ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
FEBRUARY 2025
of
Florida Currents Service
employees answer the call as volunteer firefighters Page 4
From left, Escambia River Electric Cooperative employees Austin Snyder, Andrew Peters, Mark LeFlore and Stephen Jones are also active volunteer firefighters. PHOTO BY CORTNEY OWENS
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ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC
Florida Currents
February 2025 • Volume 14, No. 4
CEO Michael Shepard
VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Chasity Anderson, CCC
DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Noble Sprayberry
SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC
FLORIDA CURRENTS EDITORS
Valeri Pearon; Sable Riley, CCC
ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Hampton, CCC;
David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
SENIOR MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
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Message From the President
Lesson Learned Through Experience
I am coming to you this month with a more personal story.
On the night of Dec. 27, severe thunderstorms rolled through the area where I live. My house took a direct lightning strike, causing electrical shorts and an attic fire. Thankfully, we were home, allowing us to extinguish the fire quickly, minimize the damage and avoid injury. However, minimizing the damage from a direct strike still meant dealing with significant repairs.
Here are some lessons I learned:
• Have fire extinguishers and fire blankets (more than one) in strategic places, and know how to use them. I used one of my wife’s favorite throw blankets to snuff out the fire. She ordered fire blankets the very next day.
• Get surge suppressors. Escambia River Electric Cooperative offers whole-house surge suppressors for rent or sale, as well as installation behind your power meter. If you mention this article, we will waive the installation fee through April 2025. A whole-house suppressor eliminates most of the voltage that may come in through a surge in a power line, but it is still a good idea to have plug-in suppressors for each sensitive or major appliance to catch any remaining surge or protect against a direct strike.
• Lightning protection systems for your home aren’t as expensive as you might think. Lightning is unpredictable. The best protection is to ensure it finds its path to the ground around your home rather than through it. A lightning protection system installed at your home does not attract more lightning; it simply provides a safe path if your home is struck. Check your home insurance policy for discounts for installing a lightning protection system.
• Not all smoke alarms are created equal. In our previous home, the smoke alarm would sound almost every time I cooked bacon. This time, our bedroom was almost entirely full of smoke before the alarm went off. That’s a scary thought, because not every fire comes with a loud crash to wake you up.
Even though this event happened, my family was blessed in many ways. Not everyone who experiences a lightning strike or house fire is able to tell the story. I hope you take precautions that allow you to live to tell your story if this ever happens to your family.
With every approaching storm, the burden of this job causes me to worry about our brave lineworkers who work in terrible conditions. They are fathers, sons, grandfathers, grandsons and brothers. The anxiety I now feel with every approaching thunderstorm will stay with me for a long time.
Ryan C. Campbell, P.E.
Hearts of Service
Several Escambia River Electric Cooperative employees—such as Stephen Jones, Mark LeFlore, Andrew Peters and Austin Snyder—volunteer at local fire departments, combining their professional expertise with community service.
Their dual roles highlight a shared mission of safety and service.
A Shared Commitment to Community
For these EREC employees, their roles as volunteer firefighters complement their work at the cooperative. Whether responding to emergencies as lineworkers or firefighters, they embody a shared commitment to safety, service and the well-being of their communities.
Their stories are a testament to the dedication required to keep neighbors safe, whether restoring power after a storm or answering the call during a fire or emergency.
Andrew Peters: Lifesaving Skills and Teamwork
Andrew Peters, with the Walnut Hill Volunteer Fire Department, began his firefighting journey in 1997 when the fire chief requested more volunteers. Over the years, he’s come to value the camaraderie and teamwork among firefighters.
“I really like knowing you don’t have to address emergencies alone,” Andrew says. This teamwork proved vital during his own cardiac arrest, as his fellow firefighters saved his life.
Now a staunch advocate for CPR training, Andrew appreciates seeing younger generations join the fire department.
“It’s encouraging to see their dedication to firefighting and helping others,” he says.
Mark LeFlore: A Legacy of Service
Mark LeFlore has been a volunteer firefighter for 27 years, with Jay Fire Department. His passion for helping others and ensuring safety has inspired the next generation, including his 15-year-old son, who has started firefighter training.
“Seeing my son take an interest and getting others involved is rewarding,” Mark says. “It’s great to see young people carry on the mentality of giving back to the community.”
Mark describes firefighting as a brotherhood, much like his work at EREC.
“We look out for each other, whether it’s during an outage or a storm,” he says. “Safety is always our priority.”
ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC
Austin Snyder: Inspired to Serve
Also a member of the Walnut Hill Volunteer Fire Department in Escambia County since 2016, Austin Snyder credits colleague Andrew Peters for inspiring him to join.
“The emotional and physical challenges of firefighting are the hardest to maintain,” Austin says. “You’ll see things you’ll never forget.”
Despite this, he finds satisfaction in assisting his community.
Austin’s training includes certifications in Firefighter 1, Hazmat, Medical First Responder and Wildland firefighting. As a 24/7 on-call volunteer, he responds to a variety of emergencies, including fires, medical incidents, motor vehicle accidents and hazardous material situations.
“At Escambia River Electric Cooperative, we are immensely proud of our employees who not only ensure reliable electricity but also dedicate their time and skills as volunteer firefighters. Their commitment to serving our community in multiple capacities is a testament to their character and the values we uphold as an organization.”
Stephen Jones: Electrical Expertise and Firefighting
Stephen Jones has been a volunteer firefighter with Jay Fire Department Station 27 in Santa Rosa County since 2014. For Stephen, the decision to become a firefighter stemmed from a desire to give back to his hometown.
“The hardest part of the job is overcoming certain tragedies we face on scenes,” he says, adding some incidents have stayed with him.
However, Stephen finds a unique connection between EREC and the fire department, particularly during electrical emergencies like downed power lines or storm damage.
“We work hand in hand with our EREC brothers,” he says. “Without them, our jobs would be even more hazardous. It’s all about looking out for each other to keep the community safe.”
RYAN CAMPBELL, ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC CEO
Wra ed
By Abby Berry
Ensuring your home is properly insulated can improve energy efficiency and make your home more comfortable. Insulation acts like a cozy coat that reduces heat loss during winter and a protective layer that reduces heat gain during summer.
Many older homes have less insulation than newer homes, but even newer homes can benefit from additional insulation. While it’s not the least expensive efficiency measure, adding insulation and air sealing your home can provide the biggest bang for your buck in energy savings and overall comfort.
The most common areas to insulate are attics, ceilings, crawlspaces or unconditioned basements, exterior and interior walls, floors, and ductwork located in unconditioned spaces.
The amount and effectiveness rating of insulation required for each area varies by climate, but places such as the DOE or home
In Savings
improvement stores provide recommendations on their website. It’s important to understand how insulation effectiveness is measured. Insulation is rated in R-value, which measures the material’s resistance to conductive heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulation’s effectiveness. The R-value you’ll need depends on factors such as climate, type of heating and cooling system, and which area of the home you plan to insulate.
Visit energy.gov/insulation to learn about recommended R-values for specific areas of the home, based on climate zones.
Insulation is offered in a wide range of materials from bulky fiberglass rolls to cellulose materials made from recycled paper products. If you’re considering installing additional insulation, talk to an expert who can offer guidance on the right materials for your budget, climate and comfort needs.
Investing in proper insulation for your home enhances comfort and reduces energy consumption.
PHOTO BY GREG ROSENKE
Willing to Be a Candidate for Trustee?
Article IV Section 2 of the bylaws of Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc. provides the qualifications for trustees. Qualifications are as follows: “No member shall be eligible to become or remain a trustee or to hold any position of trust in the cooperative who is not a bona fide resident in the area served by the cooperative, has not been a member in good standing of the cooperative for a minimum of five years, or who is in any way employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise or a business selling electric energy or supplies to the cooperative, or a business primarily engaged in selling electrical or plumbing appliances, fixtures or supplies to the members of the cooperative, and no person shall take or hold office as a trustee who is the incumbent of or candidate for any political office in connection with which a salary is paid, and no person shall take or hold as a trustee who has been convicted of a crime which constitutes a felony and has not had their civil rights restored, and no member shall take or hold office, subject to the following, as a trustee if they have been lawfully charged or served with a grand jury indictment of warrant for a crime which constitutes a felony in any federal or state jurisdiction. When a membership is held jointly by a husband and wife, either one, but not both, may be elected a trustee provided, however, that neither one shall be eligible to become or remain a trustee or to hold a position of trust in the cooperative unless both shall meet the qualifications hereinabove set forth.”
Any member willing to be nominated as a trustee candidate and who is willing to serve on the EREC Board of Trustees, if elected, is asked to fill out the form below and mail it to the cooperative. Those members’ names will be given to the nominating committee to aid them in the selection of candidates. The nominating committee is not bound by the names received and may choose anyone who is a member to run if that member agrees.
Nomination forms must be received in the cooperative office by March 1, 2025: 2025 Nominating Committee
Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc. P.O. Box 428 Jay, FL 32565
_______________________________________________________________, a bona fide member of Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc., am willing to have my name placed in nomination for trustee of Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc. for the 2025 election of trustees, and I am willing to serve on the EREC Board of Trustees, if elected.
Taking
Pro disc golf season launches in Florida Flight
By Drew Woolley
For more than a decade, Brooksville resident Mike Barnett hosted a fan-favorite disc golf tournament at a spot called Gran Canyon. Named Throw Down the Mountain, the tournament became a standout attraction for local hobbyists and professionals alike, thanks to the course’s unusually hilly terrain. Then, once the four-week tournament wrapped up, it was time for the cows to come home. Literally.
“There’s a cattle ranch right across the street from it,” says Dwight Powell, disc golf project manager for Ledgestone, a company that supports the sport in many
ways, including managing tournaments and disc sales. “When the tournament was not running, they would let the cattle roam. Then, when the tournament was coming to town, they would herd the cattle back behind the fence.”
Two years ago, the Gran Canyon property went up for sale, putting Throw Down the Mountain’s future at risk. That’s when six-time Professional Disc Golf Association World Champion Paul McBeth and San Diego Padres pitcher Dylan Cease swooped in to revitalize the popular course.
“They basically rescued the course,” Dwight says. “They decided to buy it, and
they have invested in improvements and upgrades over the last couple of years to make it more suitable for modern play and for top-level professionals so that it can be a destination for years to come.”
A New Spin
Paul and Dylan didn’t just keep the course at Gran Canyon alive; they transformed it into Olympus Disc Golf Course, which they hope can become the disc golf equivalent of golf’s top-class country clubs. Last season, Olympus hosted the Professional Disc Golf Association’s kickoff pro tour event, and it hosts the start of the 2025 season with the Supreme Flight Open
Eveliina Salonen, from Finland, won the 2024 event at Olympus Disc Golf Course. PHOTO COURTESY OF KEVIN HUVER/DISC GOLF PRO TOUR
in February.
“Courses like this just look great on coverage,” Dwight says of video on the Disc Golf Pro Tour streaming service or platforms like YouTube. “People want to come watch it, and the best players in the world want the best challenges. It’s just a unique course, unique location, and it’s a great fit for the Pro Tour.”
With the help of the Ledgestone events team, this year’s open is expanding to include an amateur tournament alongside the Pro Tour. The hope is the temporary course set up for the amateur event sets the foundation for another permanent course to support the growing disc golf community in Florida.
“Disc golf has definitely boomed in the last four years,” Dwight says. “In 2020, people were trying to find things they could do safely outside, and we were starting to get more videos on YouTube
Get Throwing!
and the Disc Golf Network. Huge numbers of people have been joining the sport casually and getting into competitive settings. It’s just been amazing.”
For longtime fans, Mike will still put on Throw Down the Mountain each year. This year’s tournament is expected to draw as many as 800 competitors to its distinctive hills. But Olympus Disc Golf Course is a far cry from the cow pastures of the past.
“We just want to increase access to our sport,” Dwight says. “It’s a great recreational opportunity and, unlike many, it’s mostly free. You can buy one disc that you love, get off work and just go to the local park and play.”
As may be guessed from the name, disc golf works much like traditional golf. Instead of hitting a ball, players throw Frisbee-like discs from a tee area with the goal of reaching the target—a raised metal basket—in as few throws as possible.
Beginners can often get by with just a single disc, but serious players use different types of discs for different situations:
Drivers—The fastest and sharpest discs, drivers are ideal for covering a lot of ground but require advanced technique to throw properly.
Midrangers—A midrange disc has a slightly rounder edge than a driver, which provides a good balance of control, speed and distance.
The Pro Tour
Putters—The most similar to a traditional Frisbee, these discs have a round edge and dome shape that helps them fly at slower, more controllable speeds, perfect for accurate shots around the green.
Just like the Professional Golfers’ Association for traditional golf, disc golf has its own Professional Disc Golf Association. Founded by the inventor of the modern disc golf basket, “Steady” Ed Hendrick, in 1976, the PDGA had its own national tour starting in 2003 that existed alongside the rival Disc Golf Pro Tour beginning in 2016.
In 2021, with interest in disc golf exploding, the two joined forces to make the Disc Golf Pro Tour the official professional circuit for the PDGA and the premier tour for the sport’s top athletes.
Since then, nearly 50,000 fans have subscribed to the tour’s Disc Golf Network, event coverage has received more than 50 million views from fans around the world, and top athletes have competed in tournaments that routinely feature prize pools of more than $100,000.
Professional Disc Golf Association World Champion Paul McBeth, above, is co-owner of Olympus Disc Golf Course near Brooksville.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROB BANDEN
BELOW RIGHT: Professional disc golfer, Chris Dickerson, from Tennessee, is among the competitors expected to compete in Florida this year.
Beach A Boat Show With a
Upper
Keys Rotary Gigantic Market nets a treasure chest for scholarships
By Cheré Coen
It sounds like a tagline from a Superman comic: It’s a boat show, it’s a nautical market, it’s a food truck rally! But Frank J. Derfler, an organizer of the Upper Keys Rotary Gigantic Nautical Market, has an easier way to describe the annual fundraiser that attracts thousands.
“It’s a boat show with a beach,” he says.
The event celebrates its 30th year Feb. 22-23 at Founders Park in Islamorada. The market gives visitors the opportunity to peruse new and used boats and nautical supplies ranging from scuba gear and fishing nets to artwork and clothing. The popular market also offers a bevy of food trucks serving everything from rum punch to gourmet doughnuts. Children can also enjoy the festivities because Founders Park fronts Florida Bay with a sandy beach and a new playground, not to mention arts and crafts.
“All the things from boat supplies to beachwear” Frank says. “It’s definitely a family activity.”
All proceeds from the annual event—hosted by the Upper Keys Rotary Foundation, with Key Largo Rotary as a junior partner and Florida Keys Electric Cooperative as a sponsor—benefit scholarships for students graduating from Upper Keys high schools and others continuing their studies.
Humble Origins
Although the event has grown exponentially in 30 years—today, about 15,000 visitors attend Saturday, and 5,000 to 10,000 come Sunday—its origins were much more conservative.
“It started out as a flea market, typically a marine flea market, as in, ‘Sell your used boat stuff,’ ” Frank says.
As word spread about the nautical market, it quickly turned into something much larger, resulting in organizers adding “gigantic” to its name. The Rotarians hold the annual event the weekend after the Miami Boat Show to allow vendors to patronize both markets. This scheduling strategy adds to the market’s growth as well.
use for any college or university in the country—they may reapply yearly. Judges access their academic records to continue the scholarship.
“Because of this event, we follow them through four to five years of college,” Frank says. “We help them all the way through.”
Today, the market completely fills Islamorada’s Founders Park— Mile Marker 87 bayside—with more than 300 vendors. Visitors park at Coral Shores High School and are shuttled 2 miles to the
Scholarship winners volunteer at the festival. Many help with transportation, acting as guides and riding the shuttle with visitors. They discuss the Rotary Foundation scholarships, where they attend college and what they’re studying.
event.
“We’ve reached all we can, as the saying goes, to move down the highway,” says Frank, a retired U.S. Air Force officer, author and longtime Rotarian. “We are limited only by the physical space.”
“They give a little spiel about how they got the scholarship from the Upper Keys Rotary,” Frank says. “And they say, ‘Gee, thanks for being here today.’ When people get off the bus, their feet aren’t even touching the ground. They are so happy.”
It Takes an Island
Scholarships
Money raised by the Rotary Club provides about 100 scholarships to Upper Keys high school students, amounting to about $200,000 annually. Once a graduate receives the funds—which they may
An event this size takes many volunteers, sponsors and organizers. Contractors offer free labor, surveyors lay out spaces for vendors’ booths “to the inch,” Frank says, and sheriff’s department officers and first responders work the day of the event, among so many others.
ABOVE: The Upper Keys Rotary Gigantic Nautical Market is Feb. 22-23 at Founders Park in Islamorada. OPPOSITE PAGE: Thousands attend the event each year. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE UPPER KEYS ROTARY CLUB
“It literally does take a very large support base of dedicated resources,” Frank says.
FKEC has played a large role in the market over the years, from members serving on the scholarship committee to volunteers working the beer booth and facilitating parking.
“We have played a huge role,” says Maria Jones, FKEC director of member services and government relations. “The cooperative is 100% behind it. Anything we can do to help the community.”
Maria volunteers as a FKEC employee and a member of the Upper Key Rotary Club. She organizes the event’s vendors in what she calls a year-round job. She says organizers could easily increase the size of the market if they had the room. It’s that popular.
“I could double the vendors on my waiting list,” Maria says. “There’s so much stuff to do setting up in the park before the event begins. It takes an army to run the event.”
“FKEC is a tremendous resource for this community,” Frank says of the electric cooperative’s importance to the event and its ongoing work giving back to the community. “It is clear that they have a strong sense of responsibility. They are a real resource that goes beyond the power to the community. I can’t say enough.”
The Upper Keys Rotary Gigantic Nautical Market remains one of the cooperative’s favorite community events.
“I’m very proud of the event,” Maria says. “The fact that we can be part of this event is pretty cool.”
If You Go
February in the Keys usually means balmy weather and sunny skies, perfect for an outdoor market.
“It’s such a beautiful time to be there,” Maria says.
Visitors should plan to park at Coral Shores High School and ride the free shuttle to Founders Park. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5 daily for ages 17 and older, cash only. ATMs are on the park grounds at the great lawn’s front and back areas. Organizers say ATMs often run out of cash, so visitors should try to bring their own.
This year’s market includes 18 food trucks and drink stations found throughout the park. Dogs are welcome at the market, but if it’s a hot day, the blacktop can turn steamy.
Saturday is the busiest day of the market, so Frank recommends anyone hoping for a smaller crowd choose Sunday instead. Around closing time on Sunday, vendors may be willing to haggle, he adds.
Student volunteers distribute bags and event guides that include maps, vendor lists and food truck locations. A map detailing the 300-plus vendors and other useful information on the event can be found at rotarynauticalmarket.com.
For more information about the Upper Keys Rotary Club, visit keysrotary.org.
ABOVE: Rotarian Frank Derfler discusses the deployment of student volunteers at last year’s event with Rotarian and Florida Keys Electric Cooperative employee Maria Jones, who coordinates the show’s hundreds of booth spaces. BELOW: Market visitors can peruse new and used boats, as well as nautical supplies, artwork, clothing and more.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF UPPER KEYS ROTARY CLUB
ABOVE RIGHT: Stationed throughout the event, 18 food trucks and drink stations serve visitors. BELOW: Student volunteers greet arriving guests with bags and event guides that include maps, vendor lists and food truck locations. PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELINA MILLER AND FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
IN THE NEW YEAR Eat More Greens
BY NATALIA
Collard Greens With Bacon
2 pounds collard greens
4 thick-sliced bacon strips, chopped
1 cup chopped onion
4 cups chicken stock
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Trim thick stems from collard greens, and coarsely chop leaves. In a Dutch oven, saute bacon for 3 minutes. Add onion. Cook until onion is tender and bacon is crisp, about 8 to 9 minutes. Add greens. Cook just until wilted. Stir in remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and cover. Simmer until greens are tender, about 45 to 50 minutes.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
Cheese Tortellini and Kale Soup
3 Italian mild or hot sausage links, sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1½ teaspoons minced fresh thyme
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
64 ounces chicken broth
1 cup water
4 cups chopped fresh kale
15-ounce can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
Freshly grated Parmesan, for garnish
In a large saucepan, cook the sausage, onion, garlic, thyme and pepper flakes in oil until sausage is no longer pink. Drain. Add broth and water, then bring to a boil.
Stir in kale and beans. Return to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, until kale is tender. Add tortellini. Simmer, uncovered, for 7 to 9 minutes or until tender.
Serve drizzled with olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Broccoli and Kale Salad
2 extra-large egg yolks, at room temperature
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, at room temperature
2 teaspoons chopped garlic 10 anchovy fillets
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, at room temperature
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1½ cups good-quality mild olive oil
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
1 tablespoon salt
8 cups broccoli florets, stems removed
1 bunch baby kale
5-ounce bag croutons
Place the egg yolks, mustard, garlic, anchovies, lemon juice, ½ teaspoon pepper and 2 teaspoons salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade. Process until smooth. With the food processor running, slowly pour the olive oil through the feed tube, and process until thick. Add the cheese, and pulse three times to combine. Bring a large pot of water with 1 tablespoon of salt to a boil. Fill a bowl with ice water. Add the broccoli to the boiling water, and cook for 4 minutes. Remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon, and transfer to the bowl of ice water. When it is cool, drain well and transfer to a large bowl. Remove and discard any hard ribs from the kale. Stack the leaves on top of each other, and thinly julienne them crosswise. Add to the bowl with the broccoli. Add enough dressing to moisten the broccoli and kale. Toss well. Add the croutons, and garnish with extra Parmesan.
Chicken Thighs With Shallots and Spinach
6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1½ pounds)
½ teaspoon seasoned salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1½ teaspoons olive oil
4 shallots, thinly sliced
1⁄3 cup white wine or chicken broth
10 ounces fresh spinach
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup sour cream
Sprinkle chicken with seasoned salt and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken. Cook until a thermometer reads 170 F, about 6 minutes on each side. Remove from pan, and keep warm.
In the same pan, cook and stir shallots until tender. Add wine, and bring to a boil. Cook until wine is reduced by half. Add spinach and salt. Cook and stir just until spinach is wilted. Stir in sour cream. Serve mixture with chicken.
White Bean Arugula Salad
4 slices pancetta, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup chopped onion
2⁄3 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
2 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
4 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
2 cups torn fresh arugula
¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
In a small skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon, and drain on paper towels.
In the same pan, heat oil and pancetta drippings over medium heat. Add onion. Cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until tender. Add tomatoes, rosemary, salt and pepper. Cook 2 to 3 minutes longer or until tomatoes are softened. Cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine beans, tomato mixture, pancetta, vinegar and basil. Add arugula and cheese. Toss to coat.
NIKON D810 85mm lens ISO 400 f/5 at 1/250
The Power of Contrast
By Dave LaBelle
Without darkness, I would never know light.
I have heard variations of this truth since my youth. Though we often speak about contrast—the degree of difference between the darkest and lightest parts of a photograph—there is another form of contrast that emphasizes the variances between subjects in a composition. And while, generally, we want a photograph to have good tonal range, compositionally,
contrasting subjects can also be important for storytelling impact.
For instance, positioning someone tall next to someone short in the same frame helps show the height differential. The same goes for the contrast of a man dressed in an expensive, tailored suit passing by a man partially clothed in soiled rags, communicating the different place in life each occupies.
Henry Cartier-Bresson’s photographs of children playing in war-torn ruins or children pushing a steel
hoop down the street as a hearse passes behind them and Margaret Bourke-White’s 1937 Great Depression image of dozens of hungry people in a breadline as a billboard behind them shows a smiling family in a nice car are examples of iconic photographs employing the concept of contrast.
Of the tools in a writer’s and photographer’s toolbox, the use of contrast can be a powerful and effective device to quickly communicate ideas and concepts. n
Reader Challenge
See if you can capture or make a photograph that tells a story by using a contrast of subjects. Consider a still-life composition of objects, such as your child’s baby shoes arranged next to their grown-up shoes. It’s a way of revealing time passed. Or illustrate aging with a photograph of a frisky new puppy crawling over a tired, old dog.
a
For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half
century.
While working on a story about a vaquero who rode bulls, horses and roped until he was 91, I shot this picture of Bob Yanez, 98, with his 4-month-old great-grandson, John, who was visiting from another country. It is a way of showing and connecting the cowboy’s legacy.
PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
Night Bites
Sometimes the best fishing comes after sundown
A slight breeze cooled the night air on Lake Diaz, a 695-acre lake with a mostly forested shoreline in Volusia County northeast of De Leon Springs.
Most people go looking for crappie, but Jack Smith calls them to him. Off the bow of his pontoon boat, he dropped two 4-foot-long fluorescent pole lights of his own design into the water. Just the tops floated above the surface. He powered the lights with a small generator. Each light glowing in the clear water illuminated a green column of fish-attracting brightness.
“I’ve caught some good fish in this spot,” Jack says. “I found that fluorescent lights attract fish better. When we put lights out, that pulls in the plankton. Plankton attracts minnows and other tiny creatures. The minnows attract bigger fish, especially crappie.”
Jack set eight spinning rods in holders off the bow, four for each of us. He rigged each line with a ½-ounce sinker and a Size 1 Eagle Claw rotating hook. Finally, he hooked on a live minnow for bait and set the depth so the baitfish swam just below the deepest penetration of the light.
“On each side, I use a 12-foot, 10-foot, 8-foot and 6-foot rod with 6-pound test line,” he says. “I barely hook the minnows under the dorsal fin. They will stay alive a lot longer when hooked that way. At night, put the bait down about 8 to 10 feet.”
We waited, watching the lights of aircraft taking off and landing at Daytona Beach International Airport due east of us. Before long, a few minnows began to swim around the lights, and we caught our first crappie. A while later, clouds of minnows and other small creatures congregated around the lights. Soon, the bites came more frequently and the crappie much larger.
and restrooms.
“The minnows were everywhere,” Jack says. “When we had minnows all around the lights, that’s when we started catching the most fish. We always catch bigger fish at night than during the day.”
At night, with so many minnows in the water, we had to pay strict attention to our lines for any contrary movements. The biggest crappie commonly bite softly at night. Perhaps, the line subtly moves in a way it should not naturally move, or the rod tip bends slightly. That’s when we set the hook.
We launched at Candace Strawn Lake Dias Park on State Road 11 in De Leon Springs. Besides a boat launch into Lake Diaz, the 36-acre facility offers a playground, pavilions, grills, picnic tables
ABOVE: Minnows and other small creatures gather around a floating underwater light. Crappie gather where they find food, such as small fish.
LEFT: Jack Smith shows off two crappie he caught at night with the help of boat lights and floating underwater lights. The lights attract minnows and baitfish, which attract larger fish, such as crappie.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOHN N. FELSHER
With little other human activity on the landlocked lake other than at the park, Lake Dias creates an excellent place for canoeing or kayaking. Besides large crappie, the lake holds huge largemouth bass, with some exceeding 10 pounds. The lake also contains bluegills, catfish and redear sunfish, among other fish species.
For more information on the area, call 386-736-2700 or visit www.volusia.org.
John N. Felsher is a freelance writer, broadcaster, photographer and editor. An avid sportsman, he’s written more than 3,500 articles for more than 170 different magazines on a wide variety of outdoor topics. He also hosts an outdoor tips show for WAVH-FM Talk 106.5 in Mobile, Alabama. Contact him at j.felsher@hotmail.com or through Facebook.
Blades ofaFeather
As one of the largest purveyors of collectible knives in the country, you can trust Stauer to give you the best knife for your money.
Case in point: The Blades of a Feather Knife –– a remarkable hunting and adventure knife with an even more remarkable price. This is the kind of knife people flock to.
This stick tang knife boasts a stainless steel blade with a scalloped edge that gives it a distinct feathered appearance. This “feathered” edge is more than a striking aesthetic touch; it enhances the knife’s performance by creating air pockets in the spaces. These air pockets prevent shredding and allow for a cleaner, smoother cut. Consider it your edge up.
Recalling the days of the great American frontier, this knife’s artisan handle is crafted of natural bone, redwood and brown Pakkawood. It’s a great addition to your collection, and will prove a trusty companion for all your outdoor adventures from hunting and fishing to camping and hiking. It also makes one heck of a letter opener. Plus, by making the call today, you are guaranteed to receive a genuine leather sheath in the deal.
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.
We invite you to join the hundreds of thousands of Stauer knife collectors who appreciate a fine blade along with a fine deal. We assure you, you’ll be in good company. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers. Call today!
Knife Speci cations:
Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath!
• Stainless steel stick tang blade; 12” overall length
• Natural bone, redwood & brown Pakkawood handle
Blades of a Feather Knife $249 $49* + S&P Save $200 California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
*Special price only for customers using the offer code.
1-800-333-2045
Your Insider Offer Code: BFK149-02
feel of this knife is unbelievable... this is an incredibly fine instrument.”
FLORIDA CURRENTS
PLANNER
All ages can find something new and exciting around every corner of the state. Filled with rich history, abundant natural beauty and diverse events all year, Florida has something fun for everyone.
PENSACOLA
Feb. 1
Double Bridge Run
The Publix Pensacola Double Bridge Run is back. One of the premier 15K races in the country, the course carries runners over two bridges—across Pensacola Bay and Santa Rosa Sound. For the first time this year, the run goes over the fully completed Pensacola Bay Bridge. www.pensacolasports.org/double-bridge-run; 850-434-2800
SEBRING
Feb. 8
38th Annual Civilian Conservation Corps Festival
All are invited to attend this festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Highlands Hammock State Park to celebrate Florida’s history, culture and legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Commonly referred to as the CCC Festival, it’s the park’s signature event. “Corridors” is the theme of speaker programs and include wildlife biologist Joe Guthrie, CCC Museum Curator David Schmidt and archaeologist John Goss. Other activities are blacksmith forging, a silent auction, artists, a reenactment, live entertainment, a car show, children’s events and refreshments. https://floridastateparks.org/park/highlands-hammock; 863-386-6094
SEBRING
Feb. 22
Highlands County Cattlewomen Run the Ranch 5K/Walk
The 10th annual 5K Light Trail Run is 7:30-10 a.m. at Rafter T Ranch and benefits Highlands County scholarships for graduating seniors. The course is fenced off away from livestock, and winners in each age category receive medals. The venue used for this race allows families and children to participate at their own pace once racers clear the starting line. To promote youth and family participation, anyone younger than 18 years receives a discounted registration price of $20. Onsite registration is available for $40 beginning at 6:30 a.m. the day of the race. Only cash or checks are accepted for onsite registration. https://bit.ly/3W6RGRS
OKEECHOBEE
Feb. 8-9
Top of the Lake Art Fest
This juried art show takes place in Flagler Park and brings talented artists to the community. The festival features the annual Top of the Lake Chalk Walk (street painting), sand sculpture, local adult and student artists, food, entertainment, art demonstrations and children’s art programs. The Taste of Okeechobee also takes place on the first night. www.okeechobeearts.org/p/23/art-fest#.XKTSI_57mUk; 863-357-6246
MARATHON
Feb. 11-March 30
59th Annual AGPI Show
As the largest art exhibit in the northern Keys, the Art Guild of the Purple Isles’ annual judged show has diverse categories, such as acrylic, watercolor, oil paintings, pastels, colored pencil, pen and ink, sculpture, mixed media, photography and digital art. The show is held at the museum at the Florida Keys History and Discovery Center, which is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is an opening reception at 4:45 p.m. Feb. 18. agpi.us
PHOTO BY JAN SHOOP
PANAMA CITY
Feb. 14-15
Quilts From the Heart Quilt Show
St. Andrew Bay Quilters Guild presents its annual quilt show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Central Panhandle Fairgrounds, 2230 15th St. The event includes quilt displays, a silent auction, a quilters boutique and several vendors. The group looks forward to sharing the projects its members have been hard at work completing.
sabqg.org/quilt-show-2025; 350-258-1046
TAVERNIER
Feb. 15
Garden Walk 2025
The Garden Club of the Upper Keys invites you to stroll through spectacular private gardens from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. Tickets are available on the club’s website, and complimentary clubhouse activities include food trucks, vendors, artisans and plant sales. The art show is sponsored by Art Guild of the Purple Isles. www.gardenclubupperkeys.org; 786-752-6562
PENSACOLA
Feb. 16
Paw-di Gras
WolfGang LLC hosts Pensacola’s fourth annual Paw-di Gras from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is a dog-focused Mardi Gras block party that ends with everyone paw-rading down Palafox Street. Join the Pensacola community for a family and furry event. It is free and open to the public. www.wolfgangparkandbrews.com/pawdigras-registration; 318-451-8477
ISLAMORADA
Feb. 22
Keys Community Concert Band
Kokomo Key features island and international music with special guests Mangrove Swamp Band and R.E.E.F. Touch Tank from 4-5 p.m. at Key Largo Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway. There is also a steel drum demonstration and conch-blowing contest. keyscommunityconcertband.org; 305-394-1123
BLOUNTSTOWN
Feb. 22
Florida River Fest
River Fest is a one-day outdoor sporting and recreation festival from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the heart of the Florida panhandle at Neal Landing on the south end of River Street. Presented by the Calhoun County Community Foundation, the event draws visitors from across the Southeast and features live music, vendors, a children’s zone, a classic car show, demos on three stages, the Big River Classic Catfish Tournament, food and fun for the whole family. http://www.riverfestfl.com; calhouncountycf@gmail.com
PARISH
Feb. 22-March 2
Murder Mystery Dinner Train Show
Get on board with Florida Railroad Museum and Parrish Playworks as they present “The Curse of the Hopeless Diamond.” Experience a train ride to an evening of suspense and zany action and a delectable meal as you try to solve this wacky mystery. They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Will Reggie Potter, heir to the infamous diamond, survive or succumb to the curse? He has hired four expert detectives to protect him, but things aren’t going as planned. www.frrm.org; 941-776-0906
OKEECHOBEE
Feb. 22-23
Reenactment of the Battle of Okeechobee
This reenactment honoring the Second Seminole War takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on a 55-acre parcel of the original 640-acre battlefield site at Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park. Additional activities include a colors presentation, artisan exhibits, Battle of Okeechobee narration, Seminole and other exhibitors, an alligator demonstration, children’s horse rides, living history, 1800s Irish folk music, a Seminole jacket raffle and powwow dancing. https://bit.ly/4j8SqzX; 863-763-3959
HOW TO INCLUDE UPCOMING EVENTS
Want to share a family-friendly event with the readers of Florida Currents? Head online and enter the details at tinyurl.com/FloridaCurrents or use the QR Code for easy access. Make sure to submit the item at least 60 days before the event (due to press deadline). If you own rights to a print-quality photo promoting your event, include it with photo credit information.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PARRISH PLAYWORKS
What is a nativar?
A nativar is a cultivated variety of a native plant. Nativars have the same droughttolerance and local adaptations as straight natives but may also have improved form or other traits desirable for urban landscapes. For example, dwarf firebush (Hamelia patens “Compacta”) provides a tighter compact form than the native firebush.
A drawback of using nativar is that they may not provide as much food for wildlife. Still, nativars may be a better option than non-native, Florida-friendly plants in the landscape because of their lowmaintenance requirements and ecological benefits.
Nativars are good to supplement native and Florida-friendly plants in the landscape because they are adapted to the local soil and climatic conditions with added benefits of longer flowering time, disease resistance and aesthetically pleasing form.
You can buy nativars at Florida native plant nurseries. For more information, visit www.plantrealflorida.org.
Let’s review some definitions of how we determine a plant’s status.
A native plant has been documented to be in a region without human intervention. The term cultivar refers to plants that are naturally mutated and selected by humans or intentionally bred for specific traits. A nativar is a cultivar of a native plant, so a native plant selected from nature for certain plant traits or bred to have improved traits.
To determine plant status, check several resources including the UF/IFAS FloridaFriendly Landscaping Plant Guide, the Florida Native Plant Society website, the Florida Wildflower Foundation website and Atlas of Florida Plants.
There are mostly positive impacts of selecting nativars but also a few concerns.
Nativars often have traits desirable in urban landscapes, such as a compact form, heat-tolerance, and seed or flower modifications. Like straight native plants, they are adapted to local environments and often can thrive with minimal inputs of water, fertilizer and pesticides.
While some natives are bred to be more floriferous or heavy fruiting, critics of nativars argue they do not provide the same benefits to wildlife and pollinators. For example, compact cultivars may have shorter flower tubes and less nectar for pollinators.
Others are bred to be male cultivars or sterile females and produce no fruit. For
example, the dwarf yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria “Schillings”) has a slow-growing compact form ideal for urban landscapes but produces no berries for wildlife. More research is needed to examine the benefits and drawbacks of using nativars in the landscape.
Examples of nativars commonly planted in Florida include a dwarf variety of the native firebush, several varieties of yaupon holly, such as the weeping yaupon Ilex vomitoria “Pendula,” and dwarf yaupon Ilex vomitoria “Schillings.”
There are many cultivars of our native southern magnolia. Magnolia grandiflora “Little Gem” has a narrow compact form ideal for planting in city homes with small lots. n
Tia Silvasy is a residential horticulture and Master Gardner Volunteer Program coordinator with UF/IFAS Extension Hillborough County.
Nativars commonly planted in Florida include a dwarf variety of the native firebush. PHOTO COURTESY OF UF/IFAS
EREC Offers 2 Scholarships for Local Students
Escambia River Electric Cooperative is proud to support local students by offering two scholarships to graduating seniors in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. These scholarships are designed to help students achieve their educational goals, whether pursuing a four-year degree or training for a vocational career.
Herman D. Johnson Scholarship
• Award: $1,000 per year for four years.
• Eligibility: must be a graduating senior with a GPA of 2.5 or higher; and requires a two-part essay and three reference letters.
• This scholarship is for students attending a four-year college.
Trade/Vocational Scholarship
• Award: $1,000.
• Eligibility: must be a graduating senior with an unweighted GPA of 2.0 or better; and requires high school transcripts and a personal reference letter
from a teacher or community member.
• Funds can be used for program costs, books, tools or other materials needed for vocational education.
Application Information
Applications for both scholarships are open, and guidance counselors at local high schools have the forms available. To apply, students must reside in a home served by EREC.
Completed applications are due by March 1 and must indicate on the envelope which scholarship they are applying for.
Scholarship recipients—one from each county for each scholarship—will be announced during the EREC Annual Meeting on Saturday, April 26.
This is a fantastic opportunity for local students to receive financial support for their education. Don’t miss the chance to apply.
For more information, contact your guidance counselor or EREC directly.
ADOBE STOCK BY MNIRAT
ESCAMBIA RIVER ELECTRIC
Business Spotlight
Santa Rosa County
Rowell Roofing
850-348-3108
luke@rowellroofs.com
Check them out on Facebook or at rowellroofs.com.
With an office now in Jay, Rowell Roofing is a family-owned and licensed roofing company proudly serving the Florida Panhandle. Known for quality and professionalism, they specialize in using highgrade materials to enhance property value and curb appeal while ensuring durability against Florida’s challenging weather. Whether you need a new roof or storm damage repair, Rowell Roofing has reliable service and lasting results. Call them at 850-348-3108 for all your roofing needs.
Escambia County
Sprinkle It Up with Mowiggy
850-324-4246
glorylanddesigns2@gmail.com
Check them out on Facebook.
Morgan Wiggins, owner of Sprinkle It Up with Mowiggy, offers customizable home fragrances through Pink Zebra products. These include soft soy wax melts in sprinkle form, diffuser oils, home decor, spray lotions, room sprays, bug repellent and stylish wax warmers. Made in the United States, Pink Zebra products are nontoxic, support local soybean farmers, create jobs for veterans and empower single mothers through the heroes program. You are invited to mix, match and discover your signature scent. Learn more on Sprinkle It Up with Mowiggy’s Facebook page.
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.
This N’ That
Free
Free seasoned (dried) oak logs, already on the ground, ready to slice up as firewood. Various diameters available, from 4 to 16 inches. Standing, dry or green oak also available. Call 850-450-0949.
For Sale
Amish bent wood rocker. Excellent shape. Can send pictures. $100. Call 850-686-4136.
Moving sale: Champion Portable Generator 6250 starting watts, $400. TROY-BILT 50-inch Zero-Turn Riding Mower, $1,000. Craftsman 6.75 Horsepower Wheeled Trimmer, 22 inches, cut, $125. Prices negotiable. Call 850-994-9908.
This N’ That Guidelines In order to continue to provide This N’ That in every issue of The Florida Currents, we ask members to adhere to the guidelines listed below when submitting an ad. If an ad does not meet the
N’ That. The ad submission deadline is the 1st of each month and will printed in the following month.
• Members may submit one ad per issue • No registered businesses may run an ad (12 times a year)
• No changes after ad submission
• Ads must be twenty-five words or less • No event promotion of any kind
• Must be typed or printed legibly in ink • No firearm sales of any kind
Mail ads to: “Florida Currents,” Escambia River Electric Cooperative, 3425 Hwy 4, Jay, FL 32565 or email to: cowens@erec.com. You can also send with your bill payment or submit ad online at https://www.erec.com/community/this-n-that This N’ That Ad Submission: PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY. DEADLINE IS THE 1ST OF EACH MONTH.
Please circle the category that applies: For Rent For Sale Real Estate Free Miscellaneous Trade Wanted Items: __
Name: ____________________________________________________________________________
Phone: Address:
Mail ads to: “Florida Currents”, Escambia River Electric Cooperative, 3425 Hwy 4, Jay, FL 32565 or email to: cowens@erec.com. You can also send with your bill payment or submit ad online at https://www.erec.com/community/this-n-that This N’ That
It“So much sparkle and the play of light on DiamondAura® beats any diamond!” — D.D. from Columbus, OH
How to Win at Love
was the jewelry piece that made the world stop and take notice. In the middle of a long volley during the big American tennis tournament, the chic blonde athlete had to stop play because her delicate diamond bracelet had broken and she had to nd it. e tennis star recovered her beloved bracelet, but the world would never be the same.
From that moment on, the tennis bracelet has been on the lips and on the wrists of women in the know. Once called eternity bracelets, these bands of diamonds were known from then on as tennis bracelets, and remain the hot ticket item with jewelers.
from another company that costs $57,000!
Want to look like a million bucks without stressing over losing or damaging something that cost you a fortune? e
Love Wins Tennis Bracelet is a simple strand of glittering gems in precious sterling that epitomizes elegance.
A classic tennis bracelet serves up over 10 carats of sparkle for a guaranteed win
FREE earrings with your purchase of the Love Wins Bracelet.
We’ve captured this timeless classic with over 10 total carats of DiamondAura®, our signature diamond alternative stone. is sparkling marvel rivals even the nest diamonds (D Flawless) with its transparent color and clarity, and both are so hard they can cut glass. Don’t believe me? e book “Jewelry and Gems – e Buying Guide,” praised the technique used in our diamond alternative DiamondAura®: “ e best diamond simulation to date, and even some jewelers have mistaken these stones for mined diamonds,” it raved. For comparison, we found a similarly designed 10 carat tennis bracelet with D Flawless diamonds
e rst time we o ered this bracelet, we sold out literally in minutes. It was our fastest selling product of 2021. It took six months to get it back in stock — Get yours before we run out! And there’s more... we will also include our Ultimate Diamond Alternative™ DiamondAura® stud earrings for FREE!
Jewelry Speci cations:
• 10 ¾ ctw of the Ultimate Diamond Alternative®, DiamondAura®
• Rhodium- nished .925 sterling silver settings
• Bracelet: Fits wrists to 7 ½". Earrings: 1 ctw with post backs
Love Wins Tennis Bracelet (10 ¾ ctw) $399 $39* + S&P
FREE stud earrings (1 ctw) with your purchase of the Love Wins Bracelet — a $99 value!
*Special price only for customers using the offer code.
Your Offer Code: LWB330-02
OWER 2025 n man CAMP A P R I L 1 0
UP 25 n MP
n
&
For high school juniors & seniors wanting to learn more about careers in the electric utility industry
Cost is FREE (Lunch provided during Q&A)
Breakout sessions to include climbing power poles, bucket truck training, overhead/underground/Right of Way, Safety, Q&A
ative tdoor ivities
Student or school is responsible for transportation to and from camp Student must live on EREC lines
Application and waiver signed by student and guardian prior to camp
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
February is Black History Month! Let’s take a look at a few African American inventors whose contributions helped revolutionize the way we use electricity and essential devices that power life. Read the descriptions of each inventor and their contributions, then choose the best answer to complete the description.
Annie Easley
Annie Easley started her career in 1955 as one of the rst African Americans at NASA (when it was called the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics), essentially acting as a human computer, performing manual computations for researchers. Annie was a gi ed programmer and developed computer code that was used to analyze _____ energy projects, as well as batteries for early hybrid vehicles.
1. A. nuclear B. wind and solar C. geothermal Annie Easley broke down barriers for women and people of color in STEM fields and won the admiration and respect of her coworkers.
Lewis Howard Latimer
Lewis Latimer worked with omas Edison on the development and commercialization of the incandescent light bulb. He invented a method to manufacture _____ lament to make lightbulbs mass-producible. His method was patented in 1882.
1. A. carbon B. hydrogen C. silicon Without Lewis Latimer’s contributions, our lives would never have been so bright!
Marian Croak
Marian Croak began her career at Bell Laboratories (now AT&T) and patented more than 200 inventions. One of her greatest contributions was VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). VoIP technologies are essential for today’s fast-paced digital world. VoIP allows voice functionality over an _____, including helpful features for video calls and mobile messaging.
1. A. airwave B. audible barrier C. internet connection Marian Croak’s passion for advancing technology has improved our digital capabilities and overall quality of life.
Answer Key | Annie Easley: B, Lewis Howard Latimer: A, Marian Croak: C
Sources: Dept. of Energy, Lewis Latimer House, NASA
BEFORE YOU GO
Back to the Sea
Florida’s geography is vast and beautiful, from lakes to oceans and parks to beaches. Some of you have views from your homes that rival the views of national parks.
From time to time, we share some of readers’ 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.
sea turtle is excitedly released in Port St. Joe after being rehabilitated. PHOTO COURTESY OF KIM FLOWERS
Stay in the home you love with a Stiltz Homelift
Our home elevators can �it just about anywhere in your house
THE MODERN SOLUTION
A Stiltz Homelift is a safe, attractive, & affordable alternative to stairlifts. It requires no special machine room, and no supporting walls.
ECONOMICAL & FLEXIBLE
A Stiltz Homelift can �it just about anywhere in your house. It has a compact footprint, similar in size to a small armchair. A Stiltz Homelift plugs into a standard home electrical outlet, using less power than a coffee maker.
YOUR FOREVER HOME
Avoid the expense and distress of relocating, or the disruption of adapting
Did you know?
your home for downstairs living. A Stiltz Homelift helps you live safely and independently in the home you love.
IT’S NEVER TOO SOON
Some Stiltz customers need a Homelift immediately. But others want to “futureproof” their homes for when the stairs become a challenge.
HOMELIFT SPECIALISTS
Stiltz is a world leading Homelift manufacturer, so you’ll be in good hands. Your elevator will be installed and maintained by Stiltz trained professionals - who truly care about your freedom.
AARP survey data shows that 77% of adults 50 and older want to remain in their homes for the long term. At Stiltz, we’re here to help you stay in your home you love. It’s easy.
“I can’t imagine what we’d do without it. I wish we had installed our Stiltz Homelift several years ago!”
– Mr. James, Roanoke, VA
Why choose Stiltz?
• Affordable
• Small Footprint
• Full Safety Features
• Clean, Quiet Operation
• Low Power Consumption
• Freestanding Design
• Wheelchair Accessible
• Carry Laundry or Pets
• Fast Installation
• Full Warranty
Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc.
www.erec.com
JAY OFFICE WALNUT HILL OFFICE
3425 Highway 4 4950 Highway 99A
P.O. Box 428 (mail) Walnut Hill, FL 32568 Jay, FL 32565
PHONE NUMBERS
850-675-4521 800-235-3848
Walnut Hill Post O ce: 850-327-4122
OFFICE HOURS
7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
STAFF
Ryan C. Campbell, P.E., CEO
Sonya Dooley, Director of Finance and Administration
Lanie Sells, Director of Engineering
Glenn White, Director of Operations
Cortney Owens, Manager of Communications
Derek Bridwell, Manager of Information Technology
Crystal George, Manager of Accounting
TRUSTEES
Escambia County
Brian Davis
James E. Hall
Ernie Hester
Sam Walker, Vice President
Gary Wiggins
Santa Rosa County
Mickey Diamond
Rick Hunsucker, President
Philip Marshall
Wesley Scott
Dale Westmoreland, Secretary/Treasurer
The board of directors meets at 5 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the cooperative’s Jay office.
FOR POWER OUTAGES
Call 877-OUT-EREC or 877-688-3732. For emergency conditions, call 911.
Important Account and Payment Information
When you call EREC with a question about your bill, please have your account number. This allows us to serve you in the most efficient manner possible. Your bill is due and payable upon receipt. Payment may be made by mail, at www.erec.com, at our night depository at the co-op office or in person at the co-op office. We ask you to allow five days for mail and delivery to ensure we receive your payment on time. Your electric service is subject to disconnection if payment is not received in the office by the collection date, even though you may have mailed the payment. Accounts not paid within 15 days from the date printed on the bill will receive reminder notices showing the account will be disconnected if not paid. Return check charge is $25 or 5% of the check, whichever is higher.