Florida Currents, Glades Electric Cooperative, September 2025
From left, Conexon Splicing Manager Jacob Sexton, RSM Manager of Risk Consulting Jaime Bardee and Florida Commerce Representative Nicholas Karabedian visit Highlands County fiber hut for grant compliance testing. PHOTO BY JENNIFER KOUKOS.
An exploration of 15 ports of call, with guided excursion options at each
All onboard meals and our signature evening cocktail hour
Full enrichment package with guest speakers and nightly entertainment
All tips and gratuities
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of New England. From quaint island villages to the breathtaking beauty of the coastline, summer in New England is a truly delightful experience. Discover the region’s rich maritime heritage, savor a traditional Lobsterbake, and marvel at grand mansions of the Gilded Age. Return to the comfort of your onboard sanctuary and bask in the warm camaraderie of fellow guests and crew.
GLADES ELECTRIC
Florida Currents
September 2025 • Volume 14, No. 11
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
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
SENIOR MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
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A Three-Year Journey
Glades Electric’s fiber network nears completion
Glades Electric Cooperative’s ambitious fiber-optic network is approaching the finish line after nearly three years, bringing high-speed internet access to rural communities across four counties while strengthening the electric grid’s resilience.
The cooperative launched the more than $50 million project in September 2022, partnering with Conexon Connect as the internet service provider to build a 2,600mile fiber-to-the-home network. Today, the system serves more than 2,600 subscribers across Highlands, Glades and Hendry counties, with Okeechobee County in the final stages of construction.
“All Okeechobee members can now sign
up for service, and those in the Basinger/ Prairie area can schedule installation,”
Glades Electric Acting General Manager Michael Roberge says.
Grants Reduce Construction Costs
The cooperative secured grant funding to help offset construction expenses. Conexon and Glades Electric applied for multiple grants through the Florida Department of Commerce Office of Broadband, receiving $20.5 million in funding.
The awards include two $5 million grants through the Broadband Opportunity Program and a $10.5 million grant through the Broadband Infrastructure Program. As
of the end of July, nearly $10 million of the $20.5 million has been disbursed.
Grant funding operates on a reimbursement basis, requiring the cooperative to pay construction costs up-front before submitting for state reimbursement as network sections are completed.
Rigorous Testing Ensures Quality Standards
State auditors recently verified the network meets required performance standards.
In June, personnel from the Florida Department of Commerce and RSM, their auditing firm, conducted on-site inspections
GLADES ELECTRIC
LEFT: Local Conexon Connect representative Ruben Cornejo joined the Conexon Connect team in May.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Conexon Splicing Manager Jacob Sexton performs OTDR testing at a fiber hut in Venus. PHOTOS BY JENNIFER
KOUKOS
BELOW: The final fiber huts in the network were set in June at the Basinger and Eisinger substations in Okeechobee County. Fiber huts serve as a critical hub in a fiber optic network, housing equipment for internet services. PHOTO BY JARED
SMITH
to test speed and latency performance.
Using optical time-domain reflectometer equipment—instruments that emit short laser pulses into fiber cables—RSM personnel performed tests at two fiber huts using fiber lines installed with grant funding. They also performed speed tests at four end-of-line locations to confirm customers receive minimum speeds required by the funding agreements.
All Florida Commerce-funded broadband projects are subject to monitoring and may be subject to additional monitoring in the future. Beyond site visits, RSM conducts desk reviews to ensure compliance with federal requirements
applicable to the grant programs.
Local Representative Joins Outreach Effort
Ruben Cornejo, a local resident, joined the Conexon Connect team in May to help spread awareness about available services to Glades Electric members. Residents may encounter him in their neighborhoods as part of the official outreach effort.
Members interested in Conexon Connect choose from tiers ranging from 200 megabits per second to 2 gigabits per second. No-fee installations remain available.
For more information or to sign up, visit www.conexonconnect.com or call 844-542-6663.
save energy,
Saving Energy During Peak Time Bene ts All
Conserving electricity during times of peak energy use lowers your monthly bill and can benefit our entire community.
Peak times are periods of the day when the demand for electricity is highest. Think early mornings when people are getting ready for the day and evenings when families return home, cook dinner and use electronics. When everyone uses energy at once, it adds pressure on the electric grid.
Glades Electric Cooperative works around the clock to ensure electricity flows to your home whenever you need it. Behind the scenes, an enormous and intricate system is at work—one of the most complex machines in the world: the United States power grid. The grid is made up of three major interconnections that span the country, each managing supply and demand through regional authorities to keep the lights on and our economy running smoothly.
Electricity comes from a diverse mix of sources— hydropower, natural gas, coal, solar, wind and more. Some power plants can respond quickly to spikes in demand, while others are less flexible. Once energy is generated, it travels through high-voltage transmission lines to local utilities, like Glades Electric, which then delivers it to your home or
business through distribution power lines.
Why It Matters
When electricity demand surges during peak times, it’s more expensive to generate or purchase power. If supply can’t keep up, the risk of outages increases. That’s why using less energy during peak hours is more important than ever. It not only eases strain on the grid but also helps you save money.
What You Can Do
So how can you beat the peak? Start by adjusting your thermostat a few degrees during peak hours. Smart thermostats can automate this for you. Delay using energyhungry appliances such as ovens, clothes washers and dishwashers until later in the evening. Charging your electric vehicle overnight instead of right after you get home can also help.
Small actions taken by many households can lead to big results. When we work together to reduce energy use during peak times, we protect our power grid, help control costs and ensure reliable electricity for our communities.
To
delay using energy-hungry appliances like ovens until later in the evening or during off-peak hours.
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.
$12,241.60 in Operation Round Up funds awarded in July 2025 to members in need of a helping hand.
How does it work?
$153 55 cents to your neighbor in need. The average yearly contribution is $6 per member.
Funds from Operation Round Up go right back into the communities we serve.
$4,304.85
raised by Operation Round Up and Round Up Plus in June 2025.
8,221 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
Vacant Lorida District 7
Larry Howard Lake Josephine District 8 Paula Byars Okeechobee District 9
Highlands
Glades
Hendry
Okeechobee
“Now
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A Legacy Diving
Story and photos by Theresa Sterling
One of Savanna Christy’s earliest memories is of her father, wearing a wetsuit, bursting into the Fort Walton Beach day care center where she was napping. A whale shark had been spotted in the waters off Destin, and Mark Christy was going to get little Savanna out on the water to see the gentle giant up close—nap or no nap.
“There isn’t a time that I remember not being in the water with her,” Mark says. “It’s just always been what we do.”
Mark is a boat captain and scuba
Scuba shop owner fulfills childhood dream
divemaster. He learned to dive in the Red Sea during his time in the Air Force in the 1970s, and Okaloosa County has been his home since 1985. Savanna grew up behind the counter at ScubaTech of Northwest Florida in Destin, where she spent summers with Mark while he managed dive operations and skippered the shop’s excursion boat, Sea Cobra.
“If he had to take a group out on the boat, I stayed in the shop and they watched me,” Savanna says of the staff and owners, Nancy Birchett and Carla Moore.
Nancy founded the business in 1986.
Carla joined later and retired several years ago.
The shop was Savanna’s home and playground every summer while she was growing up.
Diving Into the Business
“Pretty much as soon as I could form full sentences, I was answering the phone,” she says. “The story goes that when I was really little and would ask when my daddy was coming back, they’d just tell me to draw another picture.”
Earlier this year, Savanna, now 32, took the helm at ScubaTech, a full-service dive center offering charters, courses, equipment sales, rentals and servicing. It’s one of just two dive shops in Destin.
“This has been a dream of mine for a long time, but I wasn’t sure how it would work out,” she says of owning the business. “I made the decision in October 2023 to take the leap, and it took over a year to figure out everything.”
Savanna stepped down from her role as executive director of Keep Florida Beautiful, where she served for six years, to work through the process of taking over the shop.
ABOVE: Savanna Christy, right, greets members of a dive group as they return to the marina in Destin.
RIGHT: As ScubaTech’s new owner, Savanna designed a new logo and print materials for the next iteration of the 39-year-old company.
Along the way, her aim stayed true and her passion unwavering. She earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in environmental studies and aquatic environmental science, respectively, from Florida State University. She worked for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. She holds certifications for divemaster, open water diver and rescue diver, led reef cleanups and worked with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Marine Debris Program.
Buying ScubaTech was a homecoming.
“Nancy had said for years she was going to sell, and multiple times that almost happened,” Savanna says. “The timing just lined up, and it kind of felt like it was supposed to be me.”
some healthy competition between the two businesses, there wasn’t much collaboration.
That nearby shop is also turning over to a younger generation, and Savanna has already forged a relationship with the new owner, also a woman. They shared a float in the Christmas boat parade and will collaborate on a late summer dive for Women’s Dive Day. On Memorial Day, both shops offered free dives to veterans and active and retired military.
One of Savanna’s first changes as owner has been a new logo and name. The business is now ScubaTech Destin.
childhood and the bond she shares with her father, whom she credits with fueling her passion for the ocean and wildlife.
Nancy says the company she founded is in good hands, and she hopes Savanna finds her niche as she did over the past 39 years.
Broadening Horizons
Destin’s other dive shop is just two blocks away from ScubaTech. It has been in business for 33 years, and although there has always been a working relationship and
“Savanna was raised at ScubaTech from a very young age while her father worked on the Sea Cobra,” Nancy says. “I hope and pray Savanna continues to teach the great sport of scuba diving and meets the wonderful dive family that I have grown to love.”
“I have plans for developing the business further,” Savanna says. “We have classroom space, we have meeting space and we have room for a pool. Right now, we contract with the other dive shop to use their pool, working around their schedule. We can teach at the aquatic center or at Vortex Springs, but having our own pool would be better for our students.”
With the drive to help others safely explore the peaceful beauty beneath the ocean’s surface, Savanna starts her next chapter. At the same time, she’s circling back to her
LEFT: Savanna looks at photos of her Destin dive shop’s early days.
Savanna spends time with her father, Mark Christy, on the Sea Cobra.
MOVING FORWARD
Adaptive sports help former servicewoman stay on track after multiple sclerosis diagnosis
By Drew Woolley
After 14 years in the U.S. Navy, Sharona Young noticed something was off. She joined the military at age 17 to see the world. And she did, traveling in Europe, the Mediterranean, Puerto Rico and across the United States. However, in 2013, she began experiencing tingling and numbness in her hands and arms.
cord—retired from the Navy in 2014.
Transitioning out of military life and coming to understand her new reality was a challenge. That year, one of Sharona counselors suggested she try adaptive sports. Although she had never been a competitive athlete, she gave it a shot.
“I was ready to try something new to get out from being isolated,” Sharona says. “Finding out you have an incurable
I’ve always enjoyed bike riding, so it was pretty cool to find out that I could still enjoy that, just in a different way. —Sharona Young
“At first, I just thought maybe I slept wrong,” she says. “I was on crutches at the time for an unrelated foot surgery, so I thought maybe it was from using the crutches. Then my doctor had me do an MRI to make sure I didn’t have any pinched nerves, and that’s when they saw I had some swelling and a couple of lesions at the base of my brain and upper spinal cord.”
Sharona, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis—a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal
disease is pretty devastating. So, I was going through a period of depression and just hopelessness. That was a way for me to kind of get out the funk and try something new.”
Racing Ahead
One of the first sports Sharona took up was recumbent cycling. She enjoyed biking as a hobby before her diagnosis, so she was encouraged to learn it was an activity accessible to her.
“I’ve always enjoyed bike riding, so it
was pretty cool to find out that I could still enjoy that, just in a different way,” she says.
Her lack of competitive experience did not hold Sharona back as she took to racing almost immediately. She became involved with Warrior Games through Wounded Warrior Project, which provides a range of support and services to wounded veterans.
Sharona quickly moved past her anxiety of facing off against other athletes.
says.
“It was exciting, but there was a lot of nervousness, too, just learning to do something new in and of itself and then adding the competition aspect to it,” she says. “It’s a little scary, but it was also a lot of fun.”
Sharona quickly found preparing for competitions was the perfect motivation to keep her focused on her treatment.
“That was just a great way to get me back moving, active and working with my continued recovery,” she says. “Because it’s an ongoing process.
“Unfortunately, it was not like recovering from my injury, where—once you’re done—it’s complete. When you have something like multiple sclerosis, it’s just a continual recovery process.”
Sharona,
For Sharona, her new life as a
FORWARD
As someone who enjoyed biking before her diagnosis, Sharona Young was relieved to discover she could still cycle—just in a different way.
competitor opened the door to tennis, racquetball, table tennis, nine ball and other sports that helped keep her on track.
The Invictus Games
Just a few years into taking up cycling, Sharona was invited to participate in the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto. The competition gives wounded, injured and sick armed forces personnel from around the world the chance to compete in a variety of sports.
“That was a pretty amazing experience,” she says. “Just being around different people and disabled veterans from different countries. There’s lots of camaraderie, and I got to bring my daughter and my sister. So, I got to share that experience with my family, and that was pretty cool, too.”
Not only did she compete, but Sharona brought home a medal for cycling. When
In addition to recumbent cycling, Sharona competes in tennis and a variety of other adaptive sports.
she crossed the finish line, she was so focused on her own performance that she didn’t realize she had placed third.
“Once I finished, I was exhausted and sitting in the recovery area,” she says. “They told me we had to get to the medal stand, and I thought, ‘Oh yeah, absolutely. Let’s go support whoever won.’ Then they told me, ‘No, you’re on the medal stage.’
“I was just honored and kind of taken aback at even having the opportunity to do that. So, it was a very humbling experience.”
She was also impressed by the support and resources—available throughout the competition—from organizers and fellow athletes. But nothing topped being able to share the entire experience with her daughter, Taylor.
“That was extremely important,” Sharona says. “Just being able to show her that, if you’re ever faced with a situation in your life where you have
a disability or a serious injury or something, your life isn’t going to stop. You’re still able to do things and enjoy yourself and have a fulfilling life. Don’t let that define you, and don’t give up.”
Building Strength
Sharona has not competed since the pandemic, focusing instead on rebuilding the strength and stamina she lost while social distancing. For individuals with MS, even a brief break from physical activity can result in a rapid decline in athletic performance.
Now living near Orlando, training and chasing her own goals are crucial parts of keeping her treatment and overall wellbeing on course.
“It’s been one of the main things that I rely on to help keep me moving and staying active, because that’s important,” Sharona says. “During periods where, for whatever reason, I’m not able to
get out and do a whole lot, I feel it almost immediately. Within two days of something like not walking as much, I can feel the difference. So, doing the adaptive sports and activities, it’s really been a big crutch for me to just keep moving and stay motivated to continually work on and hit my personal goals.”
Sharona says her condition has been stable lately, and she is increasingly able to use a walker to get most places, saving her wheelchair for longer-distance trips. As someone who was not always drawn to athletics, she is grateful for the impact participating in adaptive sports has had on her life and hopes others in similar situations keep an open mind about them.
“I think it’s important, especially for anybody dealing with a disability or a serious injury,” she says. “A lot of people don’t know, like I had no idea, about the adaptability of not just sports but also
Sharona won a bronze medal in recumbent cycling at the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto.
help for everyday living. You just have to be open to something new and trying something different now.”
Learning to overcome athletic challenges has even given Sharona the conviction to make her voice heard more in her own community, sparking small changes that can improve her life and the lives of others.
Shortly after moving to a new neighborhood, she noticed one of the sidewalks outside her house was badly broken, making it difficult to get around with her walker or wheelchair.
“I sent an email to the city, and they had that thing fixed within a week,” she says. “Since I’ve been involved with adaptive sports and living with a disability myself, I’ve just learned so much. There are so many things that you don’t pay attention to unless you have to. So, I’ve definitely become more confident in that and more aware.”
Ready to Get in the Game?
If you are interested in learning more about adaptive sports, these resources can help you find programs in your area.
Move United: Since 1956, Move United has worked to ensure veterans, adults and youth with disabilities have access to sports. With nine member organizations in Florida alone, it has never been easier to get moving. Visit moveunitedsport.org to find programs and events in your area.
Wounded Warrior Project: For wounded veterans, WWP hosted 18 adaptive sportsspecific events across the country last year alone. Every program is offered at no cost to veterans or their families. For more information on how to get involved, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.
Challenged Athletes Foundation: Started in 1997 to help triathlete Jim MacLaren get the support he needed to compete, CAF has grown into a nationwide network of events and fundraisers to help challenged athletes stay in the game. With 20 partner organizations across Florida, you can find the best fit for you at challengedathletes.org.
Today, Sharona uses a cane and walker for short trips, saving her wheelchair for exercise and longer excursions. Sharona served in the Navy for 14 years before retiring.
A Taste of Greece EXPLORE
A RICH CULINARY HERITAGE
1/2 cup finely grated cucumber
1 cup whole-milk Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, grated
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Place the cucumber on a towel, and gently squeeze out a bit of the excess water. In a medium bowl, combine the cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and dill. Chill until ready to use.
Tzatziki Sauce
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY LILECHKA75
Moussaka
Meat ragu
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
11/2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Vegetables
2 large eggplants
3 large Yukon gold potatoes
Bechamel
4 cups whole milk, plus more if the sauce needs thinning
1 bay leaf
5 tablespoons butter
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour, plus more if the sauce needs thickening
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup red wine
15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Sea salt 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Sea salt
Freshly ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 egg yolks
11/2 cup ParmigianoReggiano, grated and divided
To prepare the meat ragu, heat olive oil in a large, deep saucepan. Brown and crumble the ground beef. After it browns, add the onion, garlic, nutmeg, cumin, cloves and cinnamon.
Cook for a few minutes until the onion softens. Add the tomato paste, and stir. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Pour in the wine, and let the alcohol evaporate. Add the tomatoes and sugar. Simmer for 1 hour on low heat.
To prepare the vegetables, cut the eggplants into ⅓-inchthick slices. Sprinkle slices with sea salt. Place them in a colander to drain their liquids for 15 minutes. Pat dry the eggplants slices. Fry them in hot olive oil for 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to wire rack, and set aside.
Cut potatoes into ¼-inch-thick slices. Fry the slices in hot olive oil for 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to wire rack, and set aside.
Alternate layers of potatoes and eggplants in a greased 9-by-13-inch pan. Pour meat sauce evenly over the potatoes and eggplants.
Heat oven to 400 F.
To make the bechamel add milk and bay leaf to a saucepan. Warm it on medium heat.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add flour. Cook while stirring with a wooden spoon until the roux takes on a slightly blond color.
Gradually pour in the warm milk. Using a whisk, stir continuously to dissolve any lumps and create a smooth sauce. Remove from heat. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Add yolks and 1 cup grated cheese. Whisk until smooth.
Pour bechamel over the meat in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Chicken Souvlaki
10 garlic cloves, peeled
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup dry white wine
Juice of 1 lemon
21/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 11/2-inch pieces
2 bay leaves
Pita bread
Tzatziki sauce
Add garlic, oregano, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil, white wine and lemon juice to the bowl of a small food processor. Pulse until well combined.
Place chicken in a large bowl, and add bay leaves. Top with marinade. Toss to combine, making sure chicken is well-coated. Cover tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Soak 10 to 12 wooden skewers in water for 30 to 45 minutes. Thread marinated chicken pieces through the prepared skewers.
Prepare outdoor grill. Brush grates with a little oil, and heat over medium-high heat. Place chicken skewers on grill until well-browned and internal temperature registers 160 F.
Turn skewers evenly to cook on all sides, about 5 minutes. While grilling, brush lightly with the marinade. Discard any leftover marinade.
Serve with warm pita and tzatziki sauce.
Roasted
Lemon Potatoes
Cooking spray
4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup yellow mustard
Heat oven to 425 F.
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inchthick wedges
1/2 cup water
Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven. Coat a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Place garlic in a large bowl. Add lemon juice, olive oil, yellow mustard, oregano, salt and several grinds of black pepper. Whisk to combine. Add potato wedges to the bowl, and toss to combine.
Pour mixture into the baking dish, and spread into an even layer. Pour water over the potatoes. Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
Bake until the potatoes are fork tender, about 1 hour. Uncover. Continue to bake until the liquid is evaporated and the potatoes begin to brown, 15 to 20 minutes.
THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT
NIKON D810, 180mm lens
ISO f/7.1100, at 1/500
By Dave LaBelle
As I age, I feel a far stronger affection for little children than I did when I was young. I believe most people do.
Their beautiful, angelic little faces— usually unscarred by the hardships of life—melt us.
For me, there is something calming— even healing—watching children. I can slip into a somber or even unpleasant mood, and then I hear or watch children playing when they don’t think adults can see or hear them, and I am lifted out of myself and smile with gratitude.
I am reminded of a line from an old Tom T. Hall song, “Old Dogs and Children and Watermelon Wine,” that says, “God bless little children while they’re still too young to hate.”
Perhaps it’s because we travel through time and remember those carefree days of playing in creeks and catching frogs or riding our first pony. Maybe it’s because those beautiful, angelic little faces remind us of the fleeting days when our children
Shining Light
or grandchildren believed every story we told them.
For beginning photographers, especially students learning in photography programs, photographing children is easier and less scary than making pictures of adults. Recognizing this, I offered assignments in beginning classes built around photographing children to help shy students build confidence and not become discouraged before approaching adults.
However, as students grew confidence and ability to approach strangers, it was understood that making pictures of children at events was too easy, the low fruit of capturing storytelling pictures. They were expected to stretch their comfort zones and photograph all ages.
But lest we “throw out the baby with the bathwater,” as the old folks used to say, we should never forget or overlook the power and beauty of innocence found in the faces of children.
In an effort to capture profound pictures, we often overlook the obvious: Innocence is the greatest beauty of all.
Reader Challenge
Capture a child’s face while giving special attention to the eyes. As much as possible, fill the camera viewfinder with the face. Use a telephoto lens if you have one. Above all, be patient. Watch, become invisible, anticipate, always ready for those revealing moments.
Always watch the light, the truly magical ingredient to most great photography.
Email your best image (just one, please) 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 tips and life perspectives. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog, bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
I made this photograph of a young rider backstage before the rodeo event. She put another cowboy’s hat on hers while awaiting her turn to saddle up and carry a flag during opening ceremonies.
DOVE HUNTING SEASON
Swift doves offer challenging sporting opportunities
For many hunters, dove season marks the beginning of fall and winter outdoor adventures.
Florida holds a split season with three opportunities to hunt for doves. The first segment opens Sept. 27 and runs through Oct. 19. The middle season is Nov. 8-30. The late season opens Dec. 19 and ends Jan. 31, 2026.
Hunters can bag up to 15 doves a day in any combination of mourning doves and white-winged doves. Native to Mexico and the Southwestern United States, white-winged doves expanded their range northward and eastward during the past few years. White-winged doves exhibit bold white wing patches that make distinctive identification marks in flight.
Extremely swift and agile fliers, doves make challenging and difficult aerial targets. Mourning doves can fly more than 55 mph with twisting, erratic flight patterns. Their broad, elliptical wings make distinctive fluttering whistles, especially noticeable when the birds flush or land. This sound, along with their mournful cooing call that gives them their name, often alerts humans to their presence.
To hunt doves, the first goal is finding
them.. First, look for food sources. Mourning doves can consume their weight in seeds each day. Besides native grass seeds, they also like sunflower seeds, corn, millet, wheat, soybeans and peanuts.
To digest rough seeds, mourning doves must swallow small pieces of gravel or sand. Therefore dove hunters should look for places where birds can swallow grit. Hunters might find birds “dusting” or picking up bits of rock around grit piles or sandy patches.
In addition, doves must drink water every day to aid in their digestion, so they frequently stay around streams, ponds and other water sources. They don’t need a massive lake like Rodman Reservoir. Just a puddle in a road rut suffices. Look for doves on low, sloping shorelines, sandbars with scrubby brush, cattle watering holes and other water sources.
Doves prefer open fields or grasslands punctuated by occasional trees, brush or fencerows. They tend to avoid marshes, swamps and thick forests, but they do feed along forest edges and in clearings. While driving country roads, hunters regularly spot doves sitting on power lines or fences.
Most dove hunters wait along timberlines or field edges to intercept birds flying from
their roosting to feeding or watering areas and vice versa.
For people too impatient to wait for birds to fly over them, jumping doves may be an option. Hunters can walk through fields of low brush or along forest edges and fencerows, hoping to flush birds from thick cover.
Dove season offers a great opportunity to introduce youth to hunting. In a good location, those new to the sport can fire their guns many times. They don’t need to sit still all day, but can move around, talk and socialize.In the right spot, limits can come fast. Bring plenty of ammunition.
Season dates and other regulations may differ on public hunting lands, so always check the regulations before hunting anywhere.
For more information on hunting migratory birds in Florida, visit myfwc.com/hunting/regulations/birds.
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.
Power Life
Essential tips for home electrical safety
By Abby Berry and Nina Todea
Electricity powers nearly every aspect of modern life, but if handled improperly, it can pose serious risks, including injuries and property damage.
Your electric utility understands the risks associated with improper electricity use, which is why we’re committed to reminding you to stay vigilant and practice electrical safety year-round.
By following key safety practices, you can reduce the risk of electrical hazards and ensure your family stays protected. Here are eight essential tips for powering up safely at home:
1. Be vigilant. Regularly inspect your home’s electrical system, including smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, for signs of damage or outdated components.
Electrical fires can start silently and out of sight, making functional smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors essential for early detection. Test alarms monthly, replace batteries annually and ensure you have alarms installed in key areas of your home, including inside and outside of bedrooms.
2. Replace frayed electrical wires or cords. The Electrical Safety Foundation International estimates roughly 3,300 home fires originate from extension cords every year, primarily due to overloading, overheating or fraying. If you’re relying on extension cords as permanent power solutions, consider contacting a qualified electrician to install additional outlets where you need them.
3. Use surge protectors. Safeguard your sensitive electronics and appliances with surge protectors. These handy devices help divert excess voltage away from your electronics, reducing the risk of damage or electrical fires. Not all power strips include surge protection, so read the product label carefully. Additionally, surge protectors can lose effectiveness over time and should be replaced when damaged or outdated.
4. Practice safe use of power strips. Avoid overloading electrical outlets with power strips
Avoid overloading electrical outlets with power strips that exceed the outlet’s capacity.
PEXELS PHOTO BY ZION
Safel y
that exceed the outlet’s capacity. High-energy devices, such as heaters, microwaves and hair dryers, should be distributed across multiple outlets. Overloading an outlet with “busy” power strips can lead to overheating and create a fire hazard, so be sure to check the power strip’s wattage rating before plugging in items.
5. Don’t mix water and electricity. It may seem obvious, but accidents involving water contact with electrical items happen. Always keep electrical appliances and devices away from water sources, such as sinks, bathtubs or swimming pools. Make sure your hands are dry before touching any electrical switches or appliances. Never handle electrical devices with wet hands. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters should be installed in areas where water and electricity are typically in proximity, including kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor outlets.
6. Hire a qualified electrician for major work. While DIY projects may seem like a tempting way to save money, working with electricity requires specialized knowledge of your home’s electrical system and national safety codes. Cutting corners can be a costly mistake beyond your wallet.
Recent data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports nearly 400 electrocutions in the United States each year, 14% of which are related to wiring hazards. A licensed electrician has the expertise to handle major electrical tasks, such as installing new wiring, upgrading your circuit breaker panel or troubleshooting electrical issues. When it comes to electricity, safety should always be your priority—leave the major jobs to the experts.
7. Educate family members. One of the best ways to ensure the safety of everyone in your household is to talk about electrical safety. Teach children not to play with electrical outlets or appliances, and ensure they understand the potential dangers of electricity. Create and practice a home fire escape plan that includes electrical safety precautions in the event of an emergency.
Practicing electrical safety at home is essential for protecting your family, property and peace of mind. Remember, electrical safety isn’t just a one-time effort—it’s a year-round responsibility. Taking these steps can help ensure a safer, more secure home for you and your loved ones. n
Electrical Fire
Do’s and Don’ts
Homeowners should always take precautions to mitigate the risk of electrical fires and other electrical hazards—but what happens if those precautions are still subject to human error?
Faulty wiring, power surges or malfunctioning appliances can ignite flames in an instant. In those critical moments, knowing exactly what to do can mean the difference between safely containing an electrical fire and facing a devastating loss. Follow these guidelines if an electrical fire breaks out in your home:
Do cut the power: If a faulty appliance causes the fire, unplug it immediately. If you can’t reach the plug but have a safe path to your home’s breaker panel, turn off the electricity at the panel.
Do use a fire extinguisher: Not all fire extinguishers are created equal. Electrical fires should be extinguished with Class C fire extinguishers, which are specifically designed to address electrical fires. Fire extinguishers should only be used on small, contained fires. Electrical Safety Foundation International recommends homeowners buy a fire extinguisher large enough to effectively put out a small fire, but not so heavy that it is difficult to handle. In a pinch, small electrical fires can also be smothered with a fire blanket or baking soda.
Don’t use water: Although it may be your first instinct, water conducts electricity and can make the fire worse or cause electrocution.
Do evacuate immediately: If the fire spreads out of your control, get everyone out of the house and to safety, then call 911. Closing doors behind you can slow the spread of the fire.
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.
PENSACOLA
Sept. 4-6
Flora-bama Bulls on the Beach
Get your tickets early for Flora-Bama’s most anticipated events of the year. Bring the family to experience three nights of live rodeo action featuring Professional Bull Riders from all around the country. A portion of the proceeds from this event go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. On Thursday, those 12 and younger can participate in a coloring contest bike giveaway, followed by professional bull riding to round out the night. Friday and Saturday night features the Professional Bull Riders in the adult bull riding competition.
florabama.com/bulls-on-the-beach; 850-492-0611
PENSACOLA
Sept. 12
Cinemas in the Sand
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 “Toy Story” against the breathtaking backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico. Cinemas in the Sand is sponsored by Postcard Properties and Postcard Realty Inc. visitpensacolabeach.com/cinemas-in-the-sand; 850-530-3349
ISLAMORADA
Sept. 13
Swim for Alligator Lighthouse
Join this world-class, 8-mile, open-water swim to the iconic Alligator Reef Lighthouse and back. This challenging experience can be conquered solo or on relay teams of two, three or four people. Proceeds from the race go toward the effort to fully restore and relight the 152-year-old lighthouse. It’s not for the faint of heart. This is tropical open water swimming in its purest form. Year after year, people return for the epic adventure and deep sense of community that has made conquering Alligator Lighthouse a milestone in the sport. swimalligatorlight.com
PENSACOLA
Sept. 13
Rock4Vets
KEY LARGO
Sept. 5-12
Fall For Quilts Show
The Florida Keys Quilters present their show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Key Largo Library Community Room at Tradewinds Plaza, 101499 Overseas Highway. The 2025 FKQ Raffle Quilts, “Tropical Waves” and “Quilt in a Box,” will be on display alongside quilt-making demonstrations. Tickets for the raffle are $2 each or $5 for three tickets. The queensize raffle quilts measure 91-by-85 inches. Quilts remain on display during September. Admission is free.
www.tinyurl.com/FLKeysQuilters; 305-451-2396
This is the third year of this 5K run/walk. It includes DJ music, food vendors and fun for the whole family. Funds raised benefit the homeless and struggling veterans and community. We will lend immediate assistance to those in need, such as housing support, health care services and essential supplies. The contributions directly enhance the lives of those who have made significant sacrifices for our nation. choosepeoples.com/rock4vets
PHOTO BY GWENN MAUE
KEY WEST
Sept. 14
Sheriff’s Animal Farm Open House
Visit the family-friendly Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm from 1-3 p.m. the second and fourth Sundays of each month at Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Road. Animals include a capybara, possum, sloths, goats, birds and more. Admission is free, but donations of cash or fresh produce are welcome. new.keysso.net:8443/farm; 305-289-2351
PENSACOLA
Sept. 19
Gallery Night Pensacola
Presented by Publix, this event brings the streets of downtown to life with more than 70 art vendors showcasing their work along Palafox Street. Stroll through a vibrant, open-air market filled with artists, live performances and creative experiences, all celebrating Pensacola’s thriving arts scene. gallerynightpensacola.org
LAKELAND
Sept. 20
Girls in Aviation Day
Since 2015, young aviation enthusiasts and their families have enjoyed this free event devoted to spotlighting female aviators, careers in aviation, and all things aircraft and air travel. Children, as well as adults, can explore the Florida Air Museum, participate in hands-on STEM activities in our Skylab Innovation Center, and network with the local aviation business community, celebrating Central Florida’s rich aerospace history and culture. https://aceedu.org/event-calendar/girls-in-aviation-day-2
DESTIN
Sept. 26-28
Seafood Festival
Since 1978, seafood, art and music lovers have jammed Destin’s waterfront for this annual community fundraiser. Like all long-running events, it expanded its footprint, changed venues and continued to add family-friendly fun. While guests shop and eat their way along a 1-mile stretch of Harborwalk Village lined with food, artisan and merchandise vendors, they’ll also be entertained with live music from the festival’s five stages. Saturday night includes fireworks and a Kids Zone with face painting and a casting contest. destinseafoodfest.com
BAY COUNTY
Sept. 30-Oct. 4
Central Panhandle Fair
Beginning each day at 5 p.m., the fair includes new activities and events for the whole family to enjoy. Businesses or organizations that want a booth in the main building can call us at the number below. Leave a message if there’s no answer and we’ll get back to you. We look forward to seeing you at the fair. baycountyfair.org; 850-769-2645
AVON PARK
Sept. 28
Love Story: Taylor Swift with Rikki Lee Wilson
With meticulous attention to detail, Rikki Lee Wilson brings Taylor Swift to life on stage, channeling her look, sound and charisma. Backed by a live band, the show features multiple costume changes and a dynamic stage presence, creating an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages. Rikki not only sounds like Taylor, she looks the part too, mesmerizing Swifties and transporting them into the exhilarating world of a Taylor Swift concert. Don’t miss this celebration of music, joy and pop star magic. sfscarts.org; 863-784-7178
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 COURTESY OF BAYCOUNTYFAIR.COM
When I was a little girl in Mississippi, I would visit my Aunt Pearl, sit on the front porch and smell the heavy perfume of her gardenias. It was a little slice of heaven. When I moved three years ago and got a house with a porch, I knew exactly what I wanted to plant first: a row of gardenias so I could smell them as I sat out there. I wanted to re-create a memory.
In my excitement to get them blooming as soon as possible, I skipped over an important step: a proper site analysis.
Gardenias are acid-loving plants, which worked great in north Mississippi’s rich clay soil that is naturally acidic. My soil was the exact opposite—sandy with little organic matter and a pH of 7. Gardenias need a pH of 5 to 6.5.
The first indication that something was amiss was the yellowing foliage. The leaves were showing interveinal chlorosis. This is a fancy way of saying the leaf veins were still green, but the rest of the leaf blades were yellow. It’s an indication of low iron, caused in this instance by high soil pH.
The pH of soil affects how nutrients can be absorbed by plant roots. When soil pH goes higher than 6.5, iron becomes less available to the roots. No matter how much iron may be in the soil, when the pH is too high, the plant roots cannot absorb it.
Organic matter plays a major role in the ability of plant roots to absorb iron. Florida’s sandy soils have low organic matter, typically less than 5%. However, with determination, my husband and I set out on a mission to fix my gardenias. We had already amended the bed before planting and mulched with pine straw, both things that should help.
Next, we applied fertilizer.
You should fertilize gardenias in March and September with an acid-forming fertilizer, according to the University of Florida. Still, our gardenias had yellow leaves.
We decided to get iron into my plants by cutting out the middleman. We skipped right past the soil and applied iron in
Gardenias and Why pH Matters pH Matters
a foliar spray directly to the leaves. That helped, but it was a temporary fix. As months went on, the gardenias became more yellow and dropped more and more leaves. I started to wonder how in the world people got blueberries to grow in Florida, as they prefer a low pH as well. I learned that many blueberries are grown in containers where the soil can be controlled or in mounds of pine bark fines, which is an acidic growing medium.
We finally decided to take another approach. We had a garden tour scheduled and a dozen crispy, half-dead gardenias in the front yard. So, we transplanted them to the backyard around the patio. At least I could smell them when I sat out there.
I read that lowering the pH of your soil in Florida is nearly impossible, but we were going to give it a try. We heavily amended the new beds. We dumped out several bags of pine bark fines, taking a cue from the blueberry growers. We put out elemental sulfur. Don’t try that at home, as it can kill your plants if you use too much, but at this point, we had nothing to lose.
We mulched with pine straw and applied fertilizer. Do you know what we got for our efforts? Sad little sticks that used to be gardenias. The moral of the story is this: Right plant, right place really matters. Getting a pH test before planting is something you should do. Fighting with nature is a losing battle.
The good news is that you can learn from our fool’s errand and send your soil to the UF/IFAS Soil Lab in Gainesville for a pH test before you plant.
As for my front yard, we replaced the gardenias with tea olive in time for the garden tour. Tea olive is a tough evergreen shrub that has a sweet scent when in bloom.
Tonya Ashworth is an environmental horticulture agent for Duval County UF/IFAS Extension.
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY WICHATSURIN
Smart Home Technologies to Help You Save 3
By Abby Berry
Smart technologies make homes more comfortable, convenient and energy efficient. By connecting with your home Wi-Fi network, smart devices automate everyday tasks like lighting, heating, cooling and home security. They can even communicate with other smart devices in the home.
While not all smart home products are specifically designed with energy savings in mind, several smart technologies can help lower home energy use. Here are the top three smart home devices to help you save.
Smart Lighting
Smart LED bulbs use less electricity than traditional bulbs and can be scheduled or turned on and off through a smart phone app. Smart bulbs are available in a range of shapes, brightness levels and colors, so shop for the products that work best for your home lighting needs.
Many smart bulbs include motion sensors that turn on or off based on room activity, further optimizing home energy use. If you’re new to smart lighting, try a home starter kit. Prices for kits range from $70 to more than $300 depending on how many bulbs you need.
PHOTO BY ABBY BERRY
Smart Thermostats
Smart or not, your thermostat is the most effective tool for controlling energy use, as heating and cooling typically account for the largest portion of energy bills. Smart thermostats allow you to adjust the indoor temperature through an app, giving you full control from anywhere on the go. Many smart thermostats include learning capabilities and will adjust the thermostat based on previous behavior and patterns.
According to the Department of Energy, smart thermostats can reduce heating and cooling bills by more than 8% annually. With models as low as $65, they typically pay for themselves in one year.
Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are inexpensive gadgets that can help save energy. Many electronic devices consume power even when they are turned off. Known as phantom load, it can take a toll on your energy bills.
Smart plugs are plugged into an electrical outlet and connected to your Wi-Fi network. When set up, the smart plug can cut or restore power to nonsmart devices, such as coffee makers, phone chargers and other items that draw phantom load.
Many smart plugs can be paired with popular smart hubs— such as Alexa or Google Nest—or controlled through the plug’s associated app. Smart plugs are simple to use, and a set of four costs as little as $25.
PHOTO BY KENNY GINAPP
Power Tools and Updates
SmartHub Energy Tools Help You Save
SmartHub has appliance-level energy use data to help you see exactly how energy is consumed. This can help you make smart adjustments to maximize savings. This feature is available for residental accounts with an email on file and 13 months of consecutive meter data.
For the most accurate analysis, use the link in SmartHub to build your home profile.
Visit gladesec.smarthub.coop/Login.html to sign up for SmartHub, or download the app from your mobile app store. SmartHub offers 24/7 account management, outage information and more.
If you’re adding an email to your account for the first time, it will take four months for the analytics software to analyze your meter data.
Notice: Moore Haven Member Services Office Closed
Sept. 2-24 for Remodeling
To accommodate growing foot traffic in our Moore Haven office, we are adding a window in the lobby to more efficiently help walk-in members. Due to this remodeling, the Moore Haven Member Services office is closed Sept. 2-24. Monitor SmartHub notifications for any date changes.
Payments can still be placed in the drop box at the drive-thru window. As always, account management is available 24/7 with our SmartHub app. Call 855-940-3810 to speak to a member service representative for assistance. We appreciate your understanding as we work through changes to better serve you.
Update Contact Info to Connect When it Matters Most
Verifying your contact information is up to date with us allows you to quickly and accurately report outages, and receive important updates via email.
Ways to update your information:
• SmartHub: Navigate to More > Settings > Contact Methods Add new contacts easily and swipe left to remove outdated ones.
• Website: Fill out the Contact Us form or use the Contact Us QR code for easy access.
• Email: Send updates to memberservices@gladeselectric.com.
• Call: You can reach us at 855-940-3810 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Reminder: Closed on Fridays
As a reminder, our offices are closed on Fridays. Only outage response personnel are available to assist members outside of normal business hours. Call our office at 855-940-3810 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday for all nonoutagerelated inquiries.
The SmartHub app offers 24/7 account management. Service disconnections for nonpayment do not occur during nonbusiness hours.
COMMITMENT TO LEADERSHIP
Trustee Donnie Lundy Renews Director Gold Credential
At Glades Electric Cooperative, strong leadership begins with a commitment to continual learning.
In May, Glades Electric recognized Trustee Donnie Lundy— representing District 1, Moore Haven—for renewing his Director Gold credential. This credential is an achievement that reflects dedication and excellence in cooperative governance.
The Director Gold credential is the highest level of recognition awarded by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. To earn this distinction, a trustee must first complete the Credentialed Cooperative Director certificate and the Board Leadership certificate, followed by three additional credits from the Board Leadership Certificate series.
To maintain Director Gold status, trustees must complete three credits from NRECA-approved continuing education programs
every two years.
This credential signifies more than just classroom hours, it reflects a deep commitment to responsible leadership. Directors who achieve and maintain this status demonstrate to members, regulators and policymakers that they are serious about serving their communities with knowledge, integrity and foresight.
At Glades Electric, education and development for board members is a priority. Trustees stay informed on the evolving landscape of energy policy, technology and cooperative governance to make decisions that best serve members. Director Gold is one of many ways the board continues to uphold the cooperative difference.
Congratulations to Donnie on this well-earned recognition, and thank you for your ongoing service to Florida’s heartland. n
Glades Electric Cooperative Acting General Manager Michael Roberge, left, presents board Trustee Donnie Lundy with his Director Gold certificate at the May 2025 board meeting. PHOTO BY JENNIFER KOUKOS
Peekaboo
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.
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.
To submit your photo, email a JPEG file to photos@floridacurrents.com. Include “Before You Go” in the subject line. Please share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo.
A hybrid hen spends time with one of her little ones in Lake Placid. PHOTO BY KATHRYN DUBARRY
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. Sept. 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
Prepared to Respond
As I write this article, there is a potential tropical storm/hurricane—likely to be named Erin—brewing far off to our east. It’s at least a week away, but we don’t wait to get our action plans ready.
Our Glades Electric Storm Team meets and discusses our individual roles, responsibilities and any unique features of the upcoming predicted system prior to every storm. This group meets prior to each system to refresh duties and assignments and discuss loose ends that need to be tied up.
I returned in early August from our Florida Electric Cooperatives Association summer leadership conference where a top meteorologist from the Department of Homeland Security addressed the group regarding storms and their rapid intensification profiles.
Storms are forming and intensifying much faster than they have in the past. Systems are now jumping from a tropical storm to a major hurricane in terms of size and wind speeds in 36-48 hours. This is becoming the norm and not the exception.
We are fortunate that the technology to see and predict these storms is getting better, but we need to be ready to respond when alerts are posted. It’s important to be vigilant and watch for National Weather Service alerts and forecasts and heed local emergency management guidance, as well.
If we have the misfortune of significant storm damage from any system, my hope and prayer is that I can report that we experienced zero lost-time accidents or injuries throughout the storm restoration period.
Safety is always our No. 1 priority, especially during storms. The crews are typically facing lots of system damages that require them to be vigilant about safety processes and procedures. The same goes for office employees as they drive to work the first day or two after the storm. Roadways are often littered with debris and potentially power lines that are down or badly sagging. Never touch, move or drive over a downed power line unless directed to do so by an on-site utility person.
You can be confident we are doing everything we can to be ready to respond quickly and safely when the time comes.
