FL Currents, Escambia River Electric Cooperative, May 2024
Florida Currents
ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
F.A.R.M. Day Central School hosts celebration to spotlight industries and individuals Page 4
Annabelle, a first grader at Jay Elementary, enjoys Central’s F.A.R.M. Day. PHOTO BY CORTNEY OWENS
Message From the President
May 2024 • Volume 13, No. 7
CEO Michael Shepard
VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mike Teegarden, CCC
DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Noble Sprayberry
SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC
FLORIDA CURRENTS EDITORS
Chasity Anderson, CCC; Valeri Pearon
ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Hampton, CCC; David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
EREC’s Dedication to Excellence Florida Currents
Nina Todea
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
SENIOR MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
Members acknowledge that $4.31 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.
Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s dedication to excellence goes beyond mere commitment. It’s a fundamental principle that guides our every action.
Central to this dedication is the continued development and growth of our valued employees, spanning all departments from human resource specialists to our steadfast lineworkers.
Through meticulously designed training programs tailored to each role, our team members stay at the forefront of industry standards, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their positions.
These comprehensive training initiatives encompass a wide array of areas, including safety protocols, technical proficiency and customer service excellence.
By investing in the ongoing education and professional development of our workforce, we not only bolster individual capabilities but also fortify the collective strength of our organization.
We understand EREC employees are our greatest assets. By empowering them with the tools and resources they need to succeed, we ensure they continue to deliver exceptional service and uphold our unwavering commitment to excellence in all aspects of our operations.
For additional content, search @FloridaCurrents on your favorite social media sites and floridacurrents.com.
Diving After Dark Benwood shipwreck comes alive when the sun goes down Up Close, Page 10
Living the High Life Hot air balloon rides make for a magical experience Spotlight, Page 12
Ryan C. Campbell, P.E.
ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC
F.A.R.M. Day Success
Central School hosts celebration to spotlight industries and individuals
March 20 proved to be an eventful day at Central School in Milton as the campus transformed its football field and stadium into a bustling hub of activity.
Tractors, combines, livestock, science experiments, vendors and a petting zoo filled the grounds, marking the occasion of Central F.A.R.M. Day. This annual celebration aims to spotlight the industries and individuals of central Santa Rosa County, showcasing their contributions to the community.
Formerly known as Ag Day, this is the second year the school has hosted the event under the moniker F.A.R.M., emphasizing its focus on food, agriculture and resource management.
Various organizations such as the Florida Forestry Service and the Florida Department of Agriculture participated, engaging students, faculty and community members to explore opportunities within northwest Florida’s agricultural sectors.
Interactive exhibits offered insights into sustainable farming practices, environmental conservation efforts and the latest innovations in agricultural technology. Students participated in hands-on activities, gaining firsthand experience in farming and animal techniques.
The event also served as a platform for local businesses and vendors to showcase their products and services. Escambia River Electric Cooperative and other companies highlighted their role in supporting farmers and rural communities.
“Our bucket truck rides seem to always be a big hit with the students,” EREC CEO Ryan Campbell says. “We enjoy talking to them about what we do in the community and how we strive to make a positive impact.”
In addition to educational exhibits and demonstrations, Central F.A.R.M. Day offers food and agricultural-themed games, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants.
As the day drew to a close, organizers reflected on the success of the event in promoting awareness and appreciation for the agricultural heritage of central Santa Rosa County. Central F.A.R.M. Day continues to serve as a beacon of unity, celebrating the rich traditions and promising future of the region’s farming communities. n
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
EREC’s Stephen Jones helps students put on the safety harness before getting into the bucket; A student gives a thumbs up after the bucket truck ride; EREC Lineman Tyler Prescott shows students some of the safety gear they wear while working on power lines; EREC Lineman Kyle Strickling takes students up in the air during F.A.R.M. Day; and a line of attendees wait for a turn to ride. PHOTOS BY CORTNEY
OWENS
Be a Fam With a Plan
It’s not pleasant to think about worst-case scenerios. However, with hurricane season right around the corner, a little planning can make a difference if the worst does happen.
Follow these tips to avoid feeling helpless during a disaster.
Before
• Communicate. Talk with your family about who to call, where to go and what to do if disaster strikes.
Emergency Management Contact Information
Escambia County myescambia.com/our-services/public-safety/ beready
Santa Rosa County http://www.santarosa.fl.gov/974/emergencymanagement
Planning Ideas
Red Cross www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-foremergencies/make-a-plan.html
Ready ready.gov
• Educate. Plan different strategies for different situations. Map out a fire escape route from all areas of your home, and establish a safe place to go during threatening weather. Make sure all family members know their full names, address and phone numbers. Agree on an out-of-town relative or friend to call if everyone gets separated during a disaster, and have an In Case of Emergency contact in your cellphone whom first responders can call if needed.
• Prepare. Set up warning systems in your home. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms give advance notice that can save lives. Use a battery-operated weather radio for advance storm warnings, and subscribe to your local Office of Emergency Management alerts by text or email. Keep an emergency kit handy with five days, worth of nonperishable food and water, medical supplies, a list of phone numbers—including your electric co-op and other utilities’ outage numbers—prescriptions and important documents. Plan for pets or any special needs for family members. Then practice your emergency plans.
During
• Keep calm. Think clearly and follow your plan. Use the resources you prepared in case of emergencies.
• Have extra battery power for phones. Keep a few charged power banks on hand so you can charge at least one phone. During extended outages, use the phone sparingly to reserve power.
After
• Be patient. Wait for all danger to pass. Never reenter an evacuated area without permission to do so, and use caution when you do go back into your home. You can’t always see danger, such as a ruptured gas line.
• Avoid delayed danger. Do not approach downed wires or power lines, and watch for rising waters. Keep standby generators in wellventilated areas. Never run a generator indoors, even in a garage.
With a little planning, the worst can be avoided during major storms and disasters. Taking the time to be prepared is worth the effort now in case of an emergency later.
PowerSouth President & CEO Gary Smith addresses the crowd, emphasizing how important an asset like Lowman Energy Center will be in the mission to provide reliable and affordable power to members. PHOTO COURTESY OF EREC
Lowman Energy Center to Help EREC Remain Reliable
PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, a generation and transmission cooperative serving Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s wholesale power needs, officially dedicated the new, state-of-theart Lowman Energy Center in a special ceremony March 22.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey attended the event in Leroy, Alabama, to celebrate the 710-megawatt natural gas facility, which began commercial operation September 20, 2023.
“History is being made today,” Kay says of LEC’s completion and status as one of the most efficient power plants in the United States. “America’s future is dependent upon its access to abundant industry, including electricity. Economic development and thousands of new, good-paying jobs—both here in Alabama and for our neighbors in Florida—are directly tied to projects like the Lowman Energy Center.”
EREC CEO Ryan Campbell was on-site to celebrate the dedication of the plant, which replaces the historic coal-fired Charles R. Lowman Power Plant that operated for 51 years.
“LEC is a tremendous accomplishment for PowerSouth and a blessing for our area,” Ryan says. “The power it generates will
supply our members around the clock, especially on cold winter mornings or extremely hot summer afternoons when other generation sources may not be available.
“Natural gas is also abundant and, for the most part, affordable, so LEC will help to keep down our members’ electric bills as much as possible.”
PowerSouth President and CEO Gary Smith says the plant will be a workhorse in supporting the cooperative’s mission to provide reliable and affordable power to its members.
“LEC is not only very efficient, but it also has access to a very good, affordable gas supply,” Gary says. “PowerSouth has 20 members in Alabama and Florida, and I want to thank them for their confidence and support in allowing us to move forward in building this plant. It will be there for them to serve their wholesale power needs for decades. We are excited about LEC and excited about the future.”
Collectively, PowerSouth’s distribution members, including EREC, supply safe, reliable and affordable power to more than a million end-of-line members.
Beat the Peak
S A V I N G S P R O G R A M
Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s wholesale power costs are highly affected by its members' highest electricity peak use and can affect your rates for the whole year if that use is extremely high, but there's something you can do through EREC's new Beat the Peak Savings Program.
This initiative focuses on water heaters, which can account for approximately 18% of your home's annual electricity consumption. An electric water heater peak shaving device (LCM) will be installed at no cost to you. While ensuring you still have hot water when needed, the reheating process is delayed to off-peak times
Let EREC know you want to participate in the free Beat the Peak Savings Program by calling 850-675-4521
The LCM is installed at no cost to you by trained EREC personnel Call the number above to set up an install date and time that is convenient to you
The goal of the Beat the Peak Savings Program is straightforward by reducing EREC's system energy use during peak times, EREC can mitigate the impact of its wholesale power costs Peak energy can be two to three times more expensive to produce than off-peak power, but this program provides a means to manage electricity use during the most expensive periods. Keeping EREC's wholesale power costs down helps maintain stable rates for all its members.
5 WAYS TO SAVE THIS SUMMER
When summer temperatures rise, so do our energy bills. Here are a few ways you can reduce energy use and grow your summer savings.
1. Raise your thermostat. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temp, the more you’ll save.
2. Install window coverings like blinds or light-blocking curtains to prevent indoor heat gain during the day.
Source: Dept. of Energy
You will receive an initial $25 bill credit for each properly functioning LCM installed on your water heater(s), plus a $3 recurring bill credit each month for as long as each properly functioning LCM stays installed on your water heater minimum of 5 years.
Water heater(s) must be a minimum of 30 gallons
Together, we can control the way we manage our personal energy use It's a mutually beneficial partnership. By helping EREC in reducing its energy use during peak times, power bills for members can remain as low as possible If you want to do your part to help keep rates low with EREC’s Beat the Peak Savings Program, call 850-675-4521 or stop by one of the Jay or Walnut Hill offices
3. Seal leaks with caulk and weatherstripping around windows and exterior doors. Air leaks force your air conditioner to work harder and run longer than necessary.
4. Run ceiling fans for additional cooling but turn them off when you leave the room.
5. Lower your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees to reduce standby heat loss.
END BANDWIDTH
Get connected to high-speed, reliable internet for the whole family this summer.
WHY CONNECT? Let’s Connect!
• Internet in partnership with your local cooperative
• No data caps or throttling
• Affordable pricing for every household
• Phone services also available
• And more! Fiber internet opens up a world of opportunity.
Check your availability at ConexonConnect.com, call 844-542-6663, or scan our QR code!
Benwood shipwreck comes alive when the sun goes down
Although a beautiful dive during the day, the wreck of the freighter Benwood comes alive at night in a sort of circus show of underwater creatures.
Schooling fish, sharks, eels, crustaceans and turtles rest here at night. Parrot fish sleep in a mucus bubble they create to protect against parasites. Lobsters and crabs shuffle along the rusting surface of the wreck. Small shrimp make snapping noises to deter predators.
“Lucky divers might even get to see an octopus,” says Tess Stundis, with the Amoray Dive Center in Key Largo.
Ship Down
The wreck of the Benwood is popular with divers because it is still relatively intact despite years of abuse by the sea and countless hurricanes.
Amoray has offered seasonal night dives to the Benwood for nearly 30 years.
In the early morning of April 9, 1942, the Norwegian freighter Benwood was traveling from Tampa to Norfolk, Virginia, with a crew of 38 and a load of ore and other supplies for the U.S. military. Because German submarines were known to be in U.S. coastal waters, the Benwood was armed with bombs, depth charges and rifles.
With the threat of attack by the Germans, the Norwegian captain, was forced to navigate the shallow waters off the Keys without light. it
Story and photos by Daniel Eidsmoe
Unfortunately, also blacked out and in the same area was the American steam tanker Robert C. Tuttle, heading to Atreco, Texas, after dropping off a load of oil. With little warning, the Benwood’s bow struck the Tuttle’s port side, causing severe damage to the Benwood. The ship’s captain and crew abandoned ship 30 minutes after impact.
Although the Tuttle did not sustain severe damage in the collision, it later sank after striking a German minefield near Virginia Beach, Virginia.
The Benwood came to rest at depths between 25 and 50 feet a short distance from Molasses Reef.
In the 82 years since its demise, the Benwood has become one of the Keys’ most-loved dive sites. Every spring and summer, at least two Key Largo dive shops offer night dives to the wreck. There, divers discover the ship, with the help of the sea’s artistry, has transformed itself into an artificial reef encrusted in brightly colored corals, sea fans and sponges in a palette of yellows, oranges, greens, purples and blues.
The night dive offers about an hour of underwater exploration. Divers can jump into the warm Atlantic waters shortly after sunset to explore the wreck with a dive buddy or a paid guide.
Although the Keys have several famous artificial reefs—intentionally sunk ships like the Duane, Eagle, Spiegel Grove
and Thunderbolt—in deeper waters, the Benwood offers one of the best night dives in the country.
“Our night dive is dependent on current sunset times,” Tess says. “We try to arrive at the Benwood 20 minutes prior to sunset, so that those divers who wish to stay onboard to view the sunset in its entirety prior to their dive can do so. Other divers—who want to dive early and get their bearings with daylight left—can start their dive early and have around an hour or more of bottom time with the final 40 minutes in complete darkness.”
Showstoppers
Turtles are clearly the stars of this underwater show. On any given night, it is not uncommon to spot five or more turtles sleeping on the skeleton of the Benwood. Unphased by divers and flashlights, green sea turtles can sleep underwater for several hours before surfacing. They wedge their heads and bodies along the crevices of the wreck to protect from predators.
Jennifer Wheeler, an artist and divemaster living in Key Largo, was mesmerized the first time she explored the Benwood last summer. Having done night dives in Monterey Bay, California, and Indonesia, she is convinced the Benwood is magical at night.
“Entering the water and seeing the wreck
for the first time is like something out of a mystery book or movie. The spirit of the ship seems to come alive at night, and there is a sort of reverence that is called for in the dark,” Jennifer says.
She says of her last night dive on the wreck, “I just floated there, face-to-face with a snoozing turtle, for what seemed like forever. My heart was so happy, so full, and I hope everyone gets to experience that at least some time in their lives.”
Because this dive can reach depths of a little more than 50 feet, a safety stop at 15 to 20 feet is recommended for a few minutes of decompression. Even at that depth, the experience unfolds in front of your mask. In the summer, the warm water is full of bioluminescent creatures that light up the ocean water like sparks of pixie dust. Divers often shut off their dive lights to see the show. Tess says the safety stops are one of her favorite aspects of the dive.
“The bioluminescence is breathtaking, along with the illuminated comb jellies that light up the sea,” she says.
BACKGROUND:
The infinite light created by the bioluminescent creatures is humbling to divers like Jennifer.
“The specks of light in the unending darkness makes one feel small in a good way, like you’re part of something bigger, beautiful and endless,” she says.
Marathon resident McKenzie Edwards explores the coralencrusted skeleton of the Benwood shipwreck.
RIGHT: A green sea turtle sleeps at the bow.
FAR RIGHT: The Amoray Dive Center boat moors above the Benwood shipwreck.
Living Livin
Hot air balloon rides make for a magical experience
By Jen Calhoun
One person described it as flying in the hand of God while getting a brain massage.”
— Kim McCourt, hot air balloon pilot
the High
But when his family moved to the flatlands of Florida, he had to find a new way to see the world. In 1998, he took his first flight in a hot air balloon.
“I learned that ballooning is, well, kind of magical,” says Kim, a licensed hot air balloon pilot in the Orlando region. “There’s the exploration part of it, and you’ve got Mother Nature all around you.”
These days, Kim often travels the skies with tourists who want to experience a ride they can’t find at the area’s theme parks. For many, it’s a way to fly without being contained in the metal tube of an airplane.
“In the balloon, you can see so much more, and you can actually feel everything,” Kim says. “You can breathe the air.”
There’s a spiritual component, too, says Mark West, vice president of the Balloon Federation of America. Mark, a former Navy pilot, also served as president and chief engineer of Aerostar International, once the country’s largest hot air
Life
balloon manufacturer.
“Ballooning has an incredible amount of magic to it,” Mark says. “Virtually everyone who sees one is enamored with it. I suppose they’re kind of representative of breaking free of the bonds of Earth and floating away.”
Ballooning 101
The use of hot air balloons started in the late 1700s, when two French brothers—Joseph Michel and Jacques Etienne Montgolfier—realized that capturing smoke in a bag would cause the bag to rise. After experimenting with larger and larger bags, they knew they were on to something. Humankind, they thought, might finally fly.
By November 1783, King Louis XVI of France allowed the first manned hot air balloon flight to take off from the Gardens of Versailles. Over the next months and years, hydrogen and helium balloons were invented, and newer technologies kept the new mode of travel going.
In 1960, Aerostar International’s parent company, Raven, developed an onboard heating system that gave pilots a way to control and sustain the flight.
“That was the beginning of what we know today as hot air ballooning,” Mark says.
It can take years of practice to master navigating a craft that
More than 230 years after their invention, hot air balloons still thrill onlookers. PHOTOS COURTESY OF KIM MCCOURT
floats on air, Kim says. It’s both an art and a science. Among other things, pilots need to understand weather patterns, physics and the mechanics of the balloon itself. Practice helps, too.
“To learn to fly a balloon, you’ve got to go out and hit the ground really hard lots of times, then learn how not to do that,” he says with a laugh. “Landing and navigation are the tough parts.”
Up and Away
In Florida, hot air balloon rides are popular for families celebrating a special occasion or tourists looking for a new experience. Some passengers want to make memories with their families, while others go to commemorate important events, like marriage proposals, bucket lists or spreading the ashes of loved ones into the sky.
“There are all kinds of stories,” Kim says. “The only things that stay the same are the sun coming up and people smiling.” But as wide-open spaces dwindle, so do the balloon rides. Pilots simply don’t have enough space to land. Weather has also been a factor because unreliable winds can ground a pilot. Kim says he’s seen this firsthand.
“Over the last 15 years, the weather went from 275 days we could fly to probably 100 days,” he says. He worries other factors could cause ballooning to take a hit, too.
“Fabric, wicker, propane, repairs and parts are way more expensive these days, so it takes more money to maintain them,” Kim says.
Hope Floats
Despite the challenges, Kim still grins like a kid after an earlymorning flight.
These days, hot air balloons are used for experiential tourism, fun, advertising and competition.
Hot air balloons got their start in France in 1783. They became humankind’s first mode of flight.
“There’s nothing like it,” he says. “When we lift off and the sun starts to rise, we might rest at the top of a tree and stare clear down to the bottom of a pond. Then we’ll take off again and maybe rest right on top of the water where the mist is coming off the surface. It’s up and down, up and down—gently. One person said it was like flying in the hand of God while getting a brain massage.”
Mark says balloonists almost always try to describe the sensation of floating on—and with—the air.
“One of my good friends said it was ‘having a destiny without a destination.’ ” Mark says. “I think it attracts people who want to enjoy the beauty of the Earth and want to experience that kind of freedom.”
To catch a ride with Kim McCourt, visit greaterorlandoballoonrides.com. For more information on hot air ballooning and the people who are passionate about it, visit the Balloon Federation of America’s Facebook
page or find them at bfa.net.
1783
e birth of the hot air balloon
June 1783 — First Unmanned Flight
After a year or two of experimentation and invention, brothers Joseph Michel and Jacques Etienne Montgolfier publicly launch their version of a hot air balloon, the Seraphina, in Annonay, France. Made of linen or silk and paper and held together by 2,000 buttons, the Seraphina was powered by burning straw and wool in an attached fire pit. It carried no passengers. The balloon landed in the middle of a vineyard a little over a mile from where it had taken off.
September 1783 —
Confused Farm Animals
The first balloon flight with passengers launches from Versailles carrying a duck, a rooster and a sheep. The animals made it down alive. However, sources say the sheep kicked the duck and damaged its wing. King Louis XVI of France was pleased to learn that animals could breathe so high up.
October 1783 — Up, But Not Away
Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier, scientist and historian for King Louis XVI, unofficially becomes the first person to ride in a hot air balloon. However, the balloon was tethered, or captive, and only reached an altitude of 84 feet.
November 1783 —
First Human Flight
Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and another passenger take the first official manned flight untethered in Paris. The flight lasted about 25 minutes and reached an altitude of about 500 feet. Less than two years later, Jean-François and his passenger would become the first people to die in a hot air balloon crash during a flight from France to England.
December 1783 — Hydrogen Balloon
Jacques Charles, a French physicist experimenting with hydrogen—or gas—balloons, pilots one with a few colleagues. They traveled 25 miles in less than two hours. They also carried a barometer and a thermometer. Afterward, gas balloons became the preferred method of ballooning.
Sources: DragonFly Balloon Adventures, Virgin Balloon Flights, National Balloon Museum H of
Meatless Meals EAT YOUR VEGGIES
Cheesy Burrito Bake
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
1 teaspoon cumin
2 cups water
1 cup brown rice, uncooked
12-ounce can evaporated milk, divided
Heat oven to 350 F.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4-ounce can diced green chiles, undrained
16-ounce can refried beans
6 8-inch wheat tortillas
Salsa, optional
Guacamole, optional
In a large skillet, heat canola oil. Cook peppers and onion with cumin until tender. In a saucepan, add water and brown rice. Cook for 45 minutes.
In a second saucepan, add 1¼ cups evaporated milk, cheddar cheese and green chilies. Cook over medium heat until cheese is melted and smooth. Stir 3/4 of the cheese mixture in with the cooked rice. Set the remaining cheese sauce aside.
In a medium bowl, add refried beans and the remaining evaporated milk. Microwave for 3-4 minutes.
Lay out tortillas. Layer refried bean mixture, rice mixture and pepper-onion mixture. Roll into burritos and place in a baking pan. Top burritos with the remaining cheese sauce. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Garnish with salsa and guacamole, if desired.
Source: Culinary.net
Grilled Apple Portobello ‘Burgers’
1 large sweet apple
2 portobello mushrooms
1/4 cup olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup herbed goat cheese
2 brioche buns
2 large pieces butter lettuce
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Heat the grill to medium heat. Slice apples horizontally into thick round wedges. Remove seeds using a fork. Remove portobello stems.
In a small bowl, combine 1/8 cup olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano and salt.
Using a basting brush, coat portobellos on both sides with the olive oil mixture. Grill stem sides down for 2 minutes, then flip. Add goat cheese to portobellos. Grill for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted. Remove from grill. Use remaining olive oil to coat apple rounds. Grill apple rounds for 1-2 minutes per side to lightly char.
Serve portobellos with apple rounds on brioche buns with lettuce and mayonnaise.
Source: Envy Apples
Golden Beet and Rice Burger Sliders
71/2 ounces white beans, drained and rinsed
1 egg, beaten
1/2 tablespoon water
14 ounces jasmine rice, cooked and cooled
4 ounces golden beets, cooked and grated
3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled and divided
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
12 leaves bibb lettuce
1 cup arugula
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
In a food processor, pulse beans, egg and water until mashed.
Transfer the bean mixture to a large bowl. Add rice, beets, 11/2 ounces goat cheese, dill, salt and pepper. Stir until combined. Divide the mixture into six portions. Shape into 1/2-inch-thick patties.
In a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook patties in two batches, 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Add remaining oil, as necessary.
Place two lettuce leaves together, overlapping ends to form a pocket. Place a patty inside the lettuce pocket. Top with arugula and remaining goat cheese. Drizzle with Sriracha sauce. Repeat with remaining burgers.
Source: Success Rice
Pomegranate and Arugula Rice Salad
1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons minced red onion
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups jasmine rice, cooked and cooled
5 ounces arugula
1 cup pomegranate seeds
1/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted
Crumbled goat or blue cheese, optional
In a large bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, red onion, mustard, honey, salt and pepper.
Add rice, arugula and pomegranate seeds to the bowl. Toss to coat thoroughly. Sprinkle with almonds.
For added flavor, top the salad with crumbled goat or blue cheese.
Source: Minute Rice
Cheesy Asparagus Tart
5 cups water
1 pound asparagus
Ice water
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus additional to taste, divided Flour, for dusting
Heat oven to 400 F.
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 cup grated fontina cheese
1 cup grated gruyere cheese
1 tablespoon shallot, minced
2 egg yolks
3 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 lemon, zest only
In a large skillet, add water and asparagus. Cook for 5-8 minutes until asparagus is bright green. Drain asparagus and soak in ice water.
In a large bowl, mix drained asparagus, vegetable oil, salt and pepper until combined.
Flour surface area. Using a rolling pin, roll out the pastry to a 10-by-16-inch rectangle. Transfer the pastry to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick the pastry with a fork. Bake for about 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly on the baking sheet.
In a large bowl, mix fontina cheese, gruyere cheese, shallot, egg yolks, milk, nutmeg, salt and pepper until combined. Spread cheese over the pastry, leaving 1 inch around the edges. Lay asparagus over the cheese mixture.
Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Sprinkle lemon zest over the tart before serving.
Source: Culinary.net
A Time to Honor
By Dave LaBelle
It’s a real paradox for me: I hate war, but I love and honor those who have sacrificed their lives for the freedoms we enjoy.
Michael Rummel called me from his home in Southern California and asked if we could talk. He had met my son at Field of Dreams in Iowa and had read my latest book in 2019. Michael was struggling with some unfinished business—a promise he had made in Vietnam to fellow Marine Ron Denton some 50 years earlier.
While drinking beer in Vietnam, the men had made a
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer
Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
pledge: Whoever died first, the other was to visit the deceased’s grave, drink a beer, say a few choice “Marine things,” then crumple the can and spike it into the earth. Silly perhaps, but a promise nonetheless.
Michael didn’t know where Ron was buried, but a search led him to Bowling Green, Kentucky, where Ron had lived the last part of his life.
“Fate is telling me to go to Bowling Green and say my special goodbye to Ron,” Michael said.
But he was still on the fence about going. Hearing how troubled he was, I encouraged him to find Ron’s grave and keep his promise. Because I once lived in Bowling Green while teaching at Western Kentucky University, I told him I would meet him there.
“I have struggled with that decision for seven years now,” Michael confessed. “Your response has tipped the scale in
favor of doing it.”
He made the trip and completed his mission, thankful he did.
This brings me to another short but important story.
A young soldier from the small town I was living in had been killed in action. Out of respect, I dressed appropriately and photographed the sensitive outdoor burial service from a distance using a telephoto lens.
Upon seeing me, a decorated military officer assigned to the burial detail left the grave site and approached me as I photographed the interment. He firmly asked me not to photograph.
I respectfully refused his request.
“This young man died for the very freedoms you are asking me to deny,” I told him.
Unsure how to respond, he left me alone.
Reader Challenge
On this Memorial Day, make a photograph that honors the day and those who gave their lives in service. Remember, you are not taking anything but giving and honoring the fallen and their families when you celebrate their sacrifices. Move slowly and with reverence when documenting any service. Not overshooting is important.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pur.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
I meant no disrespect to the officer, the family or the fallen soldier. To the contrary, I was showing them respect for the laws and rights of our nation and honoring the young man’s service.
Vietnam veteran Michael Rummel fulfills a promise to a brother in arms. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
NIKON D700, 180mm lens ISO 200, f/4 at 1/400
OXYGEN THERAPY THAT MOVES WITH YOU
Inogen® Portable Oxygen Concentrators
12 hours, 45 minutes of battery life with the
114-day risk-free trial- Return within 14 days of purchase for a full refund of purchase price 2When used for less than 8 hours per day within the expected service life 3Inogen Rove 6 battery life up to 12 hours, 45 minutes between charges when used on flow setting 1 with extended battery
USES: The Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrator provides a high concentration of supplemental oxygen to patients requiring respiratory therapy on a prescriptive basis. It may be used in home, institution, vehicle, and various mobile environments. DO NOT USE IF: This device is not intended to be used in any way other than described in the indications for use. Do not use in parallel or series with other oxygen concentrators or oxygen therapy devices. This device is to be used as an oxygen supplement and is not intended to be life sustaining or life supporting. ONLY use this product if the patient is capable of spontaneous breath, able to inhale and exhale without the use of a machine. The conserving, or pulse dose, oxygen delivery technique used by this device is contraindicated in persons whose breathing during normal resting would be unable to trigger the device. Proper device triggering, setup and operation must be confirmed by an experienced clinician or other respiratory professional. Not for pediatric use. Not for use by tracheotomized patients. WARNINGS: The device produces enriched oxygen gas, which accelerates combustion. Do not allow smoking or open flames within 2m (6.56ft) of this device while in use. If you feel ill or uncomfortable, or if the concentrator does not signal an oxygen pulse and you are unable to hear and/or feel the oxygen pulse, consult your equipment provider and/or your physician immediately. If you are unable to communicate discomfort, you may
Catting Around
Catfish provide great action for anglers on a budget
Catfish comprise a huge portion of the fish population in many freshwater systems in Florida. Anglers can often fill a boat with tasty fish, possibly even land huge ones, after spending little money.
Channel catfish—the most widespread and easiest to catch in Florida—eat almost anything. Some good channel catfish baits include live minnows or shiners, worms, nightcrawlers, crawfish, shad, fish chunks, livers, commercial baits or shrimp. Occasionally channel catfish strike bass or crappie lures.
The St. Johns River and its associated systems contain a large channel catfish population. Joe Purvis set the state record with a 44.5-pound channel catfish from Lake Bluff in Lake County.
White catfish come a close second in population and distribution. They exist throughout Florida and can tolerate some salinity in brackish coastal estuaries. White catfish eat anything that might interest channel catfish.
Jim Miller landed the white catfish state record, an 18.88-pounder from the Withlacoochee River in Marion County.
The biggest of the North American whiskerfish, blue catfish can exceed 125 pounds and give anglers big-game action without going offshore. In Florida, blue catfish inhabit the Escambia, Choctawhatchee, Yellow, Apalachicola and Suwannee River systems.
In May 2015, William Stewart III caught the Florida state record, a 69.5-pounder, while fishing the Choctawhatchee River in Washington County.
Blue catfish eat almost anything, but mainly small fish and fish chunks, especially shad.
With forked tails and bluish-gray bodies, white, channel and blue catfish look similar. Channel catfish have thick and fleshy whiskers,
or barbels, whereas blue catfish have thin, light ones.
Young channel catfish show black spots on their backs and sides. Blue catfish look stouter with humped backs and grow much larger than channel or white catfish. White catfish have some mottled coloration and more rounded anal fins than the other species.
Flatheads can also exceed 100 pounds. These predators almost exclusively eat live fish and particularly enjoy crunching small catfish, shad and bluegills. They thrive in rivers with heavy woody cover where they ambush prey, but also live in lakes and reservoirs.
In Florida, these ornery loners mainly inhabit the Apalachicola, Yellow and Escambia river systems. Lavon Nowling pulled a 69.9-pounder from the Yellow River in Santa Rosa County to set the record in August 2020.
Not everyone can afford a boat or even the gasoline to power one, but most people can usually find a good place to fish close to home. Widespread and abundant catfish can live practically anywhere, making them great targets for bank anglers.
Many parks, piers, ponds, or river or lake shorelines throughout Florida offer exciting sport for big fish. When sitting on a bank to fish, toss a few pieces of liver, shrimp or other baits into the water to attract catfish. Throw out just enough to get them interested, but not enough to feed them. n
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.
FREE MATERIALS
SOON Church/Government uniting, suppressing RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
enforcing NATIONAL SUNDAY LAW
Be informed!
TBSM, PO Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. tbsmads@yahoo.com 1-888-211-1715
Embark on a journey over the rainbow with our extraordinary find from the enchanting Venetian island of Murano! As I approached, the island’s kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses welcomed me with open arms, each hue seemingly more vibrant than the last. Legend has it that these colorful homes served as beacons for fishermen navigating the fog-blanketed lagoon since medieval times.
Inspired by this rich history, I sought to immortalize its beauty in the timeless artistry of Murano glass. Renowned for 500 years as the world’s finest glassblowers, Murano has seamlessly transitioned into modern-day fashion statements while retaining its age-old allure. Venturing to Murano, I enlisted the expertise of a distinguished artisan, whose skillful hands meticulously captured the essence of Murano’s iconic dwellings in the form of hand-formed beads for The Rainbow Murano Necklace.
Send Her Over The Rainbow
accompanied by a complimentary matching bracelet—a perfect token of romance. Backed by our satisfaction guarantee, you can revel in its beauty risk-free for 30 days. Should it fail to dazzle, return it for a full refund, and keep the bracelet as our gift to you. While comparable Murano glass bead necklaces fetch prices upwards of $300, seize this extraordinary opportunity to own them for a fraction of the cost, exclusively at Raffinato.
Jewelry Speci cations:
• Original Murano Glass
• Necklace: 23"L; Bracelet: 7"L
• Lobster clasps
In the spirit of spreading joy, I'm thrilled to offer you The Murano Rainbow Necklace for just $39,
Murano Rainbow Necklace
$199 $39* + S&P
Receive the FREE matching bracelet with your purchase of the Necklace — a $99 value!
*Special price only for customers using the offer code.
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.
KEY WEST
May 1-5
Key West Songwriters Festival
The largest festival of its kind in the world, this festival includes five days and nights of introducing the faces, voices and stories behind the songs. Performances take place at numerous theaters, bars and event spaces. The opening night headliner May 1 is Dylan Marlowe, and Cole Swindell performs May 2. www.keywestsongwritersfestival.com; 305-985-0433
APALACHICOLA
May 1
Apalach Ghost Tour
Take a paranormal ghost tour of downtown Apalachicola. Your guide begins telling ghost stories starting at 9 p.m., while using ghost hunting equipment to see if any spirits are around. The tour may last up to 90 minutes. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for 3- to 12-year-olds, and entry is free for children 2 and younger. www.apalachghosttour.com; 850-583-4662
KEY WEST
May 2
Studios of Key West
During the First Thursday open house, the studios keep the lights on late from 6 to 8 p.m. to celebrate the newest work in their galleries. Stop in to say hello, relax with a glass of wine, tour the third-floor artist studios and see the new exhibitions in the various galleries at 533 Eaton St. www.tskw.org; 305-296-0458
KEY WEST
May 2-5
I.Care: Trash Derby and Festival
Sponsored by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation in support of Goal: Clean Seas, the derby begins with a team leader meeting from 6:15-7:30 p.m. Thursday at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina. Trash is collected from sunrise to sunset. Divisions include dive operators, private boat owners and land lovers. Participation is open to visitors and community members. www.marinesanctuary.org; 301-608-3040
SEBRING
May 4
Kids Bicycle Rodeo and Splash Day
WEWAHITCHKA
May 18
Tupelo Honey Festival
This event at Lake Alice Park includes a variety of vendors selling honey, arts and crafts, food and plants. A car show and lots of children’s activities are also in the lineup. Entry into the park is free. Billy Lipford, known as the voice of Jackson County, returns with country, blues, rock and gospel music. At 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., The Pittman’s—out of Destin—perform a magic show. The Big Red Bus is on-site to collect blood, looking to beat last year’s total of 29 units. Using its safety trailer, Gulf Coast Electric Co-op demonstrates the do’s and don’ts of electricity. www.tupelohoneyfestival.com; 850-832-4843
Join the city of Sebring fire and police departments for this seventh annual event at Station 14 downtown. The event starts at 9 a.m. with a live DJ, station tours and bicycle giveaways, as well as free popcorn, hot dogs, snow cones and bicycle helmets. Bring your swim attire to enjoy the splash day. www.mysebring.com; 863-471-5100
PORT ST. JOE
May 4
Salt Air Farmers Market
Treat your family to art pieces and fresh veggies, sweet tupelo honey and vine-ripened fruit from local farmers and artisans. This market is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays. www.saltairmarket.com; 404-906-2637
PHOTO COURTESY OF TUPELO HONEY FESTIVAL
HOW TO INCLUDE UPCOMING EVENTS
Want to share a family-friendly event with the readers of Florida Currents? Enter the details at tinyurl.com/ FloridaCurrents. 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.
PENSACOLA
May 11
Gulf Coast Culture Fest
This vibrant and inclusive festival celebrates the rich diversity and cultures of the Gulf Coast and its surrounding areas. This highly anticipated event brings together artists, businesses, vendors and community members for a day filled with artistic expressions, captivating live entertainment and a wide array of mouthwatering food options. By promoting unity and appreciation for different cultures, Gulf Coast Culture Fest creates an atmosphere of harmony and rejuvenation that is enjoyed by all who attend. www.gulfcoastculturefest.com; 850-466-8399
PENSACOLA
May 11
850 Foodie Festival
Beginning as a successful quarterly event in Crestview, this festival averages about 3,000 attendees per event. This is the first installment of the annual event, as organizers move away from it being quarterly. The day includes more than 80 vendors—food, product and information—plus music and more.
www.realgrillmaster.com; 850-503-5446
PENSACOLA
May 17
Cinemas in the Sand
The Santa Rosa Island Authority invites families and friends to unpack their beach chairs and blankets, dig their toes in the sand and spend the evening cozied up on Pensacola Beach while enjoying a free classic family film.
www.visitpensacolabeach.com; 850-530-3349
MARATHON
May 10-11
Mother’s Day Dolphin’s Tournament Fish for a Cause with Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys during the 18th annual Mother’s Day Dolphin Tournament. This is an angler tournament for the heaviest mahi-mahi. Angler divisions include ladies, juniors, weekend warriors and pros. The captain’s meeting is 6-7 p.m. Friday at The Island Fish Co. Lines hit the water at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, with weigh-in from 3:30-6 p.m. at Curly’s Coffee. The awards banquet is from 7-9 p.m. at Marathon Yacht Club. Anglers can fish from anywhere in the Keys and United States’ waters but must weigh in at Curly’s. www.mothersdaydolphintournament.com; 305-743-9828
PHOTO COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Contributing to Community Ecology
It’s easy to think of our home landscapes as solitary bubbles that don’t interact with the land around them. However, our yards are becoming an increasingly important part of Florida’s ecology.
As Florida’s population rises, undisturbed areas are shrinking and becoming isolated. The state is now a network of urban and suburban areas, with rare patches of natural areas. With increasing development, wildlife movement is further hindered without an ecologically thoughtful approach to our landscaping practices.
Having an ecologically focused yard doesn’t just benefit nature. Building a diverse landscape can naturally reduce pest and disease issues, which in turn requires less effort and chemical control.
Limit Lawn Space
Unfortunately, turfgrass alone as a groundcover does not provide food or habitat for many wildlife species. You can improve the ecological contributions of your lawn and make it more biodiverse by introducing alternative, native groundcovers. There are plenty of options that require less maintenance than traditional turfgrass, and many benefit pollinators or other wildlife.
If you require turfgrass, you can establish biodiverse, landscaped islands instead. Fill these islands with alternative groundcovers, wildflowers or native plants. Place the islands near each other, if possible, so wildlife can easily move among them.
Provide Habitats
You may be tempted to remove dead trees from your yard, but leaving them provides housing for insects and the birds that eat them. Just be sure to move snags away from buildings.
Consider leaving some brush as well. Leaving a few piles around your yard provides cover and feeding opportunities for wildlife.
Leaf litter can also be used as mulch and fertilizer. Keeping leaves in your yard provides a place for insects to overwinter and emerge from in the spring when birds and other wildlife are ready to feed. Leaving dead stems on plants is also beneficial because this is where many pollinators hatch.
Edge the mulched areas of your yard and create paths to make it look neat.
Setting up bird houses, baths and feeders supports your local bird population. Consider installing a pond or water garden as a water source, too. Just make sure the water doesn’t remain stagnant and become a nursery for mosquito larvae.
For pollinators, you need plants to support their larval stage, as well as plants that provide nectar once they’re fully developed. Birds feed on the insects that appear, but you can also give them a varied diet by providing plants with berries.
Remove Invasive Plants
Invasive plants are your worst enemy when trying to cultivate biodiversity.
These plants are defined as having been introduced to the area, are nonnative, and have caused—or will likely cause— environmental harm, economic harm and/or harm to humans.
Approximately 1.7 million acres of Florida’s natural areas are consumed by invasive plants, and local ecosystems have been devastated as a result. Destroying any invasives you find in your yard prevents them from taking over and stops them from producing seeds that could spread elsewhere.
Plant Natives
Although it seems counterintuitive, you should plant natives because our insects can eat them. Finding a small amount of damage shows your plant has ecological value.
Nonnative plants are often too different from our native species for them to qualify as insect food. A lack of insects leads to a lack of birds. Instead, plant natives to support a diverse insect population that serves as a buffet for wildlife.
Don’t assume you need to replace every nonnative in your yard today. Rather, plan to replace nonnative plants as they die.
Limit Pesticide Use
If you’ve already implemented the steps above, you’re less likely to have severe pest infestations. Pest problems thrive in monoculture systems. Increasing species diversity, density, and spatial variance can lead to declines in arthropod pests and increases in their predators.
Often, beneficial insects are unintentionally killed when pesticides are applied.
Spraying yards for mosquitos is a practice with unintentional deadly consequences for beneficial insects. Instead, only spot-treat severe problems or use baits that target specific species.
You can also take a natural route by planting insect-repulsing plants—such as marigolds—in problem areas.
Natasha Atlas graduated from the University of Florida’s Agricultural Education and Communication Program in 2021. She loves writing about unique and new varieties of flowers and plants for the Neighborhood Gardener Newsletter and its 10,000 subscribers. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys tending her own garden on her balcony.
Leaving behind dead trees provides housing for insects and the birds that eat them.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY
Business Spotlight
Santa Rosa County
Double Dip Spray Tan
850-819-5432
Jay, FL, and surrounding areas
Check them out on Facebook.
Dillon Emmett, the owner of Double Dip Spray Tan, is marking three successful years of helping clients achieve their ideal bronzed glow. Specializing in spray tans, Double Dip Spray Tan offers the quintessential accessory for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for prom, gearing up for your wedding day or getting ready for a special event, a flawlessly applied tan can elevate your look to the next level. Embrace the confidence that comes with a radiant, sun-kissed complexion by reserving your appointment today. Let Double Dip Spray Tan accentuate your natural beauty and ensure you shine your brightest on any memorable occasion.
Escambia County
Littlestead Acres
425-350-8967
littlesteadacres@gmail.com
6740 Meadows Road
McDavid, FL
Check them out on Facebook or at littlesteadacres.com.
Littlestead Acres is a gourmet mushroom farm located in McDavid and dedicated to cultivating premium gourmet mushrooms, including shiitake, blue oyster, pink oyster, lion’s mane and chestnut. Through its commitment to quality and sustainability, Littlestead Acres has itself themselves as a trusted supplier to esteemed restaurants like Jackson’s Steakhouse in Pensacola. It also has mushroom powders (lion’s mane, umami spice, blue oyster, pink oyster, golden oyster and king trumpet) for cooking, coffee, smoothies, cookies, etc.
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.
Photo Contest Winner
The winning photograph, “Berries & Babies,” captures a heartwarming scene of a baby nestled amid a lush strawberry patch. This photo was taken by Taylor Baggett and submitted by John Baggett. John’s name is in a drawing to win a $100 bill credit on his December 2024 electric bill. May’s photo theme is “Mom & Me.” Vote May 1-20 on Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s Facebook page.
Let’s Color!
Cooperatives use the same set of seven principles to guide their work. One of the principles is education, training and information. Education and training for members, elected representatives (directors/ trustees), CEOs and employees help them effectively contribute to the development of their cooperatives. Communications about the nature and benefits of cooperatives, particularly with the general public and opinion leaders, helps boost cooperative understanding.
Chad Smith with Alabama Rural Electric Association shows Matt Reynolds and another lineman proper protocols for pole-top rescue training. OPPOSITE TOP: Participants pose for a photo following a successful pole-top training.
OPPOSITE BOTTOM: Foreman Kevin Macht attaches the dummy to the arm of the bucket for reattachment to the top of the pole. PHOTOS BY CORTNEY OWENS
EREC Conducts Successful Pole-Top Rescue Training
Escambia River Electric Cooperative recently concluded a comprehensive Pole Top Rescue training, furthering its commitment to safety and preparedness. The training equipped lineworkers with essential skills and knowledge necessary for executing effective pole-top rescues during emergencies.
Led by seasoned instructors and safety experts, the training covered a range of scenarios and techniques, ensuring participants were proficient in executing rescue procedures safely and efficiently. From harnessing and ascending poles to administering first aid and employing rescue equipment, lineworkers underwent rigorous hands-on training to enhance their capabilities in real-world rescue scenarios.
“Safety comes first at EREC,” Director of Operations Glenn White says. “Pole-top rescue training is crucial for keeping our
lineworkers safe, and it gives them the skills they need to respond to emergencies and protect themselves and their coworkers.”
The training underscores EREC’s ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of safety and preparedness among its workforce. Through regular training and continuous improvement initiatives, the cooperative remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety in all aspects of its operations.
As a member-owned cooperative serving communities across northwest Florida, EREC recognizes the paramount importance of prioritizing safety to deliver reliable service and uphold its commitment to the well-being of its employees and the communities it serves.
With the successful completion of the Pole-Top Rescue Training, EREC reaffirms its unwavering dedication to
safety excellence and readiness, ensuring its lineworkers are equipped to handle any challenges they may encounter in the field. n
BEFORE YOU GO
Share the Beauty In Your Backyard
The geography of the readership area of this magazine is vast and beautiful, from lakes to oceans to parks to beaches. Some of you have views from your homes that rival the views of national parks.
From time to time, we will share some of the excellent reader photos in this space. If we use your photo here, we will send your choice of a $25 gift card to REI or Amazon.
To submit your photo, email a JPEG file to photos@floridacurrents.com. Include “Before You Go” in the subject line. Please share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo.
A revolving train bridge sits over the water on a foggy March morning in Milton. PHOTO BY LARRY MAINES
The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in
Aid Technology, those cost reductions have not been passed on to you. Until now... MDHearing
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
James E. Hall
Ernie Hester
J.D. Powell
Sam Walker, Vice President
Gary Wiggins
Santa Rosa County
Mickey Diamond
Rick Hunsucker, President
Ed Kelley
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.
