Florida Currents
Champion for Children Foundation CEO Liz Prendergast, right, and Family Support Specialist Chantel Parris
parents
need. PHOTO BY JENNIFER KOUKOS
Florida Currents
CEO Michael Shepard
VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Chasity Anderson, CCC
DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Noble Sprayberry
SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC
FLORIDA CURRENTS EDITORS
Valeri Saldanha Rosa; Sable Riley, CCC
ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Hampton, CCC; David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea, CCC
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
SENIOR MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
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November 2025 • Volume 15, No. 1 For additional content, search @FloridaCurrents on your favorite social media sites and floridacurrents.com.
Generous Thankful for Neighbors
Expo participants are required to visit each exhibitor booth to learn about available community services.
PHOTO BY JENNIFER KOUKOS
What Is Operation Round Up?
Operation Round Up is a community grant program that aids members in need and supports local nonprofits.
Grants are funded through small, voluntary donations from Glades Electric Cooperative members who choose to round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar.
How Does Money Get to Those in Need?
Money collected through Operation Round Up is distributed by the Glades Electric Charitable Trust, which is comprised of a board of nine Glades Electric members representing each district in the co-op’s service area. These dedicated volunteers review grant applications from members and local nonprofits, considering each story, program detail and financial need before casting their votes. Their goal is simple: to ensure every donation makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors and strengthens our community.
What Does Operation Round Up Support?
Operation Round Up grants provide a lifeline for members facing crisis and extend support to nonprofits that care for our community—from stocking food pantries and enhancing infant safety to supporting elder care and empowering youth programs across Florida’s Heartland.
Operation Round Up assisted eight members and seven organizations from January 2025 to August 2025.
In July, $3,500 in Operation Round Up funds supported Our Village Okeechobee’s Back-to-School Expo, a community event to provide critical school supplies to those in need. The event also hosts community service partners on-site to educate parents about important programs and opportunities available to provide assistance in a variety of ways.
At the August meeting of the Glades Electric Charitable Trust, board members awarded $1,500 to the Champion for Children
GLADES ELECTRIC
ABOVE: Volunteers fill backpacks with school supplies.
LEFT: Champion for Children Foundation CEO Liz Prendergast is all smiles after receiving a $1,500 grant to purchase 10 car seats.
Foundation to buy car seats for families in need.
“We get referrals in a variety of ways, but we’ll often have hospital staff reach out when a mom doesn’t have a car seat to take her newborn home,” Champion for Children Foundation CEO Liz Prendergast says.
The grant is made possible by generous Operation Round Up donors and helps buy car seats so infants arrive home safely.
Our Village Okeechobee Back-to-School Expo volunteers gather for a group photo and Operation Round Up donor recognition. PHOTOS BY JENNIFER KOUKOS
New Charitable Trust Directors Represent Lake Josephine and Moore Haven
In the past 14 months, two Glades Electric members became the newest members of the Glades Electric Charitable Trust Board.
Sommer Foster | District 1, Moore Haven
The newest Charitable Trust member is Moore Haven resident Sommer Foster, who joined the board in July.
Sommer grew up in Lake Placid but has been a Glades County resident for more than a decade. She is a University of Florida graduate with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering. Sommer holds licenses as a professional engineer and real estate sales associate, and she is in the process of obtaining her building construction license.
Despite being busy professionally and a mom to daughter Keelin, 18, and son Triton, 15, Sommer says she has seen the need in the area while serving on local boards.
“It was a fairly easy choice to join the Charitable Trust,” she says. “I have been blessed, even in my struggles, so it is the very least I am able to do by giving back to aid in the needs of Glades Electric members.”
Larry Howard | District 8, Lake Josephine
Larry Howard joined the board in September 2024 to replace Vicki Pontius, who became a Glades Electric Cooperative trustee representing District 8 members following the passing of Jack Coxe.
Larry has been a resident of Highlands County for 40 years. He previously lived in southeast Kentucky.
He was employed by Highlands County for 30 years, most recently as the parks and facilities supervisor. Larry also served in the military for 15 years.
Larry and his wife, Leah, have been married 41 years and have one daughter and four grandchildren.
Larry says he is “proud to be a part of an organization that helps people in need.”
Celebrating 15 Years of Serving Members
In July, Acting General Manager Michael Roberge recognized Dori Evans—District 4 representative for Lakeport and Brighton—for 15 years of dedicated service as a Charitable Trust director.
Dori has generously given her time to review Operation Round Up grant applications and meet with individuals and organizations seeking support. Her dedication—and that of the eight other board members—helps ensure each grant is awarded with care, compassion and thoughtful consideration.
The cooperative is deeply grateful for Dori’s years of service and her lasting impact on the people and communities we serve.
The cooperative is grateful for all nine Charitable Trust board members who serve to ensure the good stewardship of members’ Operation Round Up donations and help meet the needs in our communities.
Washington, D.C.
June 15-20, 2026
Powering Powering Futures Futures
Attention high school juniors in Glades, Hendry, Highlands and Okeechobee counties:
Build your resume with an amazing leadership development experience in Washington, D.C., where students will tour historic sites, meet with congressional staff, and learn about electric co-ops and advocacy.
New for 2026: Students do not have to be powered by Glades Electric Cooperative to participate.
Applications and more details are available at https:// www.gladeselectric.com/community/student-programs-information/#youth_tour.
APPLY BY JAN. 5, 2026
Operation Round Up
What is it?
Operation Round Up is a program that allows members to round up their monthly bills to fund projects benefiting community members in need.
Nine members serve on the board of directors for Glades Electric Charitable Trust, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Directors review applications and approve grants.
7
Lake Josephine District 8
$8,886.00 in Operation Round Up funds awarded to individuals and a nonprofit in September 2025 to assist families in need.
How does it work?
$153 55 cents to your neighbor in need. The average yearly contribution is $6 per member.
Okeechobee District 9 raised by Operation Round Up and Round Up Plus in August 2025.
Funds from Operation Round Up go right back into the communities we serve.
$4,296.40
8,252 accounts participate in Operation Round Up or Operation Round Up Plus. Round Up Plus allows members to add any set amount, $1 or more, to their bills each month.
44%
How can I help?
Sign up for Operation Round Up in the SmartHub app or on your payment stub, stop by the office or call 855-940-3810.
How can I get help?
If you or a member you know needs financial assistance, please complete an application at: www.gladeselectric.com/community/operation-round-up. $152.45 Amount due: Power Bill UP ROUND
The participation rate that would raise more than $70,000 annually to support our communities. 75%
Sommer Foster Moore Haven District 1
Beverly Eaves Hendry County District 2
Kelly Brantley Ortona/Palmdale District 3
Dori Evans Lakeport District 4
Carol Roberts Venus/Hicoria District 5
Lee Andrus Highlands Park District 6
Melissa Callahan Lorida District
Larry Howard
Byars
Highlands
Glades
Hendry
Okeechobee
Want to Help?
Pets for Vets is a four-star-rated, nonprofit organization that relies on donations to provide free services to veterans. There are several ways to donate.
Donate online: Visit petsforvets.com/donate to make a secure online donation.
Donate by mail: Pets for Vets Inc., P.O. Box 10860 Wilmington, NC 28404
Healing Bonds
Pets for Vets makes the perfect match
By Jen Calhoun
When Clarissa Black first took her husky-malamute mix, Bear, to visit veterans at a Veterans Administration medical center, she had no idea he was about to change hundreds of lives.
Of course, she knew Bear was special. He had a way about him. When someone needed quiet company, Bear could lie perfectly still for hours. If someone was working on improving mobility, Bear would position himself at the perfect distance, paws up, as if to offer encouragement. And when people looked into the dog’s eyes and spoke to him, he’d cock his head and let out one of his husky “woos” right on cue.
“People really felt like he was talking to them,” says Clarissa, whose background in animal science and anthrozoology gave her a deeper insight into the interactions. “They felt seen, and they felt heard.”
Clarissa’s experience with Bear at the VA hospital sparked the idea for Pets for Vets, a nonprofit organization that matches veterans with specially trained companion animals. Since she founded it more than 15 years ago, Pets for Vets has matched more than 800 animals with veterans across the country.
Serving Those Who Served
The program generally serves veterans dealing with posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries, but the organization is open to helping any vet who could benefit from a deep connection with a pet. While the service is completely free to the veterans, it relies on donations from the public and a network of more than 100 volunteer animal trainers across the United States.
Other ways to give: The organization accepts cryptocurrency and vehicle donations, including cars, trucks, boats and motorcycles.
Volunteer: Fill out the volunteer form at petsforvets.com to offer your time and expertise.
For more information about the program or to apply for a companion animal, visit petsforvets.com or email contactus@petsforvets.com.
Second Chances
After Leif Mesinger returned home from Iraq, the world felt different. It was harder to navigate and harder to understand. The Army infantryman and gunner suffered a traumatic brain injury from an improvised explosive device blast, and it changed everything.
“My mind was racing, and I struggled to communicate,” Leif says in a Pets for Vets testimonial video. “I felt disconnected from everything I used to know.”
Help arrived in the form of a tiny, hairless waif of a dog named Spyder. Clarissa Black, founder of Pets for Vets, discovered the dog after meeting with Leif and finding out what he might need in a companion animal.
Spyder’s superpower was that he loved to jump into people’s laps and lick them. It was a trait Clarissa intentionally honed in Spyder before presenting him to Leif. She knew that kind of gentle, rhythmic contact could ground a person dealing with anxiety.
In time, Spyder’s constant presence gave Leif a growing sense of purpose and a deepening bond. Thanks to more than 15 years with Spyder, Leif’s communication with others has improved and his life is more fulfilling than ever.
“Spyder was kind of like that saving grace that centered me again and brought me back,” he says.
It’s important to note that Pets for Vets animals aren’t service dogs that have been highly trained to assist people with disabilities. Still, the organization works hard to meet the veterans’ needs as well as the animals’.
“We’re not just asking what the dog gives the veteran,” Clarissa says. “We want to know what the veteran gives the dog. We’re looking for that reciprocal match where both are getting exactly what they want.”
LEFT: Spyder’s tendency to jump in laps and lick faces helps calm and center Leif Mesinger when he feels frustrated. PHOTOS COURTESY OF PETS FOR VETS
OPPOSITE PAGE: Clarissa Black, founder and executive director of Pets for Vets, with her late dog, Bear, who sparked the idea for the nonprofit organization.
Making a Match
Once the group approves a veteran’s application for a companion animal, the search gets underway. Clarissa’s experience as a marine mammal trainer taught her the most powerful relationships happen when both parties get what they need. The process isn’t about finding a good dog. It’s about finding exactly the right dog.
The matching process is not only thorough, it’s personal. Veterans work closely with trainers to identify their needs and prepare for pet ownership.
“We spend a lot of time getting to know our veterans, finding out what it is they need, what they’re looking for and what would be a good fit for them,” Clarissa says.
Meanwhile, trainers visit shelters and rescue groups to conduct one-on-one “interviews” with potential companion animals, which can include cats, rabbits and other species, as well. If a veteran enjoys outdoor activities, for example, the trainer might look for a more active dog that loves to fetch and hike. On the other hand, a more sedentary vet might need a peaceful pooch or calm cat.
From there, each animal undergoes foundation training customized for its future human. During this time, which often
takes place in a foster situation, trainers enhance what Clarissa calls the animal’s “superpowers,” or the natural behaviors that made them perfect for their veteran in the first place.
“Ultimately, that connection is what’s going to fulfill them and maybe even heal them,” she says. “There’s some research out there that suggests that it’s not just any dog, it’s the right dog—the dog that people feel connected to—that can help mitigate anxiety and depression.” n
Layers of
Born of the pandemic, organization matches home-cooked lasagna with those in need of a meal
By Cheré Coen
Love
It’s a common dilemma, one that unfortunately plagues society daily. The world’s so big and full of pain, what can one person do?
Rhiannon Menn found the answer in a pan of homemade lasagna.
The need in Rhiannon’s community became painfully clear in 2020 as she witnessed medical workers in San Diego stretched thin and families and individuals isolated inside their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. California was the first state to shut down, and many residents lost their jobs, leaving some destitute. Rhiannon began making meals she left on doorsteps— a pan of lasagna to feed her neighbors and remind them they weren’t alone.
What she didn’t expect from her simple act of comfort-food kindness is how the neighborhood, then the city, then the world, would react.
The Start of a Movement
As word spread about Rhiannon’s lasagnas, others reached out, asking to join the effort. A network soon came together to match those in need with home chefs wanting to cook. No one asked questions or required information from those seeking help. They just offered support within a home-cooked meal.
“It started to grow like firecrackers,” says Andria R. Larson, executive director of Lasagna Love, the nonprofit that grew out of Rhiannon’s original delivery. “We were able to bring people together through nourishment.”
As word got out in late 2020, Rhiannon and Andria had to develop spreadsheets to keep up with the demand. A volunteer from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology helped develop their website.
“We were just random acts of kindness that came together,” Andria says. “And the ripple effect keeps going. We’re now in four countries and all 50 states.”
Lasagna Love’s mission is simple: address food insecurity in an oldfashioned way, with a home-cooked dish. Those in need—people who have lost their job or housing, families struggling to make ends meet or even college students away from home longing for a home-cooked meal—can register on Lasagna Love’s website. The main office sends on the information to local leaders throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom, who match them with home chefs. The lasagna chefs are volunteers—as are 99% of the organization’s members. The chefs buy the ingredients, prepare the lasagnas and deliver the meals to recipients with notes of encouragement.
Not everyone who volunteers with Lasagna Love cooks. Some donate money and ingredients, while others provide administrative help.
TOP RIGHT: Andria R. Larson serves as executive director of Lasagna Love. BELOW: Volunteers cook pans of lasagna to deliver to those in need, from those who lost their jobs to families struggling to make ends meet. PHOTOS COURTESY OF LASAGNA LOVE
Andria R. Larson
“Some love to cook, some want to donate their skill set,” Andria says. “They are all part of the larger mission.”
To date, more than 23 million people have been affected by Lasagna Love, with more than 80,000 volunteers serving up assistance in one capacity or another. Lasagna Love ambassadors deliver, on average, 3,500 lasagnas each week.
“Radical kindness and generosity continues to spread,” Andria says. “What better way to do that than a pan of homemade lasagna?”
Ingredients of Love
Andria insists that even those who have difficulty in the kitchen can create a pan of lasagna.
“It’s really not that complicated,” she says. “It’s meat, sauce, noodles, cheese, and repeat.”
main ingredient is always a desire to help.
“Through all of it, kindness continues to be needed and woven back into our community,” Andria says. “No one should be without food, but we find many in need.”
Home chefs may be individuals, families or groups, but the primary contact must be at least 18 years old.
In Tennessee, state director Melanie Johnson finds many groups wanting to
community service goals with earning a Lasagna Love Patch. To receive a patch, Scouts explore how to initiate positive change in their neighborhoods, engage in activities that match the core values of Lasagna Love and explore the challenges individuals face today, such as food insecurity. Participating troops help address local waitlists by preparing and delivering meals “while learning invaluable skills and fostering a spirit of
Radical kindness and generosity continues to spread. What better way to do that than a pan of homemade lasagna?
Some recipe tweaks are necessary if recipients have dietary restrictions. For instance, some noodles might need to be gluten free, and vegetarians may request a meatless dish. Many chefs incorporate family recipes, so recipients receive a meal that’s been beloved for generations. Some chefs may use recipes from the main office, along with a tutorial on how to put the pieces together.
No matter which recipe is used, the
— Andria R. Larson, executive director of Lasagna Love
serve lasagna weekly across the state. She continually works with church groups, parents homeschooling their children and those looking for community service hours. Members of a ladies group in Clarksville deliver their lasagnas once a quarter. She’s even had a yoga class volunteer.
“It’s a great group activity,” Melanie says. “For families, it’s a great opportunity to involve kids at different age levels.”
Lasagna Love recently partnered with the Girl Scouts to marry the Scouts’
altruism,” according to the organization. Andria agrees that creating and delivering lasagna is “passion work” and fosters the idea of a village mentality when society’s support systems fail or are not in place. She insists volunteers receive just as much emotional support as the recipients.
“It’s an emotional connection that you can’t duplicate,” she says of cooking and delivering the meals. “This is definitely more than lasagna.”
Lasagna Love founder Rhiannon Menn creates pans of lasagna with her son.
ADOBE STOCK IMAGES BY ATLAS, VON
For recipients, it’s as easy as signing up on the Lasagna Love website. There are no hoops to jump through, no paperwork to determine need. No fee is required, and privacy is paramount. Deliveries are contact-free to the doorstep unless the recipient requests otherwise. Recipients set the time, date and place of the delivery, and the process crosses all language and cultural barriers.
Sometimes, it’s not the lack of finances that brings people to Lasagna Love. It may be someone in need of emotional sustenance.
“Most people have a need, but sometimes it’s a harried parent who’s working and tired of bringing home fast food,” says Brenda Walkenhorst, local leader for the New Orleans metropolitan area. “You don’t have to show reason.”
For some, it’s the first time they have asked for help. The lack of bureaucracy eases their anxiety, Andria says.
“We want to make the experience easy,” she says. “There’s no judgment, no qualifications. Hard times can happen anytime. We don’t want people to face it alone. We’re here.”
How to Help
Lasagna Love is always in need of volunteers—and not just those who love to cook. The organization accepts donations, and sponsors may be called on to do everything from helping in the organization’s administration to providing ingredients to chefs each month.
“It’s a way for people to get involved without cooking,” Andria says.
Volunteers may cook as many or as few lasagnas as they’re able, as individual volunteers or as a group activity. Many volunteers use the opportunity to create lasagna with family members, church groups and other organizations. They sometimes add their own styles to the pan.
Those who wish to cook must complete a brief online training course on safe food preparation and share how often they wish to take part. Volunteers may participate as much or as little as they are able.
The ripple effect Rhiannon and Andria started in 2020 remains, Andria says, and the organization continues to grow thanks to the steady stream of volunteers. This year, Lasagna Love began spreading kindness in the United Kingdom.
“One of the things I did not expect from a group of five women to the state we are in now was being able to see how many people generally want to help,” she says. “It really is impressive to see.” n
For more information about Lasagna Love, visit lasagnalove.org.
Messages of hope are delivered with each pan of lasagna.
Meeting the Need in Tampa Bay
The Tampa Bay region presents a challenge for local leader Rachael Page, but she meets it head-on every Monday. That’s when Lasagna Love’s head office sends her a list of recipients in need of a home-cooked pan of lasagna.
“It’s a big region—big in size and big in population,” Rachael says, adding that many recipients are still on a waiting list. “There are a lot of people out there in need.”
Lasagna Love’s website matches recipients with home chefs offering to cook and deliver lasagna. Geographical information, including how far a chef will travel, and recipients’ dietary requests and restrictions are considered.
“They do an automatic match using algorithms,” Rachael says. “I make sure it’s a good match. I’m a second set of eyes.”
It’s all part of Rachael’s role as a local leader for Lasagna Love. She oversees delivery throughout Tampa and
Hillsborough County, St. Petersburg and Pinellas County, and half of Pasco County. Once she notifies her chefs of their assignments, they double-check dietary requests and ask what else the recipient might need, such as plastic utensils.
“The chef delivers the lasagna usually within a day or two,” Rachael says. “It’s just kindness. Our chefs are such kind people, and they provide recipients with what they need.”
Rachael began her journey with Lasagna Love as a home chef and still cooks in addition to her leadership duties. A full-time nurse and clinical risk manager, she enlists friends and her partner to help buy ingredients, cook lasagna and deliver pans of goodness that Rachael calls “a nice hug.”
“I have a very big support system,” she says. “Lasagna Love is my feel-good because my work is really heavy.”
Rachael has made and delivered 78
pans of lasagna since she began cooking in March 2024. For this year’s National Lasagna Day on July 29, she delivered 13 pans of the cheesy noodle dish to an underserved area of Tampa.
The organization set a national goal of delivering 50,000 pans in July.
“We beat that goal,” Rachael says.
For her work helping feed the Tampa Bay area, Rachael was nominated for a Golden Heart Award by Senior Actors Guild & Education Services, a nonprofit theater organization that produces plays about aging.
Like many local leaders across the country, Rachael always needs more chefs to meet the ongoing demand. She posts regularly on Facebook to enlist volunteers and to let those in need know there’s an organization that can help.
“We’re trying to get the word out there, to let them know we’re here for them,” she says. n
Lasagna Love local leader Rachael Page delivers homecooked pans of lasagna throughout the Tampa Bay region. PHOTOS COURTESY OF RACHAEL PAGE
Small Beans, Big Energy
VERSATILE CHICKPEAS BRING THE FLAVOR
Chickpea Fritters (Panelle)
1½ cups chickpea flour
3 cups water
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt, plus extra for sprinkling
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 pinch fennel seeds
Sunflower oil for frying
Lemon wedges for serving
Place chickpea flour, water and salt in a medium-sized saucepan. Whisk until smooth. Set over medium heat, and whisk constantly as the mixture slowly heats. Keep whisking, scraping the bottom and sides of the pan frequently, until the mixture is smooth, thick and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in parsley and fennel seeds.
Pour mixture onto a parchment-covered baking sheet that is approximately 12-by-15 inches. Quickly spread the mixture with a spatula, before it cools and sets, so it fills the pan in an even layer, about ¼-inch thick. Refrigerate for about an hour, until completely firm.
Once cooled, cut into squares with a sharp knife. Carefully lift the pieces from the pan with a spatula or your hands.
To fry the panelle, pour enough oil into a wide, heavy skillet to cover the bottom to a depth of ½ inch, and set over medium heat. When the oil is hot, fry the panelle about 3 minutes, until the underside is crisp and golden. Flip and brown the other side, about 2-3 minutes.
Place the panelle on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY DOMINIC
Marry Me Chickpeas
1 yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon chili flakes
14-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
½ cup sundried tomatoes, sliced
1 can full-fat coconut milk
3 tablespoons tomato paste
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 cup baby spinach
4-5 fresh basil leaves, julienned
Garlic naan
In a large pan over medium heat, saute onion in olive oil until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic, oregano and chili flakes. Saute for another 1-2 minutes.
Add chickpeas, sundried tomatoes, coconut milk, tomato paste, salt and pepper to the pan. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Add basil and spinach. Stir until wilted. Serve with naan.
Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup
3 garlic cloves, unpeeled
4 medium, fresh tomatoes
1 small yellow onion, sliced into quarters
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
½ teaspoon sea salt, plus a pinch for sprinkling
Freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup canned chickpeas
14-ounce can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
½ teaspoon maple syrup
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Croutons or crusty garlic bread
Heat oven to 450 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wrap garlic cloves in a piece of foil. Place them on the baking sheet with whole tomatoes and onion wedges. Drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tomatoes and onions are browned. Peel garlic, and transfer roasted vegetables to a blender.
Reduce oven to 400 F. Line baking sheet with a fresh sheet of parchment paper.
To the blender, add chickpeas, canned diced tomatoes, vinegar, syrup, thyme, 1 tablespoon olive oil, red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Blend until creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. At this stage, the soup should still be hot. If not, pour into a pot to reheat. Serve with croutons or garlic bread.
Chickpea Korma Curry
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped or minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped or grated
1 tablespoon fresh green chili, finely chopped
1 tablespoon mild curry powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons butter
1 can coconut milk
2 cans chickpeas
½ teaspoon salt
A handful fresh cilantro, roughly chopped Cooked rice or naan
Heat coconut oil in a large, deep pan. Cook onion for 3-4 minutes over medium heat.
Add garlic, ginger and fresh green chili. Cook for 1 minute.
Stir in spices, and cook for 1 minute. Add tomato paste, butter and coconut milk. Stir to combine until sauce is smooth.
Add chickpeas and salt. Bring to boil, then lower heat. Cover the pot, and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in cilantro. Serve over rice or with naan.
Spiced Chickpea and Couscous Bowls
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon sea salt
Dash of cinnamon
Dash of cayenne
2 14-ounce cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 14–ounce cans fireroasted diced tomatoes, undrained
Cucumbers, chopped
Couscous, cooked
Mint, minced
Parsley, minced
Cilantro, minced
Yogurt or hummus
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Toasted pita wedges
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, and saute until soft. Add garlic, spices, salt and chickpeas. Stir until fragrant. Add tomatoes. Simmer for 20 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Arrange bowls with desired amounts of remaining ingredients.
NIKON D810, 48mm lens ISO 160, f/4.5 at 1/200
A Place to Remember
By Dave LaBelle
One of the most famous Christ statues in the world sits on the summit of Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro, in southeastern Brazil. Christ the Redeemer was built in 1931 and stands 98 feet tall.
There is no shortage of statues honoring Jesus Christ across the globe. Many cemeteries, often Catholic, have Christ statues as their centerpieces.
Even as a young photographer, I have always been drawn to cemeteries, especially older ones, with interesting lines, shapes and simple markers. Some of the cemeteries in the Midwest and South often have unusual, contrasting backgrounds.
Cemeteries are usually places of tranquil respite from the rest of the loud and busy world. Like most who wander among the headstones reading names, dates of birth, dates of passing and farewell sentiments, I find graveyards a place to rest and maybe even reset priorities.
Reader Challenge
When I see others cleaning gravesites or placing flowers, I often approach them and ask about those they are visiting. Most are willing to talk about loved ones gone and often thank me for asking. However, I also realize not everybody can visit a cemetery, nor do they feel comfortable sharing with a stranger.
author and lecturer Dave
has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog at bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
Find a cemetery, preferably one that has served an area for decades, even centuries. Go early or visit late in the day and study the lines, shapes and tones. Walk quietly, listening. See if you can make a photograph that embodies the unusual beauty or serenity of the place. Moments when snow blankets the earth are great times to visit and photograph.
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,
LaBelle
With storm clouds gathering, a statue of Christ looms above a northeast Iowa graveyard with grain silos silhouetted behind. I chose to convert this to black and white because there was so little color. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
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TSurvival of the Sharpest
hat first crack of thunder sounded like a bomb just fell on Ramshorn Peak. Black clouds rolled in and the wind shook the trees. I had ventured off the trail on my own, gambled with the weather and now I was trapped in the forest. Miles from camp. Surrounded by wilderness and watching eyes.
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Urban Hunting Adventure
Native to South America and the Caribbean islands, green iguanas came to Florida in the 1960s. These lizards can exceed 5 feet long and are pests around the greater Miami-Fort Lauderdale area.
Hunting invasive lizards can provide great sport
Florida offers many varied sporting opportunities for hunting and fishing , including green iguanas. Native to Central and South America, green iguanas first appeared in the Sunshine State in the 1960s.
The lizards flourished in the warm, semitropical environment. A big male iguana can measure more than 5 feet long and weigh 17 pounds. The extensive South Florida canal system lined with thick brush provides excellent habitat for the tropical reptiles only a few yards from major highways and expensive homes.
The state of Florida and many homeowners in the area want the invasive reptiles gone. Florida allows people to kill the exotic invaders year-round without limit. People cannot hunt the Everglades National Park and some other preserves, but Florida does allow iguana hunting on other public properties.
“Many people want us to come onto their properties to eradicate these invasive reptiles from their backyards,” says Brett Isackson, of Fort Lauderdale, who hunts all over South Florida. “Iguanas can carry bacterial diseases and ticks. They have small teeth but
can cut someone. When going down the canals, many people give us a thumbs up.”
The green lizards climb trees and flatten themselves on branches where they virtually disappear among the leaves and become extremely difficult to hit. To kill one of these tough animals, shooters must bullseye its tiny brain, a target about the size of a quarter, usually from a bobbing boat.
“Iguanas blend in well with the foliage,” Brett says. “They are very tough, with tough skin. It’s all about shot placement. It’s not hard to hit a whole iguana, but shooting for the brain is the challenge.”
In the urban or suburban environment, people can’t shoot high-powered firearms. Therefore, most hunters use air rifles as they cruise down the canals looking for lizards.
Fishing guide John Larsen, of Bass Flats & Beyond, shoots FX Impact and Dreamline air rifles when he hunts Palm Beach and Broward counties.
“A .25- or .30-caliber tend to perform the best,” he says. “When we see an iguana, we stop the boat and let everything and everyone settle down for 10 seconds so we have a more stable shooting platform to get
off a good shot.”
Even with an air rifle, always check the background before pulling the trigger, especially in a populated area. If the iguana doesn’t present a safe shot, try another angle or go look for another.
“I use a scoped Hatsan Flash Pup .22-caliber air rifle,” Brett says. “I also shoot a Gauntlet 2 Air Rifle that delivers .22-caliber pellets with 1,200-foot pounds of energy.”
The maze of canals and natural waterways crisscrossing South Florida also hold many fish species not found elsewhere in the United States. The catch might include peacock bass, oscars, clown knifefish, snakeheads and other exotics.
To book trips with Brett, call 954-445-4516 or 888-629-2277. To book online, visit bassonline. com/fl/fishing-guides/capt-brett-isackson.
For John, call 561-339-5076 or visit Bassflatsandbeyond.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.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN N. FELSHER
A Time of Porpoise
Amemorable beach moment: You’re basking in the warm sun, toes in the sand, letting the gentle turn of the foam-capped waves lull you into a state of complete relaxation. As your eyes scan the endless horizon of blue on blue, you’re rewarded with a pod of dolphins making their way across the sea.
There’s no denying their signature shape as they leap from the water. If you don’t see anything else extraordinary the rest of day, you can take solace knowing you’ve witnessed one of nature’s most playful and human-like creatures in their natural habitat.
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FLORIDA CURRENTS
PLANNER
All ages can find something new and exciting around every corner of the state. Filled with rich history, abundant natural beauty and diverse events all year, Florida has something fun for everyone.
CARRABELLE
Nov. 1
Country Farmers Market
PANAMA CITY BEACH
Nov. 6-8
Emerald Coast Cruizin’ Car Show
The Crooked River Lighthouse continues to host its popular country farmers markets from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST on the first and third Saturdays each month at the foot of the historic lighthouse. These lively markets are the perfect chance to shop small, shop local, and discover unique gifts and tasty treats while supporting regional vendors, artists, bakers, artisans and crafters.
www.crookedriverlighthouse.com; 850-697-2732
ST. GEORGE ISLAND
Nov. 5
Sunset and Full Moon Climb
Visitors can enjoy this opportunity to view St. George Island, the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola Bay under the evening sky. The climb is 5:307:30 p.m. Fifteen-minute time slots will be allotted for each group on a firstcome, first-served basis. Purchase your tickets in the gift shop and then sign up for a time slot with the lighthouse keeper. Up to 12 people are allowed in each 15-minute time slot. Cost is $10 per climber for the general public and $7 for members of the St. George Lighthouse Association. Climbers must be at least 40 inches tall, and children must be 13 or older to access the outside catwalk. stgeorgelight.org/event/november-sunset-and-full-moon-climb-2; 850-927-7745
They’re fast, they’re furious, and they’re getting revved up for you and your friends. Make your way to Aaron Bessant Park and our classic car show to see some awesome hot rods. This event features live music and awards. Across the street, Pier Park offers more than 125 stores for fabulous shopping.
emeraldcoastcruizin.com; 662-576-1448
SEBRING
Nov. 8
Lake Wales Ridge Fire Fest
Explore the role of fire in Florida’s ecosystems from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lake Wales Ridge Fire Fest in Highlands Hammock State Park. The festival is free, but the park entrance fee is $6. The festival offers educational presentations in the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum, including Fire 101, Burning for Wildlife, Fire History & Culture, and Burning for Ranchlands. The highlight of the day is a live prescribed burn demonstration with expert interpretation, showcasing fire’s ecological benefits and crew coordination. Partners include conservation organizations, fire and forestry services, and research institutions. Attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs and spend the day discovering how fire supports wildlife, ranchlands and landscapes. www.archbold-station.org/events/fire-fest-2025; 863-840-0997
LAKEWOOD RANCH
Nov. 23
33rd Annual Ponies Under the Palms Charity Mustang and Ford Show Mustang and Ford enthusiasts throughout the region compete for awards from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free to see older and newer Mustangs. This charity event accepts Ford-powered cars and trucks of all years, makes and models. This is an independent, car show with third-party judges. Class awards will be presented for various years and models. On show day, we draw raffle awards and our 50/50 winner. Tickets can be purchased at the show. Proceeds will benefit Denis V. Cooper Foundation’s Wishes for Heroes and Take Stock in Children.
www.mustangclubofwestcentralflorida.com; 717-781-7315
BY ED SINDONI
PHOTO
AVON PARK
Nov. 9
U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus
Come see The United States Army Field Band at 3 p.m. As the premier touring musical representative for the U.S. Army, this internationally acclaimed organization travels thousands of miles each year presenting a variety of music. The U.S. Army Field Band is considered by music critics to be one of the most versatile and inspiring musical organizations in the world. Its members are selected through a highly competitive audition and represent some of the finest musical talents in the nation. More than six decades as the military’s most traveled musicians have earned them the title, The Musical Ambassadors of the Army. bit.ly/3I4w44S; 863-784-7178
PANAMA CITY BEACH
Nov. 11
Veterans’ Memorial
Take time this Veterans Day to honor those who’ve served. The annual ceremony is at the newly renovated Veteran’s Memorial on West Park Drive just south of Aaron Bessant Park at Pier Park. The memorial honors all branches of the U.S. military and those who served. Over the years, the memorial has not only honored the past but has also become a symbol of community unity. It serves as a reminder of the enduring values of courage, sacrifice and duty that continue to shape the nation. 850-233-5100
PANAMA CITY BEACH
Nov. 13-16
Holly Fair
Mark your calendars for a shopping extravaganza at Edgewater Beach Resort in Northwest Florida. The fair promises to be the ultimate Southern holiday upscale shopping event, bringing together the finest merchants and artisans for four days of festivities. www.jlpanamacity.org/hollyfair; 850-785-7870
SEBRING
Nov. 15
Let it Grow Garden and Plant Festival
The Highlands County Master Gardener volunteers are back for the eighth year as this beloved event fills the Bert J. Harris Jr. Agricultural Center with more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, expert gardening classes, food trucks, children’s activities and the Master Gardener plant sale. Discover unique plants, score unbeatable garden deals and enjoy a day full of fun for the whole family. There’s also a raffle and silent auction you won’t want to miss. Admission is free, so bring your wagon and let it grow. 863-402-6540
ISLAMORADA
Nov. 29
Pops in the Park
Join this free outdoor band concert with the theme of Things With Wings from 4-5 p.m. at Founders Park, MM87. This is a day that’s fun for the whole family. Special guests include Sunshine Corvette Car Club, and a local Scouts America troop will present the flag to honor veterans with a musical tribute. www.keyscommuntiyconcertand.org; 305-394-1123
PANAMA CITY BEACH
Nov. 28-29
Beach Home for the Holidays
Thanksgiving Thursday may be the time for turkey, but that weekend, Santa Claus is coming to town. Beach Home for the Holidays waves goodbye to fall and sets the stage for the most magical month of the year. Starting at 3:30 p.m., Aaron Bessant Park serves as the site of carol-themed concerts, s’mores, an appearance by Santa and activities for children. Each evening will culminate in a fireworks display. bit.ly/4nepXtK; 850-233-5070
HOW TO INCLUDE UPCOMING EVENTS
Want to share a family-friendly event with the readers of Florida Currents? Head online and enter the details at tinyurl.com/FloridaCurrents or use the QR code for easy access. Make sure to submit the item at least 60 days before the event (due to press deadline). If you own rights to a print-quality photo promoting your event, include it with photo credit information.
PHOTO BY DONNA DIETRICH
Holiday Flora and Fauna
The holidays are in full swing. What better way to brighten the ambience than with decorative floral arrangements? Filling your home with sensational aromas and color can undoubtedly add to your holiday cheer. Many of these wonderful treasures can be found in your own backyard or your neighbors’ if you ask.
Plants for Floral Arrangements
Designing your floral arrangements is a matter of imagery, tools and location.
Think about the vision you are trying to create, but remember it doesn’t have to be intricate art. Sometimes, simple is better.
After choosing the design, ask yourself if you need any specific tools to create the arrangement. Some essential tools are cutters or pruning shears, tape, and wiring.
When designing a wreath, you need all the tools mentioned above. If you’re creating a tabletop arrangement, you may only need cutters.
The next item to determine is the location of the arrangement.
For Garden Lovers
If you have a gardening enthusiast in your family, consider giving them a plant for the holiday.
Plants are wonderful gifts, as they hold sentimental value and can be appreciated
for years to come—depending on the plant.
Many of these plants can be found at your local nurseries or big box stores: Norfolk Island pine, holly, cyclamen, amaryllis, narcissus, poinsettia, Christmas cactus, rosemary, ferns and herbs.
Repurpose for Your Homescape
Depending on the type of plant, you can pot it and keep it as a houseplant. Store it in a window area to receive sunlight and water, as needed.
Many of the holiday plants we receive as gifts are sensitive to cold temperatures, so
they may be best kept as houseplants for the Central Florida area.
For more information on holiday flora and fauna, visit these links:
bit.ly/4pOCGW0
bit.ly/3IqMbKp
bit.ly/4nUYOMF
bit.ly/3VJ8w94
Plants Used for Floral Arrangement Designs
Plant
Magnolia
Hollies
Palm seed pods
Pine needles
Pinecones
Spanish moss
Fresh cut tree rings
Boxwood
Abelia
Palm fronds (small)
Turk’s cap
Purpose
Foliage for wreaths, tabletop decor, or accent pieces
Foliage, berries add for accent pieces
Tabletop decor
Accent pieces, great aroma
Accent pieces, great aroma, can be used for holiday crafts for making Christmas trees or wreaths
Accent pieces, fillers for tabletop decor and wreaths
Decor base for candles or other accent pieces
Foliage and accent pieces
Foliage and accent pieces
Great background accent pieces for home decor
Accent pieces, filler for tabletop decor and wreaths
Brittany A. Council-Morton is the urban horticulture agent for UF/IFAS Extension in Volusia County.
Filling your home with seasonal aromas and color can add to your holiday cheer. PHOTO BY UF/IFAS
Infrastr uctu re Costs
The past five years have been a period of exploding costs for the electric utility industry and for broadband providers, pushed by soaring demand, supply chain challenges, raw materials shortages, increased labor costs and tariffs. The impact has been rapid increases in the cost of producing power, longer and more unpredictable project timelines, and the need for more financing, all of which have driven electric rates up for residences, businesses and other end-users. Here’s a look at what’s contributing to the trend. Per cent increase since 2020:
Infrastructure
Utility poles (wood, steel, composite)
Crossarms & braces (steel/wood).......
Conductor wire (aluminum/copper)..
Transformers.......................................
Grain-oriented electrical steel...........
Oil/dielectric fluids............................
Copper wiring......................................
Concrete..............................................
Smart meters.......................................
Pad-mounted switchgear....................
Circuit breakers/reclosers...................
+25–40%
+20–35%
+30–50%
Generation
Diesel gensets......................................
Gas turbines........................................
Solar PV systems.................................
Wind turbines......................................
Hydropower components...................
Battery storage....................................
SCADA/EMS systems...........................
Inverters..............................................
Relays & switchgear............................
Natural Gas..........................................
Coal......................................................
Diesel/fuel oil....................................
Build-outs
Utility construction labor....................
Freight/logistics...................................
+20–40%
+30–60%
Broadband
Fiber-optic cable.................................
Splicing & telecom gear......................
+25–40% +20–30%
Fleets
Light trucks..........................................
Bucket trucks, digger derricks ...........
Fuel costs (especially diesel)..............
+25–40%
+20–50%
+20–30%
Maintenance........................................
+15–25%
+20%
Insurance premiums...........................
Sources: BLS; energynews.com; Reuters; Wood Mackenzie; NREL; IEA
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IN NEED
REACHING OUT TO OUR VETERANS
One in four Veterans lives in rural areas. Every day, we strive to extend our reach, to make sure they have access to the compassionate care and attention they need—from advanced telehealth services to community-based outpatient clinics. Because all our Veterans deserve it, no matter where they are. We believe it’s up to us to ensure they lead healthier, happier lives. Visit vacareers.va.gov to lend a hand.
GLADES ELECTRIC
Home Lighting 101
By Abby Berry
Lighting is something most of us don’t think much about—until it’s wrong. Maybe the living room feels too dim for reading or the kitchen lights cast an odd glow. We often grab whatever bulb or fixture looks good without considering how it will perform. With a little planning, your home can be brighter, cozier and more energy efficient.
Watts vs. Lumens
When shopping for light bulbs, it’s easy to focus on wattage, but that only measures how much energy is used. When it comes to brightness, what matters is the lumen count.
Lumens measure the actual light output. For example, an 800-lumen LED bulb gives off about the same amount of light as an old-fashioned 60-watt incandescent bulb.
You’ve likely replaced all incandescent bulbs with long-lasting, energy-efficient LEDs. If not, it’s time to make a switch.
A rule of thumb: The higher the lumens, the brighter the light while lower watts result in less energy consumed. Check wattage ratings for fixtures and install bulbs that meet the fixture’s wattage safety requirements.
Color Temperature and Consistency
Light bulbs vary in color temperature. This detail is often overlooked—until you replace one bulb and notice the new light doesn’t
match the others.
Consider installing bulbs of the same brand and wattage at the same time. That way, the look stays consistent, and you won’t be stuck hunting for a perfect match later.
Dimmers and Switches
Installing dimmers in place of on/off switches can be a game changer. Dimmers give you more control over brightness, help save energy and create a more comfortable atmosphere. Not all bulbs are dimmable, so double check labels before buying.
While thinking about light switches, consider whether you have enough of them and whether they’re in the right places.
A light you can only turn off from one end of a hallway becomes annoying. For installations or upgrades, it’s best to hire a licensed electrician to ensure everything is wired safely and efficiently.
Form Meets Function
Bulbs are only part of the equation—fixtures matter, too. Each type serves a purpose.
Ambient lighting from sconces or glasscovered ceiling fixtures provides general illumination. Task lighting—provided by pendants, desk lamps or track lighting— focuses light where you need it most.
When choosing a fixture, think beyond looks. Does the light provides the right amount of brightness for the space? A beautiful chandelier might look perfect over
the dining table but leaves the rest of the room too dim. Alternatively, an oversized fixture could flood the room with more light than needed, wasting energy and money.
Energy Efficiency Meets Convenience
Smart lighting adds a layer of control, but the real magic is convenience. With smart bulbs, you can adjust brightness and colors, and set schedules from your phone or an assistant such as Alexa or Google Assistant.
Want the lights to dim automatically for movie night or to turn on before you get home? Smart bulbs make it easy.
Smart lighting also personalizes your space. You can go classic with warm, white tones or experiment with colors to set the mood—anything from a soft glow for winding down to vibrant hues for a party.
Smart bulbs rely on power from a wall switch, which needs to stay in the “on” position for remote controls to work. If you prefer using a physical switch, consider pairing smart bulbs with a smart light switch.
Many of today’s smart switches also come with motion detectors, adding another level of efficiency and convenience.
Good lighting makes your home look better and feel better. You can create spaces that are welcoming, functional and energy efficient. Whether you stick to traditional bulbs and fixtures or explore the flexibility of smart lighting, thoughtful choices today will brighten your home for years to come.
Calm Before the Jet-Fueled Storm
From the setting of the sun to the creatures that make their homes in your backyard, Florida is filled with beautiful moments. The scenes you capture have a chance to brighten someone’s day.
Before the Blue Angels take to the skies, the scene is calm.
“The calm before the jet-fueled storm,” Sheriah Little says. “What an epic day.”
SHERIAH LITTLE
From time to time, we share some readers’ photos in this space. If we use your photo here, we will send you your choice of a $25 gift card to REI or Amazon.
Submit your photo by emailing a JPEG to photos@floridacurrents.com. Include “Before You Go” in the subject line. Please share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo. n
GL ADE S
Electric Cooperative, Inc. “Neighbors Working for Neighbors”
CONTACT US
855-940-3810
www.gladeselectric.com
OFFICES
7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday
26733 U.S. Highway 27 P.O. Box 519 Moore Haven, FL 33471
214 SR 70 W. Lake Placid, FL 33852
REPORT AN OUTAGE
~ Via the SmartHub app ~ 855-940-3810 (24/7 outage reporting)
Please have your account number ready.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Lee Henderson, President, District 6 Highlands Park, 863-633-9281
Barney Goodman, Vice President, District 2 Hendry County, 561-414-8737
Shannon Hall, Secretary/Treasurer, District 4 Lakeport and Brighton, 863-946-3242
Donnie Lundy, Trustee, District 1 Moore Haven, 863-634-7314
Mike Pressley, Trustee, District 3 Ortona and Palmdale, 863-673-9158
Brad Oxer, Trustee, District 5 Venus and Hicoria, 863-441-1866
Fred Tagtmeier, Trustee, District 7 Lorida, 863-214-4994
Vicki Pontius, Trustee, District 8 Lake Josephine, 863-414-2917
Angela Hodges, Trustee, District 9 Okeechobee, 863-801-3140
The board’s next meeting is at 9 a.m. Nov. 25, at Moore Haven Headquarters Office. Any changes are posted in the lobby of both district offices.
EXECUTIVE STAFF
Jeff Brewington, CEO
Michael Roberge, Acting General Manager
Renee Bass, Chief Administrative Officer
Courtney Brown, Chief Personnel Officer
Jennifer Koukos, Chief Communications Officer
Jennifer Manning, Chief Financial Officer
What’s on Your Bill?
Last month, I wrote to you about increased energy bills due to higher amounts of energy use during the significant summer heat we experienced. Currently, our electric rates for residential members are directly tied to volume of energy use, measured in kilowatthours. This month, I want to point out a few key items on your bill to note when deciphering your charges.
Energy Snapshot Chart: This chart on the front of the bill allows you to see your energy use—kWh—in each of the past 13 months. You can compare your most recent month’s use to the same month in the previous year. Temperature is also graphed on this chart to visualize how it corresponds with your energy use.
You will find the following components on the back of your bill, starting at the top:
Metered kilowatts: This shows how many kWh have been used during the billing cycle. Your meter is read automatically each day via our power line carrier system.
Metered kW Demand: Demand on the grid, measured in kW, is recorded by all meters. Currently our residential rates do not include a charge for demand. Rate structures with a demand component cover the higher cost of electricity during peak use times. Rates with demand charges will see fees in the “Current Charges” section of the bill.
Usage Period: The starting and ending calendar dates for the billing cycle are shown in this section. Changes in the number of days in the billing cycle can contribute to fluctuations in your bills.
Rate: We have different rate classes to group similar accounts based on electricity demand, system energy consumption and necessary infrastructure requirements.
Energy (kWh) Charge: This is the rate at which your actual energy use is charged. For residential accounts, the first 1,000 kWh is charged at 10.25 cents per kWh. The kWh charge is intended to recover the cost of your basic energy needs. Energy use exceeding 1,000 kWh is charged at 14 cents per kWh. The higher rate is intended to account for the increased system requirements for the additional use on the grid. This rate design concept is also intended to encourage energy conservation practices.
Power Cost Adjustment: This charge reflects the difference between the actual cost of purchased power from the wholesale power supplier and the base wholesale cost of power included in the energy (kWh) charge.
TIER Tracker: This charge or credit per kWh is adjusted by the board of trustees as necessary to cover expenses not recouped by the base charge or energy charges to ensure the cooperative achieves the required operating margins.
Base Charge: This is a flat monthly fee to recover a portion of the cost of grid infrastructure and operations, maintenance and overhead costs not factored into the energy (kWh) charge. This amount varies based on rate class.
Next month, we’ll take a deeper dive into demand and why it is important and highlight ways to conserve energy use to lower your bills.
Mike Roberge