Florida Currents
Flooding from Hurricane Ian in 2022 submerged this bridge. PHOTO BY RYAN HART
Florida Currents
June 2024 • Volume 13, No. 8
CEO Michael Shepard
VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mike Teegarden, CCC
DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Noble Sprayberry
SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC
FLORIDA CURRENTS EDITORS
Chasity Anderson, CCC; Valeri Pearon
ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Hampton, CCC; David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
SENIOR MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
Members acknowledge that $4.31 a year, plus postage, is the cost to publish 12 issues a year of FLORIDA CURRENTS ISSN 23276304 (USPS 8300). Published by Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-for-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—the magazine serves the communication needs of consumerowned electric utilities in Florida. Preferred Periodicals postage paid at Hillsboro, OR 97123 and at additional mailing offices.
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HOW TO CONTACT FLORIDA CURRENTS
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Hurricane season begins June 1 and continues through November 30 every year. This period is known as hurricane season because 97% of all Atlantic tropical storms and hurricanes occur during these months, according to FoxWeather.com.
We urge you to prepare for hurricane season before there’s a threat. The best time to make hurricane preparations is while skies are blue.
Consider these hurricane preparation tips:
Gather Supplies:
For example, flashlights, batteries, food, water and a first-aid kit. Remove any trees or limbs that can threaten your home. Make travel and lodging plans if you live in an evacuation zone.
Have some cash on hand in case debit/credit card readers are down due to the storm.
Install storm shutters or have plywood on hand to protect your windows from wind and debris.
Don’t forget to make plans that include your pets. Have food, water and medicines for them, too. If you plan on staying in a shelter or hotel, find out if it’s pet-friendly.
Consider Household’s Special Needs
Peace River Electric Cooperative strives to provide safe, reliable electric service for everyone.
But due to natural hazards, such as trees, limbs and small animals contacting the power lines, outages are sometimes unavoidable. When tropical storms and hurricanes strike, prolonged outages almost always follow.
Register With Emergency Management
If you require assistance evacuating or sheltering during hurricanes or other emergencies, help is available.
The state encourages individuals with special needs to register to receive assistance during disasters. Help your local first responders help you. To register, contact your county’s emergency management office or visit SNR.FLHealthResponse.com.
Medically Essential Service Program
If you rely on a power-operated, lifesustaining medical device, download the medically essential service form at PRECO.coop/services/special-needs.
The form must be signed by your physician. For details, call us at 800-282-3824.
Because PRECO cannot guarantee uninterrupted service, we recommend:
• Relocating to a friend’s or relative’s home outside the hurricane’s projected path.
• Acquiring a backup generator so you can be prepared in case you lose power.
• Discussing your emergency plan with your home health care provider.
• Contacting local hospitals to learn what services they provide to those with critical medical needs during emergencies.
Stay Away from Downed Power Lines!
Downed power lines can cause injury or even death. Electricity from downed power lines flows along the ground in a big circle, so stay away.
Assume every downed power line is energized. Stay at least 30 feet away from downed power lines. Warn others to stay away. Remember a dead line can become live at any time.
Never touch a downed power line. Always assume it’s energized. Never touch a power line with a stick or any object you may think is safe. Don’t drive your car over a fallen power line.
Don’t touch anyone or anything in contact with a downed line.
If a power line falls across your vehicle, stay inside and warn others to stay away. If you can’t safely remain in your car and must exit, jump clear of the vehicle without touching any part of it. Then, shuffle to safety keeping your feet close together. If you see a downed power line, report it immediately by calling PRECO at 800-282-3824 or by dialing 911.
Empowering the Future
As the school year began to wind down, Hardee Senior High School became a hub of excitement and opportunity as students gathered for the annual College and Career Day. Among the participants, Peace River Electric Cooperative stood tall, ready to ignite the imaginations of the next generation of leaders in the field.
Each grade level visited numerous booths from local businesses, colleges and universities. PRECO was well represented, with two vibrant booths inside the gymnasium and a bucket truck and booth outside.
Inside, the information technology department demonstrated to students how IT manages the cooperative’s infrastructure, including servers, networks and data
storage systems. This infrastructure supports essential operations such as power distribution and outage management.
The communications department captivated students with stories of innovative marketing strategies and digital platforms that engage members and promote community initiatives.
Outside, operations experts shared insights highlighting their crucial role in ensuring a reliable power supply to local communities and some of the steps required to be a lineworker. Many students were tasked with assembling pieces of equipment while wearing the large safety gloves lineworkers use. This activity gave students a glimpse of what it is like to work on the job.
Amid the engaging discussions and informative presentations, students were delighted to receive swag, including pens and water bottles branded with the PRECO logo.
The PRECO team hopes sharing the inner workings of the organization and the passion of its employees will inspire students to explore careers in the dynamic world of utilities.
PRECO’s participation in the College and Career Day was not just an opportunity to showcase the cooperative but a chance to empower and inspire the next generation of talent. As we continue to invest in our community and nurture young minds, we are confident that together, we can power a brighter future for all. n
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Vice President of Operations Van Crawford, left, and First Class Lineman Bryan Hagwood demonstrate to students some of the tools and equipment used in linework. SCADA Coordinator J.C. Alvarez gives students a first-hand look at how IT plays a role in the daily operations of an electric cooperative. PRECO had two booth displays at the College and Career Day.
& Jack B., CA A Better Way to hearTV®
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Quiet TV mode lets others mute the television or set the volume to their preferred level while you listen as loud as you want on the headset.
Story and photos by Nick Thomas
Little space is wasted in the 8,000-squarefoot Emerald Coast Science Center, where walls are covered with informative posters and ceiling paintings. Interactive exhibits offer experiences focused on physics, astronomy and more.
Live animals are also prominent, with an assortment of birds, reptiles and mammals. All are rescues donated to the center. The critters are cleverly named after scientists, an idea Director Diane Fraser introduced several years ago. For instance, a blue and gold macaw is named Cici in honor of Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, an astronomer and astrophysicist who proposed in her 1925 doctoral thesis that stars were composed of hydrogen and helium.
“We’re kind of sneaky like that,” Diane says. “Most kids can probably tell you
the names of their favorite Major League Baseball players or who all the current top movie stars are, but if you ask them to name famous scientists, most can only come up with Albert Einstein.
That’s heartbreaking to me. Through our animals, they not only learn about wildlife and the environment but the famous people they’re named after.”
Explore the Emerald Coast Science Center Explore the Emerald Coast Science Center
transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom of their two daughters. In the early 2000s, she discovered the engaging children’s activities offered by the ECSC and volunteered to teach a few of the center’s programs.
By 2014, her oldest daughter was in college, and the youngest was driving.
“The kids were growing up, and I was this newly untethered person wondering what to do with myself,” Diane says.
A Commitment to Science
After graduating with a master’s degree in forensic science from the University of Alabama and working as a research chemist for the Food and Drug Administration in Cincinnati, Diane’s career path took an unexpected turn. For the past decade, she’s been the ECSC director.
A native of Mobile, Alabama, and raised in Pensacola and Niceville, Diane returned to Florida with her husband in 1999. They settled in Fort Walton Beach, where Diane
At the time, the center was moving from a park known locally as The Landing to a new site on Southwest Memorial Parkway. Diane’s passion for the museum and her science credentials were so appreciated that she was soon asked to serve as interim director to supervise the move. She accepted the position, which later became permanent, but she was aware of her limitations.
“I had no experience working for a nonprofit organization,” she says. “But in
Diane Fraser reshapes sand to show different topographical heights on an interactive watershed model.
addition to ignorance, I had enthusiasm. When coupled, that can create a powerful tool. You don’t know what you don’t know, but with determination, you can tackle and solve problems that come your way.”
There were plenty of difficulties confronting the center during the expansion. The new site on almost 3 acres was bought from the city and required a 30-year mortgage, so securing additional funding sources was essential.
“The museum programs had been stagnant for a while, so we had to convince the community to see our potential,” Diane says. “We acquired some sponsorships to invest in our programs, and we’ve been evolving and growing ever since, except for when the pandemic struck.”
A Lively Space
Closed for three months, the museum had no outdoor activities for visitors when COVID-19 hit in early 2020. But since then,
open-air exhibits have grown substantially and continue to expand.
A new outdoor planetarium is expected to open in mid-2024, funded by a recent $100,000 Impact 100 grant. By 2022, the number of children visiting the center on school field trips topped 5,000—close to prepandemic levels. Diane says visitor numbers grew even more in 2023, and the center welcomed more than 700 annual family memberships. She expects these numbers to grow as new programs and activities are added.
make their own yo-yos,” Diane says. “It’s those types of activities that keep visitors coming back.”
Another popular activity is the sciPad SMALLab room, featuring a 15-by-15foot interactive floor monitored by infrared motion-detecting cameras. Using electronic wands, students can move planets around the solar system, perform virtual chemical experiments or even dip into the arts by painting or learning the vocabulary of another language.
One popular ECSC program is Discover Science Saturday, offered on the first weekend of every month with ideas coming from surprising sources. Diane remembers a young man walking into the center last year offering to demonstrate yo-yo tricks.
“There’s a lot of physics involved with yo-yo movement, so we told him he could come and demonstrate, and we would develop an activity where kids could
“It’s like playing on an iPad the size of a room,” Diane says. “Whenever I give a talk to groups about the center, I take along a copy of the periodic table of elements to illustrate that the piece of paper in my hand shows all the elements that make up the entire universe,” she says. “That’s incredible to me. I hope visitors walk away with that same profound sense of awe and wonder that understanding science can bring.”
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Diane is the director of the Fort Walton Beach Emerald Coast Science Center. A machine demonstrates air pressure principles at the Emerald Coast Science Center. The science behind pulleys is explained by letting children make giant soap bubbles at the Emerald Coast Science Center.
Cows Mow Go Where the
Book a Florida farm stay for an interactive experience
Story and photos by Marcy Chapman
Jane and Bob Adler own Animal Lovers Farm in Venus. Their 20-acre property, just 15 minutes from Lake Placid, is covered in majestic oaks and welcomes travelers interested in a unique experience.
“Traveling upstate from Miami, we found our perfect enchanted forest in Venus,” Jane says. “It’s classic old Florida. Now, after a period of remodeling, we are in our third year of being hosts. We treasure seeing the joy in people—adults and kids—as they bond with our animals and relax in this incredibly special place. People love our friendly horses, adorable miniature horses, donkeys and playful goats, busy chickens, ducks, and geese—even a sweet mule.”
Their animals often roam free on the farm.
“Keep watch,” Jane says with a laugh. “You may find a donkey at your door, at any time, looking for a treat.”
Often known as farm stays, places like Animal Lovers Farm are scattered across Florida and are a key part of the state’s agritourism industry. Visitors can enjoy the countryside’s natural beauty, learn about farming, interact with animals or just relax.
At many farm stays, visitors—especially youngsters— can experience the rhythm of farm life through hands-on opportunities. Guests might collect eggs for breakfast, feed the animals, ride horseback, pick fruit, fish, kayak, grill out or make s’mores around a fire pit. For some, it is an opportunity to find out where the carrots in their lunch originated.
Each destination has charms of its own. For example, the Adlers offer three lodging options for their guests. The Big House sleeps eight. The Country Cabin is filled with 100 years of history and sleeps three. The Bunkhouse, inspired by the “Yellowstone” TV series, sleeps six. The Adlers have plans for a “barndominium” with three new units.
The property features a scenic lounging area with a pond and
At 5 p.m., Jane Adler calls her chickens into the Shack at Animal Lovers Farm in Venus.
The entrance gate at Animal Lovers Farm.
the Lawn
waterfall. After enjoying an afternoon of horseback riding—free beginner lessons are available—guests can stargaze while lounging in the family-sized hot tubs at each lodging site.
“Guests come for a weekend and stay for a week, sometimes a month,” Jane says. “Most are repeaters.”
Managing a Farm Stay
Farm stays benefit the farmers, their guests and the preservation of the history and culture of farming. Farmers profit from the additional source of income while fostering connections between rural and urban residents. Farm stays also educate the public about environmental concerns, land, water, air and the protection of open spaces and wildlife habitats.
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is an authentic 1,700acre dude ranch one hour south of Orlando in Polk County. Guests are offered a cowboy-themed glamping—or fancy camping—ranch stay experience that appeals especially to children. Voted the No. 1 glamping spot by USA Today, Westgate River Ranch guests choose from accommodations including fully outfitted teepees, wagons and tents. Horseback riding, nature
hikes, a petting farm and wildlife airboat and swamp buggy rides are topped off every Saturday night by a championship rodeo.
History on Hooves
Manatee County is home to Triangle Ranch, a working cattle ranch and farm stay. It’s a wide-open 1,143-acre slice of Florida, just north of Myakka River State Park, where guests can experience farming and glamping. More than 3 miles of the Myakka River winds through the shade of oak and palm trees. Not only does the ranch land protect the quality of water and life around the river, but these undeveloped acres also maintain the integrity of an entire wetlands system.
Triangle Ranch is owned by philanthropist Elizabeth Moore, who has a great passion for conservation.
Horses and Florida Cracker cattle graze at Triangle Ranch.
“When I first saw it, I had an epiphany,” Elizabeth says. “It was so beautiful, with the river and all the wildlife. I just wanted to save it. I knew I had to keep it the way it was.”
The Southwest Florida Water Management District holds a permanent conservation agreement on the property. Elizabeth is working with the Conservation Foundation to restore the land to its optimal natural function.
Getting acquainted with Triangle Ranch may include an ATV excursion through Florida wilderness and across the Myakka River. Cruising along, guests keep their eyes peeled for otters, alligators, turtles and deer. More than 100 species of birds frequent the Myakka area, including roseate spoonbills, osprey, bald eagles and sandhill cranes.
A highlight of visiting Triangle Ranch is seeing the curvy-horned Florida Cracker cows. They are descendants of Spanish cattle brought to the Americas in the early 1500s, members of one of the oldest breeds in the United States. Florida is a leader in the conservation and promotion of this breed, known for being good mothers. They are a great fit for Triangle Ranch, which depends on its cow-calf operation for revenue. The herd is driven by horseback, as it has been for hundreds of years. Rotational grazing keeps the cows ranging over the ranch.
“Whether you want to curl up with a good book, go for a hike, visit the animals or enjoy a sunset or kayak ride, you’ll find it all here in the tranquil and pristine surroundings of our cabins,” Elizabeth says. “Constructed using pecky cypress, cabins are built to embody the authentic Florida cracker-style aesthetic while still providing modern-day conveniences, such as Wi-Fi and air conditioning.”
A 1936 cottage, known as Little Siesta, adds character to the property. It was scheduled for demolition when Elizabeth rescued it from Siesta Key. Cut into three sections, it was relocated to the ranch with its original fittings, stained glass, stunning mantle above a stone fireplace and heart pine floors. Highlights of Elizabeth’s decor include a collection of Florida Highwaymen paintings and a striking floor-length mirror from a Ringling collection.
The Ringling mirror captures the siesta cottage bedroom.
Elizabeth shows the Siesta Key cottage at its new home.
Elizabeth Moore with the Triangle Ranch signpost.
The ranch hosts a variety of events, such as birthdays, weddings, book signings, birding groups and the Cattlemen’s Association. Perched on the scenic riverbank, a perfect place to entertain is a traditional Seminole chickee hut built with cypress poles and a cabbage palm-thatched roof.
Worth the Effort
No matter the experience and amenities farm stay owners offer, they all enjoy the same benefits and face some of the same challenges, many of which are weather-related.
“This involves managing flood situations,” Elizabeth says. “Hurricane Ian was devastating.”
The opposite is also a concern: Drought conditions can leave cows thirsty, or other incidents could affect the animals.
“One of the hardest challenges is losing animals we have gotten so attached to,” Bob Adler says. “Things like broken legs or an animal getting attacked.”
With everything considered, farm-stay owners say their land and lifestyle are their treasures.
“Guest income keeps the farm moving,” says Bob, noting it helps cover the cost of veterinarian bills, hay and feed. “But one of the most enjoyable benefits is just living here and sharing our lifestyle with guests. This place emotionally connects with people. I don’t know if it is the beauty of the farm or the tranquility and the interaction with the animals. Just sitting under the oak trees and around the fire pit really has a profound effect on them. The farm is a world-class place to meditate.”
Booking a Stay
It’s important to know how to find quality listings and trustworthy hosts before you book a trip. There are dependable platforms where you can book a stay, such as Airbnb, Expedia, Vrbo and Hipcamp.
For more information about Animal Lovers Farm, visit animalloversfarm. com. To plan a stay at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, go to westgateresorts.com. For Triangle Ranch booking details, visit www.thetriangleranch.com.
Triangle Ranch glamping at its finest: A Florida Highwaymen painting hangs above a copper bathtub shipped from Germany.
A traditional Seminole Chickee hut is used for gatherings at Triangle Ranch.
The Bunkhouse, which includes a hot tub, is one lodging option at Animal Lovers Farm.
It's Back: ZUCCHINI SEASON
Roasted Summer Squash
1 pound summer squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Heat oven to 400 F.
1 tablespoon panko bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Cut squash into ½-inch-thick slices. Toss with olive oil. Combine the remaining ingredients in a small bowl, and toss with squash.
Place the squash on a baking sheet. Roast for 12 to 14 minutes or until squash is tender. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes or until crumbs are lightly browned.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK
PHOTO BY SVETLANA KOLPAKOVA
Easy Summer Squash and Zucchini Bread
1/2 cup yellow squash, grated
1/2 cup zucchini, grated
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup white granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 extra-large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
11/2 cups all-purpose flour
Heat oven to 350 F.
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped pecans and walnuts, plus extra for topping
Cinnamon and sugar for sprinkling
Combine yellow squash, zucchini, brown sugar, white sugar, butter, eggs and vanilla in a bowl. Mix well. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, allspice and cinnamon. Combine until mixed and all ingredients are wet. Fold in nuts.
Pour into a greased 9-by-5 loaf pan. Top with extra nuts, and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes.
Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
Zucchini Pesto Pasta
1 pint cherry tomatoes
Olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 medium yellow squash or zucchini, or mix of both
Heat oven to 400 F.
16 ounces spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup pasta cooking water
1 cup coarsely grated Parmesan cheese
Fill a large pot with salted water, and bring to a boil.
Toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread out in one layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes. Wash zucchini. Cut off ends, then cut in half lengthwise. Slice into half-moon pieces.
Cook pasta until al dente. While it is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Use a pan that’s big enough to hold all the pasta when it’s cooked. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Turn down the heat to medium. Saute until you can start to smell garlic, about one minute.
Add the sliced zucchini. Season to taste with salt and fresh-ground black pepper. Cook until the zucchini is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Add the pesto to the cooked zucchini. Gently stir to combine. Add the roasted tomatoes. Add the drained cooked pasta to the zucchini/pesto/ tomato combination. Gently mix, adding pasta cooking water until the mixture is combined. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Southern Squash Casserole
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
6 to 8 squash, sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 sleeve crushed buttery crackers
Heat oven to 350 F. Grease a casserole dish.
Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Saute the squash and onion until soft. Remove from heat. Stir in the Parmesan, cheddar and sour cream. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
Scoop the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the cracker crumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Marinated Zucchini and Summer Squash
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound zucchini (about 3 large), trimmed and sliced diagonally, about 1/2-inch thick
1 pound yellow crookneck squash (about 3 large), trimmed and sliced diagonally, about 1/2-inch thick
Whisk the vinegar, lemon juice and garlic in a large bowl to blend. Season with salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in the oil.
Spoon 3 tablespoons of the marinade into a small bowl. Cover and set aside.
Add the zucchini and yellow squash to the remaining marinade in the large bowl. Toss to coat.
Transfer the mixture to a 9-by-13 glass baking dish. Cover and marinate at room temperature for at least three hours, or cover and refrigerate for up to one day.
Prepare a grill for medium-high heat.
Grill the vegetables until they are crisp-tender and brown, turning occasionally, about 8 minutes.
Transfer the vegetables to a platter. Drizzle with the reserved marinade. Serve hot or at room temperature.
THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT
By Dave LaBelle
I love black-and-white photos. I always have.
In my memory bank are powerful black-and-white images, such as Dorthea Lange’s “Migrant Mother” and Nate Fein’s “Babe Ruth Farewell at Yankee Stadium.”
But alongside these iconic photographs are equally powerful color images.
One such color photograph is “Afghan Girl,” made by American photojournalist Steve McCurry and published on the cover of National Geographic in 1985. The penetrating green eyes, red scarf and green background in the portrait of a then-unknown 12-year-old Sharbat Gula connected with readers as no other image had before. It became the magazine’s most popular cover ever, and CNN called it the world’s most famous photograph.
Just as I do not believe Dorthea’s 1936 gripping Depression-era photo of Florence Owens Thompson would have had the same impact in color, Steve’s poignant portrait wouldn’t have
enjoyed its far-reaching impact in black and white.
How colors play off each other is a consideration.
The Afghan girl, with green eyes and a small sliver of green beneath her red scarf, works well against that green background. Another color behind her might not have yielded the same impact.
Reader Challenge
See if you can see in color. Find or make a photograph that communicates only in color and would fail to have the same impact in black and white. If it is a dull, overcast day, consider adding a little flash to awaken the colors.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pur.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
Color affects our moods. Marketers and advertisers know this. Businesses spend millions trying to determine how humans will respond to certain colors and influence our buying habits. Studies have proven that, while color perception is individual, people of different age groups respond and gravitate to different colors.
My wife might say color affects our energy.
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
Storm clouds encroach on lateday sun over a corn field. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE NIKON D700, 24-70mm lens ISO 200, f/4 at 1/1000
Traces of Old Florida
Rustic fish camp keeps historic traditions alive
Walking into the Highland Park Fish Camp store seems like stepping through a time portal into old Florida. Mounts of fish and other animals, old photos and fishing memorabilia cover the walls.
Years ago, fish camps dotted major Florida waterways. Few remain today.
“We have been family-owned since 1962,” seventh-generation Floridian Bryn Rawlins Adams says with pride. “We keep the place rustic with that old Florida look. We’re not fancy, but we like it that way.”
Derris Rawlins, Bryn’s grandfather, retired from the U.S. Army and returned to his hometown of DeLand. In 1962, he bought a fish camp on 12 acres at the end of an old logging canal about 5 miles west of DeLand. The canal leads to Norris Dead Lake, a backwater off the St. Johns River.
Norris Dead Lake feeds into the 2,200acre Lake Woodruff, which connects with the 1,800-acre Lake Dexter and numerous other waterways.
In 1964, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service established Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge on 21,574 acres. This guaranteed the area would remain wilderness.
When Derris died, the property passed to Bryn’s father and uncle, Rick and Ron. Rick died in 2021. Ron keeps his hand in the business, but Bryn and James Hillman now manage the property.
“It’s sad that so many other fish camps are gone now,” Bryn says. “I remember my dad and I did a trip along the whole St. Johns River in five days on a homemade houseboat. As we went along the river, we saw all the dying and dwindling fish camps. We’re glad that we can still be here.”
Over the years, the camp expanded and put in new facilities, but always retained that old Florida touch. The camp now sits on 30 acres. Visitors can rent cabins or park recreational vehicles in the campground and store boats in the dry storage facility. People can also rent boats ranging from fishing skiffs to pontoon boats.
“We’ve expanded and offer an outdoor venue for things like weddings and community events,” Bryn says. “We have a nice little catch-and-release pond. It’s free to fish.
“People can come out any day and fish, especially with young kids. We do a free fishing rodeo at our pond for kids up to 12 years old. We also do free fishing seminars and hold a free outdoor art show that’s for all Florida-based artists.”
With the area surrounded by wilderness, many people enjoy ecotours or birdwatching trips, but fishing still attracts the most visitors.
A legendary bass stream, the St. Johns system produces numerous largemouth exceeding 10 pounds. These waters also offer crappie, bluegill and other species.
“Our camp record bass weighed 15 pounds, 4 ounces,” James says. “People catch a lot of bass 10 pounds or larger. We’ve caught some crappie exceeding 3 pounds.”
Visitors can book James or other guides through the camp. Call 800-525-3477, visit highlandparkfishcamp.com or look the camp up on Facebook. n
John N. Felsher is a freelance writer, broadcaster, photographer and editor. He’s written more than 3,500 articles on a wide variety of outdoor topics. Contact him at j.felsher@hotmail.com or through Facebook.
ABOVE: James Hillman, a guide for Highland Park Fish Camp, shows off a black crappie he caught while fishing at Lake Woodruff near Deland.
TOP: Visitors to Highland Park Fish Camp can rent cabins with modern conveniences or bring their own recreational vehicles for their stay. PHOTOS BY JOHN N. FELSHER
world’s lightest mobility scooter with anti-tip technology
Like millions of older Americans, I struggle with mobility. For years, I watched my quality of life slip away, as I was forced to stay home while friends and family took part in activities I’d once enjoyed. I thought I’d made some progress when I got a mobility scooter, but then I realized how hard it was to transport. Taking it apart and putting it back together was like doing a jigsaw puzzle. Once I had it disassembled, I had to try to put all of the pieces in the trunk of a car, go to wherever I was going, and repeat the process in reverse. Travel scooters were easier to transport, but they were uncomfortable and scary to drive, I always felt like I was ready to tip over. Then I found the So Lite® Scooter. Now there’s nothing that can hold me back.
Years of work by innovative engineers have resulted in a scooter that’s designed with seniors in mind. They created Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that makes it virtually impossible to tip over. If you try to turn too quickly, the scooter automatically slows down to prevent it from tipping over. The battery provides powerful energy at a fraction of the weight of most batteries. With its rugged yet lightweight aluminum frame, the So Lite®
Folds and locks in seconds
Lightweight yet durable
Easier to operate
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FLORIDA CURRENTS
PLANNER
FORT MYERS
June 1
Mad Libs Live
“Mad Libs Live” is energetic, original and fast-paced. It captures the essence of the classic word game, and watching it can help children distinguish between nouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs. In the one-hour musical, you meet four students from Blankville Central High School: Gogo the jock, Virtuosa the diva, Merrily the shy artist and Geyser the nerd. www.artinlee.org; 239-939-2787
FORT MYERS
June 7-July 26
Farmers Market
PENSACOLA
June 4
East Hill Makers Market
Join us for an outdoor afternoon market and shopping with more than 40 local artisans, food trucks, music, photo booth and children’s activities. Come shop local and meet and mingle with your neighbors from 3 to 6 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. www.myeasthill.org; 850-529-0699
STATEWIDE
June 1-2, June 8-9
All ages can find something new and exciting around every corner of the state. Filled with rich history, abundant natural beauty and diverse events all year, Florida has something fun for everyone.
There’s a new farmers market in town. Come shop for fresh produce and other items, get something to eat and drink, listen to music and stroll through the wildflower and Bromeliad gardens. There will also be fruit trees, herbs and flowering plants available for sale in the Garden Shoppe. www.edisonfordwinterestates.org; 239-334-7419
License-Free Freshwater Fishing Days
License-free fishing days provide an opportunity for those who don’t have a fishing license to experience the sport or for avid anglers to introduce a friend to fishing without having to purchase a license. On these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for all recreational anglers—residents and nonresidents. All other rules—such as seasons, bag and size limits—apply. www.myfwc.com; 850-488-4676
KEY WEST
June 8-15
Fish Out of Water 5K
You’re invited to join in this fifth annual 5K to get out in your local community while making your miles count. We’re encouraging the REEF community and ocean enthusiasts everywhere to get moving in the name of conservation. You can run, walk, hike, bike or even swim, completing the 5K distance in one day or breaking it into smaller sections over the week. www.reef.org/5k; 305-852-0030
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY SDBOWER
KEY LARGO
June 15-August 31
Art Show
The Art Guild of the Purple Isles presents its second summer show 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in the lobby of the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway. The show will feature numerous pieces of original art by members of the Art Guild and will be available for purchase. A public opening reception runs 5:30 to 7 p.m. June 15. Admission is free. www.agpi.us; 305-394-1082
PENSACOLA
June 15
PensaPride
Join us in celebrating diversity and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community during an annual all-ages and sober Pride festival. This year the festival will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Pensacola Interstate Fair Expo Hall. The event features local LGBTQIA+ artists, musicians, poets, performers and nonprofit advocacy. Admission is $1. www.pensapride.org
KEY WEST
June 15
Truman’s Tropical Fruit Festival
Can you tell the difference between a haden and kent mango? At the Tropical Fruit Festival, you’ll have the chance to taste varieties of mangoes and other tropical fruits, sip tasty cocktails, watch cooking demos and more. Learn about planting fruit trees and have the opportunity to buy some. www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.org/foundation/events/trumans-tropical-fruit-festival; 305-294-9911
ISLAMORADA
June 20
Morada Way Art Walk
SEBRING
June 21
Summer Jubilee “A Solstice Celebration”
This is Morada Way Arts & Cultural District’s landmark event. On the third Thursday of each month, fine artists, vendors, residents and visitors congregate to celebrate art and culture in the stunning Florida Keys. Join us from 6 to 9 p.m. for gallery openings, local artists, live music, delectable food and thirst-quenching libations. www.moradaway.org
Join the small businesses of Sebring from 4 to 8 p.m. for an enchanting evening under the summer skies in a solstice celebration like no other. Embrace the warmth of the season as we come together to revel in the spirit of community, creativity and commerce. Indulge in delicious treats, shopping and refreshing beverages, and dance to the rhythms of live music.
https://fb.me/e/3A0owZk4s
PORT ST. JOE
June 30
8th Annual Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Festival
www.floridacc.org
The Florida Coastal Conservancy and Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center invite you to participate in this annual event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at George Core Park, overlooking St. Joseph Bay. This event includes music, food, beverages and the Sea Creature Parade, and will take place rain or shine. The event educates attendees about sea turtles and the importance of the coastal habitats they and many other species call home.
HOW TO INCLUDE UPCOMING EVENTS
Want to share a family-friendly event with the readers of Florida Currents? Head online and enter the details at tinyurl.com/FloridaCurrents. Make sure to submit the item at least 60 days before the event (due to press deadline). If you own rights to a print-quality photo promoting your event, include it with photo credit information.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ART GUILD OF THE PURPLE ISLES
Conserve Water Planning Your Landscape to
Water conservation is foremost in people’s minds during dry periods, but it’s important year-round. Follow these tips to conserve water in your landscape:
Matchmaking
Putting the right plant in the right place involves more than placing a sun-loving plant in a sunny spot or a shade-lover in a shady spot. You also must consider other conditions, such as soil pH and water needs.
Drought-Tolerant Plants
These plants are adapted to regions with frequent drought or to soils with low water-holding capacity. Once established, they can be water-wise additions to a landscape.
Drought-tolerant plants tend to thrive in elevated dry or windy spots, exposed areas, or along unshaded southern and western walls of buildings. Save the low spots—water-adjacent areas and places with poor drainage—for plants that love moist conditions.
Grouping Plants
It’s common to have woody plants (trees, shrubs and certain groundcovers) planted randomly across an expanse of lawn. While this may be normal, it’s not ideal. The truth is that turfgrass and woody ornamentals have different needs, so it’s easy to waste water in a landscape like this.
You can conserve water and save money by grouping plants according to their water needs. If you have a zoned irrigation system, you’ll be able to water each area based on need.
Turfgrass
For sunny, recreational areas, turfgrass is a good choice. But most grass types don’t grow well in dense shade or on steep slopes. Instead of planting grass in these spots, try groundcovers. There are a variety of options, many of which can offer a green-carpet look.
Overplanting
A newly planted landscape often looks sparser than anticipated. Be patient. Plants are usually planted when they’re smaller than their ultimate full-grown size. It’s a common but costly mistake to overplant the landscape to make it seem fuller right away. When plants mature, they’ll be too close together and will compete for water and sunlight. The landscape will look overcrowded, and frequent pruning will be required.
Fast-growing plants may sound appealing, but these kinds of plants require frequent pruning and usually more water than slowgrowing plants. Slow-growing plants may take longer to fill in your landscape, but they can ultimately be less work.
Know Your Zone
How well your plants perform depends in large part on your choosing the right plant for your climate and location.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated 10 climate zones for the continental United States to guide us in our gardening efforts. The three zones in Florida are zones eight through 10. Considering which zone you live in can make all the difference.
Weeds and Fertilizer
Weeds and fertilizer add to water needs in your landscape. Weeds drink up water your plants need, and fertilizer causes your plants to grow quicker, which can lead to a greater need for water.
Fertilize only when necessary. In very dry times, hold off fertilizing. Keep your beds weed-free by hand-pulling them and adding 2 to 3 inches of mulch, which helps soil retain moisture. It’s never too late to save water. Try these methods today.
Natasha Atlas graduated from the University of Florida’s Agricultural Education and Communication Program in 2021. She loves writing about unique and new varieties of flowers and plants for the Neighborhood Gardener Newsletter and its 10,000 subscribers. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys tending her own garden on her balcony.
“SMALL CHANGE THAT CHANGES LIVES” Round Up
Through Operation Round Up, PRECO members voluntarily donate a small amount each month to help meet needs in the local community. By rounding up your monthly electric bills to the next dollar, each participating member only donates about $6 annually. Are you rounding up?
Community Spirit Simmers at Festival
By Claire Thomas
Peace River Electric Cooperative heated things up this year by participating in the annual Parrish Heritage Festival chili cookoff, showcasing the co-op team’s culinary skills and community spirit.
PRECO is deeply rooted in the communities it serves. The Parrish Heritage Festival provided an opportunity to connect with members outside the usual setting and share in the joy of community fellowship.
Enthusiastic volunteers from the co-op, dubbed The PRECO Peppers, along with Willie Wirehand, rolled up their sleeves and got to work, preparing a mouthwatering batch of chili. With a secret blend of spices and the special touch of a hot sauce bar, the
team attempted to win over festival-goers’ hearts.
The day was filled with sharing stories with members and forging new connections. As folks lined up to sample the fare, the power of good food to bring people together was confirmed. The competition was fierce, with chili entries ranging from traditional recipes to innovative twists on the classic dish.
PRECO does more than provide reliable power—it’s part of the fabric of our community. Events such as the Parrish Heritage Festival remind us of the importance of coming together to celebrate shared values. While the chili may not have taken home the top prize, the team feels the memories and connections were worth more than any trophy.
Until next year’s chili cook-off, we’ll keep the lights on and the chili simmering—serving our community with pride and passion. n
The PRECO Peppers enjoyed their day at the Parrish Heritage Festival chili cook-off. From left are Ashleigh Hayes, J.C. Alvarez, Clay Maginness, Claire Thomas, Max Baker and Louise Blackman.
AFFORDABLE LIFE INSURANCE
BEFORE YOU GO
Summer: Where Adventures Abound
Everyone takes advantage of summer in different ways. Some spend time outdoors, while others prefer to relax inside with a good book or even catch up on household chores.
Outdoors
You may already spend time in your nearest park, so load up the family this summer and experience a new site just a couple hours from home or even out of state.
If your family enjoys camping, many parks offer camping spots to rest your head during a weekend of fun. Make sure to book your spot early though, since summer is prime time to camp and spots tend to fill up faster.
Surrounded on three sides by water, Florida offers beaches for swimming, piers for fishing and boat rentals for adventuring on the water.
Indoors
Summer in the south can be extremely humid, and not everyone enjoys spending time in the heat.
If this is you, grab a book to take you into another world, but don’t limit yourself to the four walls of your home. Head to a cafe every once in a while to treat yourself to new surroundings, sounds and treats.
If instead you use summertime to catch up on household chores, make sure
to organize your to-do list before diving in. Batch your tasks into cleaning and
Summer adventures can include hiking new trails, visiting new parks, camping or spending time on the beach. ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY SARAH RYPMA
Summer is the season we’ve all been waiting for. It’s 100 days of high dives, ball games and barbecues. It’s 100 ways to dress a burger, catch some shade or get out of town. It’s 100 chances to clear the calendar for what’s most important.
Every two seconds this summer, someone like you will need blood. Donating is quick and easy and,. like all good things this time of year, it’s worth celebrating.
What are your summer plans?
This summer, there are 100 chances to give hope. Choose your day to help save three lives. Donate blood.
Choose your day to give hope. redcrossblood.org
PRECO.coop
800-282-3824
TO REPORT A POWER OUTAGE
Use the SmartHub app.
Text OUT to 800-282-3824.
Call 800-282-3824.
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
210 Metheny Road
Wauchula, FL 33873
MANATEE SERVICE CENTER
14505 Arbor Green Trail
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
District 1
LEONARD CRAWLEY
District 2
KENNETH ODEN
District 3
BRUCE VICKERS
District 4
HOLLIS ALBRITTON
District 5
MARIE DASHER
District 6
JOHN MARTIN
District 7
CHRIS PORTALE
District 8
ELLEN BACHMAN
District 9
WILLIE DAWES
BOARD MEETINGS
June 18
July 23
August 27
Any PRECO member may attend board meetings. Due to building security requirements and to facilitate attendance, members should contact the cooperative in a timely manner for logistical information regarding meetings.
ONLINE E-ZINE
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Sign up through your online account or call us at 800-282-3824
CEO Message
Three Benefits of Hurricane Preparedness
Here in the Sunshine State, hurricane preparedness is essential to residents. While predicting when and where hurricanes may strike or estimating their size and strength is challenging, being ready may help ease the storm’s effects.
Early preparation can help minimize property damage, safeguard your family and reduce the toll on your personal comfort.
Protect Your Home and Property
A significant benefit of hurricane preparedness is protecting your home and property. By taking steps such as installing shutters or impact-resistant windows, trimming trees around your house and securing outdoor furniture, you can minimize damage caused by high winds, rain and flooding. Preparing your home and property before a hurricane also helps reduce the need for costly repairs and insurance claim filings.
Ensure Your Family’s Safety
Hurricanes can be dangerous and cause significant harm to people caught in their path. Help keep your family safe by having a plan and stocking up on emergency supplies. Always ensure you have a well-stocked first-aid kit, access to clean drinking water, and a method of communicating with loved ones in an emergency.
Minimize Disruption to Daily Life
Hurricanes can cause disruptions to your daily life, including power outages, flooding and the need to evacuate. By preparing in advance, you can minimize the impact of these disruptions. For example, having a backup generator provides access to power during outages. At the same time, an evacuation plan can help you quickly and safely leave your home if necessary.
Taking steps to secure your property and protect your family also reduces the overall effect on your community. Being prepared helps ease the burden on our lineworkers, emergency personnel and other first responders who may be stretched thin following a hurricane.
Peace River Electric Cooperative schedules annual hurricane response plans under blue skies and is ready to act quickly. I strongly advise you to have an emergency plan for your family. It can be difficult to think clearly under stress, so take action before a hurricane is headed your way. Take time to plan and gather supplies now.
