Florida Currents
ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
JUNE 2024
Annual meeting highlights achievements and scholarship winners
Page 4
Ramona Foster wins the grand prize during the 2024 annual meeting.
PHOTO BY CORTNEY OWENS
Florida Currents
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Nina Todea
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
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Alyssa McDougle
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Message From the President
Being Prepared
As CEO of our electric cooperative, I urge everyone to take proactive steps as we approach hurricane season, which began June 1.
While we hope for the best, preparedness is key to ensuring the safety and resilience of our community. Our team is diligently preparing to respond swiftly and effectively to any potential impact on our electrical infrastructure. This includes routine maintenance to fortify our power grid, stockpiling essential equipment, and coordinating with local authorities and emergency response teams.
We are also conducting training and safety exercises to ensure staff is ready to mobilize and restore power as quickly as possible following storm-related outages.
We encourage our members to do their part by reviewing their emergency plans, securing their homes and staying informed about local weather updates. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure you have an ample supply of water and medical necessities on hand.
Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the impact of any storm-related disruptions.
Let’s prioritize safety, preparedness and community resilience together. Stay safe, stay informed and be prepared for whatever this hurricane season may bring.
Ryan C. Campbell, P.E.
Celebrating 85 Years
Annual meeting highlights achievements and scholarship winners
Escambia River Electric Cooperative recently celebrated a significant milestone as it marked 85 years of service to its members.
The annual meeting at Ernest Ward Middle School in Walnut Hill included a recordbreaking election with 758 votes—absentee and in person.
During the meeting, Philip Marshall was elected to represent Santa Rosa County, while Ernie Hester and James Earl Hall were reelected to continue serving Escambia County on the board of trustees.
The event was made possible by the support of various community partners, including Ernest Ward Middle School, whose Culinary Arts Program provided breakfast, and Northview High’s FFA Program, which assisted with parking.
The national anthem was performed by Jade Presley, a fifth grader at Ernest Ward Middle School. Jade’s performance added a touch of local talent to the proceedings.
Matt Diamond from PowerSouth delivered an engaging speech, offering valuable insights into the energy industry.
The meeting also highlighted scholarship winners, recognizing their academic achievements and contributions to the community. Concluding on a high note and as a gesture of gratitude for the continued support of EREC’s members, door prizes were distributed.
As EREC commemorates 85 years of service, it remains committed to providing reliable and efficient electricity to its members while fostering community engagement and collaboration.
Just Imagine Designs did a great job with face painting. PHOTOS BY CORTNEY OWENS
ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC
ABOVE: At the close of the meeting, members were awarded an abundance of door prizes.
LEFT: EREC Board President Rick Hunsucker welcomes members to the 2024 annual meeting.
BELOW LEFT: Children help draw the winners of the door prizes.
BELOW RIGHT: A member marks his ballot for this year’s election.
BOTTOM: Registration gifts were handed out to everyone who voted.
ELECTRIFYING Success
EREC’s inaugural Power Up Lineman Camp
In an initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of electrical technicians, Escambia River Electric Cooperative hosted a Power Up Lineman Camp.
The event welcomed 15 enthusiastic students from various schools including Tate High, Central School, Jay High and Escambia County Virtual.
The camp proved to be an illuminating experience for the participants, offering a curriculum with hands-on training and valuable insights into the world of electrical infrastructure.
Divided into informative stations, the camp covered topics crucial to the field, from safety protocols to the intricacies of power distribution systems.
Participants were educated on essential safety measures, emphasizing the importance of caution and vigilance when working with electricity. They were also given practical demonstrations on the proper use of right-of-way equipment, ensuring they understand the protocols for navigating workspaces safely.
The camp delved into the core components of electrical systems, with sessions dedicated to transformers and power poles. Students gained a deeper understanding of transformer functionality and were taught the fundamentals of climbing power poles—an essential skill for aspiring lineworkers.
The curriculum also included insights into underground infrastructure, with a detailed examination of the contents and workings of underground transformers.
“I already had an interest in being a lineman, but after the lineman camp at EREC I knew being a lineman would be my future,” Tucker Nowling says. “The camp was so informative and hands on. I’m thankful to EREC for helping me to reassure my decision.”
A highlight of the camp was sessions conducted atop bucket trucks, offering a firsthand experience of working at height—a common aspect of lineworker duties. From high in the air, participants gained perspectives on challenges and responsibilities associated with maintaining overhead power lines.
The camp fostered a spirit of camaraderie among participants, providing a platform for networking and collaboration. For many attendees, the Power Up Lineman Camp was more than just an educational event—it was a transformative experience that ignited their passion for the electrical industry.
By offering hands-on training and immersive learning opportunities, EREC’s camp has laid the groundwork for a new generation of skilled technicians poised to make significant contributions to the field of electrical infrastructure. n
TOP: Students learn to climb a power pole as one of the highlights of the camp.
MIDDLE: A student puts on a safety harness in preparation for a lift in the bucket.
BOTTOM: One of the camp components reviewed was transformers.
OPPOSITE PAGE: EREC Lineman David Deese, right, shows a student how to connect ground and neutral wires. PHOTOS BY CORTNEY OWENS
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Story and photos by Nick Thomas
Little space is wasted in the 8,000-squarefoot Emerald Coast Science Center, where walls are covered with informative posters and ceiling paintings. Interactive exhibits offer experiences focused on physics, astronomy and more.
Live animals are also prominent, with an assortment of birds, reptiles and mammals. All are rescues donated to the center. The critters are cleverly named after scientists, an idea Director Diane Fraser introduced several years ago. For instance, a blue and gold macaw is named Cici in honor of Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, an astronomer and astrophysicist who proposed in her 1925 doctoral thesis that stars were composed of hydrogen and helium.
“We’re kind of sneaky like that,” Diane says. “Most kids can probably tell you
the names of their favorite Major League Baseball players or who all the current top movie stars are, but if you ask them to name famous scientists, most can only come up with Albert Einstein.
That’s heartbreaking to me. Through our animals, they not only learn about wildlife and the environment but the famous people they’re named after.”
Explore the Emerald Coast Science Center Explore the Emerald Coast Science Center
transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom of their two daughters. In the early 2000s, she discovered the engaging children’s activities offered by the ECSC and volunteered to teach a few of the center’s programs.
By 2014, her oldest daughter was in college, and the youngest was driving.
“The kids were growing up, and I was this newly untethered person wondering what to do with myself,” Diane says.
A Commitment to Science
After graduating with a master’s degree in forensic science from the University of Alabama and working as a research chemist for the Food and Drug Administration in Cincinnati, Diane’s career path took an unexpected turn. For the past decade, she’s been the ECSC director.
A native of Mobile, Alabama, and raised in Pensacola and Niceville, Diane returned to Florida with her husband in 1999. They settled in Fort Walton Beach, where Diane
At the time, the center was moving from a park known locally as The Landing to a new site on Southwest Memorial Parkway. Diane’s passion for the museum and her science credentials were so appreciated that she was soon asked to serve as interim director to supervise the move. She accepted the position, which later became permanent, but she was aware of her limitations.
“I had no experience working for a nonprofit organization,” she says. “But in
Diane Fraser reshapes sand to show different topographical heights on an interactive watershed model.
addition to ignorance, I had enthusiasm. When coupled, that can create a powerful tool. You don’t know what you don’t know, but with determination, you can tackle and solve problems that come your way.”
There were plenty of difficulties confronting the center during the expansion. The new site on almost 3 acres was bought from the city and required a 30-year mortgage, so securing additional funding sources was essential.
“The museum programs had been stagnant for a while, so we had to convince the community to see our potential,” Diane says. “We acquired some sponsorships to invest in our programs, and we’ve been evolving and growing ever since, except for when the pandemic struck.”
A Lively Space
Closed for three months, the museum had no outdoor activities for visitors when COVID-19 hit in early 2020. But since then,
open-air exhibits have grown substantially and continue to expand.
A new outdoor planetarium is expected to open in mid-2024, funded by a recent $100,000 Impact 100 grant. By 2022, the number of children visiting the center on school field trips topped 5,000—close to prepandemic levels. Diane says visitor numbers grew even more in 2023, and the center welcomed more than 700 annual family memberships. She expects these numbers to grow as new programs and activities are added.
make their own yo-yos,” Diane says. “It’s those types of activities that keep visitors coming back.”
Another popular activity is the sciPad SMALLab room, featuring a 15-by-15foot interactive floor monitored by infrared motion-detecting cameras. Using electronic wands, students can move planets around the solar system, perform virtual chemical experiments or even dip into the arts by painting or learning the vocabulary of another language.
One popular ECSC program is Discover Science Saturday, offered on the first weekend of every month with ideas coming from surprising sources. Diane remembers a young man walking into the center last year offering to demonstrate yo-yo tricks.
“There’s a lot of physics involved with yo-yo movement, so we told him he could come and demonstrate, and we would develop an activity where kids could
“It’s like playing on an iPad the size of a room,” Diane says. “Whenever I give a talk to groups about the center, I take along a copy of the periodic table of elements to illustrate that the piece of paper in my hand shows all the elements that make up the entire universe,” she says. “That’s incredible to me. I hope visitors walk away with that same profound sense of awe and wonder that understanding science can bring.”
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Diane is the director of the Fort Walton Beach Emerald Coast Science Center. A machine demonstrates air pressure principles at the Emerald Coast Science Center. The science behind pulleys is explained by letting children make giant soap bubbles at the Emerald Coast Science Center.
Cows Mow Go Where the
Book a Florida farm stay for an interactive experience
Story and photos by Marcy Chapman
Jane and Bob Adler own Animal Lovers Farm in Venus. Their 20-acre property, just 15 minutes from Lake Placid, is covered in majestic oaks and welcomes travelers interested in a unique experience.
“Traveling upstate from Miami, we found our perfect enchanted forest in Venus,” Jane says. “It’s classic old Florida. Now, after a period of remodeling, we are in our third year of being hosts. We treasure seeing the joy in people—adults and kids—as they bond with our animals and relax in this incredibly special place. People love our friendly horses, adorable miniature horses, donkeys and playful goats, busy chickens, ducks, and geese—even a sweet mule.”
Their animals often roam free on the farm.
“Keep watch,” Jane says with a laugh. “You may find a donkey at your door, at any time, looking for a treat.”
Often known as farm stays, places like Animal Lovers Farm are scattered across Florida and are a key part of the state’s agritourism industry. Visitors can enjoy the countryside’s natural beauty, learn about farming, interact with animals or just relax.
At many farm stays, visitors—especially youngsters— can experience the rhythm of farm life through hands-on opportunities. Guests might collect eggs for breakfast, feed the animals, ride horseback, pick fruit, fish, kayak, grill out or make s’mores around a fire pit. For some, it is an opportunity to find out where the carrots in their lunch originated.
Each destination has charms of its own. For example, the Adlers offer three lodging options for their guests. The Big House sleeps eight. The Country Cabin is filled with 100 years of history and sleeps three. The Bunkhouse, inspired by the “Yellowstone” TV series, sleeps six. The Adlers have plans for a “barndominium” with three new units.
The property features a scenic lounging area with a pond and
At 5 p.m., Jane Adler calls her chickens into the Shack at Animal Lovers Farm in Venus.
The entrance gate at Animal Lovers Farm.
the Lawn
waterfall. After enjoying an afternoon of horseback riding—free beginner lessons are available—guests can stargaze while lounging in the family-sized hot tubs at each lodging site.
“Guests come for a weekend and stay for a week, sometimes a month,” Jane says. “Most are repeaters.”
Managing a Farm Stay
Farm stays benefit the farmers, their guests and the preservation of the history and culture of farming. Farmers profit from the additional source of income while fostering connections between rural and urban residents. Farm stays also educate the public about environmental concerns, land, water, air and the protection of open spaces and wildlife habitats.
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is an authentic 1,700acre dude ranch one hour south of Orlando in Polk County. Guests are offered a cowboy-themed glamping—or fancy camping—ranch stay experience that appeals especially to children. Voted the No. 1 glamping spot by USA Today, Westgate River Ranch guests choose from accommodations including fully outfitted teepees, wagons and tents. Horseback riding, nature
hikes, a petting farm and wildlife airboat and swamp buggy rides are topped off every Saturday night by a championship rodeo.
History on Hooves
Manatee County is home to Triangle Ranch, a working cattle ranch and farm stay. It’s a wide-open 1,143-acre slice of Florida, just north of Myakka River State Park, where guests can experience farming and glamping. More than 3 miles of the Myakka River winds through the shade of oak and palm trees. Not only does the ranch land protect the quality of water and life around the river, but these undeveloped acres also maintain the integrity of an entire wetlands system.
Triangle Ranch is owned by philanthropist Elizabeth Moore, who has a great passion for conservation.
Horses and Florida Cracker cattle graze at Triangle Ranch.
“When I first saw it, I had an epiphany,” Elizabeth says. “It was so beautiful, with the river and all the wildlife. I just wanted to save it. I knew I had to keep it the way it was.”
The Southwest Florida Water Management District holds a permanent conservation agreement on the property. Elizabeth is working with the Conservation Foundation to restore the land to its optimal natural function.
Getting acquainted with Triangle Ranch may include an ATV excursion through Florida wilderness and across the Myakka River. Cruising along, guests keep their eyes peeled for otters, alligators, turtles and deer. More than 100 species of birds frequent the Myakka area, including roseate spoonbills, osprey, bald eagles and sandhill cranes.
A highlight of visiting Triangle Ranch is seeing the curvy-horned Florida Cracker cows. They are descendants of Spanish cattle brought to the Americas in the early 1500s, members of one of the oldest breeds in the United States. Florida is a leader in the conservation and promotion of this breed, known for being good mothers. They are a great fit for Triangle Ranch, which depends on its cow-calf operation for revenue. The herd is driven by horseback, as it has been for hundreds of years. Rotational grazing keeps the cows ranging over the ranch.
“Whether you want to curl up with a good book, go for a hike, visit the animals or enjoy a sunset or kayak ride, you’ll find it all here in the tranquil and pristine surroundings of our cabins,” Elizabeth says. “Constructed using pecky cypress, cabins are built to embody the authentic Florida cracker-style aesthetic while still providing modern-day conveniences, such as Wi-Fi and air conditioning.”
A 1936 cottage, known as Little Siesta, adds character to the property. It was scheduled for demolition when Elizabeth rescued it from Siesta Key. Cut into three sections, it was relocated to the ranch with its original fittings, stained glass, stunning mantle above a stone fireplace and heart pine floors. Highlights of Elizabeth’s decor include a collection of Florida Highwaymen paintings and a striking floor-length mirror from a Ringling collection.
The Ringling mirror captures the siesta cottage bedroom.
Elizabeth shows the Siesta Key cottage at its new home.
Elizabeth Moore with the Triangle Ranch signpost.
The ranch hosts a variety of events, such as birthdays, weddings, book signings, birding groups and the Cattlemen’s Association. Perched on the scenic riverbank, a perfect place to entertain is a traditional Seminole chickee hut built with cypress poles and a cabbage palm-thatched roof.
Worth the Effort
No matter the experience and amenities farm stay owners offer, they all enjoy the same benefits and face some of the same challenges, many of which are weather-related.
“This involves managing flood situations,” Elizabeth says. “Hurricane Ian was devastating.”
The opposite is also a concern: Drought conditions can leave cows thirsty, or other incidents could affect the animals.
“One of the hardest challenges is losing animals we have gotten so attached to,” Bob Adler says. “Things like broken legs or an animal getting attacked.”
With everything considered, farm-stay owners say their land and lifestyle are their treasures.
“Guest income keeps the farm moving,” says Bob, noting it helps cover the cost of veterinarian bills, hay and feed. “But one of the most enjoyable benefits is just living here and sharing our lifestyle with guests. This place emotionally connects with people. I don’t know if it is the beauty of the farm or the tranquility and the interaction with the animals. Just sitting under the oak trees and around the fire pit really has a profound effect on them. The farm is a world-class place to meditate.”
Booking a Stay
It’s important to know how to find quality listings and trustworthy hosts before you book a trip. There are dependable platforms where you can book a stay, such as Airbnb, Expedia, Vrbo and Hipcamp.
For more information about Animal Lovers Farm, visit animalloversfarm. com. To plan a stay at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, go to westgateresorts.com. For Triangle Ranch booking details, visit www.thetriangleranch.com.
Triangle Ranch glamping at its finest: A Florida Highwaymen painting hangs above a copper bathtub shipped from Germany.
A traditional Seminole Chickee hut is used for gatherings at Triangle Ranch.
The Bunkhouse, which includes a hot tub, is one lodging option at Animal Lovers Farm.
It's Back: ZUCCHINI SEASON
Roasted Summer Squash
1 pound summer squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Heat oven to 400 F.
1 tablespoon panko bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Cut squash into ½-inch-thick slices. Toss with olive oil. Combine the remaining ingredients in a small bowl, and toss with squash.
Place the squash on a baking sheet. Roast for 12 to 14 minutes or until squash is tender.
Broil for 1 to 2 minutes or until crumbs are lightly browned.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK
PHOTO BY SVETLANA KOLPAKOVA
Easy Summer Squash and Zucchini Bread
1/2 cup yellow squash, grated
1/2 cup zucchini, grated
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup white granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 extra-large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
11/2 cups all-purpose flour
Heat oven to 350 F.
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped pecans and walnuts, plus extra for topping
Cinnamon and sugar for sprinkling
Combine yellow squash, zucchini, brown sugar, white sugar, butter, eggs and vanilla in a bowl. Mix well. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, allspice and cinnamon. Combine until mixed and all ingredients are wet. Fold in nuts.
Pour into a greased 9-by-5 loaf pan. Top with extra nuts, and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes.
Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
Zucchini Pesto Pasta
1 pint cherry tomatoes
Olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 medium yellow squash or zucchini, or mix of both
Heat oven to 400 F.
16 ounces spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup pasta cooking water
1 cup coarsely grated Parmesan cheese
Fill a large pot with salted water, and bring to a boil.
Toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread out in one layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes. Wash zucchini. Cut off ends, then cut in half lengthwise. Slice into half-moon pieces.
Cook pasta until al dente. While it is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Use a pan that’s big enough to hold all the pasta when it’s cooked. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Turn down the heat to medium. Saute until you can start to smell garlic, about one minute.
Add the sliced zucchini. Season to taste with salt and fresh-ground black pepper. Cook until the zucchini is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Add the pesto to the cooked zucchini. Gently stir to combine. Add the roasted tomatoes. Add the drained cooked pasta to the zucchini/pesto/ tomato combination. Gently mix, adding pasta cooking water until the mixture is combined. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Southern Squash Casserole
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
6 to 8 squash, sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 sleeve crushed buttery crackers
Heat oven to 350 F. Grease a casserole dish.
Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Saute the squash and onion until soft. Remove from heat. Stir in the Parmesan, cheddar and sour cream. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
Scoop the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the cracker crumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Marinated Zucchini and Summer Squash
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound zucchini (about 3 large), trimmed and sliced diagonally, about 1/2-inch thick
1 pound yellow crookneck squash (about 3 large), trimmed and sliced diagonally, about 1/2-inch thick
Whisk the vinegar, lemon juice and garlic in a large bowl to blend. Season with salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in the oil.
Spoon 3 tablespoons of the marinade into a small bowl. Cover and set aside.
Add the zucchini and yellow squash to the remaining marinade in the large bowl. Toss to coat.
Transfer the mixture to a 9-by-13 glass baking dish. Cover and marinate at room temperature for at least three hours, or cover and refrigerate for up to one day.
Prepare a grill for medium-high heat.
Grill the vegetables until they are crisp-tender and brown, turning occasionally, about 8 minutes.
Transfer the vegetables to a platter. Drizzle with the reserved marinade. Serve hot or at room temperature.
THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT
By Dave LaBelle
I love black-and-white photos. I always have.
In my memory bank are powerful black-and-white images, such as Dorthea Lange’s “Migrant Mother” and Nate Fein’s “Babe Ruth Farewell at Yankee Stadium.”
But alongside these iconic photographs are equally powerful color images.
One such color photograph is “Afghan Girl,” made by American photojournalist Steve McCurry and published on the cover of National Geographic in 1985. The penetrating green eyes, red scarf and green background in the portrait of a then-unknown 12-year-old Sharbat Gula connected with readers as no other image had before. It became the magazine’s most popular cover ever, and CNN called it the world’s most famous photograph.
Just as I do not believe Dorthea’s 1936 gripping Depression-era photo of Florence Owens Thompson would have had the same impact in color, Steve’s poignant portrait wouldn’t have
enjoyed its far-reaching impact in black and white.
How colors play off each other is a consideration.
The Afghan girl, with green eyes and a small sliver of green beneath her red scarf, works well against that green background. Another color behind her might not have yielded the same impact.
Reader Challenge
See if you can see in color. Find or make a photograph that communicates only in color and would fail to have the same impact in black and white. If it is a dull, overcast day, consider adding a little flash to awaken the colors.
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.
Color affects our moods. Marketers and advertisers know this. Businesses spend millions trying to determine how humans will respond to certain colors and influence our buying habits. Studies have proven that, while color perception is individual, people of different age groups respond and gravitate to different colors.
My wife might say color affects our energy.
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.
Storm clouds encroach on lateday sun over a corn field. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE NIKON D700, 24-70mm lens ISO 200, f/4 at 1/1000
Traces of Old Florida
Rustic fish camp keeps historic traditions alive
Walking into the Highland Park Fish Camp store seems like stepping through a time portal into old Florida. Mounts of fish and other animals, old photos and fishing memorabilia cover the walls.
Years ago, fish camps dotted major Florida waterways. Few remain today.
“We have been family-owned since 1962,” seventh-generation Floridian Bryn Rawlins Adams says with pride. “We keep the place rustic with that old Florida look. We’re not fancy, but we like it that way.”
Derris Rawlins, Bryn’s grandfather, retired from the U.S. Army and returned to his hometown of DeLand. In 1962, he bought a fish camp on 12 acres at the end of an old logging canal about 5 miles west of DeLand. The canal leads to Norris Dead Lake, a backwater off the St. Johns River.
Norris Dead Lake feeds into the 2,200acre Lake Woodruff, which connects with the 1,800-acre Lake Dexter and numerous other waterways.
In 1964, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service established Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge on 21,574 acres. This guaranteed the area would remain wilderness.
When Derris died, the property passed to Bryn’s father and uncle, Rick and Ron. Rick died in 2021. Ron keeps his hand in the business, but Bryn and James Hillman now manage the property.
“It’s sad that so many other fish camps are gone now,” Bryn says. “I remember my dad and I did a trip along the whole St. Johns River in five days on a homemade houseboat. As we went along the river, we saw all the dying and dwindling fish camps. We’re glad that we can still be here.”
Over the years, the camp expanded and put in new facilities, but always retained that old Florida touch. The camp now sits on 30 acres. Visitors can rent cabins or park recreational vehicles in the campground and store boats in the dry storage facility. People can also rent boats ranging from fishing skiffs to pontoon boats.
“We’ve expanded and offer an outdoor venue for things like weddings and community events,” Bryn says. “We have a nice little catch-and-release pond. It’s free to fish.
“People can come out any day and fish, especially with young kids. We do a free fishing rodeo at our pond for kids up to 12 years old. We also do free fishing seminars and hold a free outdoor art show that’s for all Florida-based artists.”
With the area surrounded by wilderness, many people enjoy ecotours or birdwatching trips, but fishing still attracts the most visitors.
A legendary bass stream, the St. Johns system produces numerous largemouth exceeding 10 pounds. These waters also offer crappie, bluegill and other species.
“Our camp record bass weighed 15 pounds, 4 ounces,” James says. “People catch a lot of bass 10 pounds or larger. We’ve caught some crappie exceeding 3 pounds.”
Visitors can book James or other guides through the camp. Call 800-525-3477, visit highlandparkfishcamp.com or look the camp up on Facebook. n
John N. Felsher is a freelance writer, broadcaster, photographer and editor. He’s written more than 3,500 articles on a wide variety of outdoor topics. Contact him at j.felsher@hotmail.com or through Facebook.
ABOVE: James Hillman, a guide for Highland Park Fish Camp, shows off a black crappie he caught while fishing at Lake Woodruff near Deland.
TOP: Visitors to Highland Park Fish Camp can rent cabins with modern conveniences or bring their own recreational vehicles for their stay. PHOTOS BY JOHN N. FELSHER
world’s lightest mobility scooter with anti-tip technology
Like millions of older Americans, I struggle with mobility. For years, I watched my quality of life slip away, as I was forced to stay home while friends and family took part in activities I’d once enjoyed. I thought I’d made some progress when I got a mobility scooter, but then I realized how hard it was to transport. Taking it apart and putting it back together was like doing a jigsaw puzzle. Once I had it disassembled, I had to try to put all of the pieces in the trunk of a car, go to wherever I was going, and repeat the process in reverse. Travel scooters were easier to transport, but they were uncomfortable and scary to drive, I always felt like I was ready to tip over. Then I found the So Lite® Scooter. Now there’s nothing that can hold me back.
Years of work by innovative engineers have resulted in a scooter that’s designed with seniors in mind. They created Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that makes it virtually impossible to tip over. If you try to turn too quickly, the scooter automatically slows down to prevent it from tipping over. The battery provides powerful energy at a fraction of the weight of most batteries. With its rugged yet lightweight aluminum frame, the So Lite®
Folds and locks in seconds
Lightweight yet durable
Easier to operate
Scooter is the most portable scooter ever—but it can hold up to 275 pounds—yet weighs only 40.8 pounds without the battery! What’s more, it easily folds up for storage in a car seat, trunk or even on an airplane. It folds in seconds without tools and is safe and reliable. Best of all, it’s designed with your safety in mind, from the newest technology and superior craftsmanship. Why spend another day letting your lack of mobility ruin your quality of life? Call now and find out how you can get a So Lite® Scooter of your very own.
FLORIDA CURRENTS
PLANNER
FORT MYERS
June 1
Mad Libs Live
“Mad Libs Live” is energetic, original and fast-paced. It captures the essence of the classic word game, and watching it can help children distinguish between nouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs. In the one-hour musical, you meet four students from Blankville Central High School: Gogo the jock, Virtuosa the diva, Merrily the shy artist and Geyser the nerd. www.artinlee.org; 239-939-2787
FORT MYERS
June 7-July 26
Farmers Market
PENSACOLA
June 4
East Hill Makers Market
Join us for an outdoor afternoon market and shopping with more than 40 local artisans, food trucks, music, photo booth and children’s activities. Come shop local and meet and mingle with your neighbors from 3 to 6 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. www.myeasthill.org; 850-529-0699
STATEWIDE
June 1-2, June 8-9
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.
There’s a new farmers market in town. Come shop for fresh produce and other items, get something to eat and drink, listen to music and stroll through the wildflower and Bromeliad gardens. There will also be fruit trees, herbs and flowering plants available for sale in the Garden Shoppe. www.edisonfordwinterestates.org; 239-334-7419
License-Free Freshwater Fishing Days
License-free fishing days provide an opportunity for those who don’t have a fishing license to experience the sport or for avid anglers to introduce a friend to fishing without having to purchase a license. On these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for all recreational anglers—residents and nonresidents. All other rules—such as seasons, bag and size limits—apply. www.myfwc.com; 850-488-4676
KEY WEST
June 8-15
Fish Out of Water 5K
You’re invited to join in this fifth annual 5K to get out in your local community while making your miles count. We’re encouraging the REEF community and ocean enthusiasts everywhere to get moving in the name of conservation. You can run, walk, hike, bike or even swim, completing the 5K distance in one day or breaking it into smaller sections over the week. www.reef.org/5k; 305-852-0030
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE
KEY LARGO
June 15-August 31
Art Show
The Art Guild of the Purple Isles presents its second summer show 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in the lobby of the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway. The show will feature numerous pieces of original art by members of the Art Guild and will be available for purchase. A public opening reception runs 5:30 to 7 p.m. June 15. Admission is free. www.agpi.us; 305-394-1082
PENSACOLA
June 15
PensaPride
Join us in celebrating diversity and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community during an annual all-ages and sober Pride festival. This year the festival will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Pensacola Interstate Fair Expo Hall. The event features local LGBTQIA+ artists, musicians, poets, performers and nonprofit advocacy. Admission is $1. www.pensapride.org
KEY WEST
June 15
Truman’s Tropical Fruit Festival
Can you tell the difference between a haden and kent mango? At the Tropical Fruit Festival, you’ll have the chance to taste varieties of mangoes and other tropical fruits, sip tasty cocktails, watch cooking demos and more. Learn about planting fruit trees and have the opportunity to buy some. www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.org/foundation/events/trumans-tropical-fruit-festival; 305-294-9911
ISLAMORADA
June 20
Morada Way Art Walk
SEBRING
June 21
Summer Jubilee “A Solstice Celebration”
This is Morada Way Arts & Cultural District’s landmark event. On the third Thursday of each month, fine artists, vendors, residents and visitors congregate to celebrate art and culture in the stunning Florida Keys. Join us from 6 to 9 p.m. for gallery openings, local artists, live music, delectable food and thirst-quenching libations. www.moradaway.org
Join the small businesses of Sebring from 4 to 8 p.m. for an enchanting evening under the summer skies in a solstice celebration like no other. Embrace the warmth of the season as we come together to revel in the spirit of community, creativity and commerce. Indulge in delicious treats, shopping and refreshing beverages, and dance to the rhythms of live music.
https://fb.me/e/3A0owZk4s
PORT ST. JOE
June 30
8th Annual Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Festival
www.floridacc.org
The Florida Coastal Conservancy and Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center invite you to participate in this annual event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at George Core Park, overlooking St. Joseph Bay. This event includes music, food, beverages and the Sea Creature Parade, and will take place rain or shine. The event educates attendees about sea turtles and the importance of the coastal habitats they and many other species call home.
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. 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.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ART GUILD OF THE PURPLE ISLES
Conserve Water Planning Your Landscape to
Water conservation is foremost in people’s minds during dry periods, but it’s important year-round. Follow these tips to conserve water in your landscape:
Matchmaking
Putting the right plant in the right place involves more than placing a sun-loving plant in a sunny spot or a shade-lover in a shady spot. You also must consider other conditions, such as soil pH and water needs.
Drought-Tolerant Plants
These plants are adapted to regions with frequent drought or to soils with low water-holding capacity. Once established, they can be water-wise additions to a landscape.
Drought-tolerant plants tend to thrive in elevated dry or windy spots, exposed areas, or along unshaded southern and western walls of buildings. Save the low spots—water-adjacent areas and places with poor drainage—for plants that love moist conditions.
Grouping Plants
It’s common to have woody plants (trees, shrubs and certain groundcovers) planted randomly across an expanse of lawn. While this may be normal, it’s not ideal. The truth is that turfgrass and woody ornamentals have different needs, so it’s easy to waste water in a landscape like this.
You can conserve water and save money by grouping plants according to their water needs. If you have a zoned irrigation system, you’ll be able to water each area based on need.
Turfgrass
For sunny, recreational areas, turfgrass is a good choice. But most grass types don’t grow well in dense shade or on steep slopes. Instead of planting grass in these spots, try groundcovers. There are a variety of options, many of which can offer a green-carpet look.
Overplanting
A newly planted landscape often looks sparser than anticipated. Be patient. Plants are usually planted when they’re smaller than their ultimate full-grown size. It’s a common but costly mistake to overplant the landscape to make it seem fuller right away. When plants mature, they’ll be too close together and will compete for water and sunlight. The landscape will look overcrowded, and frequent pruning will be required.
Fast-growing plants may sound appealing, but these kinds of plants require frequent pruning and usually more water than slowgrowing plants. Slow-growing plants may take longer to fill in your landscape, but they can ultimately be less work.
Know Your Zone
How well your plants perform depends in large part on your choosing the right plant for your climate and location.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated 10 climate zones for the continental United States to guide us in our gardening efforts. The three zones in Florida are zones eight through 10. Considering which zone you live in can make all the difference.
Weeds and Fertilizer
Weeds and fertilizer add to water needs in your landscape. Weeds drink up water your plants need, and fertilizer causes your plants to grow quicker, which can lead to a greater need for water.
Fertilize only when necessary. In very dry times, hold off fertilizing. Keep your beds weed-free by hand-pulling them and adding 2 to 3 inches of mulch, which helps soil retain moisture. It’s never too late to save water. Try these methods today.
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.
Business Spotlight
Santa Rosa County
850 Custom
850-293-3929
Check them out on Facebook.
With 35 years of combined experience in upholstery and embroidery, Mike Acree and Digna Beard started 850 Custom two years ago. 850 Custom specializes in hats and shirts, and can also customize backpacks, blankets and more. They offer laser engraving on wood and leather to make your gifts extra special. 850 Custom embroidered Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s annual meeting shirts for staff and board members this year. Give them a call for your custom embroidery needs.
Escambia
County
Little Family Landscaping
850-791-9645
littlefamilylandscaping@gmail.com
Serves McDavid and surrounding areas. Check them out on Facebook or at www.littlefamilylandscaping.com.
Little Family Landscaping offers professional landscaping services. From lawn care to garden maintenance, the business provides quality results at an affordable price. Customers can trust the knowledgeable staff to deliver workmanship with attention to detail. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Little Family Landscaping is the perfect choice for all your landscaping needs. One client said, “They will work tirelessly to get your property and yard beautified just the way you want it to look.”
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
“Beautiful Night by the Barn” captures the moon lighting up the sky. The image was submitted by Cara Salter. Cara’s name is in a drawing to win a $100 bill credit on her December 2024 electric bill.
June’s photo theme celebrates Father’s Day with “Dad and Me.” Vote June 1-20 on Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s Facebook page or on the Monthly Photo Contest page on EREC’s website.
www.erec.com
ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC
Students Selected for Scholarships
Herman D. Johnson Scholarship
The following students will be awarded $1,000 for four years to the college of their choice to continue their education.
Maggie Rose Godwin—Escambia County Recipient
Maggie is a student at Northview High School with a passion for nursing. Eager to embark on her journey, she has set her sights on pursuing her degree at the University of West Florida.
Alongside her academic pursuits, Maggie is a cheerleader and a member of Beta Club, Math Club and the Student Government Association. She also dedicates her time to volunteering at her church, embodying a spirit of compassion and service.
Recognized for her unwavering determination and relentless drive to achieve her goals, Maggie inspires those around her with her boundless motivation.
Anna Marie Hernandez—Santa Rosa County Recipient
Anna is a senior at Central School, poised to pursue a career in nursing.
Balancing her academic aspirations with her passion for sports, Anna excels in the classroom and on the varsity basketball team. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Senior Beta Club, First Priority, Spanish Club and Key Club, among others.
Anna is esteemed as a natural leader among her peers, admired for her dedication, integrity and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Trade/Vocational Scholarship
Escambia River Electric Cooperative’s newly launched scholarship, designed to support students pursuing careers through a two-year or trade/vocational/technical college, has awarded its inaugural
recipients: one student from Escambia County and one from Santa Rosa County, each receiving $1,000.
The first winners of this scholarship are Northview High School’s Leila Mason and Jay High School’s Tucker Nowling.
Leila Mason—Escambia County Recipient
Leila is a senior at Northview High School, excelling academically and in extracurriculars—notably in the Alabama High School Rodeo Association and Northview Future Farmers of America.
She demonstrates athleticism, commitment and a spirit of service in rodeo, while also promoting agricultural education and community involvement through FFA.
Leila plans to earn an associate degree in nursing and serve her rural community, reflecting her compassionate nature and dedication to helping others. Her determination to make a difference makes her an asset to Northview High School and beyond.
Tucker Nowling—Santa Rosa County Recipient
Tucker is a senior at Jay High School and is driven with a clear vision for his future. He will begin his journey toward becoming an electrical lineworker at the Southeast Lineman Training Center.
Tucker is an entrepreneur, having launched his own lawn care business three years ago. Tucker also plays basketball, golf, football and baseball.
Tucker has is certified in building construction and recently further solidified his career aspirations by participating in EREC’s lineworker camp, reaffirming his commitment to pursuing a profession that resonates with his interests and ambitions. n
TOP: Scholarship recipients are, from left, Maggie Rose, Anna Marie Hernandez, Leila Mason and Tucker Nowling.
AFFORDABLE LIFE INSURANCE
Energy Scams Unmasked
In today’s digital age, utility scams are on the rise, targeting consumers of water, gas and electricity. Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, exploiting technology to deceive people through various means, such as phone calls, texts, emails and deceptive websites.
Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself:
Recent scams include imposters posing as utility representatives, demanding immediate payment to avoid service disconnection. They may also claim you’ve overpaid and offer a refund in exchange for personal information.
Spotting a scam involves watching for high-pressure tactics, unusual payment requests—such as gift cards or cryptocurrency— and signs of poor communication quality, such as misspellings
and incorrect grammar.
Escambia River Electric Cooperative advises against making instant payments or sharing personal information over the phone or via email. The co-op provides secure payment options and never demands immediate payment or requests sensitive details via these channels.
If you’re unsure about a communication claiming to be from EREC, contact us directly to verify.
To avoid scams, be cautious of unknown individuals requesting personal information, and report any suspicious activity to EREC.
By staying vigilant and communicating with your utility provider, you can help protect yourself and your community from fraud. n
Let’s Color!
Cooperatives use the same set of seven principles to guide their work. One of the principles is cooperation among cooperatives. By working together through local, national, regional, and international structures, cooperatives improve services, bolster local economies and deal more effectively with social and community needs.
BEFORE YOU GO
Summer: Where Adventures Abound
Everyone takes advantage of summer in different ways. Some spend time outdoors, while others prefer to relax inside with a good book or even catch up on household chores.
Outdoors
You may already spend time in your nearest park, so load up the family this summer and experience a new site just a couple hours from home or even out of state.
If your family enjoys camping, many parks offer camping spots to rest your head during a weekend of fun. Make sure to book your spot early though, since summer is prime time to camp and spots tend to fill up faster.
Surrounded on three sides by water, Florida offers beaches for swimming, piers for fishing and boat rentals for adventuring on the water.
Indoors
Summer in the south can be extremely humid, and not everyone enjoys spending time in the heat.
If this is you, grab a book to take you into another world, but don’t limit yourself to the four walls of your home. Head to a cafe every once in a while to treat yourself to new surroundings, sounds and treats.
If instead you use summertime to catch up on household chores, make sure
to organize your to-do list before diving in. Batch your tasks into cleaning and less time. Whatever you decide to do this summer,
Summer adventures can include hiking new trails, visiting new parks, camping or spending time on the beach. ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY SARAH RYPMA
Summer is the season we’ve all been waiting for. It’s 100 days of high dives, ball games and barbecues. It’s 100 ways to dress a burger, catch some shade or get out of town. It’s 100 chances to clear the calendar for what’s most important.
Every two seconds this summer, someone like you will need blood. Donating is quick and easy and,. like all good things this time of year, it’s worth celebrating.
What are your summer plans?
This summer, there are 100 chances to give hope. Choose your day to help save three lives. Donate blood.
Choose your day to give hope. redcrossblood.org
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
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.