FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
FEBRUARY 2025
A Boat Show With a Beach
Upper Keys Rotary Gigantic Market nets a treasure chest for scholarships
The event—Feb. 22-23 at Founders Park in Islamorada— draws thousands of visitors each year. Read more on Page 12. PHOTO
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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
Members acknowledge that $4.49 a year, plus postage, is the cost to publish 12 issues a year of FLORIDA CURRENTS ISSN 23276304 (USPS 8300). Published by Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-for-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—the magazine serves the communication needs of consumerowned electric utilities in Florida. Preferred Periodicals postage paid at Hillsboro, OR 97123 and at additional mailing offices.
Postmaster: Send address changes to 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy., Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124-6422.
HOW TO CONTACT FLORIDA CURRENTS
Subscription services:
Nonmember subscriptions $15 U.S. a year; $25 foreign a year. Prepayment required. Allow 4-8 weeks for first issue. Identify local edition desired. Have a problem receiving your magazine? Utility members should contact their utility office. Nonmembers call 503-357-2105 or email mailingdept@pioneer.coop.
Back issues:
Back issues and extra copies are $3 each, prepayment required. Supply is limited. Identify edition, month and year. Call first to check availability. Contact Pioneer Utility Resources: P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133-1306; 503-357-2105; email: mailingdept@pioneer.coop.
DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES
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© 2025 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Direct reprint requests to editor@floridacurrents.com or for more information, visit www.pioneer.coop.
Accurate phone number(s), address and email information helps FKEC provide you with better member service and outage responses. These outlets are also used to communicate important information during any emergency, including the threat of a storm.
Check and update your contact information via SmartHub (FKEC’s online account management tool) or at www.FKEC.com/access-your-account.com.
Pro disc golf season launches in Florida Up Close, Page 10
Boat Show With a Beach Spotlight, Page 12 Eat More Greens In the Kitchen, Page 16
FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, INC.
Member Owned Since 1940
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Karl Wagner
District 4, Marathon, President
Michael H. Puto
District 4, Marathon, Vice President
Cale Smith
District 3, Islamorada, Treasurer
Gretchen Holland
District 1, Key Largo, Secretary
James J. Boilini
District 1, Key Largo
David C. Ritz
District 1, Key Largo
Craig Belcher
District 2, Tavernier
Joseph H. Roth III
District 2, Tavernier
George D. Hertel
District 3, Islamorada
CONTACT US: (305) 852-2431 (800) 858-8845
Pay by Phone 1-855-385-9912 www.FKEC.com
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 377, Tavernier, FL 33070
MEMBERS SHOULD KNOW:
FKEC offers a Landlord Automatic Transfer of Service Program to make managing electric bills for residential rental properties easy. Learn more online at www.FKEC.com/landlord-auto-transfer. Unless
As Florida Keys Electric Cooperative celebrates its 85th year serving the Upper and Middle Keys, an important factor behind our enduring success comes into focus: employee longevity. The cooperative’s steadfast commitment to its team members and their dedication to the organization has created a legacy of trust, expertise, and positive community impact.
Our long-serving team members bring invaluable experience, institutional knowledge, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of the Keys’ communities. Employees like Bill Lee (see facing page), who recently retired after 44 years of service, exemplify this dedication. His story is just one of many that illustrates the vital role long-tenured employees play in FKEC’s operations and culture.
Employee longevity provides stability not just for FKEC but for the community we serve. With long-term employees, we build strong relationships with members, ensuring personalized and consistent service. Veteran team members are also the backbone of stability in our workplace, fostering trust and confidence among their co-workers.
I am proud of FKEC’s decades of ability to retain employees. And, I thank every team member who plays a key role in cultivating a culture of respect, camaraderie, and opportunities for growth. Of our approximately 120 employees, we have 14 who have worked at FKEC for 30 years or more and an additional 13 team members are celebrating 20-plus years.
Employees are encouraged to advance within the utility, as seen in the recent promotions recognized on page 7. By
investing in our employees through a supportive work environment, we strive to ensure every employee feels valued and empowered. This culture of mutual loyalty has been a cornerstone of the cooperative’s enduring success since our inception in 1940.
While employee longevity provides stability and experience, the insights and perspectives brought by new employees also play a critical role in our progress. New team members bring fresh ideas and innovative approaches, helping us adapt to evolving technologies and member needs. By blending the expertise of long-tenured employees with the eagerness of newer team members, FKEC strikes a balance that keeps us rooted in our values while still being forward-thinking.
Here’s to the people behind the power and the bright future ahead for FKEC and its members. n
FKEC congratulates Bill Lee on his retirement after an incredible 44-year career of dedicated hard work and service.
Bill began his journey at FKEC in 1980 on the Tree Crew, a common starting point for many future linemen. From there, he was promoted to Groundman and went on to complete the Apprentice Lineman program, earning the designation of Journeyman Lineman. Over the years, Bill advanced through roles such as Crew Leader, Assistant Line Foreman, Tavernier General Line Foreman, working in Engineering and even becoming one of the original members of FKEC’s High Line Crew, specializing in extra-highvoltage work.
“Bill’s dedication and growth alongside FKEC have made a lasting impact on this company. On behalf of the co-op, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bill for his commitment to success and for his leadership and influence in shaping the next generation,” said CEO Scott Newberry.
In 2020, Bill was promoted from Engineering Services Manager to Director of Distribution Operations, where he led the Line, Meter, and Tree departments. He also played a key role in FKEC’s Journeyman Lineman Apprenticeship Program, serving as the chairperson of the Apprenticeship Committee.
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to all the employees, past, present,
and future of FKEC. I am proud to have served as a member of the co-op family of employees for the last 44 years. During that time, I saw many incredible positive changes in FKEC, its employees, and how we serve our community,” said Bill. “To my coworkers, this is a bittersweet time for me. While I am excited to spend the next chapter of my life with family and friends, I will miss all of you. I wish the best for each of you and your families.”
From the FKEC team, thank you, Bill, for the legacy of commitment, hard work, and leadership you leave behind. We wish you all the best in your well-deserved retirement! n
Florida Keys Electric Cooperative celebrates Doug Henslee’s 18-year career at the co-op and wishes him a happy retirement.
Doug joined the cooperative in 2006 as a member of the Tree Crew, where he demonstrated skills and commitment. He later transitioned to the Maintenance Department. In 2017, Doug was promoted to Fleet Mechanic, and by 2020, he advanced to Lead Mechanic.
In this leadership role, Doug applied his knowledge and experience to the Fleet Department’s daily operations, making sure everything ran smoothly and efficiently. He also worked closely with equipment providers to secure the proper vehicles, tools, and technology to maintain FKEC’s fleet, contributing to the cooperative’s success and reliability.
“Thank you, Doug, for taking pride in your work and giving your best every day,” said Robert Lovell, FKEC Transmission Superintendent. “Your dedication has made a lasting impact on our team and operations.” n
Marco Mesa Lead Fleet Mechanic
FKEC also congratulates Marco Mesa on his promotion to Lead Fleet Mechanic. With Doug Henslee retiring, Marco brings extensive skills to fill the leadership role.
Marco joined the cooperative in the Maintenance Department in 2022 and was promoted to Fleet Mechanic two years later. With over a decade of previous experience as a top mechanic for a local company, Marco is well-prepared to lead the Fleet Department.
His strong background and hands-on approach at work make Marco an excellent fit to overseeing the department’s daily operations. n
FKEC congratulates Joe Joyce on his promotion to Director of Distribution Operations. Joe has worked closely with Bill Lee prior to Bill’s retirement, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition into this new role. With 34 years of experience at FKEC, Joe brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to overseeing Distribution Operations, which include the Line, Meter, and Tree departments.
In addition to his operational responsibilities, Joe will continue to shape the future of FKEC as chairperson of the Journeyman Lineman Apprenticeship Committee.
Joe’s journey with FKEC began in 1990 when he joined the Tree Crew. Through determination and hard work, he completed the Apprentice program and became a Journeyman Lineman. After five years in that role, Joe earned a promotion to Tavernier Service Supervisor in 2003, where he successfully managed both the Meter Department and Tavernier Service Crews.
“Joe’s experience and understanding of our company, systems, operational standards, and the needs of our membership are a great asset to his new job” said CEO Scott Newberry. “We look forward to his leadership continuing the success of our distribution operations.” n
Mike Valles recently accepted the Service Department Superintendent position in Tavernier. In his new position, Mike oversees the Tavernier Service and Meter Departments, ensuring high-quality service is provided to our members.
Working more than 40 years at FKEC, Mike brings his experience as a Groundman, Journeyman Lineman, Crew Leader and Line Superintendent to his new position. Joining FKEC right out of high school, Mike has grown up with the company giving him a great understanding of our operations and the great perspective to draw from in his new role.
Mike has also been a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) since 1985, serving as chairman during his tenure. n
Darrell Davis has accepted a promotion to Line Superintendent in Tavernier. In this position, he will oversee the scheduling and supervision of construction and maintenance for our transmission and distribution systems, ensuring reliable and safe power service.
Darrell began his career at the cooperative on the Tree Crew in 1985 and later worked as a Journeyman Lineman for many years before being promoted to Line Crew Leader in 2004.
His 20 years of leadership as a Crew Leader and his dedication to mentoring apprentices through the Apprentice Committee have equipped him with the expertise and knowledge to excel in his new role. n
At FKEC we encourage our members to register for and use SmartHub, our web and mobile app account management tool. SmartHub is an easy and convenient way to:
Access your account.
Pay your bill.
View and monitor your energy use.
Manage payment options.
View current and past bills.
Unforeseen delays can occur when you pay your electric bill by mail. Pay your FKEC bill online using SmartHub to avoid a potential late fee.
Once you register your account, you will be notified as soon as your monthly electric bill is ready, and you can easily and securely make payments from your computer or smart device 24/7. With a few clicks, you can also set up autopay and paperless billing.
Security is another benefit. Paying online prevents mail-related check fraud. ith the ability to check your account balance 24/7, you can avoid falling victim to scammers who claim your account is past due.
Registration is easy. Visit www.FKEC.com and go to login or scan the QR code.
When you register or log in from your mobile device, you will be prompted to download the app, or you can continue using your browser. n
Pursuant to Section 252.355(2)(d), F.S. each electric utility, on or before May 31 must annually notify residential customers in its service area of the availability of the special needs registration program available through their local emergency management agency.
The registry is a planning tool to allow citizens with special needs the opportunity to provide information to local emergency response agencies, so emergency responders can better plan to serve them in a disaster.
FKEC wants to make sure all our members are aware of this service and encourages you to learn more about the registry before a storm strikes.
Learn more about this county service by calling 305-292-4591 or visiting www.monroecounty-fl.gov/148/Special-Needs-Registry.
Please note, this service is offered through Monroe County Emergency Management and is independent of FKEC. n
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
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
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.
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.
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.
“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.”
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. event.
“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.”
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.
Collard Greens With Bacon
2 pounds collard greens
4 thick-sliced bacon strips, chopped
1 cup chopped onion
4 cups chicken stock
BY NATALIA
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
D810 85mm lens ISO 400 f/5 at 1/250
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
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.
half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
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.
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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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
Electronic and mobile devices, TVs, computers and gaming stations have become ubiquitous fixtures in our homes, particularly those with children. Consumer electronics coupled with the proliferation of smart home appliances, technology and electric vehicles have slowly but steadily changed our homes and lifestyles.
This ever-connected world is the modern environment in which children are growing up. With lifestyles increasingly reliant on technology and in turn, energy consumption, teaching the younger generation to save energy is an important life lesson.
Before parents can teach their children how to save energy, they must first answer the question, “What’s in it for me?”
As most parents can attest, convincing children to care about energy efficiency is a hard sell. Parents need to explain why it’s important to save energy and how it benefits the child—otherwise they do not understand the need to change their habits and are less motivated to do so. In the simplest terms, less money spent on an electric bill can mean more money used for fun activities, which is something children can relate to.
Less tangible, but just as important, using less energy means running your home more efficiently, conserving natural resources and helping the environment.
Because saving energy is an abstract concept for children, be specific about energy efficiency actions and set an example.
We know children learn by observing what their parents do. Even if they don’t say anything, children are processing your actions. When you turn off the lights when leaving a room or unplug the phone charger once the device is fully charged, they notice.
Learning about energy efficiency doesn’t
have to be a boring lecture. Make it fun for greater impact.
For younger children, turn energy efficiency into a treasure hunt to locate all the things in your home that use electricity. Depending on the age of the children, challenge them to count and group the items into categories: electronics, appliances, lights, etc. If age appropriate, have them create a list. Ask which gadgets and appliances could be turned off or unplugged to save power every day.
For older children, show them how to program smart thermostats and appliances. Shop with them for LED lights and discuss Energy Star-rated appliances. Show them the electric bill so they can see the costs, energy use and how their actions impact the bill.
Children can learn a few simple energysaving habits that can last a lifetime:
• Turn off lights, devices, computers and video game consoles when not in use.
• Open blinds and curtains during winter days to let warm sunlight in, and close them during summer days to keep your home cooler.
• If your children are old enough to run the dishwasher or wash their own clothes, teach them to run these appliances only with a full load and during off-peak energy hours.
Offer rewards for agreed-upon milestones. Rewards provide positive reinforcement on energy-saving actions.
The idea is to create a habit of being energy efficient. For parents, this could mean less nagging about turning off the lights.
Teaching your children about saving energy is not only a creative way to spend time with them; it helps your home be more energy efficient and can instill good habits that benefit your child as they make their way into adulthood. n
Power lines deliver electricity to homes and businesses and are essential to our modern way of life. We see them everywhere, so we sometimes forget they can be potentially dangerous.
Myths abound when it comes to power line safety. To help
protect our communities, Florida Keys Electric Cooperative believes it’s crucial to end power line misconceptions. Understanding power line safety helps prevent accidents and protect lives. FKEC promotes a culture of awareness and safety by encouraging everyone to play it safe with electricity.
I’m safe as long as I don’t touch power lines.
If birds can sit on power lines, it’s safe for humans to touch them, too.
Lines can energize the air around them. If too close, electricity can jump to you, leading to injury/death.
Wooden ladders are safe around power lines.
It’s safe to trim trees near the power lines.
01
There’s no difference in voltage in the distance between a bird’s feet, so no circuit is created. Electric shock occurs if a person touches a line while touching the ground.
05 05 04 03 02 01
02
Power lines are insulated, so they’re safe to touch.
Wood is not a sufficient insulator. Only use nonconductive ladders around power lines and maintain a safe distance.
03
Branches could strike power lines and you at the same time, causing physical harm or death. This should be left to the professionals.
Touching a power line, even if it appears insulated, can deliver an electric shock.
04
It“So much sparkle and the play of light on DiamondAura® beats any diamond!” — D.D. from Columbus, OH
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.
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Increasing need for power affects electric utilities and their consumers
By Scott Flood
When rural electric utilities first strung power lines from farm to farm, across waterways and through remote forests less than a century ago, most consumers had but a handful of light bulbs to power. With time, they added appliances like refrigerators, but they surely couldn’t imagine the number and variety of electrical devices in today’s homes and garages.
Across the United States, consumers use a growing amount of electricity at work, at home and, with the growth of electric vehicles, on the road.
The demand for electricity increased by 2.5% in 2024 and is expected to grow by 3.2% this year. This comes after many utilities saw a 4.8% increase in 2022. Through 2029, the nation’s peak demand is projected to grow by 38 gigawatts. That would be like adding another Californiasized state to our nation’s power grid.
Driving this surge are advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency and cloud computing, which rely on energy-intensive data centers. These facilities, often located in rural areas due to affordable land and fewer neighbors, require massive amounts of electricity.
According to the U.S. Department of
Energy, data centers consume up to 50 times more energy per square foot than traditional commercial buildings. By 2030, these centers are expected to account for 9% of the nation’s electricity use, up from nearly 2% today. A single large data center may demand more than 100 megawatts of power, enough to supply 80,000 homes.
At the same time, baseload power—the always-available energy typically generated by coal and nuclear plants—is being retired at a rapid pace. More than 110 gigawatts of this reliable power are slated to disappear by 2033. As renewable energy sources like solar and wind grow, they cannot fully replace baseload generation due to their intermittent nature. Without sufficient baseload power, the risk of rolling brownouts and blackouts increases, a scenario experts warn could affect 19 states by 2028.
This growth in demand is unprecedented. A decade ago, a huge commercial project might boost a utility’s total load by 20 or 30 megawatts.
“Now, they’re getting requests for projects in the hundreds of megawatts,” says Stephanie Crawford, regulatory affairs director for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
This growth places immense pressure to expand capacity and upgrade infrastructure.
To address these challenges, the efforts fall into two categories: increasing knowledge and building relationships. A generation ago, power supply discussions were fairly straightforward for utility directors, given the widespread availability of baseload generation. Today’s directors increasingly find themselves learning about
sophisticated and challenging issues as they weigh decisions affecting operations and financial viability for years to come.
They must grapple with complex energy issues, from ensuring sufficient transmission capacity to understanding regulatory hurdles. Supply chain constraints also pose significant barriers, with delays for critical components like transformers stretching up to two years.
Relationship-building is equally crucial. Utilities must engage early and often with companies planning large energy projects to ensure alignment on costs, timelines and infrastructure needs. For instance, phased development of a data center can give them more time to prepare for peak loads. Partnerships to develop on-site generation assets may also alleviate transmission challenges.
While these tech companies are often willing to invest in infrastructure upgrades, their focus is on reliability rather than cost. Utilities must balance these demands with their obligation to maintain affordability and reliability for all consumers.
In addition to preparing for new projects, Stephanie notes the importance of leaders keeping their fingers on the pulse of their existing commercial accounts.
“Being proactive and reaching out to understand how a commercial account’s energy needs may be changing in the coming years will inform conversations and decisions about timing, rate design and other factors, even if they’re not making specific requests yet,” she says.
Stephanie says this improved communication helps utilities serve emerging needs while protecting reliability for all consumers.
After decades of flat or declining electricity demand, the United States is in the midst of a boom in power use. Recent government data shows power consumption nationwide is set to increase by at least 38 gigawatts between now and 2029. This trend would ordinarily be great news for the power industry. But government policies aimed at shutting down fossil fuel-based generation and yearslong delays in permitting and siting for new transmission lines are turning this power boon into a capacity crisis. Here are the primary demand drivers:
Electrification
Electric vehicle adoption, electrification of home heating and industrial electrification are expected to increase overall U.S. energy consumption by 1% per year through 2026.
Economic Growth 65%
Driven by explosions in artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency and cloud computing, total U.S. data center load is projected to increase by 65% by 2050.
Residential power consumption is expected to increase by 14% to 22% through 2050 due to increases in population and steady economic growth.
Manufacturing Growth/Onshoring
New, expanding and “onshored/reshored” manufacturing capacity driven by federal incentives is expected to increase industrial demand by 13,000 GWh per year.
Key products: EVs, batteries, semiconductors, solar power components
Analysts predicted in 2023 that U.S. peak demand will increase by at least 38 GW over the next five years, nearly double the growth rate predicted in 2022.
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.
Ellijay, GA 30540. tbsmads@yahoo.com 1-888-211-1715
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Florida Keys Electric Cooperative was honored to join our Upper and Middle Keys communities in supporting the Wounded Warrior Project during their annual bicycle ride through the Keys on Friday, January 10.
In Tavernier, FKEC employees gathered outside our facility to cheer on the riders as they passed. Others proudly displayed our large American flag and greeted the warriors at Coral Shores High School, where they took a well-deserved break.
In Marathon, FKEC raised another big flag and joined the community in lining US 1 to applaud the veterans.
It is always a privilege to welcome the warriors to our islands,” said CEO Scott Newberry. “FKEC deeply appreciates the service and sacrifices of all our veterans, and we look forward to showing our gratitude at this event every year.”
Over two days, the group biked 10-40 miles a day, inspiring community members from Key Largo to Key West.
For more information about the Wounded Warriors or to support veteran programs, visit www.WoundedWarriorProject.org n
