Florida Currents
ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE JANUARY 2025
EREC lineworker Kevin Macht starts the year off right by giving blood to help others.
PHOTO BY CORTNEY OWENS
CRUISE THE SOUTHEAST
SOUTHEAST SEA ISLANDS
On this enchanting 9-day cruise from Charleston to Amelia Island, experience the charm and hospitality of the South. In the comfort of our modern fleet, travel to some of the most beautiful historic cities in America. The fascinating sites you visit, the warm people you meet, and the delectable cuisine you taste, come together for an unforgettable journey.
Small Ship Cruising Done Perfectly
Florida Currents
January 2025 • Volume 14, No. 3
CEO Michael Shepard
VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Chasity Anderson, CCC
DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Noble Sprayberry
SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC
FLORIDA CURRENTS EDITORS
Valeri Pearon; Sable Riley, CCC
ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Hampton, CCC; David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
SENIOR MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
Members acknowledge that $4.49 a year, plus postage, is the cost to publish 12 issues a year of FLORIDA CURRENTS ISSN 23276304 (USPS 8300). Published by Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-for-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—the magazine serves the communication needs of consumerowned electric utilities in Florida. Preferred Periodicals postage paid at Hillsboro, OR 97123 and at additional mailing offices.
Postmaster: Send address changes to 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy., Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124-6422.
HOW TO CONTACT FLORIDA CURRENTS
Subscription services:
Nonmember subscriptions $15 U.S. a year; $25 foreign a year. Prepayment required. Allow 4-8 weeks for first issue. Identify local edition desired. Have a problem receiving your magazine? Utility members should contact their utility office. Nonmembers call 503-357-2105 or email mailingdept@pioneer.coop.
Back issues:
Back issues and extra copies are $3 each, prepayment required. Supply is limited. Identify edition, month and year. Call first to check availability. Contact Pioneer Utility Resources: P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133-1306; 503-357-2105; email: mailingdept@pioneer.coop.
DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES
American MainStreet Publications 611 S. Congress Ave. Ste. 504 Austin, TX 78704-1714; 800-626-1181 or 512-441-5200; amp.coop.
© 2025 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Direct reprint requests to editor@floridacurrents.com or for more information, visit www.pioneer.coop.
For additional content, search @FloridaCurrents on your favorite social media sites and floridacurrents.com.
Message From the President
Preparing for the Future of Electricity
As the nation’s economy grows, the demand for electricity continues to climb.
U.S. power consumption is expected to reach record highs this year, with demand projected to double by 2050. At the same time, the premature closure of reliable power plants is straining supply.
The North American Electric Reliability Corporation has warned that 19 states could experience rolling blackouts over the next few years.
To address these challenges, Escambia River Electric Cooperative is taking proactive steps to ensure a reliable and affordable energy future.
These efforts include strengthening grid resilience, improving outage response times and minimizing service disruptions. Upgrades are already underway at substations in Chumuckla, Wallace and Allentown; we have completed transmission line upgrades in Escambia County; and right-of-way crews are trimming branches near power lines to reduce outages.
Through partnerships with other electric co-ops, EREC is enhancing infrastructure and advancing innovative energy solutions tailored to local needs. Built by the community, EREC remains committed to delivering reliable electricity for families and businesses now and in the future.
Ryan C. Campbell, P.E.
A Balancing Electricity supply and demand
Electricity is essential for nearly every aspect of daily life. It’s so essential that we rarely think about how it’s produced and delivered to our homes. You might be surprised to learn that behind the scenes, a network of experts work daily—and even by the minute—to anticipate how much electricity you need before you even use it.
We’re all connected to the electric grid, so ensuring the right amount of electricity for all involves a complex process of forecasting energy demand, planning for capacity and securing enough supply to meet Americans’ needs.
Powerful sources
For the most part, electricity must be generated at a power plant using traditional sources or renewable sources. Traditional sources include coal, natural gas and nuclear energy, and renewable sources include solar, wind and hydropower.
Escambia River Electric Cooperative works closely with PowerSouth, our local wholesale power partner, to secure enough electricity for our communities, while using a diverse mix of energy sources to generate the power needed to deliver to your home or business at an affordable cost.
On a larger scale, across the country, electricity supply and demand are managed through a market that includes long-term planning agreements, where electricity is bought and sold just like other common goods and services.
Because EREC works with our wholesale power partner—also a cooperative—we can pool resources and expertise to deliver affordable power to local communities.
Electricity supply changes throughout the day because the amount people are using changes, too. For example, EREC knows we need to ensure more electricity in the mornings when you’re starting your day, and in the evenings when you’re cooking dinner, running appliances and watching TV. Demand also increases when weather patterns change, such as extremely warm or cold temperatures arriving.
Managing Supply and Demand Across the Grid
Across the country, other electric utilities are managing the same task of balancing supply and demand, which is why we have a larger network of key players in place to ensure enough power is delivered across the grid.
In most cases, the amount of electricity generated and how much is sent to specific areas are coordinated and monitored by regional transmission organizations and independent system operators. In other areas, individual electric utilities or balancing authorities perform these tasks.
RTOs, ISOs and electric utilities act as air traffic controllers for the electric grid. They forecast when you, your neighbors and communities across a large region will need more power. These organizations take measured steps to ensure there’s enough supply to meet demand.
Looking Ahead
As the energy sector undergoes rapid change, it’s important for all consumers to understand the basics of electricity supply and demand.
Electricity use in the United States is expected to rise to record highs this year and next, with the demand for electricity expected to at least double by 2050. At the same time, energy policies are pushing the early retirement of some alwaysavailable generation sources, which will risk the availability of reliable electricity.
EREC remains committed to providing affordable, reliable energy to the members we serve. That’s why we are preparing now for increased demand and other challenges that could compromise our local electric supply.
Managing the balancing act of electricity supply and demand is a complex job, which is why we have a network of utilities, power plant operators and energy traffic managers in place to direct the electricity we need and keep the electric grid balanced.
Balancing Act
Tips to Start the New Year Saving Energy and Money 16
These days, nearly everyone is looking for ways to save money and use energy more efficiently. As we start the new year, work to decrease your energy footprint. Simple changes can make a big difference over the life of a home—and there is no better time to take steps toward a healthier utility bill and a cleaner environment.
1. Unplug items from the wall, and turn off power strips. Many devices use electricity even when turned off, including TVs, printers, chargers, copiers, coffee makers, microwaves and lamps.
2. Switch off lights when leaving the room. It’s an easy way for every member of your household to contribute to energy savings.
3. Plug electronics into a smart power strip. Replace standard power strips with advanced power strips. Smart power strips can detect when a device is in standby mode and cut power off to save energy. A standard power strip must be physically turned off when not in use.
4. Use a programmable thermostat. Set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature, but program it to lower the temperature when you are away from home or sleeping and raise it when you’re there and awake to save on heating and cooling costs.
5. Use dimmer switches. Dimmer switches reduce the flow of electricity, saving you energy and money.
6. Lower your water heater temperature. For safety and efficiency, set your water heater thermostat to 120 F.
7. Weatherstrip exterior doors and windows. Sealing air leaks around doors and windows saves energy and can reduce heating and cooling costs by 10% to 30%.
8. Check the settings on your refrigerator. The fridge should be between 38 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit, and the freezer should be between 0 and 5 degrees. Check the seals for cracks and dried-on food. Keep the condenser coils underneath the fridge clean.
9. Turn off the heat dry on your dishwasher. Allow dishes to air dry to save energy and money on your electricity bill.
10. Use ceiling fans, but only when you are in the room. Fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a windchill effect. If the room is unoccupied, turn off the ceiling fan to save energy.
11. Keep your refrigerator and freezer stocked. A full fridge and freezer cuts electricity use by acting as insulation.
12. Use LED lighting. Residential LEDs use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting.
13. Wash laundry in cold water. Today’s washing machines are designed to work efficiently with cold water. You can save up to $60 a year by selecting the cold water setting when you wash.
14. Upgrade outdated appliances with Energy Star appliances. Look for newer, more energy-efficient models. The energy savings and tax rebates available are worth the initial cost.
15. Use wool or rubber dryer balls. This helps reduce drying time and cuts down on static. Wool dryer balls also absorb extra moisture and are an alternative to dryer sheets.
16. Keep your computer in sleep mode. You may be done using it, but if it’s not set on sleep mode, the computer still uses electricity.
Sealing air leaks around doors and windows saves energy and can reduce heating and cooling costs.
PHOTO BY SCOTT VAN OSDOL
Jimmy Patronis Meets With Florida’s Electric Cooperatives
Jimmy Patronis, Florida’s chief financial officer and Congressional District 1 candidate, recently connected with Florida’s electric cooperatives to discuss key issues affecting the state.
At the Florida Electric Cooperatives Association Holiday Banquet, Escambia River Electric Cooperative board members Dale Westmoreland and Gary Wiggins had a chance to speak with Patronis.
Electric cooperatives are dedicated to working with elected officials to address public policies that impact their ability to provide safe, reliable and affordable power to Florida communities. n
Kristy Geiser was randomly selected from the winning monthly photos in 2024 to receive $100 off her December electric bill!
Submitted by: Kristy Geiser Theme: My View/Hometown Pride
“Sunflowers on Gobbler Road”
From left, Dale Westmoreland, Jimmy Patronis and Gary Wiggins attend the Florida Electric Cooperatives Association Holiday Banquet. PHOTO COURTESY OF EREC
A Vet’s Life
John Logan cares for farm animals, pets and wildlife alike
By Melanie Jones
Veterinarian John Logan’s days are a constant shuffle among tasks like tending to a bull with a leg scrape, a prized calf struggling to be born and even a mountain lion in need of a blood draw.
“You never know what each day is going to look like,” he says. “It keeps things
Now, with each new farm call, he fulfills a lifelong commitment to support farmers.
“I’ve always been kind of passionate about the beef industry and helping farmers out,” he says.
John splits his time between farms and the clinic, which has a haul-in area where large animals can be treated on-site.
A nearby big cat preserve recently introduced him to a somewhat prickly patient: a mountain lion needing a blood test.
“I’ve done some reptile things—bearded dragons, boa constrictors,” he says. “I’ve done birds, parrots. But the mountain lion’s probably the craziest one, though.”
As a veterinarian at Panhandle Veterinary Services in Chipley, John treats a remarkable mix of patients—from treasured pets that cozy up to firesides to hardworking farm animals that form the backbone of small-town life. Though Panhandle is a mixed-animal practice, John’s heart lies firmly with the large animals—beef cattle in particular.
His path to veterinary medicine was nearly set growing up on a beef cattle farm in South Georgia, but the experiences that followed solidified it. At Berry College in Rome, Georgia, John worked hands-on with the beef cattle unit, learning every corner of an industry he grew
each worked unit, to love. to enjoy.”
“I get to be out of the office outside on the farm,” he says. “It’s kind of what I
A Wild Side
While the clinic may focus on typical farm animals and pets,
Handling a creature of such power and unpredictability required a touch of nerve and plenty of precautions.
John’s clientele includes some wilder personalities. and
“We had to dart it before we could go in,” John says.
Panhandle Veterinary Services reaches far beyond Chipley’s 3,660 residents, covering a 50- to 60-mile radius to provide vital services to rural communities.
“It brings a healthier, more profitable agriculture industry,”
John says. “It brings
peace of mind to the farmers and to all the animal owners, whether it be dogs, cats, horses, cows, whatever.”
For many small-town farmers, the clinic is a lifeline, a place where they know they can find capable hands in desperate times.
“You’ve got to be able to have a place to go if you’ve got something that’s wrong,” John says. “We’re here for people in their time of need.”
Sharing Knowledge
Besides physical care, John sees education as a central part of his role, especially when it comes to helping farmers recognize the value of consistent veterinary care. He admits it’s sometimes a challenge, as some view veterinary visits as just another
The team includes Ann Lindholm, a Swedish-born veterinarian certified in international veterinary medicine. Megan Bollman focuses on forging strong relationships with clients, while Lauren Hardy’s specialties lie in equine sports medicine and surgery.
Dr. John Logan prefers to work on large animals, like beef cattle, but he treats everything from turtles to mountain lions.
“Clients require education so that they understand that I’m there to help them to try and get the most out of their farm and their animals,” he says. “Veterinarians are sometimes looked at by the farmers as a big bill, but in the end, consistent veterinary medicine work and herd health and things like that increase your profitability over time. It can be hard to get
Reflecting on his work, John says he feels a deep appreciation for the community’s gratitude. It’s a small-town camaraderie that adds special meaning to his role, reminding him his skills serve more than just animals—they serve the people who love them.
John’s journey to Chipley began in veterinary school at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee, where he met Panhandle’s former owner at a conference.
The two hit it off, and John and his wife, Rachel Gusek, joined the clinic after graduation. She brings a passion for rehabilitation techniques. Today, they are part of a dedicated group of
John Logan and his wife, Rachel Gusek, were happy to find a veterinary practice where they could work together.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PANHANDLE VETERINARY SERVICES
“There’s a lot of people who are really grateful when you actually save their animal,” John says. “There’s been some who get emotional, hug you, cry and stuff like that. I mean, people bring cakes and baked goods. It just makes you feel appreciated.” veterinarians. serve when
I’ve done birds, parrots. But the mountain lion’s probably the craziest one, though.
— John Logan, Veterinarian
This kid came into Panhandle Veterinary Services to be treated, but the clinic also offers farm visits.
Farm Fresh
How hydroponics gave new life to one Florida farm
By Drew Woolley
The Dasher family has farmed its land in Suwannee County, Florida, for five generations. In the 1940s, the family grew traditional row crops like corn and hay, the same as many farmers throughout the state. But by the late 1970s—10 years after Randall Dasher took over operations—the farm was at a crossroads.
“’77 was our first corn loss to just a massive drought,” Randall says. “In ’78, the blight came in and wiped us out, so we had two corn crops in a row that the weather got. It went over the hay bed, too. You might have a wet year, a dry year and then you have no control over the prices on your grains. So, we were looking for something to help stabilize the crop prices and the weather issues.”
In addition to kicking off a seed processing business, the popular move at the time was to open poultry houses. But when Randall looked into the bottom line and the labor involved, he realized there was a better option for Dasher Farm at a fraction of the price.
“We talked to growers in the poultry business and were right on the line of doing it until we came across the greenhouse business,” he says. “Hydroponics was a whole different system than growing field crops, but it wasn’t too hard to learn.”
Hydroponics is a space-efficient type of soilless gardening typically done indoors. With the help of another local farmer who had recently built a greenhouse, Randall learned the ropes of
growing crops in a controlled environment. Then, in 1986, Dasher Farm added its own greenhouse to the mix for growing tomatoes.
“In the greenhouse, you can control almost everything. Nature still plays a part, but you can protect it. There’s no overwatering, no rainy season, no drought,” he says. “You find your markets, pick a product and grow for that market. That way, you’ve got a pretty reliable income to count on when the outside crops are subject to weather and changing prices.”
A Different Approach
That pivot made Dasher Farm one of the first in the state to embrace protected agriculture on a large scale.
According to Bob Hochmuth, assistant center director and regional specialized extension agent for the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, protected agriculture can include a variety of approaches that give farmers more control over their crops. These include high tunnel greenhouses, container farms and open shade structures.
Those controlled systems offer better water conservation and more
efficient use of fertilizer and can even help protect crops from pests and disease. As the produce market continues to change, the degree of control protected agriculture offers farmers is becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity.
“The market demands you to be a consistent supplier,” Bob says. “So, the market doesn’t really want you to be in the deal for only eight weeks in and out. They want you to be a consistent supplier year-round. So being able to have environmental controls and manipulating the different production systems and things that we’ve been researching out here and other places affords the grower to be more in control of the product.”
Right now, much of that research is focused on optimizing factors such as ventilation, irrigation control and capturing carbon emissions that can make these protected systems more efficient. Ying Zhang, Ph.D., an assistant professor and controlled environments specialist at the University of Florida, is part of those efforts to make these systems less risky and more cost-effective for farmers. While there may have been some resistance to new technology in the past, she believes the main hurdle for farmers today is accessibility.
“Some farmers prefer to use human intuition or experience to make decisions rather than using technologies,” Ying says. “But they are really looking for solutions to improve their operation. I would say they are open to new technologies but want to have a more friendly-to-use tool. They are also looking for training opportunities and chances to work with experts in the field to help them to make the transition.”
Green Thumbs
For the Dasher family, Bob was an early ally when it came to learning the ropes of greenhouse farming. Bob was still a new extension agent when Dasher Farm installed its first greenhouse, but he was able to help them better understand the differences between field crops and greenhouse crops.
“It was learning how the plants feed and react to sunlight and overcast weather and stuff,” Randall says. “It’s more of a hands-on type of feeding them and taking care of them. It was different.”
Learning that new approach paid dividends. Randall started by growing tomatoes in the greenhouse but found he could harvest from them more often than his field crops. While his field tomatoes were what is known as a determinate crop—meaning they bear fruit only once a season—the greenhouse tomatoes were indeterminate
OPPOSITE PAGE: Bob Hochmuth attends a hydroponics workshop put on by the North Florida Research and Education Center.
While hydroponic farming requires more attention than row crops, farmer Randall Dasher found the learning curve manageable. PHOTO COURTESY OF DASHER FARM
and could bear fruit repeatedly throughout the season.
“We would plant the small plants in the pipes the first week or two of September and harvest tomatoes in 90 days,” Randall says. “But if we pruned the vines and suckers off the bottom as we harvested, we could keep harvesting tomatoes until May.”
As the greenhouse became a more significant part of Dasher Farm’s business, Randall built another and then another, before eventually replacing the individual houses in 2001 with a 42,000-square-foot, five-bay complex to grow herbs, lettuce and other crops. They have even experimented with chilling the nutrient water that feeds their crops to keep them cool for longer in the punishing Florida heat.
“As soon as he started harvesting from the greenhouse, he saw the immediate return and help with the household income,” says Sarah Dasher Carte, who returned home to help her father with the farm after graduating college in 2000. “So, we learned the business and just honed those skills a little bit year after year.”
Because the scale of the greenhouse crops has been smaller, it also requires different markets than traditional grocery stores. Bob
identifies the mid-2000s as a period when protected agriculture started to take off in Florida, in line with consumers’ growing interest in knowing where their produce came from. He helped farmers like the Dashers build relationships with wholesale buyers, local businesses and even larger farms like Traders Hill that can help their produce reach more people.
“In the very beginning, there were several of us that got into the greenhouse business, and we formed a little co-op, and we sold tomatoes to different buyers,” Sarah says. “Now, with the wholesale, Traders Hill and restaurants in town, it kind of takes all three of them to really keep the base going well.”
From Farm to Table
As with so many industries, that balance was nearly thrown off during the COVID-19 pandemic. The local school system was a major buyer of Dasher Farm’s lettuce. So, when schools announced they would be closing for two weeks, then two weeks more, then for the rest of the year, the Dashers were left with a load of unsold produce on their hands.
“We ended up with two weeks’ worth of harvest that we didn’t have cooler space for and were fixing to throw it away,” Sarah says. “So, we had a Facebook page that was not used a whole lot and thought we’ll just throw up a post. If 20 people come get lettuce, that’s lettuce we won’t have to throw away.”
The response was so enthusiastic that the Dashers found themselves turning people away after selling out within half an hour. With customers continuing to ask when they would hold another direct sale, Sarah realized they had found yet another market for their greenhouse produce.
“Even when school came back and our other customers, we’ve kept doing it,” she says. “We’ve had a lot of customers come through here every Friday for going on five years.”
“They don’t stay to the basics. When it gets to a certain size, it gets uncontrollable as far as disease and other infectious pressures. My philosophy is just don’t get too big with it. Get you a nice little deal going, stay on top of it and keep it going.”
While those direct sales aren’t a huge part of Dasher Farm’s business, they keep the family connected to their community and build loyalty with local restaurant owners and other small businesses. For Randall, it’s that local focus that has helped their greenhouse business thrive, where others have stumbled.
“My old country boy way of saying it is they get a little too fast with what they’re trying to do,” he says.
Bob and greenhouse manager Wanda Laughlin inspect a hydroponic crop.
Hydroponic farming saw a boom in Florida in the 2000s when customers began taking an interest in where their produce comes from. PHOTO COURTESY OF DASHER FARM
It Tastes Better IN A BOWL
Acai Bowl With Whole-Wheat Toast
1 100-milligram frozen acai smoothie pack
1 cup low-fat milk
1 medium frozen banana, sliced
1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries
2 slices whole-wheat bread
Fresh blueberries
Granola
Coconut flakes
Under warm water, thaw frozen acai smoothie pack about 5 seconds. In a blender, combine acai, milk, banana and mixed berries. Blend until smooth.
Toast bread slices to desired doneness.
Pour acai mixture into bowl and garnish with blueberries, granola and coconut flakes before serving. Serve with toast.
Source: Culinary.net
Chicken and Grape Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Chicken
½ tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon turmeric
Zucchini
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 pound (3 to 4 pieces) small boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 tablespoon olive oil 2 medium zucchini, trimmed and cut into ¾-inch chunks
Cauliflower rice
1 pound thawed frozen riced cauliflower
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1⁄3 cup water
1 teaspoon turmeric
2 large garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons minced ginger
1 tablespoon ground cumin
15-ounce can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed well
1⁄3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
11⁄3 cups halved red grapes
To make the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine oil, garlic, ginger and cumin. Add turmeric, season lightly with salt and pepper, and whisk to blend. Lightly pound chicken pieces to even them out, then coat in oil-spice mixture. Let stand 20 to 30 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken, smooth side down. Cook until golden brown underneath, about 4 minutes. Flip with spatula, and reduce heat to medium. Cook about 4 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Do not clean the pan.
To make the zucchini: In a medium skillet, heat oil on medium-high heat until hot. Add zucchini pieces. Cook, stirring often until crisp and tender, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
To make cauliflower rice: In a colander, drain cauliflower well. In same large skillet used for chicken, add oil, onion and water over medium heat. Cook, stirring until softened, about 3 minutes. Add turmeric, garlic, ginger and cumin. Cook, stirring, for 3 minutes. Add drained cauliflower and garbanzo beans. Cook until hot, about 5 minutes. Stir in cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
Divide cauliflower rice among four large soup bowls. Slice chicken against the grain. Arrange on top of cauliflower rice along with grapes and cooked zucchini. Serve warm.
Source: California Table Grape Commission
Mixed Berry Smoothie Bowl
½ cup fresh raspberries
½ cup sliced fresh strawberries
¼ cup sliced banana
¼ cup pomegranate juice
¾ cup dairy whipped topping
1⁄8 cup fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon raw pepitas
1 teaspoon honey
Set aside a few berries to place on top of finished smoothie. Add banana, remaining raspberries, strawberries and pomegranate juice to blender. Blend until smooth. Add whipped topping, and pulse until blended.
Pour smoothie into a bowl. Artfully arrange reserved berries, blueberries and pumpkin seeds on top. Drizzle with honey. Top with additional whipped topping, if desired.
Source: Ready Set Eat
Oatmeal Power Bowl With Peanut Butter Drizzle
1 banana, mashed
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1⁄3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2⁄3 cup dairy-free milk
1⁄3 cup water
1 tablespoon milled flaxseed
¼ cup natural creamy peanut butter, warmed
The night before, prepare oats by combining the banana, chia seeds, oats, cinnamon, dairy-free milk and water. Stir, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
In the morning, scoop the mixture into a saucepan over mediumhigh heat. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue stirring frequently until mixture is thick and completely heated. Remove from heat. Stir in flax. Pour oats into bowl, and drizzle with melted peanut butter. Add toppings as desired.
Source: Ready Set Eat
Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls
1 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon white miso
¼ cup butter
1½ pounds shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails removed ¼ teaspoon salt
1⁄8 teaspoon pepper
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup quinoa, cooked
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, sliced into half moons
5 green onions, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
In a medium bowl, whisk orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso until combined. Pour one-quarter of liquid into a separate bowl. Set aside. Add shrimp to the remaining mixture, and marinate 15 minutes.
Heat large skillet over medium heat with butter. Add shrimp, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes on each side until pink. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
In two serving bowls, divide quinoa, bell pepper, cucumber, onions, avocado and shrimp. Sprinkle sesame seeds and cilantro over both bowls. Drizzle with reserved dressing.
Source: Culinary.net
A New Year
By Dave LaBelle
As a newspaper photographer, there were always New Year’s Day photo assignments, such as taking pictures of the first baby of the year.
Like many holidays marked with some sort of celebration, New Year’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate
davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
NIKON D810, 180mm lens
ISO 800, f/3.2 at 1/320
As they age, one goal for many people is to keep moving. Gary Kramer, 70, walks 15 minutes a day at a local fitness club before doing other strength-training activities. Gary says he has been working out the past five years because his chiropractor told him he needs to keep moving.
time, the beginning of a new calendar year. Most of us make resolutions we hope to keep. You know how it goes. After Jan. 1, gymnasiums are usually filled with eager folks ready to start fulfilling New Year’s health resolutions. The same gyms are half-filled by June.
But photographically, the new year might be a good time to follow a dream you have wanted to pursue.
Thanks to the help of several generous supporters, I plan to finally pursue a photographic dream I have had for many years. I call this dream A Visual Walk with Christ, and I plan to visually
interpret Biblical scenes.
So, whether you travel to the Big Apple to watch the ball drop at Times Square, position yourself in one of the towns or cities that color the
Reader Challenge
sky with fireworks, or begin a dream project, the calendar change is an opportunity to start the new year with fresh challenges, both personally and photographically.
Try photographing resolutions in action, such as documenting someone beginning a new workout routine. Challenge yourself to make a photograph of yourself once a month. Photograph someone you love or admire throughout the year, similar to how we made a pencil mark on a doorframe for children to mark their growth. Pick a favorite spot to document over the four seasons. When my third child, Tucker, was born, I photographed him every day of his first year of life. I still draw from those images every year.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer
Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit
PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
Gentle Giants
Large mammals roam the sunshine state waters
Large animals roam Florida waters, but fear not. Although huge, manatees only eat vegetation.
Manatees average 8 to 10 feet long, but some exceed 13 feet and weigh more than 2,000 pounds. In the 1970s, manatees numbered 1,500 to 2,000. The Florida population now numbers 7,000 to 10,000.
“The population has grown since the 1970s, but it’s still not at the point where we can declare them to be out of the woods,” says Cora Berchem, a manatee research associate for Save the Manatee Club. “People might see manatees in any Florida shallow coastal waters and associated rivers and lakes.
“Unfortunately, we lost more than 1,100 manatees just in 2021, when we had a massive die-off on the west coast of Florida.”
Consecutive years of bad algae blooms covered parts of Florida from 2020-23, particularly in the Indiana River Lagoon area east of Orlando. Algae blocked the sun, so seagrass died, leaving many manatees to starve to death.
“Luckily, seagrass is coming back, to an extent,” Cora says. “We definitely see things getting better, but it’s an ongoing problem. On the Gulf of Mexico side, manatees are doing OK, but they face things like red tide—especially in southwest Florida.”
Despite their blubbery appearance, manatees don’t like water below 70 degrees. In the winter, they head to natural springs where water temperatures stay 72 degrees all year.
“January is a really good time for people to see manatees in Florida,” Cora says. “Some good places to spot manatees in January are Blue Springs State Park in Orange City and Crystal River on the Gulf Coast.”
During warmer months, manatees migrate along the Atlantic
possibly as far north as New Jersey. On the Gulf Coast, some animals swim along the Panhandle to Louisiana or Texas. Manatees normally just barely move under the water. Unfortunately, that makes them extremely difficult to see. More than 90% of Florida manatees show scars from boat propellers. In fact, researchers use these scar patterns to identify individual animals.
In 1978, Florida established many no-wake or no-motor zones to protect manatees, but accidents still occur. All Florida boaters should watch for manatees. During warmer months, they sometimes travel in mating herds of 10 to 30.
“Unfortunately, boat strikes are still the No. 1 human-related cause of manatee injuries and mortalities in Florida,” Cora says. “We ask everyone to be extra careful when boating in a manatee area. A good sign that a manatee is around is a snout coming up to the surface so the animal can breathe. Also, a manatee makes a circular pattern on the water with its tail when swimming.”
Anyone who hits a manatee or spots an injured or distressed animal should call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.
To watch manatees, visit the webcams at savethemanatee.org/ manatees/webcams. For more information, call 800-432-5646 or 407-539-0990, or visit savethemanatee.org.
John N. Felsher is a freelance writer, broadcaster, photographer and editor. An avid sportsman, he’s written more than 3,500 articles for more than 170 different magazines on a wide variety of outdoor topics. He also hosts an outdoor tips show for WAVH-FM Talk 106.5 in Mobile, Alabama. Contact him at j.felsher@hotmail.com or through Facebook.
Coast,
Manatees visit Blue Springs State Park in Orange City during cooler months. PHOTO COURTESY OF SAVE THE MANATEE CLUB
FLORIDA CURRENTS
PLANNER
All ages can find something new and exciting around every corner of the state. Filled with rich history, abundant natural beauty and diverse events all year, Florida has something fun for everyone.
PENSACOLA BEACH
Jan. 1
Polar Bear Plunge
Wash off 2024 with a plunge. Jump into the Santa Rosa Sound at 2 p.m. at Paradise Bar & Grill. Dippers and spectators—many dressed in costume— flock to the beach to participate. Registration begins at noon with a fee of $15 cash per person, which includes a Polar Bear Plunge T-shirt. Registration is $10 to participate without the T-shirt. For those in the fifth grade and younger, the cost is $5. Proceeds benefit the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce to fund events on the island. www.pensacolabeachchamber.com/polar-bear-plunge; 850-932-1500
PANAMA CITY
Jan. 1
Open Studio Painting
Need a space to let out some creativity? Come choose an art project. Admission starts at $40 and includes instruction, two hours of studio time and all materials provided for projects using acrylic paint, canvas and wood, or mosaic and resin. The Sun Bear Gallery and Studio is open Tuesday through Saturday. sunbeargalleryandstudio.com; 850-588-6861
WAUCHULA
Jan. 24-25
Peace River Pro Rodeo Classic
This event is sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association for world championship points toward $16 million in prize money at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Gates open at 5 p.m., and the performance begins at 7 p.m.
www.peaceriverprorodeo.com; 863-781-0218
PENSACOLA
Jan. 4
Farm Dog
Start the new year with the Pensacola Dog Fancier’s Association Farm Dog event. Bring your friendly dogs and partake in events such as Farm Dog, ATT, Fast Cat, Fetch it, obedience and rally fun matches. There is also a shot clinic. Food trucks are on-site. Sports Authority sponsors this event.
www.pensacoladogs.org; 720-810-0135
TAVERNIER
Jan. 18
Art Under the Oaks
A festival of fine arts and original crafts is celebrated at San Pedro Church Gardens, 89500 Overseas Highway. Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., there is a wide range of fine arts from vendors across Florida set in beautiful gardens with live entertainment, food, raffles and more. sanpedroparish.org/index.php/art-under-the-oaks; 305-852-5372
PHOTO BY JESSICA BURNS
LAKE PLACID
Jan. 19
An Afternoon in Paris
The Caladium Arts and Crafts Cooperative presents the 16th annual tea from 2-4 p.m. at 132 E. Interlake Blvd. Enjoy gourmet dining on tea sandwiches, fruit breads and desserts. There is also an auction, Parisian fashion walk and hat contest. Admission is $25. facebook.com/Caladiumartscrafts; 863-699-5940
ISLAMORADA
Jan. 24
Roaring for Rescues Gala
Benefiting the Upper Keys Humane Society, this sixth annual gala at MM101 is a 1920s-themed event, but feel free to wear your favorite “Keys Classy” attire. Starting at 6 p.m., the band Retro Rebel takes the stage. A raffle, silent auction, dinner and music are included in the evening. Ukhsociety.org; 305-451-3848
LAKE PLACID
Jan. 24-25
Trash to Treasure Sale
The Women of St. James’ annual sale has clothes, shoes, handbags, housewares, linens and jewelry from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit charitable causes and activities throughout the year. 863-465-3215
ISLAMORADA
Jan. 24-26
10th Anniversary Island Boat Show
The boat show features new boats from top brands through dealers around South Florida from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Boating accessories, merchandise, art and food are available at vendor booths. Hosted by Island Community Church, all profits benefit local and global missions and ministries of the church, as well as higher education scholarships for high school students. www.islandboatshow.com; 305-664-2781
ISLAMORADA
Jan. 25
Keys Community Concert Band
Afternoon Delight performs animal-themed music and classic and pop favorites from 4-5 p.m. Bring your pet and family for the annual pet parade. The concert has play-along percussion and audience participation activities. keyscommunityconcertband.org; 305-394-1123
POMPANO BEACH
Jan. 25-26
58th Annual Broward Shell Club Shell Show
Scientific and artistic exhibits are judged by malacologists and artists from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the E. Pat Larkins Community Center. Vendors sell seashells, jewelry, books, arts, crafts and home decor. Exhibitors come from as far away as Texas, with vendors from California, New Jersey and Florida. Activities include raffle and door prizes. Admission and parking is free. browardshellclub.org; 954-786-4585
MARATHON
Jan. 11-12
Florida Keys Celtic Festival
PHOTO BY LARRY BENVENUTI
Beginning at 10 a.m., families can enjoy Celtic rock and traditional music, Irish dancing, pipe and drum bands, sheepherding demonstrations, Highland games events, and a children’s glen and petting zoo. Enjoy tea with Mary Queen of Scots in the tea garden. Sunday Funday includes a shortbread-baking contest and the Zero K Nessy Fun Run. Grab your friends and sign up for the Locals Highland Games to see what it’s like to compete in a friendly Highland Games competition.
floridakeyscelticfestival.com
KEY LARGO
Jan. 31-Feb. 1
Florida Keys Quilters Mini Quilt Show
Quilts of various designs and sizes are featured alongside quilt-making demonstrations from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Key Largo Library Community Room in Tradewinds Plaza, 101499 Overseas Highway. The 2025 FKQ Raffle Quilt, “Tropical Waves,” is on view. Raffle tickets for the quilt are $2 per ticket or $5 for three tickets. The queen-size raffle quilt measures 91-by-85 inches. Quilts remain on display during February. Admission is free. www.tinyurl.com/FLKeysQuilters
HOW TO INCLUDE UPCOMING EVENTS
Want to share a family-friendly event with the readers of Florida Currents? Head online and enter the details at tinyurl.com/FloridaCurrents or use the QR Code for easy access. Make sure to submit the item at least 60 days before the event (due to press deadline). If you own rights to a print-quality photo promoting your event, include it with photo credit information.
Resolution Ideas for Your Garden
Each year’s end brings a new year’s beginning.
Many people see the new year as a fresh start and an opportunity to try something new. Here are some New Year’s resolutions to kickstart your 2025 gardening journey:
Select the Right Plant for the Right Place
Have you ever bought a new plant and the second you bring it home and plant it in your yard, it immediately dies? Chances are it might not have been the right place for the plant.
When selecting a new plant, consider the light requirements, soil type, irrigation needs and its size when fully grown.
If you need help selecting the right plant for the right place, check out the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Guide to Plant Selection & Landscape Design at bit.ly/3ZmMgV6 or contact your local extension office.
Take a Class at Your Local Extension Office
There is a wealth of knowledge at your local extension office. Classes include various gardening tips and tricks, introduction to beekeeping, and more.
Water Efficiently
Water is one of the most vital resources on the planet. Humans, plants and animals all need it to survive.
As our population increases and agriculture-related industries grow, so does water use. A few ways to conserve water: Do it in the early morning or evening to avoid water loss from evaporation; install a drip-irrigation system in your garden; and create an irrigation schedule using automatic timers to prevent overwatering.
Follow the Florida Gardening Calendar
Did you know lettuce grows best during the cool season, and southern peas and sweet potatoes grow well during summer?
Following the Central Florida Gardening Calendar at bit.ly/4ivvsmm for your area of the state may help you maximize garden growth and decrease garden failures.
Fertilize Appropriately
Throughout various times of the year, many counties across Florida have fertilizer ordinances prohibiting the use of fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorous. This is an effort to protect waterways from nutrient runoff.
If you need assistance with fertilizer recommendations and finding out the ordinances in your county, contact your local extension office.
Set a Weekly Weeding Schedule
For many gardeners, weeding is a daunting task when there is a full garden to get to. However, weeding 20 minutes a week makes a big difference. Preventing weeds from growing large enough to produce seeds helps reduce your weed population.
Become a Master Gardener Volunteer
Your love for gardening may be a great opportunity to give back to your community.
The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is an outreach composed of UF/IFAS Extension-certified volunteers trained to provide research-based horticultural education to Florida residents. Volunteer opportunities include community gardening, youth education, public outreach and education, and helping residents in the program’s Plant Clinic.
Orange County residents who would like to be added to the mailing list for information on the next recruitment season can submit their contact information at bit.ly/4eLd0Db.
For more information, email the Master Gardener volunteer coordinator in your county.
Clarissa Chairez is the Residential Horticulture/Master Gardener volunteer coordinator agent in Orange County. She has a Bachelor of Science in agriculture education and a Master of Science in agronomy. She has six-plus years in education and three-plus years in greenhouse/nursery management.
EREC Offers 2 Scholarships for Local Students
Escambia River Electric Cooperative is proud to support local students by offering two scholarships to graduating seniors in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. These scholarships are designed to help students achieve their educational goals, whether pursuing a four-year degree or training for a vocational career.
Herman D. Johnson Scholarship
• Award: $1,000 per year for four years.
• Eligibility: must be a graduating senior with a GPA of 2.5 or higher; and requires a two-part essay and three reference letters.
• This scholarship is for students attending a four-year college.
Trade/Vocational Scholarship
• Award: $1,000.
• Eligibility: must be a graduating senior with an unweighted GPA of 2.0 or better; and requires high school transcripts and a personal reference letter
from a teacher or community member.
• Funds can be used for program costs, books, tools or other materials needed for vocational education.
Application Information
Applications for both scholarships are open, and guidance counselors at local high schools have the forms available. To apply, students must reside in a home served by EREC.
Completed applications are due by March 1 and must indicate on the envelope which scholarship they are applying for.
Scholarship recipients—one from each county for each scholarship—will be announced during the EREC Annual Meeting on Saturday, April 26.
This is a fantastic opportunity for local students to receive financial support for their education. Don’t miss the chance to apply.
For more information, contact your guidance counselor or EREC directly.
ADOBE STOCK BY MNIRAT
Business Spotlight
Santa Rosa County
Commercial Contract Cleaning and Power Washing
13333 Hwy. 89, Suite B Jay, FL
850-860-7783
sales@comm-cleaning.com
Check them out at www.commercialcontractcleaning.com.
Based in Jay, this veteran-owned, family-run business specializes in eco-friendly commercial cleaning and power washing. Employees follow strict safety protocols to ensure thorough, reliable cleaning for offices, banks, medical facilities and more. Customizable services include office cleaning, floor care, window cleaning, power washing, construction site cleanup and pre-sale home cleaning. Offering daily, weekly and bi-weekly options, staff delivers high-quality results with attention to detail. Committed to health, safety and customer satisfaction, they provide dependable, eco-conscious cleaning solutions. Contact them today for a free estimate.
Escambia County
Glory Land Designs LLC
850-324-4246
glorylanddesigns2@gmail.com
Check them out on Facebook or at www.glorylanddesigns.com.
Glory Land Designs, owned by Tracy Garrett, is a small business born from a passion for creativity. After 19 years as a teacher, Tracy turned her longtime hobby into a thriving business, offering unique, handcrafted home decor and accessories. Specializing in custom wood items, Glory Land Designs creates everything from door hangers to tiered tray sets, along with beautifully designed earrings to complete any outfit. Tracy also hosts in-home paint parties, perfect for all types of celebrations. Whether you need a personalized monogram, a seasonal piece or a creative gathering, Glory Land Designs brings inspiration and joy to every project.
Businesses hold small, rural communities together. Let’s keep local businesses thriving. From manufacturing and industrial to service and retail, businesses provide jobs to keep young people in the area and improve our quality of life. If your business is in Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s service territory and you want to have it spotlighted here, submit information to Cortney Owens at cowens@erec.com.
Statement of Nondiscrimination
Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc. has filed with the federal government a compliance assurance in which it assures the Rural Utilities Service it will comply fully with all requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; all requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; all requirements of the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended; and all requirements of the rules and regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the end that no person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color or national origin, or solely by reason of such person’s disability, or on the basis of age, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination in the conduct of its program or the operation of its facilities.
Under this assurance, this organization is committed not to discriminate against any person on the grounds of race, color or national origin, solely by reason of such person’s disability, or on the basis of age, in its policies and practices relating to applications for service or any other policies and practices relating to treatment of beneficiaries and participants, including employment, rates, conditions and extension of service, admission or access to or use of any of its facilities, attendance at and participation in any meetings of beneficiaries and participants, or the exercise of any rights such as beneficiaries and participants in the conduct of the operations of this organization.
The person responsible for coordinating the nondiscrimination compliance efforts of this organization is CEO Ryan C. Campbell.
Any individual or any specific class of individuals who feel subjected by this organization to discrimination prohibited by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, by the Age Discrimination Act, or by the rules and regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture may personally, or through a representative, file a written complaint with the Office of the Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250; the Office of Advocacy and Enterprise, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250; or this organization, or all, a written complaint. Such complaint must be filed not later than 180 days after the alleged discrimination, or by such later date to which the secretary of Agriculture of the administrator of the Rural Utilities Service extends the time for filing. Identity of the complainants will be kept confidential except to the extent necessary to carry out the purposes of the rules and regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
e Gold Rush of 2024
ImpossiblePriceWas $299, Now
Glimmering 24k gold in a tungsten setting
A h, my dear compatriots, allow me to share a tale of intrigue and fortune. Picture this: a venture into the heart of a South American goldmine, where the earth yields its treasures to the daring and the cunning. With every step as we follow Diego, our mining master, the air thickens with anticipation, the scent of wealth mingling with the thrill of the unknown.
ere, amidst the darkness, lies the prize we seek — veins of gold, glimmering like stars in the night sky.
Now picture this: a ring, not just any ring, mind you, but a masterpiece crafted to adorn the fingers of the discerning. Crafted with meticulous care, each piece encasing ribbons of 24 karat gold in a Tungsten setting, whispering tales of luxury and prestige.
“Been a Stauer
—M.L. Port St. Lucie, FL
Yanacocha Gold Mine, located near Lima, Peru, is the largest gold mine in South America and the fourth largest in the world.
Meticulously crafted and amazingly comfortable, you will not find anything like this in a jewelry store. As gold prices skyrocket, we have been able to craft this and hold the price under $100 making it exclusively available with only 495 reserved for this ad. And of course we offer a 30 day no questions asked guarantee.
A symbol of power and sophistication. is isn’t just a ring, it’s a statement. On any adventure, let this ring be your companion, a silent witness to your every triumph. Ahhh… the rush of a gold rush.
Jewelry Speci cations:
• 24k gold embedded in black-finished tungsten
• Whole Size 8 -14
Men’s Gold Rush Ring
$299 $99* + S&P Save $200
*You must use Insider Offer Code GRR190-01 to get this price.
NEW!
We are thrilled to announce a fantastic new feature in Florida Currents called “This N’ That.”
This dedicated space allows members to buy, sell, rent or trade just about anything you can imagine. Whether you’re looking to declutter, find a new home for an item, or discover a hidden gem, This N’ That is the perfect platform for you. Simply fill out the submission form and submit it by the first of each month to have your listing featured the following month.
Join us in building connections and fostering our community—let’s see what treasures we can share.
This N’ That
This N’ That Guidelines
In order to continue to provide This N’ That in every issue of The Florida Currents, we ask members to adhere to the guidelines listed below when submitting an ad. If an ad does not meet the criteria, it will not be published. EREC provides This N’ That ads for the convenience of our members. EREC is not responsible for the content of the ads. EREC does not endorse or warrant the products or services offered in the ads. There is no cost to place an ad in This N’ That. The ad submission deadline is the 1st of each month and will printed in the following month.
• Members may submit one ad per issue
• No registered businesses may run an ad (12 times a year)
• Ads must be twenty-five words or less
• Must be typed or printed legibly in ink
• No changes after ad submission
• No event promotion of any kind
• No firearm sales of any kind
Mail ads to: “Florida Currents,” Escambia River Electric Cooperative, 3425 Hwy 4, Jay, FL 32565 or email to: cowens@erec.com. You can also send with your bill payment or submit ad online at https://www.erec.com/community/this-n-that
This N’ That Ad Submission: PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY. DEADLINE IS THE 1ST OF EACH MONTH.
Please circle the category that applies: For Rent For Sale Real Estate Free Miscellaneous Trade Wanted
Items: __
Name:
Address:
Phone:
Mail ads to: “Florida Currents”, Escambia River Electric Cooperative, 3425 Hwy 4, Jay, FL 32565 or email to: cowens@erec.com. You can also send with your bill payment or submit ad online at https://www.erec.com/community/this-n-that
ENERGY SAVINGS SCAVENGER HUNT
Saving energy at home is a great way to help the environment (and save money).
With the help of an adult, look for ways you can save energy around your home. Use the tips below to get started, then check off the areas where you’ve identified ways to save!
TASK: Bright Ideas
Ensure your home uses energysaving LED bulbs. If you find incandescent or CFL bulbs,
TASK: Empty Rooms
Turn off lights and ceiling fans in unoccupied rooms to conserve energy.
TASK: Sealed for Savings
Check windows to make sure they are closed and locked. Sealed windows help prevent air leaks, which saves energy.
TASK: Set to Save
Check the thermostat to see if it can be adjusted a few degrees (either lowered in winter or raised in summer) to conserve energy used for heating or cooling your home.
TASK: Slay Energy Vampires
Energy vampires are devices that consume energy even when they’re not being used. Unplug these items, like phone chargers and tablets, when you’re not using them.
NORTH AMERICA’S
#1 Selling Walk-In
The best walk-in tub just got better with breakthrough technology! Presenting the all new Safe Step Walk-In Tub featuring MicroSoothe. ® An air system so revolutionary, it oxygenates, softens and exfoliates skin, turning your bath into a spa-like experience. Constructed and built right here in America for safety and durability from the ground up, and with more standard features than any other tub.
✓ Heated seat providing warmth from beginning to end
✓ Carefully engineered hydro-massage jets strategically placed to target sore muscles and joints
✓ High-quality tub complete with a comprehensive lifetime warranty on the entire tub
✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service, all included at one low, affordable price You’ll agree – there just isn’t a better, more affordable walk-in tub on the market.
Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc.
www.erec.com
JAY OFFICE WALNUT HILL OFFICE
3425 Highway 4 4950 Highway 99A
P.O. Box 428 (mail) Walnut Hill, FL 32568 Jay, FL 32565
PHONE NUMBERS
850-675-4521 800-235-3848
Walnut Hill Post O ce: 850-327-4122
OFFICE HOURS
7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
STAFF
Ryan C. Campbell, P.E., CEO
Sonya Dooley, Director of Finance and Administration
Lanie Sells, Director of Engineering
Glenn White, Director of Operations
Cortney Owens, Manager of Communications
Derek Bridwell, Manager of Information Technology
Crystal George, Manager of Accounting
TRUSTEES
Escambia County
Brian Davis
James E. Hall
Ernie Hester
Sam Walker, Vice President
Gary Wiggins
Santa Rosa County
Mickey Diamond
Rick Hunsucker, President
Philip Marshall
Wesley Scott
Dale Westmoreland, Secretary/Treasurer
The board of directors meets at 5 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the cooperative’s Jay office.
FOR POWER OUTAGES
Call 877-OUT-EREC or 877-688-3732. For emergency conditions, call 911.
Important Account and Payment Information
When you call EREC with a question about your bill, please have your account number. This allows us to serve you in the most efficient manner possible. Your bill is due and payable upon receipt. Payment may be made by mail, at www.erec.com, at our night depository at the co-op office or in person at the co-op office. We ask you to allow five days for mail and delivery to ensure we receive your payment on time. Your electric service is subject to disconnection if payment is not received in the office by the collection date, even though you may have mailed the payment. Accounts not paid within 15 days from the date printed on the bill will receive reminder notices showing the account will be disconnected if not paid. Return check charge is $25 or 5% of the check, whichever is higher.