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Florida Currents FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SEPTEMBER 2026

Training for Tomorrow’s Storm—Today Florida Keys Electric Cooperative employees put emergency plans to the test Page 4 FKEC lineman Jason Tucker and accounts payable specialist Tiffany George simulate initial damage assessment during a hurricane drill. PHOTO BY NIKKI DUNN CULLEN

ALSO INSIDE >> Summer Home Energy Efficiency | Employee News

CRUISE CLOSE TO HOME®

9 UNIQUE ITINERARIES



8 T O 1 6 - D AY A D V E N T U R E S

SOUTHEAST U.S. CRUISES Baltimore GEORGE WASHINGTON’S ESTATE SHORE EXCURSION  MOUNT VERNON, VA One of the nation’s most iconic homes, Mount Vernon offers a glimpse into 18th-century life through its beautiful gardens and grounds as well as intriguing museum exhibits honoring George Washington’s life and legacy.

MARYLAND

Annapolis

Washington, D.C. Mount Vernon Williamsburg

Yorktown Norfolk VIRGINIA Kitty Hawk NORTH

NAVAL ACADEMY SHORE EXCURSION ANNAPOLIS, MD Explore the academy’s historic grounds with our expert guide and experience “life on the yard.” Witness the noon meal formation and take in breathtaking views of the campus.

CAROLINA THE WRIGHT BROTHERS In 1903, the Wright brothers achieved the first powered, sustained, and controlled airplane flight in Kitty Hawk, NC. Two years Beaufort later, they surpassed their own milestone when they built and flew the first fully practical airplane. Wilmington SOUTH CAROLINA HISTORIC SAVANNAH TROLLEY EXPLORATION SHORE EXCURSION  SAVANNAH, GA Experience a fully narrated journey aboard the Old Town Trolley, featuring open-air seating ideal for capturing memorable photos. Along the way, expert conductors share engaging stories, landmarks, and over 270 years of history from Georgia’s First City. As your exploration brings the past to life across more than 100 points of interest, you will discover Savannah’s rich legacy and timeless charm.

ALABAMA

Ocean Springs Mobile

GEORGIA

Hilton Head Island Savannah Jekyll Island

Jacksonville Pensacola

Charleston

Amelia Island

Green Cove Springs

St. Augustine

Gulfport/Ship Island New Orleans

FORT MASSACHUSETTS  SHIP ISLAND, MS Fort Massachusetts is a historic brick fort located on West Ship Island, Mississippi. It was built by the U.S. government in the mid-1800s as part of a coastal defense system following the War of 1812.

Blue Spring State Park Cape Canaveral

FLORIDA

St. Petersburg Punta Gorda

SEAPLANE ADVENTURE TO DRY TORTUGAS SHORE EXCURSION  KEY WEST, FL Seventy miles west of Key West, Florida lies one of North America’s most inaccessible National Parks–Dry Tortugas. The park is renowned for its marine life, pirate legends, and sheer unspoiled beauty.

Marco Island

West Palm Beach

Key Biscayne

Key West

REQUEST A FREE BROCHURE  800-459-2596

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC

FKEC Notice: Florida Currents Unclaimed Capital Credits September 2026 • Volume 15, No. 11

CEO Michael Shepard SENIOR VP OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Chasity Anderson, CCC DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Noble Sprayberry SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC LEAD CONTENT EDITOR Victoria Hampton, CCC FLORIDA CURRENTS EDITORS Sable Riley, CCC; Valeri Saldanha Rosa ASSISTANT EDITORS David Herder, CCC; Nina Todea, CCC PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION SENIOR MANAGER Elizabeth Beatty SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR Alyssa McDougle

Members acknowledge that $4.89 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 Parkway, 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 Parkway, 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.

See if you have unclaimed funds before it’s too late

As a not-for-profit, member-owned utility, Florida Keys Electric Cooperative members receive member capital credits—your piece of the co-op pie. Member capital credits are annual margins (total revenue minus operating costs) allocated to members that received power from us for that year on a per-use basis. FKEC retains these margins for a number of years to invest in improvements, maintain the electric system and offset the amount the co-op borrows from banks, which in turn keeps electric rates lower. Eventually, these allocated margins are returned to members in the form of capital credits. FKEC attempts to locate members and former members who have not yet claimed their capital credit refunds for five years. A final notice is published in the fifth year by listing members with unclaimed funds. To see if you, or someone you know, has unclaimed funds, check our database online at www.FKEC.com/access-your-account/. FKEC members or former members on the list must claim payments within 60 days of

Aug. 24, 2026. Failure to make such a claim will result in an irrevocable assignment or gift by such member or former member of such capital credit to the co-op pursuant to Article VII, Section 3 of the cooperative bylaws. n

Proud to be Your Member-Owned Cooperative 305-852-2431 • www.FKEC.com

Horses Without Humans

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.

Up Close, Page 10

Making an Old House Work for Today

DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES American MainStreet Publications, 611 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 504, Austin, TX 78704-1714; 800-626-1181 or 512-441-5200; amp.coop.

Spotlight, Page 12

© 2026 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 pioneer.coop.

Big Bowl Energy Picture Hunt 18 Planner Get Outside 20 Gardening Co-op Pages: 4-8, 25-26, 28-29, 32

22 24

Fuel up with grains, greens and protein In the Kitchen, Page 16 SEPTEMBER 2026

FKEC NEWS SEPTEMBER 2026

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 Pay by Phone 1-855-940-4007 www.FKEC.com Mailing Address: P.O. Box 377, Tavernier, FL 33070

MEMBERS SHOULD KNOW:

FKEC offers meter-mounted surge protection to help safeguard your home’s electronics and appliances from damaging power surges. Learn more at www.FKEC.com/member-services Unless otherwise noted, “FKEC NEWS” writing, design & photography by: Nikki Dunn Cullen, news@fkec.com.

SEPTEMBER 2026

www.FKEC.com

Ready Before It Matters When hurricane season arrives, many people begin thinking about preparation. At FKEC, preparation never stops. Throughout the year, we strengthen our electric system, maintain equipment, train employees and refine emergency plans so we’re ready when severe weather threatens the Upper and Middle Keys. One of the best ways we do that is by putting those plans to the test. Recently, employees from every department participated in FKEC’s annual hurricane drill, a two-day exercise conducted from the Marathon and Tavernier Operations Centers. Each day featured a different Category 3 hurricane scenario simulating widespread damage across FKEC’s service territory. Mutual aid resources were intentionally limited, challenging employees to respond using only the personnel, equipment and resources immediately available—just as they might after a real storm. The scenarios unfolded much like an actual hurricane response. Office employees partnered with lineworkers to conduct initial damage assessments, documenting damage using both electronic and paper forms in case technology became unavailable. Teams practiced identifying damage, prioritizing repairs, reporting field conditions and communicating critical information back to the Operations Center. Meanwhile, warehouse employees simulated receiving and distributing restoration materials, engineering staff analyzed incoming field reports, dispatch coordinated changing priorities, and leadership managed restoration strategy as new challenges emerged.

SCOTT NEWBERRY Chief Executive Officer Just like a real emergency, the unexpected became part of the day. Simulated equipment failures, communication challenges, changing field conditions and even a “live crocodile” near damaged electrical equipment required employees to adapt quickly, solve problems and make informed decisions under pressure. The goal wasn’t simply to complete the exercise. It was to identify opportunities to improve. Every lesson learned helps strengthen our emergency response. After each exercise, employees evaluated what worked well, identified opportunities for improvement and incorporated those lessons into future storm response plans. Storm preparation doesn’t begin when a hurricane is approaching. It happens long before the first rain band or the first outage. When severe weather threatens, our members can be confident that behind every restoration effort is a team that has already trained together and prepared for the unexpected—so we’re ready when it matters most. 

Office employees join lineworkers to conduct initial damage assessments.

Engineering and field crews analyze damage reports in real time.

Substation crews inspect critical equipment before restoring power to the transmission system.

Practice Makes Prepared FKEC employees put emergency plans to the test during a hurricane drill.

Warehouse employees practice documenting and distributing restoration supplies.

System Operations monitor outages and dispatch restoration priorities.

Teams test documenting field conditions using iPads and backup paper forms.

Supervisors and crews review the response and identify lessons learned.

Crews receive a safety briefing before beginning restoration assignments.

SEPTEMBER 2026

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC

WHAT YOUR

HOME Wishes You Knew ABOUT SUMMER

IF YOUR HOME COULD TALK, it might have a few friendly reminders to help you stay cool, comfortable and energy smart during another beautiful—blazing and humid—Florida Keys summer. Welcome home.

I know it’s hot out there. The Florida Keys sunshine is beautiful, but it’s doing everything it can to work its way inside. Fortunately, I’ve been doing my best to keep you cool. Between my walls, windows and roof—and with a little help from the hardest-working appliance in the house— I’ve been holding back the heat and humidity all day long. Since we’re on the same team, I was hoping I could ask you a few favors.

Give me a little shade.

I know you love all those sunny windows. So do I. But every afternoon, the sun pours through the glass and warms up my rooms. Closing the blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day helps keep that heat outside where it belongs. You can also consider tinting sun-exposed

SEPTEMBER 2026

windows. Think of it as giving me a pair of sunglasses.

Be kind to my air conditioner.

If one piece of equipment deserves a little appreciation, it’s the air conditioner. All summer long, it works overtime to keep us comfortable. A clean air filter, plenty of room around the outdoor unit and routine maintenance can help it run more efficiently and may even prevent an untimely breakdown. If it’s getting older and struggling to keep up, FKEC offers residential rebates (learn more at www.FKEC.com) that may help offset the cost of installing a qualifying high-efficiency central air conditioner or smart thermostat.

Help me keep the cool air where it belongs.

Every time warm, humid air sneaks through worn weatherstripping, tiny gaps

around doors and windows or an open door that’s left open just a little too long, my air conditioner has to start all over again. A few small repairs can make a surprisingly big difference.

Trust the thermostat.

Turning the thermostat way down won’t cool me any faster. It only tells the air conditioner to keep running longer. Instead, choose a comfortable temperature and let ceiling fans help you feel cooler. Just remember—they cool people, not rooms—so switch them off when no one’s around.

My landscaping helps more than you think.

Those palms, native trees and tropical plants aren’t just here because they look nice. When planted in the right place, landscaping can provide shade for walls and windows, helping reduce the amount of heat that reaches me during the hottest part of the day. Even a little natural shade can help lighten the workload on my air conditioner. Just remember to give my outdoor

Close blin ds or curtain s during th e hottest p art of the day.

Don’t forget an annual air conditioner checkup.

air-conditioning unit plenty of room to breathe. Plants should provide shade nearby—not block the airflow it needs to operate efficiently.

The little things really do matter.

You’d be surprised how much difference small habits can make. Run the dishwasher, washing machine and clothes dryer after the hottest part of the day. Fire up the grill instead of heating the kitchen with the oven. Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans to remove excess humidity, but turn them off when they’re no longer needed. Turn off lights and electronics you’re not using. None of these actions take much effort, but together they help lighten the load all summer long.

One more thing...

You probably think I’m just talking about saving electricity.

I’m not. I’m talking about staying comfortable, taking care of the equipment that takes care of you and making life a little easier during another long Florida Keys summer. Of course, homes can’t really talk. But they do leave clues. An air conditioner that never seems to stop running. Rooms that always feel warmer than the rest of the house. Higher electric bills than expected.

Check weatherstripping, and fix any gaps around doors and windows.

Listening to those clues can help you stay more comfortable while using energy wisely. So the next time you step inside after a hot Keys afternoon and enjoy that first blast of cool air, remember that your home has been working hard all day to keep you comfortable. And if it really could talk, it would probably end with just three words:

Thanks for listening. 

Your home and air conditioner work hard all summer long. A few simple steps can help them work more efficiently, keeping your home comfortable while helping manage cooling costs. — Veronica Ornelas, Director of Member Services SEPTEMBER 2026

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC

Celebrating Kim Jones

Four Decades of Dedication Florida Keys Electric Cooperative proudly congratulates Kim Jones on 40 years of dedicated service to the cooperative and its members. Kim began her career at FKEC as a Billing Operator, where she spent 11 years serving members before transferring to the Engineering Department as a Mapping Technician. She was later promoted to her current position as Work Order Specialist, where she helps coordinate and administer work orders that keep projects moving and support the cooperative’s daily operations. Throughout her career, Kim has developed a wealth of institutional knowledge and become a dependable resource for employees across the cooperative. Her attention to detail and willingness to help have made her an important part of FKEC’s success. She has also enjoyed recognizing

the accomplishments of her coworkers, serving for several years on the Employee Appreciation Committee. “Kim’s experience and knowledge are an invaluable resource to our team,” said CFO Cris Beaty. “Her dedication, reliability and willingness to help others have earned the respect of her coworkers. We are grateful for her 40 years of service and everything she continues to do for FKEC.” Outside of work, Kim enjoys growing orchids, boating, cooking and, most of all, spending time with her family. Thank you, Kim, not only for your thorough work but for the positivity and kindness you bring to work every day. Happy anniversary. 

Mike Jenkins Celebrates 25 Years This year, Mike Jenkins marks 25 years of service with FKEC. Mike joined FKEC as a Groundman before being promoted to System Operator in 2004, where he helped monitor and manage FKEC’s electric system. He was later promoted to System Operations Supervisor, where he continues to play a key role in maintaining the reliable electric service

members depend on every day. Mike has long been committed to serving his community, particularly through local fire and rescue. He currently serves as a commissioner for the Key Largo Fire & EMS District. He also values time with his family. Congratulations, Mike, and thank you for 25 years of service to this cooperative. 

Interested in being part of the FKEC team? Check for job opportunities at www.FKEC.com/about-fkec 8

SEPTEMBER 2026

Horses Without H By Pam Windsor

Yvonne Barteau’s life largely centers around her love for horses. She’s a world-renowned horse trainer, clinician and competitive dressage rider who won many medals and awards. She also led the popular “Arabian Nights” dinner theater production in Orlando, working as trainer and director of entertainment for six years. Her passion for those majestic animals began when she was a young girl. “It was always going to be about horses,” she says. “I just had to figure out how to keep them in my life.” Yvonne worked hard to break into the equine industry and, through drive and determination, became an expert in her field. In addition to training racehorses, Western horses, jumping horses and many others, she’s written equine-related books and produced documentaries. When she discovered what was

happening to horses no longer of service to their owners, she took action. “I thought, ‘How can I be living on this little superhighway where the horses I come into contact with are OK, and yet there’s this underground society of horses nobody cares about?’” Spurred Into Action Yvonne was shocked to hear troubling news about a horse she’d ridden years before and trained at the Olympic level. “I got a call one Sunday from someone who said, ‘Didn’t you used to train that stallion, Liberty?’” she says. “The guy also named a couple of other horses I trained. I said, ‘Yes, they’re all retired now.’ And he said, ‘No, they’re not. They’re here in Indiana, and they’re shipping off to slaughter.’ ” Yvonne made plans to buy the horses and bring them back to her farm. About that same time, she was working on a

documentary and, through her research, discovered more than 100,000 unwanted horses in the United States were shipped to slaughter every year. In 2017, Yvonne formed the nonprofit equine adoption organization Horses Without Humans, with the goal of taking in horses that have no humans, no voice of their own and no other options. HWH houses and cares for up to 90 horses at its 125-acre facility in Bell. The organization offers compassion while providing professional assessment, medical care and rehabilitative training. Then, it finds the horses forever homes. Yvonne found the key to getting people to adopt horses with varied working backgrounds is proper training. “I realized most rescue operations get clogged up and full because they don’t have a way to get the horses adopted,” she says. “People want a horse that’s safe for their family to ride. Most rescue

Dr. Lawrence Kadic credits the entire team at the UF Large Animal Hospital with the success of a challenging and lengthy surgery for 5-yearold Shadow, a neglected and suffering mare. PHOTOS COURTESY OF HORSES WITHOUT HUMANS

S E P T E M B E R 2026

UP CLOSE

t Humans ABOVE: Since forming in 2017, Yvonne Barteau’s nonprofit Horses Without Humans has saved hundreds of horses. RIGHT: Yvonne escorts Shadow as the mare makes her first outpatient visit following surgery.

operations have well-intentioned people who want to do the right thing, but they don’t have trainers.” Saving Shadow Horses Without Humans has celebrated more than 500 horse adoptions to date. The group saved many animals that wouldn’t have made it otherwise, most recently a 5-year-old mare named Shadow. Shadow was listed as an emaciation case when HWH went to pick her up, but her condition turned out to be much more severe. She had a deformed or broken ankle and would likely need to be euthanized. “She clamored out of that trailer, super careful with her leg,” Yvonne says. “I had her march over to the wash rack where we had a big pot of mush ready for her to eat. She was skinny, full of worms, with rain rot and fungus all over her. But when we cleaned her up, her face was full of hope and happiness, and I thought, ‘We’re not going to euthanize you today.’ ” Yvonne had Shadow’s leg X-rayed, and the prognosis was grim. She sent the X-rays to vets hoping someone could help Shadow. Once Yvonne had a commitment, she’d begin raising money to cover medical costs. After reviewing the X-rays and watching a video of Shadow walking, Dr. Lawrence

Kadic, with the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, agreed to operate. “I talked to him on the phone, and he said it was a tricky surgery, but he’d do it,” Yvonne says. “He also offered to do some extra after-care for free. What we needed to do was raise $21,000.” Thanks to social media and support from people around the world, HWH raised the funds needed. Lawrence, the clinical assistant professor of large animal surgery and a board-certified large animal surgeon, describes the procedure as a fetlock arthrodesis to realign and fuse Shadow’s ankle joint. It’s commonly performed, often on racehorses with breakdown injuries. However, Shadow’s case was more challenging because of the chronic nature of the injury and the fact she had been living with it for so long, making proper alignment of the joint more difficult. “Even though Shadow’s surgery carried risks and a relatively high chance of complications, the decision to perform the surgery ultimately came down to not only

As Yvonne and her team worked with Shadow, her overall health began to improve.

saving her life but providing Shadow with an improved quality of life,” Lawrence says. It was a lengthy operation, with the entire team at the UF Large Animal Hospital working together. “Shadow’s case was very rewarding,” Lawrence says. “As a teaching hospital, many individuals were involved with her care and contributed in meaningful ways. It was truly a team effort.” Yvonne remains grateful. “There’s a video of Shadow walking where she’s going into surgery with her turned ankle,” she says. “Then, it shows her walking out with 14 screws and three plates in her leg, but she’s walking straight. It’s a miracle moment.” Shadow is now back at the ranch with the rest of the rescue horses, healing and making progress. Yvonne says horses are like people, all with their own unique personalities. It’s one of the many reasons she’s so dedicated to helping them. “Shadow conveyed hope and dignity in the best way,” she says. “I know if I’d been her, I would have been hateful. I would have been ‘Get off me, my foot’s broken.’ But Shadow was so decent, and now she’s so happy. I’ve done a lot of great things with horses and won awards, but it’s not any better to win dressage at Devon than it is to have Shadow like she is now.”  Visit horseswithouthumans.org to learn more. SEPTEMBER 2026

ADOBE STOCK ILLUSTRATION BY KANPISUT

Shadow arrived at HWH emaciated, struggling with various issues, and suffering from a deformed or broken ankle. Early indications were she’d have to be euthanized.

Making an Old House Work for Today Upgrade for modern comfort while honoring your rural home’s rich past By Nate Birt

AFTER

BEFORE

S E P T E M B E R 2026

SPOTLIGHT joy of modern living with a legacy that will live on for generations. Keep your house’s bones intact to honor its history. As you begin evaluating renovation options, it’s important to start with some appreciation of what you’re working with. See your house’s strengths and limitations as an echo from the past and a palette for sketching its next chapter of hospitality. “Old buildings are usually constructed very well,” says Melinda McKnight, CEO of Energy Conservation Services in Port Ewen, New York. “They were built at a time when people understood that the quality of their work was a reflection of their character.” Melinda and her husband, Bill, own the Building Performance Institute-accredited company and routinely consult on building science and energy efficiency with homeowners whose properties date as far back as the 1600s. At the same time, it’s important to recognize there are some inherent limitations in older homes. For example, modern preferences for features such as open-concept floor plans and cathedral ceilings might not be a great fit. “A lot of times, unless [those features are] done with the guidance of a building scientist, those kind of decisions and improvements can actually cause damage, and they can actually end up creating problems if they’re not really done properly,” Melinda says. The same goes for tossing out old windows or woodworking without realizing those items might be restored and retrofitted to provide the desired energy-efficiency benefits.

INSET: This 1889 rural Victorian farmhouse, in western North Carolina’s North Buncombe County, featured a tight space beneath the house that limited access and made meaningful structural work nearly impossible. FAR LEFT: The team at Adams and Adams Construction rehabilitated the farmhouse by lifting it to stabilize the structure, installing modern infrastructure and creating a daylight basement. PHOTOS BY J.G. ADAMS IV

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY ANNA

You love your older rural house, and you’re eager to stay true to its history while upgrading for modern living. As a homeowner, what should you do? Start with a mindset of appreciation and plan strategically. “When you live in a historic home, you really embody a part of our nation’s built landscape,” says Katie Adams, of Adams and Adams Construction, an Asheville, North Carolina-based renovation and historic preservation company. “When you look at it through that lens and not just ‘my old, drafty house,’ what an honor to be a part of something so special.” Katie and her husband, Gus, co-own the company and are professionally trained historic preservationists. They’ve found countless treasures in their 30 years upgrading old homes, including belt buckles, boots, plates and other items— some even found buried in old outhouses. Preservation matters to Katie, Gus and the millions of Americans living in homes built 50 or more years ago, especially when meeting the qualifications for a listing on the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places. Modern living matters, too. Whether you own a century-old farmhouse, a midcentury ranch or something else entirely, experts say there are various things you need to know to upgrade wisely, preserve character and make your home a

Three Tips to Boost Window Performance in Old Houses When it comes to energy upgrades, windows often are among the first features homeowners want to replace. But experts say they’re also one of the least cost-effective. “Windows are expensive, so they have a very long payback,” says Melinda McKnight, CEO of Energy Conservation Services in Port Ewen, New York. “They’re not the biggest bang for your buck.” Unless they’re cracked or leaking, your original windows can often be upgraded in place with the following measures: X Replace air sealing and not the glass. “A lot of installers will just tuck fiberglass inside the frame, and then they put trim on,” Melinda says. “Use a one-part, low-expansion window-and-door foam instead of fiberglass. Then put the trim on. There’ll be a much better result, and you’ll see much less draft.” X Use pulley covers, window felts and door sweeps. These treatments can make a surprising difference in comfort and energy savings. “There’s a lot you can do to tighten old windows up,” she says. X Install storm windows. Consider lowsolar-gain storm windows, window film or exterior solar shades. In hot, sunny climates, blocking radiant heat from the sun before it enters the glass is a high priority. Look for products with a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient that can be applied or installed without altering your windows’ historic appearance. SEPTEMBER 2026

BEFORE

AFTER

The owners of this 1850 timber-frame house renovated it to improve insulation and lower energy costs. PHOTOS BY MELINDA MCKNIGHT, ENERGY CONSERVATION SERVICES RIGHT: Poorly insulated rim joists can make floors cold and drafty. FAR RIGHT: Three inches of high-density, closed-cell spray polyurethane foam can be applied to rim joists for better insulation.

BEFORE

“Tuning up and saving your old windows is really one of the biggest things you’ll hear about in preservation,” Gus says. “It’s a really big deal to protect your fireplace mantels and any of your fireplace surrounds,” Katie says. “Handrails for your banisters. Those are really art, architecturally precious things.” Other irreplaceable hardware to keep, fine-tune and treasure include old doorknobs, hinges and locks. Interior treatments can enhance energy efficiency. Plenty of home improvement TV shows suggest modernizing your home with glamorous color palettes and visually striking details. Experts, however, say the biggest bang for your modernizing buck comes from investing in the hidden details that keep your utility bills lighter. “Achieving improved comfort and efficiency in buildings requires air sealing and insulating the bottom and top of the building envelope—the area you pay to heat 14

S E P T E M B E R 2026

AFTER TOP: Fiberglass insulation in attics often has many holes that can let in cold air. It’s also attractive to mice and other rodents. BOTTOM: Cellulose-based material is an energy-efficient alternative to fiberglass insulation. Boric acid is often added to deter pests.

and cool,” Melinda says. “Begin with the attic and basement or crawl space. We don’t generally recommend starting with walls and windows. Our goal is always to address the bottom and the top of the building envelope. That’s usually the low-hanging fruit.” The reason is the physics of how air moves through a house. Warm air rises and escapes through the top, while cold air is pulled into a house through gaps and leaks along the bottom. In hot, humid climates, your attic is still your biggest opportunity—radiant heat builds up there and radiates down into living spaces. Sealing and insulating the attic floor, combined with good vapor control in your crawl space, will do more for your comfort and utility bills than almost anything else. In addition to using the right type of insulation, evaluate other places where cold air enters or warm air escapes, and plug those holes. Melinda says one such example is rim joists, where a house’s wooden frame meets its wooden floor joists. In Florida, crawl space strategy requires

extra care. Encapsulated crawl spaces work well but must include a vapor barrier and often a dedicated dehumidifier to prevent moisture buildup in the humid climate. Consult a local building scientist before sealing yours. “Wherever wood meets wood, that’s an air leak,” she says. “It’s important to air seal and insulate that for a couple of different reasons. The first is that outdoor air getting into conditioned space can create condensation, and potentially [mold]. And anywhere there’s an air leak, it’s an opportunity for a rodent to make entry.” For optimal air sealing, Melinda recommends buying a can of professional-grade foam, a metal gun for applying it and an acetone-based gun cleaner. Avoid foam kits with a plastic straw, which can get clogged and prevent you from using all the foam. “Just spending a little more money at the outset and getting the right materials and supplies will save you in the future,” she says. Other popular energy-efficiency upgrades for rural homes include:

• Install a mini-split. These units

are particularly well-suited to Gulf Coast climates because they manage humidity as well as temperature—a critical advantage in Florida, where moisture control is as important as cooling. Mini-splits work best in buildings that have been properly and professionally air sealed and well insulated. • Caulk holes to air seal. Fill air gaps with caulk or one-part foam to minimize entering or escaping air. Common areas of air infiltration include around outlet boxes, window trim, plumbing under sinks and other features on external walls. • Step outside. Consider how your older house’s exterior could benefit from some modern touches. Exterior investments should divert water and improve comfort. When it comes to preserving your house’s history and structural integrity, water management is everything, Melinda says. “A common issue that we see is gutter downspouts not being run far enough away from the building so that water is coming back in,” she says. A good rule of thumb is to ensure downspouts run at least 8 feet away from the house, if possible. Also, pay attention to the roof. If you spot a leak inside your house, you might think the whole roof needs to go. But you might just need to replace some flashing— pieces of metal installed to prevent water entry. “If there are roof lines that come together or valleys, you want to have flashing there,” Melinda says. “You also want to have step flashing along chimneys and stack pipes.” Other places to examine outside your home include cantilevers, the sections of floor that overhang your foundation. Melinda provides an example. “If you put a three-season room on the first floor but you have a walkout basement, and you don’t take care of the underside of that floor properly, that’s an

air leak,” she says. “And [it’s] a source of discomfort and higher utility bills.” Raised ranch-style homes that were built in the 1970s often have a cantilever across the front on the first floor. “It could be as little as 1 foot, but that 1-foot cantilever goes across the whole face of the building, which can really be a source of cold floors,” Melinda says. Do your DIY and know your limits. There are plenty of tasks a handy homeowner can take on, though it’s also essential to know your limits and the risks you might incur without expert help. “There is a lot that a homeowner can do to improve comfort and efficiency, especially if you’re handy,” Melinda says. “Air sealing—sealing up gaps, cracks and penetrations—is more important than insulation. It’s hard to make a mistake with basic air sealing unless you use the wrong material.” If you decide to take down trim, scrollwork, windows or other items in the house, don’t discard them. Keep them safe in a basement or another location because future homeowners might want to restore those features. Plus, you’ll be keeping those items out of landfills. For more intensive modernizations, such as changing a house’s entire electrical system or major plumbing renovations, it’s imperative to hire a licensed and insured professional, Gus advises. Doing so mitigates the risk of a future house fire or water damage. Also hire out exterior painting projects to experts who specialize in painting older homes, Katie says. In Florida’s high humidity, this is especially critical. Moisture-trapping paints can accelerate wood rot and mold growth far faster than in drier climates. Seek out painters experienced specifically with older homes, and ask about breathable, mildew-resistant formulations designed for your region. “As a steward of a historic home, treat it kind of like it’s an archaeological site,” Katie says. “It’s really important to leave the original fabric with the home because you’re caretaking it for now.” n

Understand Your Insulation Options

If your attic or basement is padded full of fiberglass insulation, you might not be getting much benefit from it. “Fiberglass is air-permeable,” says Melinda McKnight, CEO of Energy Conservation Services in Port Ewen, New York. “If it’s not enclosed inside a wall cavity, it will allow air to pass through it in basements and attics. And more importantly, rodents like to nest in it.” Better choices for older houses, according to Melinda, include: X Professional-grade cellulose, preferably infused with boric acid to deter pests X Rockwool, which should be paired with air sealing for best results X Foam board, such as polyisocyanurate, especially for rim joists and hard-toreach corners For environmentally conscious renovators, there are emerging options, such as insulation made from wool or hemp. Availability can vary, but they’re worth investigating if sustainability is a priority for your renovation, Melinda says.

Polyiso board is installed in preparation for rockwool batt insulation to be added in the rafter bays. SEPTEMBER 2026

IN THE KITCHEN

Big Bowl Energy

FUEL UP WITH GRAINS, GREENS AND PROTEIN

Greek Protein and Grain Bowls Chicken

2 pounds chicken breast, sliced into tenders 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon coriander

1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon dried dill 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Bowl Olive oil spray 1 red onion, thinly sliced 4.7-ounce box couscous 2 cucumbers, peeled and sliced 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup feta

Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY IURII

S E P T E M B E R 2026

1/2 cup black olives, sliced 11/2 cups chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1/2 teaspoon dried dill 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

Heat oven to 400 F. To prepare chicken, combine spices in a bowl, then coat chicken tenders. Spray a sheet pan with olive oil spray. Add sliced onions to one side and chicken to the other. Spray tops of chicken and onions with more olive oil. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes. Set chicken aside to cool, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Prepare couscous according to package directions, omitting the olive oil, if desired. Add chicken, onions, couscous, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, olives, chickpeas, vinegar, dill and mint to a large mixing bowl. Toss before serving.

Peanut Chicken Protein Bowls

2 tablespoons creamy 1 large sweet potato, peeled, peanut butter cut into half-inch cubes 1 large red onion, finely chopped 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon soy sauce 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil Kosher salt 4 cups cooked brown rice Freshly ground black pepper 1 avocado, thinly sliced 2 6- to 8-ounce boneless, 2 cups baby spinach skinless chicken breasts 1 tablespoon finely chopped 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder fresh cilantro 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 1 lime, juiced

Heat oven to 425 F. On a large baking sheet, toss potatoes and onion with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Bake potatoes until tender, 20 to 25 minutes. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, ginger, salt and pepper. Cook chicken in the skillet, turning occasionally, until golden brown and a thermometer inserted into thickest part registers 165 F, about 8 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board. Rest for 10 minutes, then thinly slice. Make a dressing by whisking garlic, lime juice, peanut butter, honey and soy sauce in a bowl. Whisk in sesame oil and remaining olive oil. Divide rice among bowls. Top with potato mixture, chicken, avocado and spinach. Sprinkle with cilantro and sesame seeds. Drizzle with dressing.

Chicken Burrito Bowls Chicken 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons lime juice 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped 1½ tablespoons adobo sauce

1½ teaspoons garlic powder ¾ teaspoon salt 1½ pounds chicken breast, cut into strips

Cilantro lime rice 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed 1½ cups water ¼ teaspoon salt

1 lime, zested 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice ¼ cup chopped cilantro

Bowl 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped 1 cup tomatoes, diced 1 cup frozen corn, thawed

15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained ½ small red onion, chopped 1 avocado, diced

Make a marinade by stirring together oil, lime juice, peppers, adobo sauce, garlic powder and salt in a large bowl. Add chicken, and toss to coat. Cover. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, and add to pan. Cook, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 5-8 minutes. Set aside. Bring water to a boil. Add salt and rice. Return to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover. Simmer until water is absorbed and rice is tender, about 15-18 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then mix in zest, lime juice and cilantro. To assemble, arrange rice and lettuce in the bottom of a serving bowl. Top with chicken, tomatoes, corn, beans, onions and avocado.

Hot Honey Salmon Bowls Salmon

1 tablespoon avocado oil 1/3 cup honey 1/4 cup Sriracha 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper 16 ounces salmon, skin removed, cut into 1- to 2-inch cubes

Bowls 1 bunch asparagus, sliced diagonally 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1/4 cup vinegar

1 tablespoon white sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup cucumber slices 1 cup shredded carrots 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa

Heat oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, and coat with avocado oil. Mix honey, sriracha, garlic, salt, pepper, cayenne and crushed red pepper to create hot honey sauce. Lay cubed salmon about 1 inch apart on one side of the pan. Coat with half of the hot honey mixture. In a large bowl, toss asparagus and Brussels sprouts with the remaining hot honey sauce and sesame oil. Place on the other side of the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and salmon is cooked through. While fish and vegetables bake, add vinegar, sugar and salt to a small bowl. Mix well, then add cucumber and carrots. Stir to coat. Let sit, stirring every 5 minutes. Drain before using. Serve each bowl with rice, salmon and vegetables.

Cottage Cheese Taco Bowls Sweet potatoes

2 large sweet potatoes, diced Avocado oil spray

½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon paprika ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Ground beef 1 pound ground beef ¾ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder 1 large avocado, diced 16 ounces cottage cheese Crushed red pepper Hot honey

Heat air fryer to 400 F. In a large bowl, spray sweet potatoes with avocado oil. Sprinkle with seasonings, and toss to coat. Air fry for 18 minutes, rotating potatoes halfway. Saute ground beef with seasonings for 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Divide potatoes, ground beef, avocado and cottage cheese among four bowls. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper, and drizzle with hot honey. SEPTEMBER 2026

THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT NIKON D800 | 180mm lens | ISO: 560 | f/3.2 at 1/64

NIKON D810 | 29mm lens | ISO: 100 | f/6.3 at 1/10 NIKON D810 | 180mm lens | ISO: 500 | f/4 at 1/400

Fall Scavenger Hunt Story and photos by Dave LaBelle

One of the more popular assignments I gave my students at every level was Faces of Fall, a version of a photo scavenger hunt. I found early in my teaching career that students loved photo scavenger hunts that allowed them to scour different areas and make choices about subject matter. What didn’t register with most students early in their education was that each photograph in the series was designed to strengthen their awareness of light, composition, lensing and people skills. The first required photograph was a scenic or pictorial. I wanted an overall photograph, the type of picture they might see on a seasonal calendar or magazine cover—something colorful that clearly spoke of autumn. In addition, they were expected to make a portrait of someone they did not know, usually dressed for the cooling temperatures. This was not to be a mug shot, but a lively candid or posed face of someone in a fall-like environment, possibly a logger, a fisherman or a farmer.

S E P T E M B E R 2026

Third, I asked for a seasonal detail, a close-up of an item—sometimes called still life—such as hands shucking corn, a carved pumpkin, a fishing lure or a red flannel shirt hanging on a clothesline. I asked them to work at making every photograph the best they could—good subject, interesting light and thoughtful composition, as if each image had to stand on its own merit. I loved what the students found and how excited they were about sharing their photographs. They later learned I was introducing them to a simple publishing formula. As an editor, I find that being offered the variety of an overall or scenesetter, an engaging face and a storytelling detail for a story makes layouts much easier and more engaging for the reader. Most of all, scavenger hunts are fun. Your camera leads you to places and people you might never have seen or known. 

FROM LEFT: A joyful West Delaware band member smiles during a performance. The leaves of a red maple frame the fading afternoon light striking the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa. Red pears sit on a kitchen windowsill to ripen in late fall.

Reader Challenge Try to capture three eye-catching faces of fall. Gather caption information, and you might consider sending the package to your local newspaper or magazine. Many publications are often interested in colorful, local images. Email your best image—just one—with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to gph@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels. Internationally renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. He has shared photo tips and life perspectives with readers since 2009. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.

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sea wolves Some less-desirable species can provide great action

Most Florida saltwater anglers want to catch speckled trout, redfish or other species more desirable for food. However, for pure exhilarating excitement, some less-popular species can deliver fantastic sport. Bluefish can provide incredible action on light tackle. These toothy saltwater piranhas can weigh more than 30 pounds and travel in big schools. Another typically ignored fish, Spanish mackerel prey upon many types of fish, squid and other morsels. Like bluefish, these fast and furious fish frequently congregate in huge schools to terrorize anything with fins. Spanish mackerel and bluefish attack practically anything shiny that resembles a baitfish. Use metal or hard plastic lures because these toothy terrors can easily shred anything soft. Some good lure choices include spoons, blade baits, crankbaits or jerkbaits in gold, silver, chrome or fishy colors. They also hit feather jigs and might smack topwaters that mimic mullets or other baitfish. Bluefish and Spanish mackerel make excellent targets for fly fishermen. Anglers can also tempt bluefish and Spanish mackerel with live or fresh baitfish. They devour croakers, menhaden, mullets and others. They hit cut ladyfish and other fish chunks but prefer live bait. They might grab a shrimp but prefer to eat fish. Regardless of the chosen bait, add about 6 inches of steel leader with a swivel to the line. Their scissorlike teeth easily slice through most fishing lines. Retrieve baits as fast as possible. Some people troll shiny baits through the upper layers of the water column. Spanish mackerel and bluefish can devastate baitfish schools, but nothing compares to the sheer fear factor from a school of ravenous jack crevalle moving through an area. Sometimes described as “coastal wolf packs,” schools of jacks tear through baitfish in the bays. Few fish in fresh or salt water garner such a fierce reputation for pugnacious, tackle-busting power, lightning runs and vicious strikes as jack crevalle. When feeding, jacks eat almost anything they can catch. They devour menhaden, mullets, sardines and other baitfish. They viciously attack various baits and offer incredible challenges on fly tackle. When a jack hits a bait, it looks like a torpedo slamming into a ship followed by reel-screaming, drag-pulling runs. Few strikes can compare to a big jack crevalle smashing a topwater bait. When a marauding phalanx of jacks roars through a bay, toss a very large 20

S E P T E M B E R 2026

Among the most powerful fish in the sea, jack crevalle can provide great fighting action. PHOTO BY JOHN N. FELSHER

topwater temptation in front of the tumult. Pop it once or twice and hang on. Jacks regularly enter brackish or even coastal freshwater systems. In the summer and early fall, people catch jacks up coastal rivers. Bluewater anglers catch them far offshore while trolling for marlin or sailfish. Contempt for these three species probably stems from their notorious reputations as less-than-desirable table fare. However, for pure sport, few fish can provide more excitement in coastal estuaries or nearshore waters. Hooking some of these less-desirable species could turn a humdrum day into an exciting adventure for people not too picky about what yanks on the line. 

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.

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Female

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Issue Age

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36.04

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12.25

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17.72

30.37

23.51

55.50

38.76

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21.89

19.41

33.49

24.28

60.76

41.71

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36.49

25.09

66.43

47.10

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21.69

39.88

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235.39

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169.25

111.96

322.16

199.83

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18.16

32.93

28.31

52.81

40.88 100.33

68.23

190.05

124.63

360.57

222.65

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19.75

37.90

30.94

58.71

44.61 114.29

75.40

210.49

134.77

391.94

241.24

44 11.58

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21.38

40.72

33.67

64.59

49.08 125.27

83.64

233.74

145.34

435.97

260.67

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44.52

37.06

72.24

59.65 143.07

105.55

253.50

172.80

484.22

321.07

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10.64 17.85 15.83 29.43

24.89

48.77

39.98

79.34

64.22 158.23

129.28

287.72

187.50

546.75

351.10

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11.16 19.03 16.68 31.68

26.58

53.20

43.40

86.85

68.11 177.24

147.66

317.88

202.37

594.72

374.91

48 13.48

11.88 20.27 17.37 34.21

28.38

57.52

47.00

71 102.45

82.60 203.10

159.34

373.07

234.59

701.44

442.89

49 13.69

12.33 21.73 18.32 36.87

30.28

62.61

51.34

113.68

93.16 232.46

172.23

426.44

271.99

806.74

511.27

106.68 267.15

50 14.36

12.98 23.00 19.82 39.63

32.49

68.64

56.25

73 127.55

188.15

492.36

318.18

936.81

595.73

51 15.37

13.75 25.30 20.65 44.27

34.96

77.37

61.14

74 142.08

119.36 303.50

204.84

561.42

366.57 1073.07

684.22

52 16.36

14.87 27.63 22.13 48.94

37.92

86.78

66.78

75 159.25

140.48 346.45

224.56

643.04

423.76 1234.11

788.80

53 17.46

15.88 30.95 24.81 53.81

41.34

97.56

72.99

76 200.03

168.51 418.29

276.67

784.08

529.52 1488.28

981.25

54 18.68

16.72 33.99 26.20 59.70

45.14 109.19

80.58

77 249.54

216.74 505.52

339.94

955.35

657.94 1796.92

1214.92

55 20.70

17.50 37.13 27.85 66.66

49.40 120.50

89.53

78 310.70

268.40 613.27

418.11 1166.92

816.58 2178.16

1503.59

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19.48 42.01 31.07 73.22

52.91 137.43

95.90

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322.52 726.16

500.00 1388.55

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1806.01

20.63 45.81 33.43 80.38

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80 450.50

386.47 816.15

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2163.40

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Premiums illustrated represent 10 year level term insurance with guaranteed level premiums for 10 years. $100,000 - $1,000,000 rates are Select-A-Term [policy form no. 07007] Preferred Plus Nontobacco. This coverage features a level death benefit with fully guaranteed level premiums for the first 10 years with coverage to expire at age 95. The policy may be continued on Annual Renewable Term at the end of the level premium period without evidence of insurability until the anniversary nearest the insured’s 95th birthday. The underwriting risks, financial and contractual obligations and support functions associated with products issued by American General Life Insurance Company (AGL) Houston, TX are its responsibility. AGL does not solicit business in the state of New York. All terms, conditions and limitations of any policy issued shall govern. American General Life Companies is the marketing name for a group of domestic life insurers including American General Life Insurance Company and The United States Life Insurance Company in the City of New York. Policies and riders not available in all states. Premium rates current as of July 2026; rates may vary by state. Premiums available for other rate classes, ages and payment plans. Premium charges depend on evidence of insurability. Premiums increase at the end of the guaranteed term if policy is renewed. Death benefit remains level. The policy may be contested for two years from the date of issue for material misstatements or omissions on the application. Death benefit is limited to return of premium paid in the event of suicide within first two years. Rates subject to change. Standard Marketing Services represents AGL and other fine insurance companies. All companies identified above are wholly owned subsidiaries of Corebridge Financial, Inc. Corebridge Financial and Corebridge are marketing names used by subsidiaries of Corebridge Financial, Inc.

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PLANNER

All ages can find something new and exciting around every corner of the state. Filled with rich history, abundant natural beauty and diverse events all year, Florida has fun options for everyone.

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SEBRING

Sept. 5

Rock4Vets Join us for a community 5K run/walk supporting local veterans and neighbors facing housing instability and hardship in Northwest Florida. We bring together families, businesses, service members and community professionals for a morning rooted in gratitude and action. After the race, stick around for music, family-friendly activities, local vendors, healthy snacks and awards recognition. givebutter.com/rock4vets26; 850-941-7998

Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26

The Cottage Market of Sebring Savor homemade goodness each Saturday with lemonade, cotton candy, kettle corn and sweet seasonal loaves. You can also browse unique finds and handcrafted arts and crafts from local makers. Come hungry, shop happy and support local businesses at this cozy market full of flavor and creativity. bit.ly/4xteyeE; 863-458-5279

PENSACOLA

MARATHON

Sept. 10-12

Heroes Salute 5K Run/Walk Lace up and salute the heroes from 7-8:30 a.m. at Hawks Cay Resort. Help us kick off the 18th year of this beloved Florida Keys tradition honoring active-duty military, veterans, law enforcement, firefighters and EMS personnel. Run or walk your way through the island of Duck Key decked out in your best patriotic, military or first-responder gear, and celebrate the people who serve our communities. Registration includes a race bib, timing chip and official race tee, with medals and prizes for the top three finishers in each category. Spots are limited to just 200 participants, so sign up today and be part of something special.

florabama.com/bulls-on-the-beach; 850-492-0611

Sept. 5

runsignup.com/Race/FL/DuckKey/HeroesSaluteRun; 305-296-1552

Flora-Bama Bulls On The Beach Get your tickets early to one of the area’s most anticipated events of the year. Bring the family out for the ultimate adrenaline rush with three nights of live rodeo action featuring professional bull riders from all around the country. A portion of the proceeds from this event goes to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Join us Thursday for Kid’s Night, as children 12 and younger can participate in a coloring contest bike giveaway, followed by professional bull riding to round out the night. Friday and Saturday nights feature professional bull riders in the adult bull-riding competition.

KEY WEST

Sept. 5-6

CFK Pentathlon Swim Meet and Key West Open Water Swim The open water swim takes place following the start of The College of the Florida Keys Swim Around Key West at Higgs Beach. Participants swim a scenic loop course in the clear, warm Atlantic waters, surrounded by marine life like fish, coral, turtles and possibly dolphins. No personal support crew is needed as lifeguards in kayaks and boats ensure swimmers’ safety. The award ceremony for the 800-yard, 1-mile and 2-mile events is immediately after the 2-mile swim concludes. swimaroundkeywest.org/event-details-open-water; 305-809-3562

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY ASTROSYSTEM

S E P T E M B E R 2026

ISLAMORADA

Sept. 10-12

Swim for Alligator Lighthouse Experience the thrill of a swim to Alligator Lighthouse in the stunning Florida Keys. Swim 8 miles in crystal-clear waters, enjoy vibrant marine life and celebrate with fellow adventurers. This is perfect for leisure travelers seeking excitement, natural beauty and unforgettable memories. swimalligatorlight.com

ISLAMORADA

Sept. 12-13

Son del Mundo Hispanic Heritage Event Experience vibrant music, dance and art from 6-9 p.m. Saturday and 3-6 p.m. Sunday at Florida Keys Brewing Co. Enjoy live performances, delicious cuisine and family-friendly activities that honor Hispanic culture. bit.ly/4fNoDfe

PENSACOLA

Sept. 18

Viva Pensacola: Latino Festival Gallery Night Pensacola brings downtown Pensacola to life from 5-9 p.m. More than 70 artists showcase their work, giving you the chance to stroll through an open-air market filled with local art, live performances and creative experiences, all celebrating Pensacola’s thriving arts scene. gallerynightpensacola.org

MARATHON

Sept. 25-27

Grassy Key Paddle Battle Enjoy a weekend of water sports, wellness and adventure at Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club. The event kicks off with a meet and greet, followed by daily paddleboarding, foiling and outrigger canoe clinics led by world-class athletes, such as Packet Casey, Jake Portwood and Johnny Puakea. Activities also include yoga, live music, local dining and relaxing afternoons at The Lagoon on Grassy Key. Each day blends learning, competition and island hospitality—culminating in scenic races, community dinners and a sunset sandbar paddle. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to the sport, this experience offers the ultimate combination of skill, spirit and sea. floridakeyswatermancompany.com; 305-998-4590

KEY LARGO

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY ABBIES ART SHOP

Sept. 25-27

Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge Join the Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge, a fishing tournament benefiting a scholarship and mentorship program for Florida students. Proceeds support Take Stock in Children, which provides college scholarships and one-on-one mentoring to academically promising, economically disadvantaged youth. With a strong record of success— including a 95% graduation rate statewide—this event helps turn dreams of higher education into reality. keylargorotary.org

ISLAMORADA

Sept. 25 to Oct. 4

‘Dear Evan Hansen’ The Key Players present the musical “Dear Evan Hansen.” The winner of six Tony Awards is taking the stage at the Coral Shores High School Performing Arts Center. “Dear Evan Hansen” is a new classic, with a message that has resonated with audiences around the world: You will be found. Evan Hansen has felt invisible his entire life. However, when a tragedy shocks his community and thrusts him into the center of a rapidly evolving controversy, Evan is given the opportunity of a lifetime—the chance to be somebody else.

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY TRUE PIXEL ART

KEY LARGO

Sept. 12

Pennekamp Paddle Day Grab a paddle and dive into a full day of family fun starting at 11 a.m. at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the crown jewel of Key Largo and the first undersea park in the United States. All ages are invited to experience the Florida Keys outdoors during this free event. Spend the day gliding across clear waters on a paddleboard or exploring the park’s winding mangrove trails on a kayak as you take in views of wildlife. Prefer to stay dry? Hop aboard a glassbottom boat tour. Back on shore, the fun keeps going with live entertainment from local musicians, hands-on interactive activities hosted by community partners, and a delicious lunch. Be sure to save room for a sweet slice of chocolate-dipped Key lime pie, a true taste of the islands you will not want to miss. visitfloridakeys.com/insiders-guide/americas-250-in-the-florida-keys; 305-296-1552

WALNUT HILL

Sept. 26

Adventure Zone Grand Opening Steve’s Farm is officially becoming Steve’s Fishing and Adventure Farm, a name that reflects our growing commitment to outdoor fun and familyfriendly experiences. We’re excited to announce the grand opening of our Adventure Zone from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through the end of October. The new area features a corn maze, kids zip line, jump pad, giant slide, sunflower patch, pumpkin patch, hayrides and other seasonal surprises. Guests can enjoy season passes and full access Monday through Saturday. Get ready for a fall season filled with adventure, laughter and unforgettable memories. Our fish ponds and market remain open all year long. stevesfarm.net; 850-327-4020

HOW TO INCLUDE UPCOMING EVENTS Want to share a family-friendly event with Florida Currents readers? Enter 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 printquality photo promoting your event, include it with photo credit information.

thekeyplayers.org/upcoming-show/dear-evan-hansen; 305-942-4339

SEPTEMBER 2026

GARDENING

inter atering Guide

Save water, strengthen turf Warm-season grasses, such as St. Augustine, zoysia and Bahia, often turn brown during the winter months. This browning is a natural response to cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. It does not mean the grass is dying. However, overwatering dormant grass can lead to its demise. As the seasons change, so do the lawn’s needs. Lawn growth slows significantly in winter due to shorter days, cooler temperatures and lower light intensity. These factors also result in less evapotranspiration—the combined loss of water from soil and plant surfaces. With slower growth and evaporation, a lawn requires less irrigation. If it receives the same amount of water as it does in the summer, it can suffer. Overwatering can reduce the supply of oxygen to the root system, potentially leading to root rot or other fungal diseases. Most irrigation timers have a seasonal adjustment setting that reduces watering in winter. You can typically set it to apply only 60% of what the lawn would receive in warmer months. Additionally, you can reduce the frequency of watering to once every 10 to 14 days. The time of day your lawn is watered also affects its overall health. In winter, the best time to water is midmorning. This timing maximizes the lawn’s ability to absorb water and allows time for blades to dry. Watering in the evening can prevent the grass from drying out, which increases the risk of fungal issues. Adapting your watering practices seasonally helps conserve resources and support healthier landscapes. By avoiding overwatering and aligning your irrigation with seasonal needs, you support stronger root systems, reduce disease pressure and set your lawn up for a vigorous rebound in the spring. 

S E P T E M B E R 2026

Browning grass during winter does not mean it’s dying, but overwatering dormant grass can lead to its decline. As the seasons change, the amount of water you give your lawn and plants should be adjusted. PHOTO COURTESY OF TERRA FREEMAN

Terra Freeman is the Florida-Friendly Landscaping and Commercial

Horticulture Extension Agent for UF/IFAS Extension St. Johns County. She provides education and outreach to support sustainable landscape practices across residential and commercial sectors. With more than 25 years of experience in horticulture, she is dedicated to helping communities protect Florida’s natural resources through science-based, environmentally responsible landscaping.

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC

Energy Detective Challenge School is back in session, and it's time to put your observation skills to work! Complete the challenges below and earn points by finding ways your family can save energy.

Goal

S poin core 20 t an E s to be After nergy D come ete yo poin u’ve ear ctive! ts n badg , cut out ed 20 e be th displ low an e d ay it for all to see!

COMPLETED

SCAVENGER HUNT A light is left on in an empty room

(2 points)

stat (4 points)

A smart or programmable thermo

re no one is

A ceiling fan spinning in a room whe spending time (2 points)

connected to

A charger plugged in with nothing it (2 points)

liance (3 points)

An ENERGY STAR® label on an app

cked when the A window or door left open or cra nts) heating/cooling system is on (3 poi

COMPLETED

MISSIONS Turn off the lights when you leave

a room (3 points)

day instead of Open blinds or curtains during the turning on a light (3 points) Unplug a charger that isn't being

used (3 points)

the refrigerator Remind family members to close door quickly (3 points)

ENERGY DETECT IVE

" check before Help your family create a "lights out bedtime (4 points) SEPTEMBER 2026

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS

Energy-efficiency upgrades help you and your loved ones keep cool. PHOTO BY MARK GILLILAND/PIONEER UTILITY RESOURCES

Efficiency Matters for Comfort By Miranda Boutelle

Everybody wants a comfortable home. Did you know energyefficiency upgrades not only help you save energy but can make your home more comfortable, too? If you find yourself continually returning to the thermostat on cold days or unable to find relief from heat, these are signs your home needs an efficiency upgrade. No matter the home, energy-efficiency upgrades often start with the same basic principle: Keep outside air from coming inside and keep conditioned inside air from leaking out. Insulation, air sealing, duct sealing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrades can dramatically improve the comfort of your home. A fully insulated home is more comfortable. Air sealing is a lesserknown efficiency upgrade that keeps air from entering and exiting through cracks and gaps. Some air sealing can be done from inside the home. That includes using expanding foam around plumbing pipes and drains under sinks, adding gaskets to outlets on exterior walls, caulking around windows or weatherstripping around doors. Attics and crawl spaces offer additional opportunities to reduce air leakage and increase comfort. In the attic, sealing gaps around top plates, open soffit areas, cove ceilings and balloon framing can help keep conditioned air where it belongs. In the basement or crawl space, seal around plumbing pipes and drains, vents and electrical wires. If you need help, contact a local contractor. Now that I’ve long proclaimed myself to be an energy geek, it may

be no surprise that my first move when my husband and I bought our first home years ago was to air seal and insulate. We air sealed and insulated the attic, walls and rim joists in the basement. The difference in comfort was instant. Our house felt cozier and much more comfortable. The temperature swings from the furnace cycling on and off were dramatically reduced. Our home felt warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Another benefit from insulation was a surprising reduction in noise. We lived about 15 minutes from the airport and close to a busy road. When the windows and doors were closed, we could no longer hear airplanes, and traffic noise was almost unnoticeable. Duct sealing can improve the comfort of your home. Your ductwork delivers heated or cooled air in a forced-air HVAC system. If there are disconnections or leaks in the ducts, the air you heat or cool may not end up where you want it, causing hot or cold spots in your home. An HVAC professional can inspect your ducts to make sure they are connected and sealed properly. Air sealing and duct sealing can improve air quality in your home. Air leakage between the conditioned area of the home and the attic or crawl space can introduce dust, pollen or mold. Reducing air leakage can decrease the likelihood of these things circulating throughout your home. If you already have a forced-air HVAC system, annual maintenance and regularly changing your filter maximize system operation and comfort. 

Miranda Boutelle has more than 20 years of experience helping people save energy. She has worked on energy-efficiency projects from the Midwest to the West Coast. Today, Miranda is chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy-efficiency company.

S E P T E M B E R 2026

This content was originally created by Efficiency Services Group LLC under contract with NRECA. NRECA retains ownership of this content. NRECA does not endorse Efficiency Services Group, its views herein expressed, nor any products or services it offers.

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ENERGY MATTERS

Unique Energ Whether you want to fly in the skies or dip beneath the waves, an electric career can take you wherever you want to go By David Herder Growing up, many of us dreamed of turning our interests into careers. From protecting wildlife to repairing transmissions from moving helicopters, some people have found unique, fulfilling careers in the electric industry. If you’re looking for a job that is interesting, varied and rewarding, you just might find it at an electric utility. Linework in the Skies Large transmission towers that loom more than 150 feet in the air are the backbone of our electric grid. They support power lines that transport huge amounts of energy across long distances. Because these towers are so large, they’re also difficult to repair. Bonneville Power Administration is a federal nonprofit power marketing administration that delivers power to communities across the Pacific Northwest. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage transmission lines. To reach the heights of those transmission lines, BPA lineworkers have to fly even higher. All of the roughly 120 lineworkers at BPA are trained and certified to be part of the Human External Cargo program. In HEC, lineworkers supported under a helicopter by 100 feet of nonconductive line are flown to the top of remote transmission towers to complete their work. One of the first uses of the program was replacing 30 miles of insulators on overhead static wire. Traditionally, this would require at least two lineworkers to climb up the towers while carrying all their tools and equipment. With the external cargo program, workers reach the jobsite on a quick helicopter flight. “Using HEC greatly reduced the physical burden on workers,” BPA Senior Spokesperson Kevin Wingert says. “The efficiencies gained through employing the work practice was evident in both time and cost savings.” Air travel also means lineworkers don’t interrupt other work happening underneath and around the power lines. “Using HEC reduced or eliminated the need to drive vehicles through agriculture fields, reducing both crop damage and fire hazard,” Kevin says. The program got its start in 2009, when BPA began yearly trainings using HEC to perform rescues on incapacitated workers. 28

S E P T E M B E R 2026

Over time, the program expanded to also include transport to elevated work locations on transmission towers as well as work performed midspan attached to a hovering helicopter.

In the Trees As the environmental manager and utility forester at Florida Keys Electric Cooperative, Sara Hamilton spends a fair portion of her year working with endangered wildlife. “For several months out of the year, I’m actually out with our tree trimming crews and moving tree snails and looking out for endangered butterfly chrysalises and relocating those,” she says. Not every utility has an environmental manager or a trained biologist like Sara. FKEC is unique, with much of its service territory within state areas of critical concern and the Florida Keys

Sara Hamilton, FKEC environmental manager and utility forester, helps move endangered snails to safe trees away from utility work. PHOTO COURTESY OF FKEC

ergy Careers National Marine Sanctuary. FKEC employs a qualified biologist to supervise crews and look out for endangered species such as the Key Largo woodrat, Key Largo cotton mouse and the Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly. Two species Sara and the other FKEC employees watch for are the Florida tree snail, a Florida protected species, and the Stock Island tree snail, which is federally protected. The snails often are on trees that are growing into power lines and need to be trimmed. The snails love humidity, and they hibernate during the drier winter months. If FKEC crews see a snail on a tree they need to work on, Sara will create a device that holds the snail and hang it in an adjacent tree. “Once the humidity rises, that snail wakes up and says ‘oh, its nice out, I’ll just climb up this tree,’” Sara says. In the summer, coolers in her truck serve as humid environments. Sara puts snails in, they wake up and then she places them back on a new, safe tree in the area.

Under the Seas The co-op also has 11 miles of line over water connecting the many islands in the Florida Keys. Working in a marine sanctuary adds an extra step of complexity to utility processes. FKEC Senior Electrical Engineer Andy Fahrenkrug helps the co-op design its system to exist alongside native wildlife and be approved by local regulators. “There’s a lot of things that are so unique that come up that you have to be willing to dig and learn,” Andy says. “It’s fun because each location is unique. You have to be willing to look at it like a puzzle.” One recent project was to add cathodic protection to poles in the water, effectively adding life jackets to the poles to protect the rebar and concrete. To get the cathodic protection project permitted, FKEC needed to perform studies to identify the corals, seagrass and creatures on and around the poles that could be impacted. Sara was a part of the study and enjoyed ABOVE: Bonneville Power Administration line crews travel to a tall transmission pole via the opportunity to get back to her roots as a helicopter as part of the human external cargo marine biologist. program. BACKGROUND: HEC helps crews “I always say you never know what you’re access remote and difficult-to-access equipment safely and quickly. PHOTOS COURTESY OF BPA going to come into at work, which is nice—it LEFT: With 11 miles of electric line traversing changes things up a bit,” she says. “Every day, water, FKEC crews need to use a boat to access I’ve learned something new at this place.”  utility equipment. PHOTO COURTESY OF FKEC SEPTEMBER 2026

BEFORE YOU GO

Don’t Miss Hoos There Mary Stella captures a burrowing owl as it perches on a branch near Golden Orb Trail at Long Key State Park in the Florida Keys. “While Before You Go ... usually means before the reader closes the magazine, I’m inspired to use an alternative meaning,” Mary says. “Florida has countless beautiful parks, trails, refuges, reserves and other places to enjoy nature and wildlife all year long. Before you go exploring, make sure you bring your camera—or at least your phone— because you never know when you’ll see something memorable.” PHOTO BY MARY STELLA

As space allows, we share reader-submitted photos on this page. Send your photo by emailing a JPEG to photos@floridacurrents.com. Include “Before You Go” in the subject line. Share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo.

Got a Story Idea? We Want to Hear It. Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY GUY BRYANT

Florida Currents is a magazine about the people, places and moments that make Florida home, and nobody knows those stories better than you. Whether it’s a hidden gem in your community, a local hero worth celebrating or an organization doing great work in your area—we’re listening. Scan the QR code or visit the link to submit your story idea. Our editors read every submission. Thanks for reading and for helping us tell Florida’s best stories. 30

S E P T E M B E R 2026

Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera or visit tinyurl.com/SendStoryIdeas.

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Important Request:

Take Two Minutes to Stay Connected Dear FKEC Member, Florida Keys Electric Cooperative has an important request. Please take just two minutes to make sure you can receive outage and restoration updates when you need them most. FKEC sends outage notifications through SmartHub, our online account management tool. To receive outage and restoration updates, you must be registered for SmartHub and enrolled in Outage Texting. Even if you currently receive bill reminders by text or email—or have received outage notifications in the past—we encourage you to verify your enrollment. Billing reminders and outage notifications are managed separately. FKEC can keep you informed—but only if we can reach you. Step 1: Verify Your Contact Info Log in to SmartHub and go to Settings → Contact Methods to verify your: • Primary email addresses. • Mobile phone numbers. If you choose text messaging, be sure to complete the verification process by responding to the confirmation text sent to your mobile phone.

Ready!

You’re enrolled.

“When the power goes out, you want to stay informed just like I do.” Step 2: Enroll in Outage Texting Go to: Settings → Manage Notifications → Service and enable Outage Texting. You can also choose to receive other important notifications.

button. If you have questions or need assistance, please call Member Services at 305-852-2431. We’re happy to help. Thank you for taking two minutes to stay connected and for being a valued member of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative.

Don’t Have SmartHub? Register by scanning the QR code or visit www.FKEC.com and click the yellow login

Sincerely, Maria Jones, FKEC Chief Administrative Officer and Assistant General Manager

305.852.2431 | www.FKEC.com