Is this real?’ Then it is really cool to add someone to your family.” —Jennifer Utley, Ancestry.com “My biggest surprise would be when I first started. I had been told my great- grandparents died of pneumonia in 1912. I located a newspaper article. Great-granddaddy was on trial for murder. In Pine Bluff, Arkansas, I found all the newspaper articles saying he had killed my great-grandma by slitting her throat in front of their children. He was a carpenter and actually built the gallows he was hung on. He wanted no one to mention what had happened. So that was quite a surprise. That’s what kind of got me started.” —Brian Nichols, Random Acts of Genealogical Kindness Photo by Brandon Pomrenke

company in the world. “Since we started in 1997, we’ve digitized 16 billion records,” says Jennifer Utley, Ancestry.com senior manager of research. “That’s the core of our site. Over the years, we’ve built really amazing tools for people to use: build their own family tree online, a new DNA product to find out ethnicity and a new mobile app so you can take your family tree with you and share at family reunions.” The site has acquired many genealogical resource websites such as Rootsweb, Archives, Fold3, Genealogy, MyFamily, Newspapers and Find A Grave, and genealogy software called Family Tree Maker. The expansion has made it easier for hobbyists and researchers.

“Criminals back in the 1800s right down there out from Arcadia. One got arrested for altering the brands of cattle. Wouldn’t you consider that cattle rustling now? Another got arrested for using profanity in front of a lady.” —Donna McPherson, Fort Meade and Bartow genealogy hobbyist “I had an uncle who was a professional baseball player. On my mother’s side happened to be a state senator from three counties in Tennessee who wrote a bill that went all the way to the Supreme Court. Each person who researches has their own unique story.” —Bert Outlaw, West Florida Genealogical Society “Your ancestors always surprise you. I found that my third great-grandfather as a young man, early 20s, traveled from Pennsylvania to Texas to fight in the Texas Revolution. He moved back up north and settled in Indiana. I had no idea I had this grandfather that ended up in Texas for a year. Another surprise was one of my children is adopted, and I was working on his genealogy. His biological grandfather was also adopted. Took my research in a whole new direction.” —Amy Crabill Lay, Heirs & Ancestors, LLC

NOVEMBER 2015

Family Lineage Makes Entertaining Television Genealogy has built a large following online, and in both corporate and nonprofit worlds. An entire industry has been created around the study of family lineage. It is no surprise people can learn more about genealogy on television. Shows such as “Genealogy Roadshow,” “Finding Your Roots,” “History Detectives” and “Who Do You Think You Are?” have opened the viewing world to what it means to discover where we came from. Genealogy is one of the largest hobbies in the world. With all of the television programs and genealogy roadshows now airing, “I think it’s becoming more mainstream,” says Brian Nichols of Random Acts of Genealogical Kindness. It has become a form of entertainment. Celebrities draw attention in all forms of media. People pay millions every year to learn about the lives of the rich and famous. “Who Do You Think You Are?” takes viewers up close and personal with their favorite stars as it uncovers the family history of celebrities. Among those who have appeared on the show are Tim McGraw, Sarah Jessica Parker, Matthew Broderick, Susan Sarandon, Spike Lee, Lisa Kudrow, Emmitt Smith, Brooke Shields, Tom Bergeron, Kelly Clarkson, Josh Groban and Tony Goldwyn. Jennifer Utley, Ancestry.com senior manager of research, oversees research for the show and occassionally appears on it. The team behind the show researches a dozen celebrity family trees at a time, allocating a specific amount of time to each tree in search of a good candidate for the show. “I love seeing how the celebrities are so engaged with stories,” Jennifer says. “I love being a part of it.”

“At the time I started, I was traveling all across the area building my family tree,” says Donna. “Once Ancestry.com was up and running, you didn’t have to do all that traveling anymore.” While many can now access their ancestry from the comfort of their homes, there are still individuals who travel to the depths of courthouses, graveyards, libraries and other locations to recover ancestry information for people around the world. Through Find A Grave—a free resource—people can request images from cemeteries and gravestones across the country. Donna has been a volunteer contributor for eight years. When someone requests gravesite information in her area, Donna loads up her soil probe and camera and travels to the specific cemetery. “They call me the grave digger in Arcadia,” says Donna. “It’s a hobby of mine. My son says, ‘Mom’s a cheap date. Take her to a cemetery.’” Donna is on the top 50 contributor list for memorials and photos. “When I got started on Find A Grave, I got the sweetest messages from people,” Donna says. “You don’t mind helping people like that.” Free resources such as community genealogy workshops can set ancestry enthusiasts on the right path to search success. Online resources are another great source for free information through the dedication of volunteer networks. Brian Nichols manages the site Random Acts of Genealogical Kindness and has a

Bert Outlaw, right, president of the West Florida Genealogical Society, visits with meeting attendees. Photo courtesy of West Florida Genealogical Society

NOVEMBER 2015

network of volunteers that fulfill requests for people across the country. He started rebuilding the site in 2014 after it crashed, and the woman who ran the site died. “The original had a little over 4,000 willing to volunteer. Now we have a little over 600,” says Brian. Genealogy has become Brian’s career. He also manages genealogyinc.com and mapofus.org, and state genealogy networks on Facebook. He earns money from advertisements. While Donna and Brian’s work is based around a network of volunteers, professional genealogists are available to help people when they hit a brick wall with ancestry searches, are just starting or need help with genealogy documentation. Amy Crabill Lay of Tampa decided to make a career of her passion for genealogy. “I’ve been a hobbyist since I was a teen,” says Amy. “I’ve been working on my own family for over 30 years. I was in the plastic industry, and I really wasn’t passionate about plastic.” She has worked as a professional genealogist for six years. While a specific degree is not required, Amy is in the final stage of genealogist certification through the Association of Professional Genealogists. She is also a certified Florida pioneer researcher and chairs the Florida State Genealogy Society. “My business is focused on individual clients,” says Amy. “I look at documents, preparing papers for lineage and pioneer programs, finding lost ancestors or locating immigrant ancestors.

“What I love about ancestry is you never know what you’re going to find.” Genealogy professionals and hobbyists agree ancestry searches must stretch beyond web resources because not all records are digitized. “Every historical record isn’t on Ancestry,” says Matthew Deighton, the company’s public relations manager. “With 16 billion historical records, we still don’t have them all, but we’re As a professional genealogist, Amy Crabill Lay of Tampa spends hours poring working on it.” through probate books and other records at county courthouses. Ancestry.com Photo by Merritt Lay adds about 2 million records each day, Matthew notes. came into the library and wanted to While online databases are expanding find his birth mother. He had done the and open to interpretation, one resource DNA testing and needed help from Bert’s cannot be misinterpreted: your blood. group to interpret the data. The society DNA test kits allow people to discover helped him find a niece of his mother. their ethnic background. Once the test She told him his mother had died seven kit is bought, a person gives a sample of years after putting him up for adoption. saliva and returns it in the prepaid enve“He went to another state to visit lope. It takes 6 to 8 weeks for the results his new family members, and then to to be sent via email. Western Europe,” says Bert. “He came in DNA testing can match people with with nothing, and left being part of the relatives they may not know about family again. Each person who researches through websites that use the data to help has their own unique story.” build family trees. Genealogy can lead to a journey across “I had DNA done and got a hit from the world, across the nation and somesome people in New York that were distimes just across town. tant cousins,” says Donna. “They came While large databases offer a global down and visited us. The DNA is just and national perspective on where we unbelievable. When it first came out, I came from, localized resources can create didn’t know, but I am a believer now.” an identity deeply rooted in the history of Bert Outlaw, president of the West a community. This helps people underFlorida Genealogical Society, has been stand the importance of their ancestry. impressed with what DNA testing has “I believe that finding out about one’s done for people who use the society’s family history gives them a sense of purgenealogy library in Pensacola. pose,” says Brian. An older man who had been adopted Whether through online research, a

Beginning Your Search Genealogy is a large industry, with numerous resources. There are networks in every state for new and seasoned genealogists, and hundreds of online sites to help you complete your family tree. The biggest question is where to start. Here are some tips. XX Learn the best ways to research. Visit www.familytreemagazine.com and www.about.com for tips and articles. Ask your public library for resources. Visit the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Family History Centers. XX Join a genealogy society near you. Become a member. Attend its genealogy events. Check out any classes offered. Visit its genealogy office and get free help and resources to start your search. XX Sign up for an online genealogy membership and search billions of online records. www.ancestry.com www.archives.com www.genealogybank.com www.findmypast.com www.newspapers.com www.fold3.com (military records) XX Use free online resources. www.cyndislist.com www.findagrave.com www.familysearch.com www.wikitree.com XX Hire a professional genealogist in your area. Find one at the Association of Professional Genealogists’ website, www.apgen.org.

DNA sample, contacting a professional or talking to members of a society, genealogy continues to gain popularity and build a national and global community. “I think it’s really cool sitting around a table (with others) and realizing their ancestors are the same as someone else, and they are distantly related,” says Amy. “The more research you do, you find out we are all so interconnected.” n NOVEMBER 2015

In the Kitchen

Recipes That Satisfy

What to do with all that leftover bird? Make a tasty quiche by adding cheese, spinach and eggs.

Turkey Transformations Put Thanksgiving Day leftovers to use in deliciously unique ways Turkey, Spinach and Swiss Quiche Nonstick cooking spray 1/2 white onion, diced 1/2 red bell pepper, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 cups leftover turkey, cut into bite-size pieces 10-ounce package frozen spinach, thawed and well drained 3 eggs 1/2 cup lowfat milk 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper 16

NOVEMBER 2015

1 cup grated Swiss cheese 9-inch pie crust, unbaked

Cozy Turkey Soup

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and place over medium heat. Sauté the onion, pepper and garlic until tender, about 3 minutes. Add the turkey and spinach. Sauté 1 minute or until all ingredients are heated through. Remove from the heat. In a mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, salt and pepper. Sprinkle cheese into the pie shell. Layer the turkey, vegetable and spinach mixture on top of the cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the top. Bake about 50 minutes or until center is set.

1 white onion, minced (reserve 2 tablespoons) 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 cups leftover turkey, chopped 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon coarse ground pepper 1/2 cup diced celery 1 cup diced carrot 1 clove garlic, minced 5 yellow peppers, seeded and diced 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 15-ounce can chicken stock 1 tablespoon salt Bread bowls (optional) 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Servings: 6

Courtesy of Honeysuckle White

In a skillet, sauté onion in 2 tablespoons olive oil for 2 to 3 minutes. Add turkey, 1/8 teaspoon salt and pepper. Set aside.

The Four T’s of Turkey Food Safety Thaw: Place unopened turkey, breast side up, on a tray in the refrigerator. Allow at least 24 hours of thawing for every 4 pounds of turkey. XX Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. Thigh, 180 degrees; breast, 170 degrees; stuffing, 165 degrees. XX Two-hour storage: Store leftovers in separate containers. Place in refrigerator two hours after cooking. XX Three days to eat: Eat or freeze leftover turkey within three days. XX

Create mini muffins with leftover turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce.

Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a large stockpot on low heat. Sauté celery, carrot, garlic and the reserved 2 tablespoons onion for approximately 10 minutes or until the vegetables are soft. Add the peppers, potatoes, stock and 1 tablespoon salt. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Add the turkey and onion mixture to the soup; heat through. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with cheese. Servings: 6

Courtesy of Honeysuckle White

Holiday Minis Nonstick cooking spray 3 cups cooked turkey, cut into ¼-inch pieces 14-ounce package cornbread stuffing mix 16-ounce jar turkey gravy 6-ounce can cranberry sauce with whole cranberries

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray mini muffin pans (for 48 muffins) with cooking spray. In a large bowl, prepare the stuffing mix as directed on package. Add turkey to the stuffing mixture, and stir in 1 cup turkey gravy. The mixture should hold together when spooned into a ball. If the mixture is too dry, add more gravy until correct consistency is achieved. Spoon the stuffing mixture into the pans. Press the mixture level to the top of

each cavity. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Remove from pans, and garnish each bite with cranberry sauce. Additional gravy may be heated and served on the side as a dipping sauce. Servings: 48 pieces

Courtesy of Honeysuckle White

Turkey Potato Casserole 3 cups leftover turkey, cooked and shredded 1 onion, diced 14.5-ounce can green beans, drained 10.75-ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup 8 ounces cubed cheddar cheese 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese 4 cups prepared mashed potatoes

Courtesy of Butterball

Asian Turkey Barbecue on Sesame Scallion Toast 3 cups turkey, cooked and chopped 1/3 cup hoisin sauce ¼ cup barbecue sauce 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root Salt and pepper to taste 4 English muffins, split 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided ½ cup diced green onions, divided

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Place an even layer of turkey in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Cover the turkey with a layer of onion and a layer of green beans. Pour the soup over the green bean layer, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Stir together the cubed cheese and mashed potatoes. Spoon over the top of the casserole, and spread to cover. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until heated through.

Heat broiler. In a large saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the hoisin sauce, barbecue sauce, ginger and 1 tablespoon sesame oil. Mix in the turkey, salt, pepper and ¼ cup onions. Gently toss until all ingredients are well blended. Cook about 10 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the remaining sesame oil and remaining onions. Brush the cut sides of the English muffins lightly with the mixture. Place the muffin halves face up on a baking sheet. Broil the muffins 2 minutes or until lightly toasted. Remove from heat. Top with the turkey mixture. Serve warm.

Courtesy of Foster Farms

Servings: 6

Servings: 4

NOVEMBER 2015

The Great Picture Hunt

Photo Tips from David LaBelle

Thanksgiving: The Best American Holiday of All In general, holidays make me sad, especially Christmas and New Year’s, because they exaggerate the loneliness of those who have lost or are separated from loved ones. My wife challenges me to “get in touch with the child within” and recall the excitement I felt as a youngster during the holidays. But mostly I remember having to be a ghost every Halloween because we couldn’t afford a store-bought costume. But there is one holiday I embrace: Thanksgiving. I love Thanksgiving. I love the name, the concept and what it evokes in me. It is a beautiful word, the marriage of two unselfish words that create an even lovelier union. Like a string around my heart, Thanksgiving doesn’t highlight what I don’t have. Instead, it reminds me how much I do have and how blessed I am. With Thanksgiving, I don’t feel any societal or commercial pressure to purchase gifts. There is little worry the kids are going to bite into apples with razor blades or tainted

candy dropped in a sack by some weird neighbor. And there is little religious feud about how we celebrate or don’t celebrate this holiday. My father never worked on Thanksgiving. It was one of the rare days he didn’t expect us to work, either. We felt like a family on this wonderful day. The seven of us would pack into the car and drive 100 miles south to my grandparents’ house, or sometimes they, along with aunts and uncles, came to our house in the country to celebrate the holiday. Thanksgiving also connects me in a special way to my mother, who died when I was a senior in high school. Each Thanksgiving, while staying up late to cook the turkey, make potato salad and bake pies, she would make an extra pie, just for me. While others liked apple, cherry or mincemeat, I loved pumpkin pie. That gesture was better than any Christmas present I ever received and, to this day, my eyes water with fond memories when I smell a pumpkin pie baking.

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 art form. For more information, visit www.greatpicturehunt.com.

NOVEMBER 2015

A youngster hugs his stuffed lamb, a gift given to him by volunteers on a “Santa Train “ that travels through the Appalachian Mountains a week before Thanksgiving. Photo by David LaBelle

In a world where we are faced with no shortage of evil happenings, it is good for each of us to slow down and consider the many things we are thankful for. One of the missions my wife—who also is a photographer—and I agree on is dedicating our photographic lives to celebrating the good things in life. There are plenty of others who document the evil, and I am grateful they are willing to risk their lives to shine light on the darkness. While there are not enough pages in this publication for me to list or share all the things I am thankful for, I will start the parade by saying I am thankful to have been blessed with the gift of seeing, and sharing what I see and feel with both words and pictures.

I cannot imagine my life without a camera or a pen. So this holiday season, why not challenge your eyes and your heart to be filled with the visual aromas of Thanksgiving. See how many “thankful” scenes you can record. Consider the beauty of nature, of family or people helping people. See how many “thankful” scenes you can find. Maybe you can even make a little book of your pictures and thoughts. You know, it would make a nice gift. I have friends who say they wished every day was Christmas because people are nicer to each other. For me, I’ll take Thanksgiving. It is my earnest prayer that my last two words on earth are “thank you.” 

HARBOR FREIGHT QUALITY TOOLS AT RIDICULOUSLY LOW PRICES

How Does Harbor Freight Sell GREAT QUALITY Tools at the LOWEST Prices?

SUPER COUPON

We have invested millions of dollars in our own state-of-the-art quality test labs and millions more in our factories, so our tools will go toe-to-toe with the top professional brands. And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middle man and pass the savings on to you. It’s just that simple! Come visit one of our 600 Stores Nationwide.

WOW SUPER COUPON $

26", 16 DRAWER ROLLER CABINET • 1060 lb. Capacity ge • 14,600 cu. in. of stora

$31999

633

comp at

2.5 HP, 21 GALLON 125 PSI VERTICAL AIR COMPRESSOR

SAVE $349

LOT 61258 shown 61840/61297/68146

$17.97

LIMIT 8 - 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 2/21/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R PE ON SU UP O C

VALUE

LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 2/21/16. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.

SUPER COUPON W O W PUMP 1.5 TON

LOT 69252/60569 shown 68053/62160 62496/62516

• 3-1/2 Pumps Lifts Most Vehicles • Weighs 32 lbs.

$ $5999 89 comp at

$119.99

R PE ON SU UP CO

40 PIECE 1/4" AND 3/8" DRIVE SOCKET SET Customer Rating

SAVE 60%

LOT 67847 shown 61454/61693/62803

comp at

SAVE

discount . Cannot be used with other supplies last. by calling 800-423-2567 or HarborFreight.com or l purchase with original receipt. Offer good while er per day. LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores . Limit one coupon per custom ses after 30 days from origina or coupon or prior purchal coupon must be presented. Valid through 2/21/16 Non-transferable. Origina

Customer Rating

14999

Customer Rating

® RAPID ALUMINUM RACING JACK

$499

LOT 63015 61328/62843 47902 shown

$ 99

• SAE and Metric

comp at

LIMIT 5 - 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 2/21/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

Customer Rating

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 2/21/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R COUPON WOW SUPE150 0 WATT DUAL PERATURE

900 PEAK/ 700 RUNNING WATTS 2 HP (63 CC) 2 CYCLE GAS RECREATIONAL GENERATOR

SAVE $68 $

9999

comp at

$168.97

LOT 69684 shown 61776/61969/61970

Customer Rating

R PE ON SU UP CO

SAVE 39%

134

$399

• 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed • Over 25 Million Satisfied Customers

Capacity

WITH JUMP STARTER

33%

Customer Rating LOT 67514 comp at

$32.99

LIMIT 4 - 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 2/21/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

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

99 $ 49 comp at

$$39

$8 $1499

.97t $29discoun

LOT 60657 shown 38391/62306/62376

SAVE

TWO TIER COLLAPSIBLE EASY-STORE STEP LADDER

1999

ON WO3-IWN-1 POSURTAPEBLER COPOUP WER PACK

HEAT GUN (572°/1112°)

. Cannot be used with other supplies last. by calling 800-423-2567 or HarborFreight.com or l purchase with original receipt. Offer good while er per day. LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores . Limit one coupon per custom ses after 30 days from origina or coupon or prior purchal coupon must be presented. Valid through 2/21/16 Non-transferable. Origina

Customer Rating • 225 lb.

comp at

hft_floridacurrents_1115_M-REG64872.indd 1

LOT 62340/62546 96289 shown

$9.99

LIMIT 9 - 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 2/21/16. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

TEM

comp at

12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW WITH LASER GUIDE

SAVE $264

SAVE

70%

LOT 60338/66619 69381 shown

R PE ON SU UP CO

72" x 80" MOVER'S BLANKET

SAVE 61% $ 99

SAVE $200

$ 99

ANY SINGLE ITEM

Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, extended service plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day parking lot sale item, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trenchers, welders, Admiral, CoverPro, Daytona, Diablo, Franklin, Hercules, Holt, Jupiter, Predator, Stik-Tek, StormCat, Union, Vanguard, Viking. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 2/21/16.

LOT 66537 shown 69505/62418

$259.99

R PE ON SU UP CO

LOT 69052 shown 69111/62522/62573

Customer Rating

3-1/2" SUPER BRIGHT NINE LED ALUMINUM FLASHLIGHT

99 36$9592.99

2500 LB. ELECTRIC WINCH WITH WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL

WITH ANY PURCHASE

LOT 61609 67831 shown

discount . Cannot be used with other supplies last. by calling 800-423-2567 or HarborFreight.com or l purchase with original receipt. Offer good while er per day. LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores . Limit one coupon per custom ses after 30 days from origina or coupon or prior purchal coupon must be presented. Valid through 2/21/16 Non-transferable. Origina

R PE ON SU UP O C

FREE 20% OFF 6

R PE ON SU UP CO

SAVE

SUPER COUPON

$59.99

R PE ON SU UP CO

60 LED SOLAR SECURITY LIGHT

LOT 62534/69643 shown

Customer Rating

SAVE 54%

Includes 6V, 900 mAh NiCd battery pack.

3199

comp at

$69.99

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

9/16/15 10:26 AM

Travel Journal

Satisfying the Appetite for Wanderlust

Southern Comfort at the Diner Ginormous omelettes, flatgrilled burgers, fried chicken and waffles, and mile-high desserts. Heaping salads, signature sandwiches, madefrom-scratch milkshakes and friendly service offer a hometown feel at throw-back eateries. True Southern comfort food is just around the corner at your neighborhood diner. Six days a week in Niceville, The Front Porch (www.frontporchniceville. com) serves up omelettes eight internationally inspired ways. For lunch, homemade egg salad, Connie’s gourmet chicken salad with dried cranberries and roasted pecans, sandwiches, homemade soups and garden-fresh salads come in generous portions. With eight locations, Metro Diner (www.metrodiner.com) promises overflowing plates of cooked-from-scratch selections. For a taste of nostalgia, visit the original location tucked away in Jacksonville’s historic neighborhood of San Marco. Come hungry for the signature breakfast pie, huevos rancheros or Charleston shrimp and grits, or try Benedicts one of six ways, eight kinds of omelettes or pound-cake French toast. Just a holler from the St. Johns River is the state’s oldest diner: Angel’s Dining Car,

Sweet strawberry butter adds a special touch to the fried chicken and Belgian waffles at Metro Diner in Jacksonville.

founded in 1932 in my hometown of Palatka by my friend Nancy Angel’s father, Porter. Eat hand-pattied, flat-grilled burgers and freshly battered onion rings at window-side booths or at the counter. In my mind, Porter “invented” cherry cola and the Pusalow— chocolate milk with vanilla syrup served over crushed ice. Angel’s has no website, but is open 24/7 at 209 Reid St. South Florida’s Flashback Diner (www.flashbackdiner. com) cracked its first egg in Hallandale Beach more than 24 years ago. Open 24 hours

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.

NOVEMBER 2015

a day, it has added locations in Boca Raton and Davie. Six kinds of breakfast hash— including Irish, meatloaf and veggie—make way for homestyle chili mac and cheese, Southern fried chicken, Greek moussaka and more at dinner. Explore the celebrity menu’s Ricky Ricardo Cuban sandwich, the Soupy Sales tuna melt or the Lloyd Bridges mahi mahi sandwich. How About a Doughnut? MSN rated doughnut and bagel shops and suggests the drunken doughnut at Rhino Doughnuts & Coffee (www. rhinodoughnuts.com) in Boca Raton. It features a vodkaand Kahlua-infused chocolate mousse inside and an Oreo crumb crust outside. You may need a designated driver.

New Apps for Road Trips The new Heads Up! app provides fun while on the road. A combination of charades, Trivial Pursuit and Password, it records faces as you play for interesting travel memories. Download the HotelTonight app and get deals the same day or a week in advance. A Blogger’s Suggestion Lesli Peterson, who travels the Southeast with her family, says she relies on Waze (www.waze. com): “Sometimes the shortest route in miles is not the shortest route in time. Waze uses the power of crowdsourcing to alert users to accidents, construction and traffic hiccups. It also includes algorithms that will reroute you, which is helpful in cities that you might not be familiar with.” n

“To you, it’s the perfect lift chair. To me, it’s the best sleep chair I’ve ever had.” — J. Fitzgerald, VA

Easy-to-use remotes for massage/heat and recline/lift

Complete with battery backup in case of power outage

Our Perfect Sleep Chair® is just the chair to do it all. It’s a chair, true – the finest of lift chairs – but this chair is so much more! It’s designed to provide total comfort and relaxation not found in other chairs. It can’t be beat for comfortable, long-term sitting, TV viewing, relaxed reclining and – yes! – peaceful sleep. Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of positions, including the Trendelenburg position and the zero gravity position where your body experiences a minimum of internal and external stresses. You’ll love the other benefits, too: It helps with correct spinal alignment, promotes back pressure relief, and This lift chair encourages better posture to puts you safely prevent back and muscle pain. on your feet!

And there’s more! The overstuffed, oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. The high and low heat settings along with the dozens of massage settings, can provide a soothing relaxation you might get at a spa – just imagine getting all that in a lift chair! Shipping charge includes white glove delivery. Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! Includes one year service warranty and your choice of fabrics and colors. If you’re not 100% satisfied simply return the chair within 30 days for a refund of the product purchase price. – Call now!

The Perfect Sleep Chair

Call now toll free for our lowest price. Please mention code 101572 when ordering.

1-888-232-0145 Long Lasting DuraLux Leather

DuraLux II Microfiber

Tan

Burgundy Cashmere

Fern

Chocolate Burgundy

Chocolate Indigo

46383

We’ve all had nights when we just can’t lie down in bed and sleep, whether it’s from heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches – it could be a variety of reasons. Those are the nights we’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in, one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises feet and legs to precisely the desired level, supports the head and shoulders properly, operates easily even in the dead of night, and sends a hopeful sleeper right off to dreamland.

Sit up, lie down — and anywhere in between!

Festival Roundup

Things to See and Do

Submit Your Events Through March 15, Sebring Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition: Everglades to Okefenokee Photo Exhibit The Highlands Museum of the Arts presents a display featuring photographs by Carlton Ward Jr. The exhibit is sponsored by the Florida Humanities Council, the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation, Visit Florida and the Highlands County Tourism Development Council. www.highlandsartleague.org; (863) 385-6682

November 1, Englewood Ecofest More than 30 local environmental groups have been invited to exhibit at the family-friendly celebration of the area’s natural unspoiled beauty at Lemon Bay Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.englewoodbeachwaterfest.com

November 6, Lake Placid Interlake Street Party Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce and the Lake Placid Morning Rotary Club host the event from 6 to 9 p.m. www.visitlakeplacidflorida.com; (863) 465-4331

November 7, Sebring 49th annual Fine Arts and Crafts Festival The juried show staged on Circle Park Drive and the spoke streets in historic downtown attracts artists and crafters from throughout the state and beyond. More than $3,000 in prizes awarded at the event attended by 5,000 people a year. www.highlandsartleague.org/festival

November 7, Bradenton Grilled Cheese Contest Pay $15 to enter your sandwich in the contest at Mixon Fruit Farms. Customers choose their favorite during the event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

2nd Annual Islamorada Moose Lodge Bacon Fest Join Sassy the Clown and taste bacon dishes from professional chefs and area residents 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along the old road in front of the Moose Lodge, MM 81, on Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8. Listen to music, dress your pet as a pig and compete in bacon eating, hog calling, making bacon cocktails and guinea pig races. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ islamoradamoose or call (305) 664-8120. Photo by Krissy Gustinger

NOVEMBER 2015

The winner gets a $150 gift card, a trophy and a place on Mixon’s deli menu. Proceeds go to Southeast High School’s culinary department. www.mixon.com; (941) 748-5829

November 7, Munson Sasquatch 5K Run The run starts at 8 a.m. at Bear Lake Trail. Register online, in person or by mail (12929 Hwy. 87N, Milton, FL 32570). Proceeds benefit My Father’s Arrows. Foster kids and their families run for free. www.myfathersarrows.org; (850) 490-1055

November 11, Sebring Veterans Day Parade Downtown, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (863) 471-5100

November 12, Key Largo Chamber of Commerce 34th annual Cook-Off Open to professional, amateur and young aspiring chefs, the contest at the Holiday Inn, MM 100, features soups and chowders, appetizers, main dishes, sides and salads, and desserts. Public sampling starts at 7 p.m. www.keylargochamber.org; (305) 451-4747

November 13, Sebring Artist Reception The Highlands Art League’s Yellow House artists honor local artists from 5 to 8 p.m. www.HighlandsArtLeague.org

November 14, Bradenton Braden River Bluegrass Festival and Gumbo Cook Off Linger Lodge hosts live music all afternoon and gumbo tasting from noon until the food runs out. Bring chairs, blankets and sunscreen. The show goes on rain or shine. Tickets are $15.

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. Camp sites are available. Vendors and gumbo competitors are welcome. No pets or coolers. www.lingerlodgeresort.com; (941) 755-2757

November 14, Sebring Saturday Night Cruise Celebrate classic cars and listen to live entertainment the second Saturday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m. in the downtown circle. www.SebringCruise.com

November 14, Key Largo 7th annual Key Largo Bridge Run Cross the Jewfish Creek Bridge during the10K, half marathon and 5K run/walk open to all ages. www.keylargobridgerun.com; (978) 270-2026

November 14, Englewood Paddlefest Every level of paddler—including kids—and all forms of paddle crafts are welcome in the Clash in the Pass. Race viewing can be seen on both sides of Stump Pass Beach State Park. www.englewoodbeachwaterfest.com

November 14, Sebring 30th annual CCC Festival Celebrate the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps at Highlands Hammock State Park, 5931 Hammock Road, with a model railroad display, antique car show, arts and crafts vendors, blacksmithing, tram rides, children’s activities and live entertainment from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.floridastateparks.org; (863) 386-6094.

November 18, Islamorada “CSI, Insurance Fraud and Special Response Team Diving” The History of Diving Museum, MM 83, continues the free “Immerse Yourself!” series with a 7 p.m. seminar presented by Jordan Harvell of CETi Diving. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy exhibits before the event. www.divingmuseum.org; (305) 664-9737

November 19-22, Englewood Waterfest A month of events wraps up with a boat parade and block party on Dearborn Street on November 19, cardboard boat races at Indian

Photo by Helen Ballance

Local Color Plein Air Festival

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon watching artists paint in the tradition of the great impressionists, bring your own paints and join the fun or shop the exhibits by local artists Saturday, November 14, in Lynn Haven. Vote for your favorite works and enjoy an unplugged acoustic jam session at the end of the day. The event starts at noon at Roberts Hall, 819 New York Ave., and runs until 9 p.m. For more information, visit www.localcolorpleinairfestivals.com or call (850) 541-3867. Mound Park on November 21, a Keith Anderson concert at the Englewood Event Center on November 21 and Racefest at Englewood Beach November 19-22. More than 40 boats from around the world will hit speeds of 130 mph to see who will be named the world champion of OPA/APBA offshore powerboat racing.

November 21, Sebring Downtown Community Sidewalk Sale Bargain shoppers are encouraged to browse the monthly sidewalk sale from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

www.englewoodbeachwaterfest.com

November 21, Marathon Aviation Day See military aircraft, warbirds, fly overs, drones, flight training, seminars, rides and a classic car show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Marathon Airport, MM 51. Admission and parking are free.

November 19-February 28, Islamorada Florida Bay Forever: A Photographic Exhibit More than 40 images bring to life the coffee table book published to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Everglades Foundation. The exhibit at the Keys History and Discovery Center, MM 82, tells the story of water from the Everglades to the Keys and includes Everglades-related editorial cartoons from a private collection. www.keysdiscovery.com; (305) 922-2237

November 21, Indian Lakes Estates Fall Bazaar Shop for homemade arts and crafts 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Indian Lake Estates United Methodist Church, 6910 DeLand Ave. Booth space is available for $10. Food and drink will be sold. Barb, (863) 692-0236; booth space: Wink, (863) 978-8971 or Joan, (863) 257-4820

www.DestinationDowntownSebring.com; (863) 382-2649

www.1241.eaachapter.org; (305) 942-1426

November 21-22, Bradenton Harvest Festival Mixon Fruit Farm hosts its extravaganza from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with two performances of “The Nerveless Nocks” aerial stunt show, entertainment from local schools, circus shows, craft vendors, an antique car show, games and food. www.mixon.com; (941) 748-5829

November 21-22, Estero 16th biannual Fine Art Show Up to 175 original juried artists display and sell

their works—paintings, sculpture, clay, glass, fiber, wood, jewelry, photography and more—at the Miromar Design Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.hotworks.org; (941) 755-3088

November 25-30, Key West International Sand Sculpting Competition Watch professionals bring the beach to life between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. at the Casa Marina Resort, 1500 Reynolds St. www.sandartkeywest.com

November 28, Marathon Holiday Treasures Sale Marathon Garden Club’s event features gently used Christmas decorations, holiday items, gourmet goodies, a bake sale, orchids and other plants and raffle items. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the club, 5270 Overseas Highway, MM 50. (305) 664-8178

November 28, Islamorada Pops in the Park Florida Keys Community Concert Band offers a free American salute at 4 p.m. at Founders Park, MM 87. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. (305) 853-7294; (305) 451-4530

NOVEMBER 2015

Outdoor Pursuits

Enjoying the Natural World Around Us

Get Bike Season in Gear Florida is a bike rider’s haven any time of year. But with cooler temperatures on the way, this is the start of the most comfortable season for cycling. Before surrendering to the urge to ride, take time to do a quick clean, lube and inspection of your bike. Tackle the dirtiest part of the bike first: the drivetrain. Use a standard degreaser or citrus-based substitute, such as Park Tools Chain-Brite, to remove grease. If necessary, use a brush to clean between chain links and other hard-toreach places. Clean the other components and bike frame with a soft cloth, and plain water or a mild dish soap or car wash solution. Start at the top and work down. After rinsing, bounce the bike on its wheels a few times to shake off excess water. Use a towel to wipe down the chrome and painted surfaces. Next, lubricate moving parts. The key to a good lube job is getting it just right—not too little and not too much lubricant. Apply one or two drops of

Inspect your bike tires for embedded glass and debris after every ride. An object stuck in a tire may eventually work its way in, penetrate the casing and cause a flat. Increase tube life by deflating tires slightly after each ride. But be sure to reinflate and pressure check them before your next outing. © Brian A. Jackson

oil to each chain link. Then, run the bike up and down through the gears to distribute the oil. Use a lint-free rag to remove excess oil. Don’t forget to put a little oil on other critical points, such as where bare brake and shifter cables enter their housings. Finally, inspect every part of your bike. Make sure all nuts are tight, nothing scrapes or grinds, and the seat and handlebars are set at the proper height. Pay particular attention to the brakes and tires. Make sure brakes engage fully and, when applied, the brake pads contact squarely on the wheel rims. Examine tires for wear. Also, check tire pressure; the front tire should have slightly less pressure than the back tire, which supports most of a rider’s weight.

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.

NOVEMBER 2015

Double the Storage Life of Game Meat Air facilitates the breakdown of meat, even when it’s frozen. Meat wrapped the traditional way—in plastic wrap and freezer paper—lasts approximately one year in the freezer. By vacuum sealing your meat instead, you can double storage life to two years. Fish Into the Wind Bass prefer to swim with the current to conserve effort and energy. By casting into the wind, you can ambush bass before they reach you. You won’t get the distance of casting with the wind, but what you sacrifice in distance you may make up for in the number of fish you catch. Outdoors 101: The Best Trail Food Calories per ounce: That’s the key to selecting the best trail food. Generally, the more calories per ounce the better. GORP is the gold standard of trail food. This longtime favorite consists of dried

fruit, nuts and candy, and contains approximately 150 calories an ounce, depending on what you include. That’s another reason why it’s the best: You can mix and match ingredients to your specific tastes. Other calories-per-ounce favorites are macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, Snickers candy bars and breakfast pastries, such as Pop Tarts and breakfast bars. What Day is It? November 5, Gunpowder Day November 17, Take a Hike Day November 22, Go for a Ride Day Got a Tip or a Whopper? Send us your favorite outdoor tip, photo or story. If selected for publication in the magazine, 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 photo. Email your submission to info@floridacurrents.com. 

Gladesâ€‚ Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

There IS a Cooperative Difference By Adam Schwartz

In the United States, most people receive their electricity from one of three types of utilities: investor-owned, municipal-owned or an electric cooperative, which is owned and controlled by the people who use it. The ownership model really does matter. In the IOU model, the corporation is owned by stockholders who may or may not be customers of the utility. Their sole motive is to make a profit on their investment. IOUs tend to be large corporations, such as Florida Power & Light. In most cases, IOUs have few employees or offices in communities where they operate. Service tends to be less personalized. Consumer surveys confirm IOUs have the lowest customer satisfaction ratings. IOUs serve large cities, suburban areas and some rural areas. About 72 percent of the U.S. population is served by IOUs. Municipal electric systems, as the name implies, are government owned. They can serve large cities, such as Los Angeles, Austin or Orlando, or smaller areas, such as Coon Rapids, Iowa,

or Morgantown, North Carolina. The city runs the utility with little to no meaningful oversight from the citizens. About 16 percent of the market is served by municipal utilities. Rural electric cooperatives serve the fewest number of consumers, about 12 percent of the market, which equals 42 million people. However, our electric lines cover more than 75 percent of the U.S. landmass because we provide power where others once refused to go due to low population density. Glades Electric Cooperative is one of more than 900 electric cooperatives in 47 states. Electric cooperatives rank highest in member satisfaction. We believe this is because we serve member-owners, not customers. As the electric utility business evolves, we are committed to being there for you, our member, to provide for your electric energy needs. Unlike large IOUs, we are rooted right here in Central Florida. There is a cooperative difference. You own us, and we are here to serve you. n

Florida Rural Electric Credit Union

NOVEMBER 2015

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

CEO Jeff Brewington, left, Trustees and employees listen as Chelsea Levine, fourth from left, makes a point during one of three strategic planning breakout groups.

Strategizing for Members Annual planning session focuses on providing exceptional service

NOVEMBER 2015

Operating a business in a rural area of the country means things need to be done a little differently. We enjoy a slower-paced life and the friendliness and hospitality of our smaller communities, but we have to ensure we stay focused on our goals and priorities. As a cooperative, making sure the needs of our members are recognized and protected is important. Glades Electric Cooperative recognizes many of those needs by adhering to the seven cooperative principles—guidelines used by cooperatives around the world. We also identify priorities, values and goals to make sure we provide the best possible service to our members. Employees are challenged throughout the year to identify ways to make the cooperative stronger, but each September we gather for a strategic planning session. This year’s get-together at the Lake Placid Camp and Conference Center gave Trustees, executive staff, managers and employees a chance to review our guiding values and refocus our direction. This opportunity for representatives from all levels and departments of the cooperative to relate to each other improves our communication and keeps ideas flowing. The importance of the session is reflected in the dedicated employees who willingly give up a day off without pay to participate.

This year’s session led by CEO Jeff Brewington started with a review of the cooperative principles, which make electric cooperatives different from other electric utilities. Participants reviewed each principle and applied it directly to GEC, identifying areas of strength and those that need improvement. Keeping the needs and best interest of members in mind, the group then turned to the values and priorities of the cooperative, which guides us on areas that need focus throughout the next year. Discussions ranged from weekly outage management meetings and payment options provided to our members to the format and location of our Annual Meeting. All areas of the cooperative were reviewed, evaluated and prioritized. Brewington then challenged the group to review the GEC vision statement, value statement, mission statement and goals to ensure the cooperative is addressing member needs. Definitions and proposed changes were studied in depth while the group remained focused on you, the member. Although responses varied, it was clear everyone in attendance had one thing in common: a desire to continue to make GEC a strong member of the community and focus on its mission of providing exceptional service. n

Marketplace Affordable Life Insurance $100,000 Age 45 55 65

Mo. cost - Male 11.71 23.14 54.38

800-550-3204

FOR SALE: Marina/Apartment Complex: $425,000

4 - Luxury 3/3 apts. 400’ deepwater dockage on the Caloosahatchee River in Moore Haven, FL. Call George Cheshier: (863) 202-6325 Brantley Properties, Inc.

FREE BOOKS/ DVDS With Coming Economic Collapse PREPARE NOW!

TBS, Box 99, Lenoir City, TN 37771

1-888-211-1715

thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com

Everybody’s Favorites Order your copy of our newest ybod Ever cookbook. Nearly 300 reader-submitted recipes are sure to please at your next family gathering. Main dishes, appetizers, drinks and desserts are all represented. Give this as a gift or add it to your collection. The cost is $8, shipping included. es vorit y’s Fa

submitted

from recipes

USA Quality Steel Buildings DELIVERED AND INSTALLED

866-961-3367 www.usabarnsandgarages.com

20x26 sale $3530

22x21 sale $4685

est 3 cont

the 201

Reader-

Order online at www.ruralite.org or over the phone by calling (503) 718-3720, or mail a check to: Ruralite Cookbooks 5605 NE Elam Young Parkway, Hillsboro, OR 97124 Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for delivery.

36x31 sale $8740 30x31 sale $9985 Many more styles and sizes available Se Habla Espanol

C E L E B R AT I N G 2 0 Y E A R S !

Premier

Building Systems, Inc.

“Steel Buildings Any Size”

1.800.882.5150 30 x 40 x 10.......$7,499 40 x 60 x 10.....$10,899 50 x 80 x 10.....$14,999 *Local codes may affect prices.

www.Premierbuildings.com

facebook.com/FloridaCurrents

* Agriculture * Commercial * Industrial * Mini Storages NOVEMBER 2015

Consider a Small Increase to Your Giving Glades Electric Cooperative members can increase their charitable giving through Operation Round Up Plus. Under the original program, members round up their electric bill payment to the next even-dollar amount. Operation Round Up Plus clears the way to donate even more. By opting into this program, members may contribute additional money ($1 minimum) to their normal Operation Round Up amount. Individual donations are accepted at any time. Interested in making an even bigger difference in the community? Stop by your local GEC office or call (863) 946-6200 to participate in Operation Round Up Plus. Please join GEC in its mission as â€œNeighbors Working for Neighbors.â€? n

Choose a Due Date You can decide whether your bill payment is due the 1st, 5th, 10th, 15th, 20th or 25th of each month. To choose a date, call (863) 946-6200 or email gladeselectric@gladesec.com. n 28

NOVEMBER 2015

Glades Electric

Neighbors Working for Neighbors

Struggling to Find ‘Just Right’? Proper sizing crucial to optimal operation of an HVAC system By Anne Prince

When it comes to your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, are you suffering from the Goldilocks Syndrome? Perhaps your system is too big or too small—or maybe it is just right. A U.S. Department of Energy study discovered most HVAC systems do not run as efficiently as they could because they are not installed correctly or they are the wrong size. This translates to not being comfortable and over-paying on your utility bills—two good reasons to determine the right size system for your home. According to Terry Townsend, president of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, oversizing is common in commercial as well as residential applications because contractors use the rule-of-thumb sizing: a load calculation based on square footage. Unfortunately, this type of simple calculation is outdated and could cost you money.

THE GOLDILOCKS SYNDROME Often, homeowners have the wrong size heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. It is called the “Goldilocks Syndrome.” If too large, the unit runs frequently in short bursts, never running at maximum efficiency. It results in uneven heating and cooling areas. In warm climates, it may mean humidity is not eliminated. Mold and mildew can result. If the unit is too small, it constantly runs to meet the demand. Parts wear down prematurely and your utility bills are needlessly higher. A unit that is properly sized using detailed load calculations rather than outdated, inefficient “rules of thumb” leads to the “just right” fitting, resulting in optimum efficiency, comfort and reduced electric bills.

Your HVAC system might be:

Too small, too hot, too inefficient

Is Your Unit Too Big? An oversized system is problematic for the average homeowner because heating and cooling account for more than half the energy use in a typical U.S. home. If your HVAC unit is too big, it means it may be “short cycling,” or constantly turning off and on. When the unit runs in short bursts, it will not run long enough to eliminate all of the humidity in your home. If you are in a warmer climate and rely on the air conditioning mode, it could mean a shortcycling system leaves more moisture in the air, making your home feel sticky and warm. This can lead to growth of mold and mildew. Heating and cooling in short bursts results in uneven temperatures and hot or cold spots in your home. The unit’s parts also wear down prematurely.

try to keep up with demand. This also means your space is never heated or cooled adequately, and you have unnecessarily high energy bills.

Or is It Too Small? If your HVAC equipment is too small, you have a different problem: The unit is constantly running to

Anne Prince writes on consumer affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, which serves the nation’s 900plus consumer-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives.

Too large, too humid, too inefficient

Right size, right comfort level, right efficiency level

Choose the Right Energy Professional How can you ensure you get the right size HVAC system for your home? It starts with choosing the right professional energy partner. Glades Electric Cooperative recommends you contact a licensed HVAC contractor to help you choose the system that is the perfect fit for your home. n

NOVEMBER 2015

Parting Shot

Readers Share Their Special Photos

Which Color Do You Choose Today? Sundays are white, Mondays are blue, for the past five years, I have decided to Tuesdays are yellow, Wednesdays are take advantage of the beautiful beaches,” purple, Thursdays are orange, Fridays says Rosemary Seto of Lakewood Ranch. are green, Saturdays are pink ... and next “Once a week I make sure to get to one week could be totally different. of them for a 3-mile walk. While walkYou have a plethora of chairs from ing, I get to take notice of such wonderwhich to select in a rainbow of colors, all ful nature as well as spectacular colors. with an unobstructed view of the beach. “This photo was just something that HEL761-04_7.375x4.75_Layout 9/24/15 11:37 AM Page “Since I am now a Florida1resident made me1 happy to look at. I wanted to

go sit in every color chair and look out to the ocean on the gorgeous Lido Beach.” n —Rosemary Seto, Lakewood Ranch We always are looking for photos to feature in Parting Shot, and pay $25 for one-time use. Please send your best shots (must be a minimum 1,000 KB file size), along with the story behind the photo and your name and mailing address (for payment) to photos@floridacurrents.com.

Meet the Beauty in the Beast Discover this spectacular 6½-carat green treasure from Mount St. Helens!

t 10,000 feet high, it was truly a sleeping giant. Until May 18, 1980, when the beast awoke with violent force and revealed its greatest secret. Mount St. Helens erupted, sending up a 80,000-foot column of ash and smoke. From that chaos, something beautiful emerged… our spectacular Helenite Necklace. Helenite is produced from the heated volcanic rock of Mount St. Helens and the brilliant green creation has captured the eye of jewelry designers worldwide. Today you can wear this massive 6½-carat stunner for only $149!

EXCLUSIVE

FREE

Helenite Earrings -a $129 valuewith purchase of Helenite Necklace

Make your emeralds jealous. Our Helenite Necklace puts the green stone center stage, with a faceted pear-cut set in .925 sterling silver finished in luxurious gold. The explosive origins of the stone are echoed in the flashes of light that radiate as the piece swings gracefully from its 18" luxurious gold-finished sterling silver chain. Today the volcano sits quiet, but this unique piece of American natural history continues to erupt with gorgeous green fire. Your satisfaction is guaranteed. Bring home the Helenite Necklace and see for yourself. If you are not completely blown away by the rare beauty of this exceptional stone, simply return the necklace within 30 days for a full refund of your purchase price.

Limited to the first 2200 orders from this ad only Helenite Necklace (6 ½ ctw) ...Only $149 +S&P Helenite Stud Earrings (1 ctw) ........$129 +S&P

Helenite Set $278 Call-in price only $149

+S&P (Set includes necklace and earrings)

Call now to take advantage of this extremely limited offer.

1-800-859-1979

Stauer

Promotional Code HEL761-04

Please mention this code when you call.

14101 Southcross Drive W., Dept. HEL761-04, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

NOVEMBER 2015

Rating of A+

Smart Luxuries—Surprising Prices™

Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color.

Perfect Choice HD™ is simple to use, hard to see and easy to afford…

Invention of the Year PERSONAL SOUND AMPLIFICATION PRODUCTS (PSAPs)

THEY’RE NOT HEARING AIDS

Virtually impossible to see.

WEIGHT SOUND QUALITY

Personal Sound Amplification Products use advanced digital processing to amplify the frequencies of human speech. Thanks to the efforts of a doctor who leads a renowned hearing institute, this product is manufactured in an efficient production process that enables us to make it available at an affordable price. The unit is small and lightweight enough to hide behind your ear... only you’ll know Less than 1 ounce Excellent: Optimized for speech

FITTING REQUIRED?

ONE-ON-ONE SETUP

Free

RETURN POLICY COLOR

Full refund of product purchase price within 60 days Silver or Beige

you have it on. It’s comfortable and won’t make you feel like you have something stuck in your ear. It provides high quality audio so soft sounds and distant conversations will be easier to understand. Try it for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Some people need hearing aids but many just want the extra boost in volume that a PSAP gives them. We want you to be happy with Perfect Choice HD, so we are offering to let you try it for yourself. If you are not totally satisfied with this product, simply return it within 60 days for a refund of the full product purchase price. Don’t wait… don’t miss out on another conversation… call now!

Call toll free now for our lowest price.

1-877-703-0194 Please mention promotional code 101570. 1998 Ruffin Mill Road, Colonial Heights, VA 23834 Perfect Choice HD is not a hearing aid. If you believe you need a hearing aid, please consult a physician.

81038

NEW

Now with more power and clarity!

Perfect Choice HD is NOT a hearing aid. It is a Personal Sound Amplification Product (PSAP). Hearing aids can only be sold by an audiologist or a licensed hearing instrument specialist following hearing tests and fitting appointments. Once the audiologist had you tested and fitted, you would have to pay as much as $5000 for the product.

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 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, (561) 414-8737 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. November 24 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

NOVEMBER 2015

FL-153

CEO’s Message

Restructured Rates Ensure Fairness, Financial Stability As detailed in the September Florida Currents, we will implement a new rate structure starting with the November billing cycle. This rate restructure is the result of a professional cost-ofservice study completed this summer. The restructure is designed first to ensure fairness among rate classes; that is, each member class pays its fair share of the cooperative’s costs. Secondly, the restructure is designed to recover the cooperative’s costs more accurately; that is, fixed operating costs are recovered more through base charges and not variable energy charges. Finally, the restructure is designed to ensure the cooperative generates enough revenue to maintain financial stability. Overall, the restructure provides only a 0.55 percent increase to the cooperative’s revenues. This restructure is a significant change to historical utility billing practices, but is warranted in the face of our changing industry. Efficiencies, conservation activities and self-generating activities have all led to a decline in energy use, which once was the prime billing determinant. Because of the embedded fixed cost recovery component, that decline leads to an under recovery of revenues the cooperative needs to cover its fixed operating costs, which cover the operation and continued maintenance of the electric grid built to serve you. Its costs continue to rise regardless of energy use. The new structure still encourages conservation, with higher energy charges for use greater than 1,000 kilowatt-hours. However, we are eliminating an even higher third energy billing tier for use that exceeds 2,000 kWh under our old rates. Because of that, many of you will see a decrease in your total monthly bill. Our mission is exceptional service. Our goal is financial stability while providing affordable rates. These are challenging aspirations given the nature of our territory, but you can count on us to never give up our efforts to achieve them. The rate restructure is just one of the necessary puzzle pieces to get there.

Jeff Brewington