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Florida Currents FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

AUGUST 2026

Beneath the Surface Sunlight filters through the waters of Molasses Reef, illuminating a French angelfish in this photograph by Kris and Naja Murphy, second-place winners in Florida Keys Electric Cooperative’s 2025 Photo Contest.

INSIDE >> Keeping Cool | Residential Rebates | Employee News

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC

Florida Currents August 2026 • Volume 15, No. 10

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.

PORTABLE GENERATOR CONNECTOR GenerLink, installed by FKEC, is the safest way to use a portable generator to power your home or business.

Power Your Home Safely During an Outage

grid while your generator is operating, preventing dangerous backfeed that can damage equipment and endanger lives. Once installed, connect your generator and use your existing electrical panel to Planning to use a portable generator? Protect your home, your family and utility power essential appliances. The amount of power available depends on your crews with GenerLink, a meter-mounted transfer switch professionally installed by generator’s capacity. Florida Keys Electric Cooperative. To learn more, call FKEC at 305-852-2431 or visit www.FKEC.com GenerLink automatically disconnects or www.globalpowerproducts.com.  your home or business from the electric

The Majestic Oaks

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

Sleep Isn’t a Luxury

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.

Get into a rhythm that ensures quality rest 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.

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

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Effortlessly Sweet No-bake desserts hit the spot In the Kitchen, Page 16 A U G U ST 2 0 2 6

FKEC NEWS AUGUST 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 855-940-4007 www.FKEC.com Mailing Address: P.O. Box 377, Tavernier, FL 33070

MEMBERS SHOULD KNOW:

Members who depend on life-sustaining medical equipment should prepare for outages with backup power or relocation plans during emergencies. Learn more: www.fkec.com/special-needs-registry. Unless otherwise noted, “FKEC NEWS” writing, design & photography by: Nikki Dunn Cullen, news@fkec.com.

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www.FKEC.com

Keeping Cool in the Keys Living in the Florida Keys means we enjoy warm weather throughout the year, but summer’s heat and humidity can still take a toll on both comfort and energy bills. As temperatures rise, cooling systems work harder to keep our homes and businesses comfortable. For many members, air conditioning accounts for the largest share of summer energy use and electric bills. While no one wants to sacrifice comfort, there are steps you can take to manage energy use and offset some of the additional costs associated with staying cool. Smart Summer Habits Small changes can help reduce cooling costs without sacrificing comfort. Consider these energy-saving habits: • Block the sun: Close blinds and drapes during the hottest part of the day. • Let fans help: Use ceiling fans in occupied rooms to feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. • Control humidity: Keep indoor humidity under control and maintain your AC system for peak performance. • Shift chores: Run dishwashers, washers, dryers and ovens after 7 p.m. when temperatures begin to cool. • Cook smart: Use a microwave, slow cooker or outdoor grill to keep excess heat out of your kitchen. While these habits can help reduce energy use, some of the greatest long-term savings come from improving your home’s overall energy efficiency. Upgrades that reduce heat gain or improve cooling performance can provide benefits year after year.

SCOTT NEWBERRY Chief Executive Officer FKEC Rebates Can Offset the Cost of Staying Cool At Florida Keys Electric Cooperative, we understand that energy-efficient upgrades often require an upfront investment. That’s why we offer residential rebates to help offset the cost of qualifying improvements that can reduce energy use and save money over time. Whether you’re upgrading equipment, improving efficiency or making other qualifying energy-saving improvements, our rebate programs can help make those investments more affordable. The facing page highlights the rebates currently available to residential members. Before starting your next home improvement project, take a moment to see whether it qualifies. Combined with smart energy habits, efficiency improvements can help reduce energy use, lower cooling costs and keep your home more comfortable throughout the summer. 

Invest in Comfort. Save on Energy. Earn up to $500 in FKEC Residential Rebates by making qualifying energy improvements. Whether you’re replacing an aging air conditioner, installing a smart thermostat or making other energy-saving improvements, FKEC’s Residential Rebate Program can help offset the cost of qualifying upgrades. Many of the upgrades that improve comfort during the hottest months of the year can also reduce energy use and lower cooling costs for years to come. To help make those

improvements more affordable for members, FKEC offers residential rebates ranging from $25 to $500, with a maximum rebate of $500 per member per calendar year. To get started, visit www.FKEC.com or call Member Service at 305-852-2431 for complete program requirements and application details. 

Available FKEC Residential Rebates

AUGUST 2026

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC

Honoring 20-Year Milestones

Cris Beaty Behind every line crew responding to an outage, every service truck arriving at a member’s home and every piece of equipment heading into the field is a fleet that must be ready to perform. For the past 20 years, Lowell Locke has helped make sure it is. Lowell joined FKEC in 2006 as a Fleet Mechanic and today serves as Fleet Mechanic II. His dedication, steady work ethic and commitment to quality help keep the cooperative’s vehicles and equipment operating safely and reliably every day. Whether performing routine

Marcus Martin 6

AUGUST 2026

Since joining FKEC in 2006, Chief Financial Officer Cris Beaty has played a key role in strengthening the cooperative’s financial position and supporting its long-term success. As CFO, Cris has led multiple departments and developed future talent to ensure FKEC maintains a sustainable financial path through strategic planning, proper controls, combined with ethical and accurate reporting. Before joining the co-op, Cris spent more than 30 years in the hospitality industry. Shortly after arriving at FKEC, he completed the Robert I. Kabat

maintenance, diagnosing mechanical issues or preparing trucks for storm response, Lowell knows that dependable equipment is essential to serving members. His work behind the scenes helps ensure crews can respond quickly, safely and efficiently whenever they’re needed. Known for his reliability and unwavering commitment, Lowell is a valued member of the Fleet Department. His 20 years of service reflect the dedication and craftsmanship that help keep FKEC—and its crews—rolling. 

Marcus Martin’s 20-year career at FKEC is a testament to hard work and a commitment to helping others succeed. Marcus joined the cooperative as a member of the Right-of-Way Tree Crew, bringing a strong work ethic and willingness to learn. Through dedication and leadership, he advanced to Tree Crew Leader, where he helps maintain safe clearances around power lines supporting the reliability of FKEC’s electric system. The Tree Crew often serves as a starting point for employees who later move into other areas of the cooperative. Under Marcus’s leadership, crew

Management Internship Program, NRECA’s premier leadership development program for electric cooperative executives. A longtime Keys resident, Cris moved to Key Largo in 1987 and quickly became involved in the community. He has served as a two-time president of the Rotary Club of Key Largo, a board member for several local organizations and an inaugural commissioner for the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District. FKEC thanks Cris for his leadership, commitment and 20 years of service to the cooperative and its members. 

Lowell Locke members gain valuable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of FKEC’s service area and operations. His willingness to share his knowledge has helped many employees build a strong foundation. Outside of work, Marcus is often found on a field or court officiating local sporting events, helping promote teamwork, sportsmanship and youth development. FKEC thanks Marcus for his 20 years of leadership and dedication to the cooperative and the valued members we serve. 

Jason Richards 35 Years of Experience, Leadership and Safety Few employees have experienced as many facets of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative as Jason Richards. Jason began his career at FKEC in 1991 on the Right-of-Way Tree Crew, where he developed a strong work ethic and firsthand understanding of the cooperative’s electric system. Over the next three and a half decades, he continued building his knowledge and skills through a variety of roles, including Tree Crew Leader, Journeyman Substation Electrician and System Operator. In 2004, Jason returned to his roots as Utility Forester, leading FKEC’s Tree Crew and helping advance the comprehensive vegetation management program. As an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist and Utility Specialist, he has played a key role in reducing vegetation-related outages while strengthening long-term system reliability. In 2025, Jason was promoted to Director of Safety and Job Training,

George Mirabella

where he now leads FKEC’s safety culture and employee training. His broad operational experience, institutional knowledge and positive leadership style make him uniquely qualified to prepare employees for the challenges of today’s electric utility industry. “We greatly appreciate Jason’s dedication to FKEC, our members and his fellow employees,” said CEO Scott Newberry. “His willingness to learn, take on new challenges and lead with a positive attitude are qualities that make him an invaluable member of our team.” FKEC proudly congratulates Jason on 35 years of dedicated service and thanks him for the lasting impact he continues to make on the cooperative and its members. 

Over the past 20 years, George Mirabella has built a reputation for technical expertise and reliability. George joined FKEC as a member of the Tree Crew before moving into a Maintenance position. In 2011, he became a Meterman and, through his dedication and hard work, was recently promoted to Meterman Work Leader. Accurate electric metering is essential to the cooperative’s operations. Metermen install, test, maintain and troubleshoot meters and related equipment, helping ensure members receive reliable service and accurate billing. The

position requires technical and interpersonal skills, as well as a thorough understanding of our electrical system. George has become a trusted resource within the cooperative, sharing his knowledge and experience with fellow employees while helping maintain the high standards of safety, accuracy and service members expect. George also serves his community as a commissioner on the Key Largo Fire and EMS District board. FKEC thanks George for his dedication, leadership and 20 years of service to the cooperative and its members.  AUGUST 2026

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC

Celebrating Employee Anniversaries Thank you for your dedication and commitment.

David Bogue 10 Years

Sonia Barajas 5 Years

Thomas Eckhardt 10 Years

John Cortez 5 Years

Gretel Lazcos 5 Years 8

AUGUST 2026

Yamile Moreira 10 Years

Tiffany George 5 Years

Scott Trago 5 Years

Steve Lachowicz 5 Years

Adam Secor 5 Years

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The latest transformation of Vernon’s farm-turned-music venue is a wedding destination known as The Majestic Oaks. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MAJESTIC OAKS

Majestic Oaks THE

By Colette Boehm

Karen Hornsby weaves music, memories and new beginnings into wedding venue

Faith, family, music and memories are all part of Karen Hornsby’s journey to The Majestic Oaks in Vernon. Or, more accurately, her journey back to the Karen Hornsby 35 acres she owns and operates as a wedding venue. When Karen was young, the property belonged to her grandparents. It was a place where she made childhood memories just as her father had a generation earlier. Since then, her family has created musical memories on the land, for themselves and 10

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many others. Today, Karen helps couples create their own memories at a wedding venue she runs on the family land. “The biggest thing I’d have to say that I enjoy about The Majestic Oaks is you are providing a space for this couple who are starting on a journey of a life together,” she says. “You see all these smiles and happiness on one of the greatest days of their life. It is a fun thing to see, and to experience family and friends being so excited and celebrating two people they love dearly and the new journey that they’re embarking on together. It is really fun that you’re a small part of making sure that it is celebrated well.”

Celebration Central Celebrations have long been a hallmark of this land. After a childhood of touring the Southeast on weekends, singing Southern gospel music with her family, Karen says her father decided to create a venue of their own on the family’s land. Karen says the barn that’s still on the property belonged to her grandparents. “We’ve kept that there,” she says. “Right in front of that barn was where my dad and his siblings were raised and where I’ve got a lot of memories, as well, from my childhood. “Dad built a music theater for Christian music artists and a house band, which was

UP CLOSE called Gilley’s Place. For 25 years, we had tons of artists—mostly Christian music artists—come in and have concerts there. He also had a house band, and the family would sing there.” Finding Triumph Through Tragedy Karen’s musical journey took a turn when she and her husband, Todd, faced the unthinkable. Their 2-year-old daughter, Gabi, was diagnosed with brain cancer. After a year of treatment and referrals to specialists, Karen and Todd were told she would not recover. That’s when Karen began writing. “I had never written a song in my life,” Karen says. “I was a vocalist. But when you’ve just been told your daughter’s not gonna make it, it’ll pull something out of you that you didn’t know was deep down in your soul. I sat down and wrote my first song I’ve ever written in my life, just bawling my eyes out.” That song led to connections with celebrities like Brad Paisley and Tim Tebow after Karen landed a spot on ABC’s “Rising Star” singing competition. “We got that momentum,” she says. “It was great.” The music, though, was not Karen’s

highest priority. Supporting her family was. Transforming the property in Vernon became a family affair. “I think the Lord gave me The Majestic Oaks at that season, because Gabi was in hospice at the time, and it’s when my dad got diagnosed with cancer as well,” Karen says. After facing those health challenges of his own, Karen’s father decided to close that chapter on Gilley’s Place. That’s when Karen, her brother and her niece began to reimagine the property as the popular wedding venue it became. Vows and Solace The Majestic Oaks hosted its first wedding Oct. 1, 2020, six months after Gabi’s death. “I knew she was my purpose for that season,” Karen says. “But we are human beings, and, if you’re not careful, you’ll just lose your mind. The Majestic Oaks was that avenue for me. I poured myself into it to help me stay sane and feel like this is something I can do for my family and make something beautiful. “We were just glad we were able to do something with the place so that we could keep using it. It’s a complete transformation.”

Karen says the venture has been a success so far. “Five and a half years later, we’re still going strong and trying to add to it as much as we can, keep improving and sticking to the new trends,” she says. “We’ve been there long enough now to see some trends come and go. It’s been a fun journey.” The property has four ceremony venues—an indoor space that can be custom decorated; Under the Oak, a popular spot with a frame of ancient tree limbs; Hilltop Farms, a rolling green pasture; and the blossom-covered arches of the Aisle of Jasmine. There are bride and groom suites and spaces for cocktail hours, receptions and more. Another addition, a private one, is coming to the property this year. Karen and Todd are starting construction on a new home for themselves—a full-circle development from Karen’s childhood days of playing in front of the barn. Now, she and Todd, along with the many couples who say their vows and celebrate their marriages there, are beginning a new chapter at The Majestic Oaks. 

ABOVE: Karen and her husband, Todd, found comfort in creating The Majestic Oaks after their daughter, Gabi, died from brain cancer. ABOVE AND RIGHT: The Majestic Oaks in Vernon offers a variety of indoor and outdoor venues for wedding ceremonies and receptions. A U G U ST 2 0 2 6

Sleep Isn’t a

Luxury

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ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY LATEGAN/PEOPLEIMAGES.COM

Get into a rhythm that ensures quality rest By Miguel Rios

SPOTLIGHT Most days, Daniel Lofland is up before the sun. He showers, makes coffee and enjoys a rare quiet hour before helping his two children get ready for school. As an Oklahoma Electric Cooperative employee, Daniel’s workdays can vary wildly. By midmorning, he might be verifying energyefficiency rebates. By afternoon, he could be answering member questions, prepping a safety demonstration trailer or recording an episode of his electric cooperative’s podcast. It’s a full day, but the routine is predictable. That predictability, Daniel says, helps him protect his sleep. “I wake up early, so I try to be in bed by 10 p.m.,” he says. Daniel, an energy-efficiency and solutions specialist, spent nearly a decade as a lineworker. In the electric utility world, being alert matters, especially when daily tasks include driving rural roads, responding to outages or making decisions around live power. “We prioritize sleep in our house, especially since we’ve got kids,” Daniel says. “In order to be successful in your day, you’ve got to be rested.” But across America, intentional approaches to sleep are increasingly hard to find. Shift work, long commutes, caregiving responsibilities, on-call schedules and screen time are quietly eroding sleep. Sleep Under Pressure For Curtis Chlouber, an electric cooperative construction foreman, routine is also important for quality sleep, especially in a line of work where safety is crucial. “When you’re dragging the day after not getting good sleep, you miss little things,” he says. “Every day is a little different, so you have to be ready to adapt and be alert even if it’s something you’ve done a hundred times.” Curtis wakes at 5:30 a.m. and is on the job by 7 a.m. Some weeks, he has long drives to distant parts of the utility’s service territory before the real work fully begins. After finishing his workday around 4:30 p.m., he heads straight to the gym, then home to help with dinner, baths, homework and bedtime for his three young children. Most nights, he’s in bed by 9 or 10 p.m. Once a week, he’s also on call, which can disrupt his routine. “The hardest thing is getting called in the middle of the night after you’ve been sleeping for a few hours,” Curtis says. “I take precautions and don’t hesitate to pull over just to walk laps around my car and wake myself up.” Mikala Jordan, sleep lab supervisor for Mercy Health, says that kind of disruption is common in many occupations, and it interrupts the body’s natural sleep rhythm. “The main issue with shift workers is they’re not getting that natural sunlight at the normal hours of the day,” she says. “As a shift worker, you might be jumping back and forth between schedules. Or, if you’re on your last shift of the week and you come home, instead of going to sleep, you make yourself stay awake to spend time with family or do other things. But having a set schedule and sticking to it is super helpful to avoid negative long-term effects.” Taryn Edwards is an executive assistant for Great Plains Sleep Specialists and a sleep lab supervisor. She says sleep disorders are often underdiagnosed in rural areas. “People just don’t realize that their symptoms are medical issues, or they might not have access to sleep specialists,” she says. The Cost of Poor Sleep Experts warn the cost of poor sleep is high. Over time, chronic sleep loss is linked to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, depression, obesity and cognitive decline, according to the National Institutes of Health. Harvard Medical School research also found it raises the likelihood of workplace errors—leading to injuries and motor vehicle accidents. Taryn says lack of sleep affects people mentally and emotionally, and they may not realize sleep is part of the problem. “People might be more irritable, forgetful. They can’t think straight or focus,” she says. “Sleep isn’t a luxury. It’s a basic health need. When sleep disorders go untreated, they also affect someone’s family, workplace or school and even other people on the road. “Thankfully, sleep disorders are very treatable,” Taryn says. “They just rarely get better on their own, so the earlier people address them, the better the outcome.” AI ILLUSTRATION BY BRANDON POMRENKE

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Experts recommend sleeping only in your bedroom during a sleep reset. PHOTO COURTESY OF PEXELS

Experts recommend going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times each day to help reset the body’s internal clock. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY AUREMAR

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A Sleep Reset Mikala emphasizes simple ways to improve sleep without resorting to expensive or unrealistic measures. Small, practical changes can make a measurable difference. • Protect the schedule. One of the biggest ways to improve sleep quality is to stick to a schedule as much as possible. Consistency matters, so going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times each day helps reset the body’s internal clock. If an on-call schedule results in unexpected sleep disruptions, Mikala recommends returning to the normal routine as soon as possible. • Mind the lighting. Bright, cool-toned bulbs and screens in the evening signal the brain to stay alert, so avoid them if possible. Ideally, that means no TV or phone time 30-60 minutes before bed. • Create a sleep sanctuary. To improve sleep, keep the bedroom dark and cool, and have a comfortable mattress and pillow. Mikala recommends using some sort of white noise—such as a fan or an app that simulates rain or other soothing noises— and sleeping only in the bedroom. That means you’re not watching TV in bed. “Your circadian rhythm takes awhile to reset,” Mikala says. “If you’re consistent with the changes, I’d say give it about a week before you might start to notice improvements. If you’re still experiencing a lot of sleep issues after making consistent changes, I would definitely seek additional help to make sure there’s not any underlying issues.” When and How to Ask for Help Sometimes, sleep problems aren’t just about habits. Underlying conditions could include narcolepsy and restless legs syndrome. One of the most prevalent sleep disorders is sleep apnea. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, sleep

apnea affects nearly 30 million Americans, and an estimated 80% of cases go undiagnosed. “Sleep apnea is incredibly common, especially among men,” Mikala says. “Many people put off testing because they don’t want to deal with a CPAP machine, which is the gold standard for treatment.” CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. The machine helps keep a person’s airway open during sleep. Ignoring a potential sleep disorder can lead to worse health outcomes down the road. Today, testing options are more accessible than ever. Some patients can complete a sleep study at home, picking up a small device to wear overnight and returning it the next day. Follow-up care and monitoring may be available through telehealth. “If something feels off, talk to your primary care provider,” Mikala says. “Write symptoms down. Bring a partner who’s noticed changes. Your doctor is there to help, not judge.” Rest Is a Community Resource At home, Daniel and his wife are intentional about sleep, especially for their children. That decision grew out of her time as a substitute teacher, when she realized how much students’ days and attitudes were affected by nights of poor sleep. “Getting a good night’s sleep became priority No. 1,” Daniel says. “It sets us up for the next day. When we’re rested, we can stay focused and stay on task.” Electric utilities are built on the idea that shared resources strengthen communities. Sleep works in a similar way. Well-rested lineworkers respond more safely and efficiently to outages. Alert drivers make roads much safer. Focused parents and caregivers strengthen families. And focused individuals help communities thrive. 

Sleep Better and Use Less Energy Lower the thermostat at night. Temperatures at 68 degrees or lower support better sleep. Use fans. Ceiling or box fans improve air circulation and lower the need for air conditioning. In cooler months, remember to reverse ceiling fans’ direction to distribute warm air. Dim the lights. Dimming the lights after sunset supports natural sleep rhythms and reduces electricity use. Warm-toned bulbs are also better for supporting sleep. Keep it dark. A dark, cool bedroom is ideal for better sleep, often meaning fewer lights, appliances and devices running overnight. Block disruptions. Blackout curtains or thick shades keep outdoor light out and help regulate room temperature, keeping bedrooms darker, cooler and more comfortable. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY HOMESTOCK

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IN THE KITCHEN

Effortlessly Sweet NO-BAKE SUMMER DESSERTS HIT THE SPOT

Lemon Blueberry Triﬂe

3 cups fresh blueberries, divided 2 15.75-ounce cans lemon pie filling 2 cups lemon yogurt

Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway ADOBE STOCK AI PHOTO BY WORLD OF AI

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1 prepared angel food cake, 8 to 10 ounces, cut into 1-inch cubes 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed

Set aside ¼ cup blueberries for garnish. In a large bowl, combine pie filling and yogurt. In a 31/2-quart serving or trifle bowl, layer a third of the cake cubes, lemon mixture and blueberries. Repeat layers twice, then top with whipped topping. Cover. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Garnish with reserved blueberries before serving.

Five-Minute Fruit Mousse 81/2 ounces (about 21/4 cups) frozen fruit 2 tablespoons sugar

1 large egg white Fresh berries and whipped cream for serving

Add frozen fruit to the bowl of a food processor. Process to a rough puree, about 1 minute. Add the sugar, and pulse briefly to combine. Add the egg white to the food processor. Process until smooth and fluffy and the mixture has lightened in color and doubled or tripled in volume, about 2 to 3 minutes. Spoon the mousse into glasses. Top or layer with fresh berries and whipped cream. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. The mousse has little sugar and won’t hold for longer than that.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Pie

10 peanut butter cups, 8-ounce package cream chopped cheese, softened 1 chocolate cookie pie crust 1 cup peanut butter 11/2 cups heavy whipping 1 cup powdered sugar cream 16-ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Use a mixer to beat cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter and powdered sugar, and mix well. Carefully fold in whipped topping and stir in chopped peanut butter cups, reserving a few for the topping. Pour mixture into pie crust. Freeze overnight. When ready to serve, beat cream and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Top pie with whipped cream and reserved chopped peanut butter cups before serving.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/3 cup powdered sugar 8-ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed

1 premade graham cracker crust 6 ounces fresh strawberries, washed, hulled and sliced 1/4 cup strawberry jam or jelly, melted and cooled

In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat cream cheese until smooth. Add lemon juice and powdered sugar, and mix to combine. Gradually add whipped topping. Mix to combine, being cautious not to overmix. Spread mixture into prepared crust. Add strawberries to a medium bowl. Pour cooled but still liquid strawberry jam or jelly over strawberries, and toss them to coat. Add strawberries to the top of the pie. Refrigerate for at least four hours to allow pie to set. Serve chilled. Store tightly covered in refrigerator for up to five days.

Banana Pudding Icebox Cake

Rocky Road Rice Krispies Treats

Line an 81/2-by-41/2-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving a fair amount of overhang on all sides. Add malted milk powder and salt to a bowl. Add a splash of cream, and whisk. Continue this process until you’ve added all the cream. Whip cream until stiff peaks form. Add a single layer of wafers to the bottom of the loaf pan. Top with a layer of whipped cream. Add a single layer of bananas, then top with a layer of whipped cream. Repeat this until you’ve used all the cream, making sure to end with a layer of cream. Fold the overhanging plastic over the cake. If it doesn’t completely cover the surface, add more plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours or up to 36.

In a microwave on low power, melt one package of marshmallows in oil. Stir until smooth. Stir in cereal, graham crackers, 1 cup almonds and 1 cup chocolate chunks. Using waxed paper or a lightly greased spatula, press mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Cool to room temperature. Melt one package chocolate chunks in microwave. Spread over the top of the pan of treats. Sprinkle with remaining marshmallows, almonds and chocolate chunks. Cut into bars before serving.

2/3 cup malted milk powder 1 pinch kosher salt 2 cups heavy cream 7 ounces vanilla wafers

4 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced about the same thickness as the wafers

11/4 cups salted, roasted 2 10-ounce packages almonds, chopped and miniature marshmallows, divided divided 2 11½-ounce packages 3 tablespoons canola oil semisweet chocolate 5 cups Rice Krispies chunks, divided 5 whole graham crackers, crumbled

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THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT NIKON D700 180mm lens ISO: 200 f/5.6 at 1/1000

Bound by Love Story and photo by Dave LaBelle Relationships can be complicated, especially among siblings. While some siblings are inseparable—through shared rooms, vehicles or clothing—others never bond or they drift apart as they grow. The second of Charles and Jeanetta LaBelle’s children, I have four siblings—two brothers and two sisters—and each relationship is different, changing and evolving through the years. While every relationship is unique because no two humans are exactly alike, relationships can grow richer with age when we value them and are willing to nourish them. Sometimes the distance of living in different states or countries makes it tough to maintain close relationships. My youngest sister and brother have stayed in California, while my older sister, middle brother and I have lived in other states for much of our lives. It has been at least 10 years since we’ve been together. At other times, differing religious or political beliefs and lifestyles become excuses not to nourish sibling relationships. However, as the years race past and we realize we have less time on this earth, sibling relationships may become more precious. Forgiveness replaces anger, love replaces tolerance, and the sibling who might have been annoying or even harmful becomes a treasured friend. Throughout my journalistic career, I have witnessed—usually at funerals—siblings come together as strangers, often wishing they had made a better effort to know a brother or sister. n 18

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While on assignment, I noticed the tender relationship shared by these two brothers, which stirred me to examine the relationships with my own siblings and ask, “What kind of brother am I?”

Reader Challenge This can be a self-portrait of you and your sibling, or it can be a photograph of other siblings together. Maybe even twins? I have a friend, a twin, who also married a twin. Her husband and brother-in-law are close friends and are about as much alike as two individuals can be. Ironically, both recently underwent similar knee surgeries on the same leg. If you feel uncomfortable asking to photograph a sibling, blame it on me. Tell them this is an important assignment from a photography teacher, and you need a photo for posterity. You can also use this assignment as an excuse to meet with a sibling. In years to come, family members may be thankful you did. 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.

Photographer, author and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writing, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog at bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.

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Mullet Munching Offer lunker bass an alternative live bait

Mullets, like these, make great baits for many fish species. PHOTO BY JOHN N. FELSHER

Moments after the float landed next to matted grass in the backwater off the St. Johns River, it disappeared almost as if a rock struck the surface. “That didn’t take long,” St. Cloud fishing guide Steve Niemoeller says of the time it took to set the hook on a 6-pound bass. “Usually, I fish with wild river shiners. I’ve never fished for bass with mullets before that day.” Many Florida anglers tempt bass with wild river shiners, also called golden shiners. Native to the Sunshine State, these baitfish provide important natural forage for bass. River shiners can grow to 12 inches long. They make excellent bass bait but can cost a lot of money when bait shops can keep them in stock. “I’ve caught as many as four dozen mullets in a few throws with a cast net before,” Steve says. “To catch that many shiners would take a long time. To buy that many would cost a lot of money. “I came back from a saltwater trip one time with some live mullets in the baitwell and decided to use them on my next bass trip. They worked great.” Although normally found in salty or brackish water, mullets do enter freshwater systems—such as the St. Johns, Apalachicola, Suwannee and other rivers—that flow into saline waters. Hardy mullets last longer than shiners and can even live in foul water. They remain healthy in a livewell for days. Mullets can grow to more than 20 inches long and weigh several pounds. Smaller mullets make outstanding bait for large speckled trout, redfish and other salty species. In brackish areas, bass and redfish frequently feed upon the same forage. “A bass eats the same thing as a redfish,” Steve says. “I’m sure bass eat mullets in the wild. I use 3- to 6-inch mullets hooked 20

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through the lips or under the dorsal fin, through the back. I fish them about 2 to 3 feet under a float with a weedless hook just like when fishing with shiners.” More streamlined than shiners, mullets usually tempt more bass, although shiners typically entice bigger bass. However, huge bass do gulp small mullets. Bass can more easily swallow a slim mullet than a chunky shiner of similar length. Few people use mullets for bait in fresh water, so bass won’t expect it. “Mullets are slimmer than shiners, so bass actually take them quicker,” Steve says. “The first time I used mullets for bass, I fished an area where I had often used shiners. Bass take a mullet as soon as it hits the water, even quicker than when they take a shiner. Sometimes, shiners in the exact same spot might sit there for a while before bass look at them. Maybe bass hit mullets quicker because I offered them something different or the mullets struggled a little differently.” After your next saltwater adventure, keep a few live mullets to tempt bass. A succulent mullet struggling in the water might prove too tempting for any big, hungry largemouth.  For more information, call Steve Niemoeller at 888-629-2277 or visit bassonline.com.

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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Slow Down, We’re Floating Here!

Practice Safe Boating: Wear polarized sunglasses. Look out for manatee zones. Slow your wake for their sake. 1-800-432-JOIN (5646) savethemanatee.org Photo © David Schrichte

FLORIDA CURRENTS

PLANNER

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

SEBRING

PENSACOLA

Every Saturday

The Cottage Market of Sebring Join locals from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at this perfect place to shop and savor homemade goodness. This market offers fresh treats such as lemonade, cotton candy, kettle corn and baked breads. 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. 863-458-5279

bluemorninggallery.com; 850-429-9100

Aug. 8

28th Annual Key West Lobsterfest Dive into a seafood celebration at this annual festival. Enjoy fresh lobster, vibrant street parties, live music and local flavors in the heart of the Florida Keys. Don’t miss this summer event—perfect for foodies and funseekers alike. keywestlobsterfest.com

First Fridays at Blue Morning Gallery Join Blue Morning Gallery for its First Friday Artist Reception, a monthly celebration of creativity. Each month features a new show with fresh works from local artists. Enjoy light refreshments, meet the artists and experience the vibrant energy of the gallery. The event is free and open to the public and often includes live music to set the mood.

AVON PARK

KEY WEST

Aug. 5-9

Aug. 7

Avon Park Farmers Market Discover the charm of small-town Florida while exploring local shops inside the historic Jacaranda Hotel. Step indoors and explore a market filled with local farmers, artisans, and food vendors offering fresh Florida produce, handmade goods and delicious bites. With live music and a relaxed community atmosphere, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to spend a Saturday morning—rain or shine. facebook.com/farmersmarketavonpark; 863-235-1414

BUSHNELL

Aug. 8

Living Historian-Led Guided Walk Program Join us from 10 a.m. to noon for this reenactor-led guided walk program on Fort King Road at Dade Battlefield Historic State Park. The program is free with a park admission fee of $3 per vehicle or a Florida State Parks Annual Pass. bit.ly/4wsMuaU; 850-245-2157

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY DENNIS MACDONALD

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PENSACOLA

Aug. 14

Cinemas in the Sand: Goat Presented by the Santa Rosa Island Authority, this beloved tradition invites locals and visitors alike to gather under the stars, feel the sand between their toes and enjoy timeless movie classics against the breathtaking backdrop of the Gulf Coast. All movies are free to the public and start at sunset in front of the Gulfside Pavilion stage, weather permitting. visitpensacolabeach.com/cinemas-in-the-sand; 850-530-3349

KEY LARGO

Aug. 16

2026 Triathlon Starting at sunrise, the event features a scenic open-water swim at Cannon Beach, a bike course along the Overseas Highway and a run through a charming Florida Keys neighborhood. Athletes and spectators enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere, capped off with a post-race party and awards celebration featuring live steel drum music. This is a true Keys-style race experience. gameonraceevents.com/events-2; 561-768-7889

PORT ST. JOE

Aug. 20

St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve Guided Tram Tour The tour begins with a history talk inside the visitor center at 9 a.m. Attendees then proceed to the main gate parking lot (across the street from the visitor center) to board the tram. The tram moves slowly as one of the preserve’s staff members interprets the surroundings while you travel down Treasure and Sandridge roads. Remember to bring anything that makes your ride more comfortable: hat, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, raincoat, camera, binoculars, etc. The tram has no roof, so be prepared for sun or possibly a light shower. The event is not canceled if the rain is light and no lightning is present. While there is no charge for the event, you must reserve your spot to ensure there is adequate seating. For reservations, email sandra.chafin@floridadep.gov or call the number below. stjosephbaypreserve.org/tram-tours; 850-229-1787

BUSHNELL

Aug. 22

ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY JU_SEE

Early American Pie-Making Class Join expert volunteers and staff from 1-3:30 p.m. as they teach participants the historic art of early American pie-making with wild berries at Dade Battlefield Historic State Park. Preregister by calling the number below or emailing dadeprograms@floridadep.gov. Event admission is $10 per person, and parking is $3 per vehicle or free with a Florida State Parks Annual Pass. bit.ly/4y4qbKb; 850-245-2157

PENSACOLA

Aug. 29

The 52 Saturday Market This event takes place the last Saturday of every month and is designed to bring locals together. A monthly event, continuing through Oct. 31, the market offers a vibrant space for people of all ages to connect, enjoy and celebrate art and community at The 52 World, 8511 Myslak Way.

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY BABAROGA

PENSACOLA

Every Saturday

Parkrun Every weekend, nearly half a million people at more than 2,000 locations worldwide take part in parkrun—an event for runners and walkers. The Pensacola event takes place at 7:30 a.m. Saturdays at Rec Plex North, on the University of West Florida campus. Children and dogs are welcome. Parkrun is free, but you’ll need to download a barcode and bring it with you in any scannable format to get a time. It only takes a minute, and you only need to do this once, no matter how many parkruns you attend. Register at the link below. parkrun.us/recplexnorth

PENSACOLA

Aug. 30

Portside Pickle: Dog Days of Summer The last Sunday of every summer month just got a whole lot more interesting. Dog Days of Summer is happening, and we’re bringing shelter pups to the pickleball courts at Portside Pickle, Pensacola’s pickleball paradise on the waterfront in the heart of downtown Pensacola. Come for the pickleball. Stay for the puppies. Leave with a new best friend. portsidepickle.com; 850-850-4755

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.

https://the52.world; 844-561-2497

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GARDENING

Tithonia A sippy cup for butterflies The Tithonia, or Mexican sunflower, is a spectacular annual flowering plant that does well in Florida. I used to grow it as a child up north but found it does even better in the Sunshine State. Easy to start from seed, this orange-red flower will impress you. Tithonia rotundiflora is an old-time annual flower favorite not to be confused with a perennial relative called the Bolivian sunflower, Tithonia diversifolia. Tithonia rotundiflora is a Florida-Friendly Landscapingapproved annual and not a problem species, according to the UF/IFAS Assessment of Non-Native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas. However, Tithonia diversifolia is an aggressive plant that can easily take over an area and is listed as a high invasion risk. It’s predicted to be invasive and not recommended by IFAS. The Tithonia in today’s article is easily controlled and a pleasure to have in a yard. Growing from 5 to 6 feet tall, this annual has fuzzy, soft leaves and stems topped with 3-inch, bright orange-red flowers with yellow centers. Plant the seeds in a full sun location in late winter/early spring for summer and fall flowers. Once Tithonia begins to grow, be prepared to stake it as the plant can get floppy and fall over. The cultivar called Torch is perhaps the most common selection and has been given an All-America Selections designation. There is also a yellow cultivar. Both cultivars are tall, so you may want to look at dwarf varieties. Only growing to 3 feet tall, Goldfinger and Fiesta Del Sol provide a more compact version of this plant. Heat and drought tolerant, Tithonia do well in Florida’s summer weather and are often available at local seed racks or from online seed catalogs. Besides being a colorful bedding plant, Tithonia lends itself to the production of great cut flowers that keep producing. This flowering plant is also a magnet for butterflies and other pollinators. Butterflies love to perch and sip nectar from the high vantage point provided by Tithonia. This plant may also supply seeds for birds at certain times of the year. Once an individual flower fades, it will set seeds which will drop to the ground, germinate and may provide another set of Tithonia to flower in fall and early winter. Frost will likely finish off the plants, but many seeds will self-sow and become volunteers for next year. As such, Tithonia can naturalize a bit wherever it is grown. Look to pass extra seeds to a friend, as Tithonia makes an excellent pass-along plant. So, if you are looking for success with annuals, perhaps Tithonia will be part of your garden. n 24

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A pleasure to have in any yard, Tithonia adds color and is a magnet for butterflies and other pollinators. PHOTO BY RALPH MITCHELL/UF IFAS EXTENSION

Ralph Mitchell has served as the county extension director and horticulture agent IV for UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County since 2000. In this role, he oversees all county extension programs and staff while leading key horticulture initiatives, including the Master Gardener Volunteer Program, Consumer and Commercial Horticulture, Florida-friendly Landscaping and Pesticide Applicator Recertification Training. He is also a senior instructor for Florida’s Green Industries Best Management Practices program. Ralph lives in Port Charlotte with his wife of 39 years. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, natural history, archaeology and raising small animals.

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC

SWIMMING POOL SAFETY WORD SCRAMBLE Dive into this word scramble challenge. Read the pool safety tips below to uncover the scrambled words. Remember these tips to stay safe while having fun in the sun. Double-check your work in the answer key.

1. Never swim without an lutda nearby, even if you know how to swim.

2. Walk around the pool. Gunrnin on wet surfaces can cause slips and falls.

3. Wear cessrnuen and drink plenty of water to stay safe in the summer heat.

4. Keep cilarcteel devices, cords and speakers far away from the water. 5. If you see lightning or hear drehtnu, get out of the pool immediately and go indoors.

1) adult 2) running 3) sunscreen 4) electrical 5) thunder Answer Key A U G U ST 2 0 2 6

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS PHOTO BY MARK GILLILAND/PIONEER UTILITY RESOURCES

How To Help

During Peak Demand By Miranda Boutelle Your electric utility works hard to ensure safe, reliable power to homes and businesses 24/7. To make sure everyone has the power they need, generation must match consumption and have the capacity to adjust to changing demands for energy. Peak demand is the period in a given range of time when electricity use is highest. It’s caused by many people using energyconsuming equipment at the same time. It differs based on geography, weather and time of year. Demand is typically highest on hot summer afternoons and cold winter mornings. Most utilities also experience daily peaks when people are getting ready in the mornings and returning home in the evenings. When everyone uses more energy at the same time, it puts more stress on the electric grid and requires more expensive electricity to meet the need. Electricity pricing is based on supply and demand. The price of electricity is higher when the demand for it is higher— costs that ultimately affect members. To lower energy use and strain on the grid during peak times, there are habits we can adopt in our homes. Let’s look at two examples. Joe and John arrive home from work at 5:30 p.m. They turn on their ovens to make dinner. While John waits for the oven to preheat, he throws in a load of laundry. He finishes dinner, cleans up and starts the dishwasher. Then, he moves the clothes to the dryer. Joe finishes dinner, loads the dishwasher and sets it to start at 10 p.m. He puts a load of laundry in the washing machine and later that evening switches it over to the dryer. Although they use the same appliances and amount of energy,

John uses them all at once, running multiple appliances during peak hours, creating higher demand and more strain on the electric grid while using more expensive energy. To lower your demand, spread electricity use throughout the day and avoid peak times as much as possible. This reduces the utility’s cost of providing electricity to your home. Another benefit of shifting your use to midday is integrating renewable energy, such as solar, which produces energy when the sun is shining. Large appliances—such as washers, dryers, ovens, water heaters and air conditioners—have the biggest impact. Using them during off-peak hours or one at a time helps. Automate as much as possible. Most electric vehicle chargers can be set to charge during scheduled hours with built-in timers or apps. Most modern dishwashers have delay-start features. If you have a pool, set the pool pump to run in the middle of the day, particularly if you are in a region with strong solar production. You can also automate air conditioning. Some utilities offer programs that precool homes during off-peak hours to reduce demand during peak times. Simple, free adjustments, such as closing your curtains on hot afternoons and evenings, can also help. Some utilities include peak demand charges on bills that reflect the maximum amount of electricity a customer used at any point of time during a billing period. Ask your electric utility about local peak times. Keep in mind that extreme weather—such as freezing temperatures in Alabama or a heat wave in Minnesota—puts extra stress on the grid. Taking it easy on your energy use during extreme weather events can help prevent outages. Spreading out your energy use helps your utility keep costs down and benefits your local energy grid. 

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.

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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.

Got a Story Idea? We Want to Hear It.

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.

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY SR PRODUCTIONS

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

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Beyond The blue star is the standard, but how else can consumers make efficient choices? By Drew Woolley

ADOBE STOCK PHOTOS BY OLEKSANDR DELYK, RABBIT_1990, COMAUTHOR AND TIMON

If you’re in the market for major appliances, you’ve probably noticed the Energy Star logo. It may appear on the bright yellow EnergyGuide labels that make it easy to compare one model’s annual energy use to another’s, or as a blue label setting apart products that meet especially high energy-efficiency standards. Buying an Energy Star-certified appliance not only ensures your home saves energy and leaves a smaller environmental footprint, but it can also save you money in the long run. While the program has undergone some recent changes, including the sunsetting of

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federal rebates, looking for the Energy Star label is still the best way to be sure you’re investing in an efficient appliance that will lower your energy bill without sacrificing performance. But it isn’t the only way to keep track of how much energy your new purchase uses.

Following are ways you can ensure you’re choosing the best new appliances and equipment for your home. By the Numbers Many appliances in your home or on the market have efficiency benchmarks you can track on your own. Even if they aren’t conveniently displayed on a label, you can still compare them between different models, as long as you know what to look for. Here are just a few examples:

PLUGGED IN

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment. Heating and cooling account for nearly half of the energy used in most homes, making it an area where greater efficiency can have the most noticeable impact. Much like cars have a miles-pergallon rating, air conditioners and heat pumps have a seasonal energy-efficiency ratio. A higher SEER rating means a unit is more efficient and uses less energy over the course of a typical season. You may also run into energy-efficiency ratios. While similar, SEER ratings measure average efficiency over an entire season, whereas EER ratings judge cooling capacity performance during peak periods of extreme temperatures. Washing machines. Similarly, the modified energy factor accounts for energy and hot water consumed during each wash cycle. It also accounts for how much moisture the washer leaves on clothes for a dryer to remove. The higher the MEF, the more efficient.

If you’re concerned about water use, the water factor is also worth keeping an eye on. Windows. As one of the largest sources of heat gain and loss in a home, the efficiency of windows can’t be overlooked. If you’re in the market to upgrade, keep an eye on the U-factor, which measures how well a window insulates, and the solar heat gain coefficient, which tells you how much heat the window lets through. Whether you prioritize U-factor or SHGC largely depends on your area’s climate and which direction the windows are facing. In the market for something specific? Most major household products and appliances have efficiency ratings just like these. Visit the Department of Energy or Environmental Protection Agency’s websites for more information on which ones to look to as a guide for making your own energy-efficient purchase. Ways to Save There are still ways to get help with

energy-efficient investments. Rebates established under the Inflation Reduction Act on the state level are still options, but availability depends on where you live. Some states have started offering their own point-of-sale or mail-in rebates, so be sure to check what is available in your area. In addition, your local electric utility may offer rebates of its own. Many have rebate pages on their websites where you can find forms to save on smart thermostats, efficient HVAC units, heat pumps and more. While buying an Energy Star-certified appliance may still be the easiest way to make efficient purchases for your home, it isn’t the only option. By paying extra attention to efficiency ratings for specific appliances and staying on top of rebates and tax incentives in your area, you can cut back on your upfront costs and energy bills over time. 

What’s Behind the Star? Whether it’s a label on your new appliance or a logo on the EnergyGuide label, Energy Star certification gives buyers confidence they’re investing in long-term savings. But what does that blue star actually mean? Energy Star is a program established by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency to help consumers find energyefficient products and reduce their impact on the environment. To earn the certification, products must perform more efficiently than the average model while providing the same level of performance. But that isn’t where the process ends. Each product is tested in EPA-recognized labs using standardized procedures to make sure it meets Energy Star requirements. Once testing is complete, a third-party certification group reviews and verifies it before a product gets the Energy Star label. Earning that certification still isn’t the end. The EPA conducts random, off-the-shelf testing of Energy Star products to make sure they still meet those high standards. If a product fails one of these verification tests, it may ultimately be disqualified and lose Energy Star certification.

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■ FLYING OUT THE DOOR: Trucks are being loaded with the new medical alert devices called FastHelp. They are now being delivered to lucky seniors who call the National Rebate Center Hotline at 1-800-221-2809 DEPT. FSTH208 today. Everyone is calling to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device because it instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

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practically pays for it and no monthly bills ever,” Lawrence said. FastHelp is the sleek new medical alert device with the best of combinations: a quality, high-tech engineered device that’s also an extremely great value because there are no monthly bills ever. ■ The only device that makes you look important, not old The problem with medical alert devices is, nobody wants to wear them because it makes them look old. Well, that’s not the case with FastHelp. That’s because it’s the first state of the art medical alert device designed to make you look important, not old. Old style monitored help buttons you wear around your neck, or require expensive base station equipment or a landline are the equivalent of a horse and buggy, it’s just outdated. Millions of seniors fall every year and spend hours lying on the floor helpless and all alone with no help. But seniors who fall and get immediate help are much more likely to avoid getting sent to a nursing home and get to STAY living in their own home independently. Yet millions of seniors are still risking their safety by not having a medical alert device. That’s because seniors just can’t afford to pay the monthly bills that come with old style medical alert devices. That’s why seniors born before 1964 are rushing to cash in the whopping $150 instant rebate before the 21 day deadline ends. So there’s no need to wait for FastHelp to hit store shelves later this year because seniors born before 1964 can get it now just by using the $150 instant rebate coupon printed in today’s publication before the 21 day deadline ends. If lines are busy keep trying, all calls will be answered. ■

Doctor urges seniors to get new medical alert device Instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever

Comes with new cellular embedded technology that works at home or anywhere you go so you are never alone

All seniors born before 1964 are getting a $150 rebate and cover just $149 making this deal too good to pass up

Nothing to hook up. You don’t need a land line or cell phone. It’s ready to use right out of the box

Seniors snap up new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills

and their family members are snapping up a sleek new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills ever,” he said. Many seniors refuse to wear old style help buttons because they make them look old. But even worse, those medical alert systems come with monthly bills. To s olve t he s e problems Universal Physicians, a U.S. compa ny, went to work to develop a new, modern, stateof-the -ar t medical alert device. It’s called “FastHelp™” and it instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and

no monthly bills ever. “This slick new little device is designed to look incognito to slip in your pocket. Seniors love them, because it actually makes them look important, not

old,” Dr. Howren said. FastHelp is expected to hit store shelves later this year. But special promotional giveaways are slated for seniors in select publications. ■

People don’t always do what their doctor says, but when sea soned vetera n emergency room physician, Dr. Philip B. Howren says every senior should have a medical alert device, you better listen up. “Seniors are just one fall away from being put in a nursing home,” Dr. Howren said. “With a medical alert device, seniors are never alone. So it keeps them living independently in their own home. That’s why seniors

Five Star Customer Reviews Hurricane Help “We had two hurricanes recently. I had no electricity for 6 days. I fell, so I pushed the button, and they came right out and picked me up off the floor. I tell many of my friends they need to get FastHelp!” - Virginia, FL

BORN AFTER 1964: You cannot use the rebate coupon to the right and must pay $299 Call: 1-800-221-9773 EXT. ADFH0826

WE LOVE THE PRODUCT “We bought it outright with no bills ever.” - Rosemary, NY

Very appreciative of having FastHelp “I did have an emergency. Help RESPONDED quickly and came in a few minutes.” - Irving, PA

Safe anywhere “This little FastHelp device is my guardian angel. I’m so glad my daughter-in-law got it for me.” - Pete, FL

A+ Rating: These are unsolicited consumer feedback from satisﬁed customers as reported to Universal Physicians.

HOW TO GET IT BORN BEFORE 1964: Use the rebate coupon to the right and call this Toll-Free Hotline: 1-800-221-2809 EXT. FSTH208

LIFESAVER “When I got my FastHelp I never thought I’d have to use it, but when I fell and broke my hip it saved my life.” - Harold, OH

BOTTOM LINE: You don’t need to shop around. We’ve done all the leg work, this deal is too good to pass up. With the instant FastHelp rebate, it is a real steal at just $149 and shipping. There are no monthly bills ever.

PROS: It’s the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp One-Touch 911 Button that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts or deposits. It connects you to the vast available network of cellular towers for free and saves seniors a ton of money because there are no monthly bills ever making this deal a must have. Plus it’s the only medical alert device that makes seniors look important, not old.

CONS: Consumers can’t get FastHelp in stores until later this year. That’s why it’s so important for seniors born before 1964 to call the National Rebate Center Hotline within the next 21 days. For those who miss that deadline, the sleek little medical alert device will set you back over $300 bucks.

REBATE COUPON

VALID FOR USE

21 DAYS ONLY

Amount of Rebate (AOR)

1 OF 1

$150.00 OFF RE: FSTH208 DLVY: ML2077R1

PLEASE USE CHECK OR MONEY ORDER WITH NO TRANSACTION FEE. ALL OTHER PAYMENT FORMS HAVE A THREE PERCENT TRANSACTION FEE. FASTHELP IS COVERED BY A 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE LESS SHIPPING AND A 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY. FASTHELP IS A 4G CELLULAR DEVICE. FASTHELP WILL NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE 911 CALLS WHEN CELLULAR SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE SUCH AS IN REMOTE AREAS. FASTHELP USES GPS TRIANGULATIONS TO APPROXIMATE YOUR LOCATION WHEN YOUR DEVICE IS TURNED ON. DR. HOWREN IS A COMPENSATED MEDICAL ADVISOR. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. UNIVERSAL PHYSICIANS 7747 SUPREME AVE, NORTH CANTON, OH 44720. P7484 OF24593-1

FL-152

Before a Storm, Make Sure We Can Reach You When severe weather threatens or an unexpected outage occurs, reliable communication becomes just as important as reliable electricity. Florida Keys Electric Cooperative is committed to keeping members informed before, during and after emergencies with outage notifications, restoration updates and other important information. But we can only reach you if your current email address(es) and mobile phone number(s) are registered in SmartHub.

Why It Matters Your primary email address and most-used mobile phone number allow FKEC to send outage notifications, restoration updates, planned outage information and other emergency communications directly to you. If this information is outdated—or isn’t included in your SmartHub account— you could miss important updates when they matter most.

SmartHub Is Your Connection with FKEC Many members use SmartHub to pay their bill or monitor energy use, but it’s also how FKEC keeps you informed. The email addresses and mobile phone numbers saved in your SmartHub account are the contact methods FKEC uses to send urgent notifications. Keeping this information current helps ensure you receive the updates you need, when you need them.

Communication Goes Both Ways Taking just a few minutes today to verify your contact information is in SmartHub helps ensure FKEC can reach you with important updates when they matter most. It’s one of the simplest ways to stay informed during an emergency. 

Don't wait until a storm is approaching. Please log in to SmartHub today and verify your email address and mobile phone number.

305.852.2431 | www.FKEC.com

Stay Connected!

It only takes two minutes. Before a storm arrives, log in to SmartHub and go to Settings > Contact Methods to make sure: Your primary email address is current. Your most-used mobile phone number is correct. Outage notifications are enabled. If you don’t already have a SmartHub account, now is the time to create one. It only takes a few minutes and helps ensure you receive important updates when every message counts.

Visit FKEC.com or scan the QR code to download SmartHub. SmartHub is available on desktop computers, smartphones and tablets.