Florida Currents GULF COAST ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
AUGUST 2026
Local Students Experience
Trip of a Lifetime Page 4
Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative delegates McKinley Cantwell, senior at A. Crawford Mosley High School, left, and Laila Suber, senior at Wewahitchka High School, tour historic sites during the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour.
GULF COAST ELECTRIC
Florida Currents August 2026 • Volume 15, No. 10
CEO Michael Shepard SENIOR VP OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Chasity Anderson, CCC DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Noble Sprayberry SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC LEAD CONTENT EDITOR Victoria Hampton, CCC FLORIDA CURRENTS EDITORS Sable Riley, CCC; Valeri Saldanha Rosa ASSISTANT EDITORS David Herder, CCC; Nina Todea, CCC PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION SENIOR MANAGER Elizabeth Beatty SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR Alyssa McDougle
Members acknowledge that $4.89 a year, plus postage, is the cost to publish 12 issues a year of FLORIDA CURRENTS ISSN 23276304 (USPS 8300). Published by Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-for-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—the magazine serves the communication needs of consumerowned electric utilities in Florida. Preferred Periodicals postage paid at Hillsboro, OR 97123 and at additional mailing offices.
Postmaster: Send address changes to 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124-6422.
HOW TO CONTACT FLORIDA CURRENTS Subscription services: Nonmember subscriptions $15 U.S. a year; $25 foreign a year. Prepayment required. Allow 4-8 weeks for first issue. Identify local edition desired. Have a problem receiving your magazine? Utility members should contact their utility office. Nonmembers call 503-357-2105 or email mailingdept@pioneer.coop.
LET’S
Ready to improve your comfort and cut energy costs? Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative makes it simple to upgrade with rebates and low-interest loans.* Upgrade to a highefficiency dual-fuel or mini-split heat pump, and take advantage of financing that also covers windows, doors, insulation, and more. Save energy today and for years to come.
*Limitations apply
POWER SAVINGS
Call 850-639-2216 for more information
The Majestic Oaks
Back issues: Back issues and extra copies are $3 each, prepayment required. Supply is limited. Identify edition, month and year. Call first to check availability. Contact Pioneer Utility Resources: P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133-1306; 503-357-2105; email: mailingdept@pioneer.coop.
Up Close, Page 10
Sleep Isn’t a Luxury
DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES American MainStreet Publications, 611 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 504 Austin, TX 78704-1714; 800-626-1181 or 512-441-5200; amp.coop.
Get into a rhythm that ensures quality rest Spotlight, Page 12
© 2026 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Direct reprint requests to editor@floridacurrents.com or for more information, visit pioneer.coop.
Planner Picture Hunt 18 Gardening Get Outside 20 Co-op Pages: 4-8, 25-26, 28-29, 32
22 24
Effortlessly Sweet No-bake desserts hit the spot In the Kitchen, Page 16 A U G U ST 2 0 2 6
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GULF COAST ELECTRIC
Local Students Experience
Trip of a Lifetime on 2026 Youth Tour
Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative was proud to send seniors McKinley Cantwell, of A. Crawford Mosley High School, and Laila Suber, of Wewahitchka High School, to Washington, D.C., as delegates on the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. Along with more than 2,100 students representing nearly 700 electric cooperatives from 44 states, McKinley and Laila spent a week exploring our nation’s capital while gaining a deeper understanding of American history, government, leadership and the cooperative business model. Throughout the week, the students visited iconic landmarks and memorials, toured the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress, met with elected officials and connected with fellow delegates from across the country. The experience offers a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, broaden perspectives and learn firsthand about the values that make electric cooperatives different. Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is honored to invest in the next generation of leaders through the Youth Tour program and congratulates McKinley and Laila on representing our cooperative and communities so well. The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour started in 1957, when electric cooperatives across the country began sending students to Washington, D.C., to learn about our government over the summer. By 1964, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association began coordinating the effort. Since then, thousands of young people have visited our nation’s capital through this educational experience.
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY PABLOPRAT
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Mount Vernon
World War II Memorial
Thomas Jefferson Memorial Lincoln Memorial
U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Iwa Jima
National Cathedral
LEFT: Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative delegates Laila Suber, of Wewahitchka High School, left, and McKinley Cantwell, of A. Crawford Mosley High School, visit historic sites during the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour.
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85
Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative
74 Municipal Utilities
*Compared to publicly measured energy utilities in the ACSI® survey of customers rating their own energy utility. Results based on data provided by Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative, collected between May 12 and May 26, 2026. ACSI did not regulate the survey administration or sample size. ACSI and its logo are registered trademarks of the American Customer Satisfaction Index LLC. For more about the ACSI, visit www.theacsi.org.
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Electric Investor-Owned Utilities
2026 Member Satisfaction Survey Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative completed its annual memberwide customer satisfaction survey, where 5,000 members were asked to participate, and 373 responded. The member responses were sent to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), a company that measures customer
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satisfaction across multiple industries throughout the entire United States. For 2026, GCEC received an ACSI score of 85 on a 100-point scale. GCEC’s score is higher when compared to publicly measured investor-owned utility scores and municipal utility scores reported in
the syndicated 2026 ACSI Energy Utility Study and places GCEC 13 points higher than the average investor-owned utility score of 72, as well as 11 points higher than the municipal utilities score of 74, per the industry ratings. For more information, please visit www.theacsi.org.
GULF COAST ELECTRIC
COMMUNITY Connections Supporting Students Through Community Partnerships Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative was proud to support the Bay Building Industries Association’s 2026 Scholarship Home, the first stop on this year’s Parade of Homes. GCEC donated the engineer labor fees for the home, helping bring the project to life. The cooperative also provided the floral arrangement for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating the completion of a home that will help fund scholarships for local students pursuing careers in the building industry. Supporting projects like the BBIA Scholarship Home reflects GCEC’s commitment to strengthening the communities we serve. We are honored to partner with organizations that invest in education and help build a brighter future for our local communities.
GCEC employees Kam Cavanaugh and Kristin Douglas visit community members during the Bay County Chamber’s Hurricane & Disaster Preparedness Expo, sharing outage preparedness resources and answering questions.
Helping Our Community Prepare GCEC was proud to participate in the Bay County Chamber’s Hurricane & Disaster Preparedness Expo. Employees visited with community members to discuss preparing for hurricane season, share outage preparedness information and resources, and highlight the many ways members can stay informed before, during and after a storm. We appreciate everyone who stopped by our booth and look forward to continuing to serve our members through every season.
GCEC supports the BBIA Scholarship Home by donating engineer labor fees and providing the ribbon-cutting floral arrangement. Proceeds from the home’s sale fund scholarships for local students.
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GULF COAST ELECTRIC
PHOTO CONTEST: SHARE YOUR FAVORITE VIEW OF THE
DEAD LAKES
Whether you’re an experienced photographer or simply enjoy taking pictures with your phone, Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative would love to see the Dead Lakes through your eyes. As we prepare to open our new headquarters, we want to showcase the natural beauty of the communities we proudly serve. We’re looking for a stunning landscape or panoramic photograph of the iconic Dead Lakes in Wewahitchka. The winning photo will be displayed as a large wall mural in the lobby of GCEC’s new headquarters. Imagine walking into our new headquarters and seeing your photograph displayed for members and visitors to enjoy for years to come.
Contest Details
HOW TO SUBMIT:
Must be a current Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative member. Photo must be the entrant’s original work. Photo must depict the Dead Lakes in Wewahitchka, Florida. Only landscape or panoramic orientation photos (approximately a 1:2 aspect ratio) are accepted. The winning entry may be adjusted or cropped to fit the mural dimensions. Submit the highest-resolution original image available from your camera or smartphone. Photos should not include watermarks, logos or text. By entering, the member grants Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative permission to use the image in print, online and as a wall mural in the new headquarters, with photographer credit. Up to three entries per member. Entries must be received by August 31. The winning photograph will be selected by a panel of judges based on composition, image quality and suitability for display as a largeformat mural.
Email your original, high-resolution photo(s) to photocontest@gcec.com as an attachment. Please include the following information in the body of your email: Member name Member account number or service address Phone number Where the photo was taken A confirmation email will be sent after an entry is received. If you do not receive a confirmation within three business days, please contact GCEC to verify your submission. If your image file is too large to email, please contact us for alternate submission options. Whether it’s a breathtaking sunrise, a peaceful sunset, mist rising from the water or the unique beauty of cypress trees, we can’t wait to see the Dead Lakes through your lens. The winning photographer will be notified in September, and the winning photograph will be announced this fall. Good luck, and thank you for helping us showcase the beauty of the communities we proudly serve. Questions? Contact GCEC at 800-333-9392 or photocontest@gcec.com. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY IRYNA MYLINSKA
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The latest transformation of Vernon’s farm-turned-music venue is a wedding destination known as The Majestic Oaks. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MAJESTIC OAKS
Majestic Oaks THE
By Colette Boehm
Karen Hornsby weaves music, memories and new beginnings into wedding venue
Faith, family, music and memories are all part of Karen Hornsby’s journey to The Majestic Oaks in Vernon. Or, more accurately, her journey back to the Karen Hornsby 35 acres she owns and operates as a wedding venue. When Karen was young, the property belonged to her grandparents. It was a place where she made childhood memories just as her father had a generation earlier. Since then, her family has created musical memories on the land, for themselves and 10
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many others. Today, Karen helps couples create their own memories at a wedding venue she runs on the family land. “The biggest thing I’d have to say that I enjoy about The Majestic Oaks is you are providing a space for this couple who are starting on a journey of a life together,” she says. “You see all these smiles and happiness on one of the greatest days of their life. It is a fun thing to see, and to experience family and friends being so excited and celebrating two people they love dearly and the new journey that they’re embarking on together. It is really fun that you’re a small part of making sure that it is celebrated well.”
Celebration Central Celebrations have long been a hallmark of this land. After a childhood of touring the Southeast on weekends, singing Southern gospel music with her family, Karen says her father decided to create a venue of their own on the family’s land. Karen says the barn that’s still on the property belonged to her grandparents. “We’ve kept that there,” she says. “Right in front of that barn was where my dad and his siblings were raised and where I’ve got a lot of memories, as well, from my childhood. “Dad built a music theater for Christian music artists and a house band, which was
UP CLOSE called Gilley’s Place. For 25 years, we had tons of artists—mostly Christian music artists—come in and have concerts there. He also had a house band, and the family would sing there.” Finding Triumph Through Tragedy Karen’s musical journey took a turn when she and her husband, Todd, faced the unthinkable. Their 2-year-old daughter, Gabi, was diagnosed with brain cancer. After a year of treatment and referrals to specialists, Karen and Todd were told she would not recover. That’s when Karen began writing. “I had never written a song in my life,” Karen says. “I was a vocalist. But when you’ve just been told your daughter’s not gonna make it, it’ll pull something out of you that you didn’t know was deep down in your soul. I sat down and wrote my first song I’ve ever written in my life, just bawling my eyes out.” That song led to connections with celebrities like Brad Paisley and Tim Tebow after Karen landed a spot on ABC’s “Rising Star” singing competition. “We got that momentum,” she says. “It was great.” The music, though, was not Karen’s
highest priority. Supporting her family was. Transforming the property in Vernon became a family affair. “I think the Lord gave me The Majestic Oaks at that season, because Gabi was in hospice at the time, and it’s when my dad got diagnosed with cancer as well,” Karen says. After facing those health challenges of his own, Karen’s father decided to close that chapter on Gilley’s Place. That’s when Karen, her brother and her niece began to reimagine the property as the popular wedding venue it became. Vows and Solace The Majestic Oaks hosted its first wedding Oct. 1, 2020, six months after Gabi’s death. “I knew she was my purpose for that season,” Karen says. “But we are human beings, and, if you’re not careful, you’ll just lose your mind. The Majestic Oaks was that avenue for me. I poured myself into it to help me stay sane and feel like this is something I can do for my family and make something beautiful. “We were just glad we were able to do something with the place so that we could keep using it. It’s a complete transformation.”
Karen says the venture has been a success so far. “Five and a half years later, we’re still going strong and trying to add to it as much as we can, keep improving and sticking to the new trends,” she says. “We’ve been there long enough now to see some trends come and go. It’s been a fun journey.” The property has four ceremony venues—an indoor space that can be custom decorated; Under the Oak, a popular spot with a frame of ancient tree limbs; Hilltop Farms, a rolling green pasture; and the blossom-covered arches of the Aisle of Jasmine. There are bride and groom suites and spaces for cocktail hours, receptions and more. Another addition, a private one, is coming to the property this year. Karen and Todd are starting construction on a new home for themselves—a full-circle development from Karen’s childhood days of playing in front of the barn. Now, she and Todd, along with the many couples who say their vows and celebrate their marriages there, are beginning a new chapter at The Majestic Oaks.
ABOVE: Karen and her husband, Todd, found comfort in creating The Majestic Oaks after their daughter, Gabi, died from brain cancer. ABOVE AND RIGHT: The Majestic Oaks in Vernon offers a variety of indoor and outdoor venues for wedding ceremonies and receptions. A U G U ST 2 0 2 6
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Sleep Isn’t a
Luxury
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ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY LATEGAN/PEOPLEIMAGES.COM
Get into a rhythm that ensures quality rest By Miguel Rios
SPOTLIGHT Most days, Daniel Lofland is up before the sun. He showers, makes coffee and enjoys a rare quiet hour before helping his two children get ready for school. As an Oklahoma Electric Cooperative employee, Daniel’s workdays can vary wildly. By midmorning, he might be verifying energyefficiency rebates. By afternoon, he could be answering member questions, prepping a safety demonstration trailer or recording an episode of his electric cooperative’s podcast. It’s a full day, but the routine is predictable. That predictability, Daniel says, helps him protect his sleep. “I wake up early, so I try to be in bed by 10 p.m.,” he says. Daniel, an energy-efficiency and solutions specialist, spent nearly a decade as a lineworker. In the electric utility world, being alert matters, especially when daily tasks include driving rural roads, responding to outages or making decisions around live power. “We prioritize sleep in our house, especially since we’ve got kids,” Daniel says. “In order to be successful in your day, you’ve got to be rested.” But across America, intentional approaches to sleep are increasingly hard to find. Shift work, long commutes, caregiving responsibilities, on-call schedules and screen time are quietly eroding sleep. Sleep Under Pressure For Curtis Chlouber, an electric cooperative construction foreman, routine is also important for quality sleep, especially in a line of work where safety is crucial. “When you’re dragging the day after not getting good sleep, you miss little things,” he says. “Every day is a little different, so you have to be ready to adapt and be alert even if it’s something you’ve done a hundred times.” Curtis wakes at 5:30 a.m. and is on the job by 7 a.m. Some weeks, he has long drives to distant parts of the utility’s service territory before the real work fully begins. After finishing his workday around 4:30 p.m., he heads straight to the gym, then home to help with dinner, baths, homework and bedtime for his three young children. Most nights, he’s in bed by 9 or 10 p.m. Once a week, he’s also on call, which can disrupt his routine. “The hardest thing is getting called in the middle of the night after you’ve been sleeping for a few hours,” Curtis says. “I take precautions and don’t hesitate to pull over just to walk laps around my car and wake myself up.” Mikala Jordan, sleep lab supervisor for Mercy Health, says that kind of disruption is common in many occupations, and it interrupts the body’s natural sleep rhythm. “The main issue with shift workers is they’re not getting that natural sunlight at the normal hours of the day,” she says. “As a shift worker, you might be jumping back and forth between schedules. Or, if you’re on your last shift of the week and you come home, instead of going to sleep, you make yourself stay awake to spend time with family or do other things. But having a set schedule and sticking to it is super helpful to avoid negative long-term effects.” Taryn Edwards is an executive assistant for Great Plains Sleep Specialists and a sleep lab supervisor. She says sleep disorders are often underdiagnosed in rural areas. “People just don’t realize that their symptoms are medical issues, or they might not have access to sleep specialists,” she says. The Cost of Poor Sleep Experts warn the cost of poor sleep is high. Over time, chronic sleep loss is linked to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, depression, obesity and cognitive decline, according to the National Institutes of Health. Harvard Medical School research also found it raises the likelihood of workplace errors—leading to injuries and motor vehicle accidents. Taryn says lack of sleep affects people mentally and emotionally, and they may not realize sleep is part of the problem. “People might be more irritable, forgetful. They can’t think straight or focus,” she says. “Sleep isn’t a luxury. It’s a basic health need. When sleep disorders go untreated, they also affect someone’s family, workplace or school and even other people on the road. “Thankfully, sleep disorders are very treatable,” Taryn says. “They just rarely get better on their own, so the earlier people address them, the better the outcome.” AI ILLUSTRATION BY BRANDON POMRENKE
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Experts recommend sleeping only in your bedroom during a sleep reset. PHOTO COURTESY OF PEXELS
Experts recommend going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times each day to help reset the body’s internal clock. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY AUREMAR
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A Sleep Reset Mikala emphasizes simple ways to improve sleep without resorting to expensive or unrealistic measures. Small, practical changes can make a measurable difference. • Protect the schedule. One of the biggest ways to improve sleep quality is to stick to a schedule as much as possible. Consistency matters, so going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times each day helps reset the body’s internal clock. If an on-call schedule results in unexpected sleep disruptions, Mikala recommends returning to the normal routine as soon as possible. • Mind the lighting. Bright, cool-toned bulbs and screens in the evening signal the brain to stay alert, so avoid them if possible. Ideally, that means no TV or phone time 30-60 minutes before bed. • Create a sleep sanctuary. To improve sleep, keep the bedroom dark and cool, and have a comfortable mattress and pillow. Mikala recommends using some sort of white noise—such as a fan or an app that simulates rain or other soothing noises— and sleeping only in the bedroom. That means you’re not watching TV in bed. “Your circadian rhythm takes awhile to reset,” Mikala says. “If you’re consistent with the changes, I’d say give it about a week before you might start to notice improvements. If you’re still experiencing a lot of sleep issues after making consistent changes, I would definitely seek additional help to make sure there’s not any underlying issues.” When and How to Ask for Help Sometimes, sleep problems aren’t just about habits. Underlying conditions could include narcolepsy and restless legs syndrome. One of the most prevalent sleep disorders is sleep apnea. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, sleep
apnea affects nearly 30 million Americans, and an estimated 80% of cases go undiagnosed. “Sleep apnea is incredibly common, especially among men,” Mikala says. “Many people put off testing because they don’t want to deal with a CPAP machine, which is the gold standard for treatment.” CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. The machine helps keep a person’s airway open during sleep. Ignoring a potential sleep disorder can lead to worse health outcomes down the road. Today, testing options are more accessible than ever. Some patients can complete a sleep study at home, picking up a small device to wear overnight and returning it the next day. Follow-up care and monitoring may be available through telehealth. “If something feels off, talk to your primary care provider,” Mikala says. “Write symptoms down. Bring a partner who’s noticed changes. Your doctor is there to help, not judge.” Rest Is a Community Resource At home, Daniel and his wife are intentional about sleep, especially for their children. That decision grew out of her time as a substitute teacher, when she realized how much students’ days and attitudes were affected by nights of poor sleep. “Getting a good night’s sleep became priority No. 1,” Daniel says. “It sets us up for the next day. When we’re rested, we can stay focused and stay on task.” Electric utilities are built on the idea that shared resources strengthen communities. Sleep works in a similar way. Well-rested lineworkers respond more safely and efficiently to outages. Alert drivers make roads much safer. Focused parents and caregivers strengthen families. And focused individuals help communities thrive.
Sleep Better and Use Less Energy Lower the thermostat at night. Temperatures at 68 degrees or lower support better sleep. Use fans. Ceiling or box fans improve air circulation and lower the need for air conditioning. In cooler months, remember to reverse ceiling fans’ direction to distribute warm air. Dim the lights. Dimming the lights after sunset supports natural sleep rhythms and reduces electricity use. Warm-toned bulbs are also better for supporting sleep. Keep it dark. A dark, cool bedroom is ideal for better sleep, often meaning fewer lights, appliances and devices running overnight. Block disruptions. Blackout curtains or thick shades keep outdoor light out and help regulate room temperature, keeping bedrooms darker, cooler and more comfortable. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY HOMESTOCK
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IN THE KITCHEN
Effortlessly Sweet NO-BAKE SUMMER DESSERTS HIT THE SPOT
Lemon Blueberry Trifle
3 cups fresh blueberries, divided 2 15.75-ounce cans lemon pie filling 2 cups lemon yogurt
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway ADOBE STOCK AI PHOTO BY WORLD OF AI
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1 prepared angel food cake, 8 to 10 ounces, cut into 1-inch cubes 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
Set aside ¼ cup blueberries for garnish. In a large bowl, combine pie filling and yogurt. In a 31/2-quart serving or trifle bowl, layer a third of the cake cubes, lemon mixture and blueberries. Repeat layers twice, then top with whipped topping. Cover. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Garnish with reserved blueberries before serving.
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Five-Minute Fruit Mousse 81/2 ounces (about 21/4 cups) frozen fruit 2 tablespoons sugar
1 large egg white Fresh berries and whipped cream for serving
Add frozen fruit to the bowl of a food processor. Process to a rough puree, about 1 minute. Add the sugar, and pulse briefly to combine. Add the egg white to the food processor. Process until smooth and fluffy and the mixture has lightened in color and doubled or tripled in volume, about 2 to 3 minutes. Spoon the mousse into glasses. Top or layer with fresh berries and whipped cream. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. The mousse has little sugar and won’t hold for longer than that.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Pie
10 peanut butter cups, 8-ounce package cream chopped cheese, softened 1 chocolate cookie pie crust 1 cup peanut butter 11/2 cups heavy whipping 1 cup powdered sugar cream 16-ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Use a mixer to beat cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter and powdered sugar, and mix well. Carefully fold in whipped topping and stir in chopped peanut butter cups, reserving a few for the topping. Pour mixture into pie crust. Freeze overnight. When ready to serve, beat cream and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Top pie with whipped cream and reserved chopped peanut butter cups before serving.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/3 cup powdered sugar 8-ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 premade graham cracker crust 6 ounces fresh strawberries, washed, hulled and sliced 1/4 cup strawberry jam or jelly, melted and cooled
In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat cream cheese until smooth. Add lemon juice and powdered sugar, and mix to combine. Gradually add whipped topping. Mix to combine, being cautious not to overmix. Spread mixture into prepared crust. Add strawberries to a medium bowl. Pour cooled but still liquid strawberry jam or jelly over strawberries, and toss them to coat. Add strawberries to the top of the pie. Refrigerate for at least four hours to allow pie to set. Serve chilled. Store tightly covered in refrigerator for up to five days.
Banana Pudding Icebox Cake
Rocky Road Rice Krispies Treats
Line an 81/2-by-41/2-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving a fair amount of overhang on all sides. Add malted milk powder and salt to a bowl. Add a splash of cream, and whisk. Continue this process until you’ve added all the cream. Whip cream until stiff peaks form. Add a single layer of wafers to the bottom of the loaf pan. Top with a layer of whipped cream. Add a single layer of bananas, then top with a layer of whipped cream. Repeat this until you’ve used all the cream, making sure to end with a layer of cream. Fold the overhanging plastic over the cake. If it doesn’t completely cover the surface, add more plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours or up to 36.
In a microwave on low power, melt one package of marshmallows in oil. Stir until smooth. Stir in cereal, graham crackers, 1 cup almonds and 1 cup chocolate chunks. Using waxed paper or a lightly greased spatula, press mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Cool to room temperature. Melt one package chocolate chunks in microwave. Spread over the top of the pan of treats. Sprinkle with remaining marshmallows, almonds and chocolate chunks. Cut into bars before serving.
2/3 cup malted milk powder 1 pinch kosher salt 2 cups heavy cream 7 ounces vanilla wafers
4 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced about the same thickness as the wafers
11/4 cups salted, roasted 2 10-ounce packages almonds, chopped and miniature marshmallows, divided divided 2 11½-ounce packages 3 tablespoons canola oil semisweet chocolate 5 cups Rice Krispies chunks, divided 5 whole graham crackers, crumbled
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THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT NIKON D700 180mm lens ISO: 200 f/5.6 at 1/1000
Bound by Love Story and photo by Dave LaBelle Relationships can be complicated, especially among siblings. While some siblings are inseparable—through shared rooms, vehicles or clothing—others never bond or they drift apart as they grow. The second of Charles and Jeanetta LaBelle’s children, I have four siblings—two brothers and two sisters—and each relationship is different, changing and evolving through the years. While every relationship is unique because no two humans are exactly alike, relationships can grow richer with age when we value them and are willing to nourish them. Sometimes the distance of living in different states or countries makes it tough to maintain close relationships. My youngest sister and brother have stayed in California, while my older sister, middle brother and I have lived in other states for much of our lives. It has been at least 10 years since we’ve been together. At other times, differing religious or political beliefs and lifestyles become excuses not to nourish sibling relationships. However, as the years race past and we realize we have less time on this earth, sibling relationships may become more precious. Forgiveness replaces anger, love replaces tolerance, and the sibling who might have been annoying or even harmful becomes a treasured friend. Throughout my journalistic career, I have witnessed—usually at funerals—siblings come together as strangers, often wishing they had made a better effort to know a brother or sister. n 18
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While on assignment, I noticed the tender relationship shared by these two brothers, which stirred me to examine the relationships with my own siblings and ask, “What kind of brother am I?”
Reader Challenge This can be a self-portrait of you and your sibling, or it can be a photograph of other siblings together. Maybe even twins? I have a friend, a twin, who also married a twin. Her husband and brother-in-law are close friends and are about as much alike as two individuals can be. Ironically, both recently underwent similar knee surgeries on the same leg. If you feel uncomfortable asking to photograph a sibling, blame it on me. Tell them this is an important assignment from a photography teacher, and you need a photo for posterity. You can also use this assignment as an excuse to meet with a sibling. In years to come, family members may be thankful you did. Email your best image—just one—with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to gph@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
Photographer, author and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writing, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog at bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
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Mullet Munching Offer lunker bass an alternative live bait
Mullets, like these, make great baits for many fish species. PHOTO BY JOHN N. FELSHER
Moments after the float landed next to matted grass in the backwater off the St. Johns River, it disappeared almost as if a rock struck the surface. “That didn’t take long,” St. Cloud fishing guide Steve Niemoeller says of the time it took to set the hook on a 6-pound bass. “Usually, I fish with wild river shiners. I’ve never fished for bass with mullets before that day.” Many Florida anglers tempt bass with wild river shiners, also called golden shiners. Native to the Sunshine State, these baitfish provide important natural forage for bass. River shiners can grow to 12 inches long. They make excellent bass bait but can cost a lot of money when bait shops can keep them in stock. “I’ve caught as many as four dozen mullets in a few throws with a cast net before,” Steve says. “To catch that many shiners would take a long time. To buy that many would cost a lot of money. “I came back from a saltwater trip one time with some live mullets in the baitwell and decided to use them on my next bass trip. They worked great.” Although normally found in salty or brackish water, mullets do enter freshwater systems—such as the St. Johns, Apalachicola, Suwannee and other rivers—that flow into saline waters. Hardy mullets last longer than shiners and can even live in foul water. They remain healthy in a livewell for days. Mullets can grow to more than 20 inches long and weigh several pounds. Smaller mullets make outstanding bait for large speckled trout, redfish and other salty species. In brackish areas, bass and redfish frequently feed upon the same forage. “A bass eats the same thing as a redfish,” Steve says. “I’m sure bass eat mullets in the wild. I use 3- to 6-inch mullets hooked 20
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through the lips or under the dorsal fin, through the back. I fish them about 2 to 3 feet under a float with a weedless hook just like when fishing with shiners.” More streamlined than shiners, mullets usually tempt more bass, although shiners typically entice bigger bass. However, huge bass do gulp small mullets. Bass can more easily swallow a slim mullet than a chunky shiner of similar length. Few people use mullets for bait in fresh water, so bass won’t expect it. “Mullets are slimmer than shiners, so bass actually take them quicker,” Steve says. “The first time I used mullets for bass, I fished an area where I had often used shiners. Bass take a mullet as soon as it hits the water, even quicker than when they take a shiner. Sometimes, shiners in the exact same spot might sit there for a while before bass look at them. Maybe bass hit mullets quicker because I offered them something different or the mullets struggled a little differently.” After your next saltwater adventure, keep a few live mullets to tempt bass. A succulent mullet struggling in the water might prove too tempting for any big, hungry largemouth. For more information, call Steve Niemoeller at 888-629-2277 or visit bassonline.com.
John N. Felsher is a freelance writer, broadcaster, photographer and editor. He’s written more than 3,500 articles on a wide variety of outdoor topics. Contact him at j.felsher@hotmail.com or through Facebook.
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Slow Down, We’re Floating Here!
Practice Safe Boating: Wear polarized sunglasses. Look out for manatee zones. Slow your wake for their sake. 1-800-432-JOIN (5646) savethemanatee.org Photo © David Schrichte
FLORIDA CURRENTS
PLANNER
All ages can find something new and exciting around every corner of the state. Filled with rich history, abundant natural beauty and diverse events all year, Florida has fun options for everyone.
SEBRING
PENSACOLA
Every Saturday
The Cottage Market of Sebring Join locals from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at this perfect place to shop and savor homemade goodness. This market offers fresh treats such as lemonade, cotton candy, kettle corn and baked breads. Also, browse unique finds and handcrafted arts and crafts from local makers. Come hungry, shop happy and support local businesses at this cozy market full of flavor and creativity. 863-458-5279
bluemorninggallery.com; 850-429-9100
Aug. 8
28th Annual Key West Lobsterfest Dive into a seafood celebration at this annual festival. Enjoy fresh lobster, vibrant street parties, live music and local flavors in the heart of the Florida Keys. Don’t miss this summer event—perfect for foodies and funseekers alike. keywestlobsterfest.com
First Fridays at Blue Morning Gallery Join Blue Morning Gallery for its First Friday Artist Reception, a monthly celebration of creativity. Each month features a new show with fresh works from local artists. Enjoy light refreshments, meet the artists and experience the vibrant energy of the gallery. The event is free and open to the public and often includes live music to set the mood.
AVON PARK
KEY WEST
Aug. 5-9
Aug. 7
Avon Park Farmers Market Discover the charm of small-town Florida while exploring local shops inside the historic Jacaranda Hotel. Step indoors and explore a market filled with local farmers, artisans, and food vendors offering fresh Florida produce, handmade goods and delicious bites. With live music and a relaxed community atmosphere, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to spend a Saturday morning—rain or shine. facebook.com/farmersmarketavonpark; 863-235-1414
BUSHNELL
Aug. 8
Living Historian-Led Guided Walk Program Join us from 10 a.m. to noon for this reenactor-led guided walk program on Fort King Road at Dade Battlefield Historic State Park. The program is free with a park admission fee of $3 per vehicle or a Florida State Parks Annual Pass. bit.ly/4wsMuaU; 850-245-2157
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY DENNIS MACDONALD
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PENSACOLA
Aug. 14
Cinemas in the Sand: Goat Presented by the Santa Rosa Island Authority, this beloved tradition invites locals and visitors alike to gather under the stars, feel the sand between their toes and enjoy timeless movie classics against the breathtaking backdrop of the Gulf Coast. All movies are free to the public and start at sunset in front of the Gulfside Pavilion stage, weather permitting. visitpensacolabeach.com/cinemas-in-the-sand; 850-530-3349
KEY LARGO
Aug. 16
2026 Triathlon Starting at sunrise, the event features a scenic open-water swim at Cannon Beach, a bike course along the Overseas Highway and a run through a charming Florida Keys neighborhood. Athletes and spectators enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere, capped off with a post-race party and awards celebration featuring live steel drum music. This is a true Keys-style race experience. gameonraceevents.com/events-2; 561-768-7889
PORT ST. JOE
Aug. 20
St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve Guided Tram Tour The tour begins with a history talk inside the visitor center at 9 a.m. Attendees then proceed to the main gate parking lot (across the street from the visitor center) to board the tram. The tram moves slowly as one of the preserve’s staff members interprets the surroundings while you travel down Treasure and Sandridge roads. Remember to bring anything that makes your ride more comfortable: hat, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, raincoat, camera, binoculars, etc. The tram has no roof, so be prepared for sun or possibly a light shower. The event is not canceled if the rain is light and no lightning is present. While there is no charge for the event, you must reserve your spot to ensure there is adequate seating. For reservations, email sandra.chafin@floridadep.gov or call the number below. stjosephbaypreserve.org/tram-tours; 850-229-1787
BUSHNELL
Aug. 22
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY JU_SEE
Early American Pie-Making Class Join expert volunteers and staff from 1-3:30 p.m. as they teach participants the historic art of early American pie-making with wild berries at Dade Battlefield Historic State Park. Preregister by calling the number below or emailing dadeprograms@floridadep.gov. Event admission is $10 per person, and parking is $3 per vehicle or free with a Florida State Parks Annual Pass. bit.ly/4y4qbKb; 850-245-2157
PENSACOLA
Aug. 29
The 52 Saturday Market This event takes place the last Saturday of every month and is designed to bring locals together. A monthly event, continuing through Oct. 31, the market offers a vibrant space for people of all ages to connect, enjoy and celebrate art and community at The 52 World, 8511 Myslak Way.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY BABAROGA
PENSACOLA
Every Saturday
Parkrun Every weekend, nearly half a million people at more than 2,000 locations worldwide take part in parkrun—an event for runners and walkers. The Pensacola event takes place at 7:30 a.m. Saturdays at Rec Plex North, on the University of West Florida campus. Children and dogs are welcome. Parkrun is free, but you’ll need to download a barcode and bring it with you in any scannable format to get a time. It only takes a minute, and you only need to do this once, no matter how many parkruns you attend. Register at the link below. parkrun.us/recplexnorth
PENSACOLA
Aug. 30
Portside Pickle: Dog Days of Summer The last Sunday of every summer month just got a whole lot more interesting. Dog Days of Summer is happening, and we’re bringing shelter pups to the pickleball courts at Portside Pickle, Pensacola’s pickleball paradise on the waterfront in the heart of downtown Pensacola. Come for the pickleball. Stay for the puppies. Leave with a new best friend. portsidepickle.com; 850-850-4755
HOW TO INCLUDE UPCOMING EVENTS Want to share a family-friendly event with Florida Currents readers? Enter details at tinyurl.com/FloridaCurrents or use the QR code for easy access. Make sure to submit the item at least 60 days before the event (due to press deadline). If you own rights to a printquality photo promoting your event, include it with photo credit information.
https://the52.world; 844-561-2497
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GARDENING
Tithonia A sippy cup for butterflies The Tithonia, or Mexican sunflower, is a spectacular annual flowering plant that does well in Florida. I used to grow it as a child up north but found it does even better in the Sunshine State. Easy to start from seed, this orange-red flower will impress you. Tithonia rotundiflora is an old-time annual flower favorite not to be confused with a perennial relative called the Bolivian sunflower, Tithonia diversifolia. Tithonia rotundiflora is a Florida-Friendly Landscapingapproved annual and not a problem species, according to the UF/IFAS Assessment of Non-Native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas. However, Tithonia diversifolia is an aggressive plant that can easily take over an area and is listed as a high invasion risk. It’s predicted to be invasive and not recommended by IFAS. The Tithonia in today’s article is easily controlled and a pleasure to have in a yard. Growing from 5 to 6 feet tall, this annual has fuzzy, soft leaves and stems topped with 3-inch, bright orange-red flowers with yellow centers. Plant the seeds in a full sun location in late winter/early spring for summer and fall flowers. Once Tithonia begins to grow, be prepared to stake it as the plant can get floppy and fall over. The cultivar called Torch is perhaps the most common selection and has been given an All-America Selections designation. There is also a yellow cultivar. Both cultivars are tall, so you may want to look at dwarf varieties. Only growing to 3 feet tall, Goldfinger and Fiesta Del Sol provide a more compact version of this plant. Heat and drought tolerant, Tithonia do well in Florida’s summer weather and are often available at local seed racks or from online seed catalogs. Besides being a colorful bedding plant, Tithonia lends itself to the production of great cut flowers that keep producing. This flowering plant is also a magnet for butterflies and other pollinators. Butterflies love to perch and sip nectar from the high vantage point provided by Tithonia. This plant may also supply seeds for birds at certain times of the year. Once an individual flower fades, it will set seeds which will drop to the ground, germinate and may provide another set of Tithonia to flower in fall and early winter. Frost will likely finish off the plants, but many seeds will self-sow and become volunteers for next year. As such, Tithonia can naturalize a bit wherever it is grown. Look to pass extra seeds to a friend, as Tithonia makes an excellent pass-along plant. So, if you are looking for success with annuals, perhaps Tithonia will be part of your garden. n 24
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A pleasure to have in any yard, Tithonia adds color and is a magnet for butterflies and other pollinators. PHOTO BY RALPH MITCHELL/UF IFAS EXTENSION
Ralph Mitchell has served as the county extension director and horticulture agent IV for UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County since 2000. In this role, he oversees all county extension programs and staff while leading key horticulture initiatives, including the Master Gardener Volunteer Program, Consumer and Commercial Horticulture, Florida-friendly Landscaping and Pesticide Applicator Recertification Training. He is also a senior instructor for Florida’s Green Industries Best Management Practices program. Ralph lives in Port Charlotte with his wife of 39 years. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, natural history, archaeology and raising small animals.
GULF COAST ELECTRIC
Trading Post For Rent
12 acres coastal Bermuda pasture. Irrigation available. 850-814-7015 or 850-814-6078. For Sale Book available through Amazon by local author: “A Guide Through the Ages of Childhood” by Audrey S. Brigman. Full of ideas for baby items needed, birthday gifts, senior year, etc. Where imagination becomes reality. Woodworking, candles and collector wands. alivans.com Book available through Amazon by local author. “With All My Heart” features 80 remarkable stories of miracles and visions experienced by the author. Miscellaneous Tree Be Gone. For all your tree needs, from trimming to complete removal. 850-819-9987. Carter’s Land Clearing and Mulching LLC. 850-527-4715. The 850 Stump Grinder LLC. Free estimates, multistump discount, residential and commercial. Veteran-owned and -operated. 850-814-0720.
Rachel’s Facials, Lashes and Brows now offers permanent makeup. Other services include ombre and powder brows, classic and foxy eyeliner, and aquarelle lip blushing. Discounts for military, law enforcement, educators and medical professionals. 2518C Highway 77, Lynn Haven. Rachelsflb.com or call 850-896-4855. BCS Maintenance. Local handyman service can drywall, paint, pressure wash, etc. 850-624-9659. Kapua Kleans for your final interior cleanup, deep clean, residences, condos, rental properties. Steph, 850-704-2412. WJ Land Management. Florida licensed and insured. Forestry mulching, land clearing, culverts, fencing. Fast, free and reliable estimates. William, 850-628-4714; Tabatha, 850-628-4713.
Koastal Home Repair LLC. Fencing, decks, painting, light tractor work, repair work and maintenance. Insured. 850-227-5509.
Eco-X LLC. Guided kayak/ paddleboard ecotours on clear freshwater springs. Hike Florida trail segment #36. Private, primitive camping. Paddle, hike, camp. Your local guide to adventure. 850-326-9116. Merchant Management Group is a local payments technology company based in Panama City, working with quick-service restaurants, full-service restaurants and retail shops and specializing in the latest point-of-sale systems, including Tabit, OrderCounter and Clover. Have worked with hundreds of Gulf Coast businesses since 2004 and have an A+ rating with BBB. Schedule your demo, 850-747-0664. C&2 Electrical Services LLC. Residential and commercial electrician services. 850-899-8218 or 850-899-8217. SLR Farm & Landscaping. Lawn care, grass cutting, bush hogging, backhoe work. 706-575-4570 or 850-703-5321.
Hamco Business Solutions is conveniently located in downtown Panama City with its warehouse in Lynn Haven. Hundreds of products at discounted prices, including receipt paper, ink cartridges, deli paper, kitchen paper and copy paper. Free, same-day delivery on most products. Shop local and save. Call for free quote, 850-942-5600. Robert Smith Painting. Interior and exterior, sheetrock repairs, pressure washing. Free estimates. 850-227-4973. Handyman services. Painting, flooring, building repair, odds and ends. Free estimates and fully insured. TJ, 207-612-8255 or 207-578-1830. Real Estate Three-bedroom, two-bath home on 1-acre lot on the Choctawhatchee River at Cedar Log Boat Ramp, 80 Old Creek Road, Ponce de Leon, FL 32455. Wayne, 850-373-7944; Jason, 850-258-1085.
Custom fences built on your property. Call David for your free estimate. 850-819-9987.
Trading Post is a FREE service to Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative members. GCEC reserves the right to edit or reject ads. PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY OR TYPE. Please circle the category that applies: Trade
For Rent
For Sale
Real Estate
Free
Miscellaneous
Wanted
Items:
Name:
Phone:
Address: Mail your ad to: The Trading Post; Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative; 9434 Highway 77; Southport, FL 32409; return with your electric payment; or email ad information to tradingpost@gcec.com. ** Due to press deadlines, please expect up to 60 days from submission for your advertisement to appear.
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GULF COAST ELECTRIC
ALWAYS LEARNING, ALWAYS Ready
Continuous training helps Gulf Coast Electric employees stay safe, prepared and ready to serve
At Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative, providing safe, reliable electric service begins long before our crews respond to an outage or arrive at a job site. It starts with continuous training. Throughout the year, employees participate in a variety of hands-on and classroom training designed to strengthen their skills, reinforce safety practices and prepare them for the challenges of serving our members. Line technician apprentices regularly sharpen their climbing and pole-top work techniques through practical exercises that build confidence, coordination and muscle memory. Commercial Driver’s License training helps employees safely operate the specialized vehicles and equipment essential to maintaining the cooperative’s electric system. Employees also complete CPR training, ensuring they are prepared to respond quickly should an emergency arise. Learning never stops at Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative. By investing in ongoing education and safety training, we are investing in our employees— and ultimately providing better service to the members and communities we proudly serve every day. 26
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Apprentice line technicians strengthen their climbing skills through hands-on training, including exercises that build confidence and coordination while working safely from the pole.
Employees participate in Commercial Driver’s License training to safely operate the specialized equipment used to build, maintain and restore the cooperative’s electric system.
GCEC employees complete CPR training to ensure they are prepared to respond in emergency situations, on the job and in the communities they serve.
Got a Story Idea? We Want to Hear It.
Florida Currents is a magazine about the people, places and moments that make Florida home, and nobody knows those stories better than you. Whether it’s a hidden gem in your community, a local hero worth celebrating or an organization doing great work in your area—we’re listening. Scan the QR code or visit the link to submit your story idea. Our editors read every submission. Thanks for reading and for helping us tell Florida’s best stories.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY SR PRODUCTIONS
Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera or visit tinyurl.com/SendStoryIdeas.
A U G U ST 2 0 2 6
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GULF COAST ELECTRIC
‘Until the Whistle Blows!’ By Damon Morgan
President and CEO of PowerSouth Energy Cooperative
I can still hear Coach Hoffman yelling on the football field at Walnut Hill, where I was a lineman and played offense and defense. He always encouraged us to maintain our block or pursue the ball. “Until the whistle blows!” No letting up, no loafing, no quitting. If you’ve ever played a sport or pursued a dream, you’ve learned similar. If you want to win—to succeed—you must work, push through pain, endure hardship, and stay alert and engaged until the workday is done, until the final bell sounds, until the checkered flag or, as it was in my case, until the whistle blows. As much as we might like to soften this for our children by giving everyone a trophy, life inevitably teaches us that success comes to those who give 100%. Giving 30% effort just doesn’t make the grade. It’s one thing to give all the players on the Little League team a trophy, even if they did not give the same effort, but it’s entirely another thing to be on the battlefield surrounded by thirty-percenters, putting your life in their hands. It would not be very comforting to know the safety and operation of your automobile depended on a bunch of thirty-percenters. I imagine also that none of us would sign up to go bungee jumping at the Thirty-Percent Leap of Faith Club. Generating electric power is no different. It is a 24/7/365 job. People like to walk into a room, flip a switch and see the lights come on without having to check if the sun is shining or the wind is blowing. Folks like to set their thermostats and have their HVAC systems come on and off as needed, without having to check the weather. If people need to wash clothes at night, or if a medical procedure must be done, we demand that the power be available and not subject to weather. Yet, in the name of global climate change, the U.S. has been on a push to shut down dispatchable fossil fuel plants and instead
build out solar and wind power that barely can operate 30% of the time. Wind and solar are intermittent. They have a low capacity factor. In 2025, utility scale solar operated at a capacity factor of 24.4% in the United States. Wind power made a capacity factor of 34.2%. Capacity factor is a ratio of how much energy a generating asset actually produces over a set time to how much it should be capable of producing. Imagine a 100-megawatt solar facility. If it operated at full 100-megawatt capacity every hour, its capacity factor would be 100%. But, in reality, solar can only produce when the sun is shining—and it produces less when it’s cloudy. So with those constraints, the best it could do in 2025 was 24%. Since these resources depend on environmental factors, their performance will not significantly improve. Again, if it is dark or cloudy, there is no solar power. If the wind dies down, there is no wind power. Renewables will always be thirty-percenters. Natural gas, nuclear and coal power plants, on the other hand, are dispatchable and can operate 24/7. They can ramp up and down as the electric load dictates within the day. They operate until the whistle blows. The greatest strain on our system occurs at 6 a.m. on the coldest day of the year. It is dark outside (no solar), and the wind in our area is not sufficient to support wind development. At 6 a.m., real power plants must be online, or the lights will go out. Solar and wind generate when they feel like it, and they want a trophy. I’m not saying renewable energy is useless. When it runs, it displaces the natural gas we have to burn in our plants, and that does save money. But it cannot meet the timing required by today’s consumers, unless we want to wash our clothes, schedule our medical procedures, or operate our sewage systems during sunshine daylight hours only. But playing till the whistle blows is a concept that carries with it a higher application. I encourage you to be a 100-percenter in everything you do. If you see the ball on the ground, pick it up and run with it. If you see someone that is hurting, step in and be a blessing. If you see a need, fill the gap—until the whistle blows or the trumpet sounds. Until next month, I hope the Lord blesses you real good!
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY SASHKIN A U G U ST 2 0 2 6
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and their family members are snapping up a sleek new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills ever,” he said. Many seniors refuse to wear old style help buttons because they make them look old. But even worse, those medical alert systems come with monthly bills. To s olve t he s e problems Universal Physicians, a U.S. compa ny, went to work to develop a new, modern, stateof-the -ar t medical alert device. It’s called “FastHelp™” and it instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and
no monthly bills ever. “This slick new little device is designed to look incognito to slip in your pocket. Seniors love them, because it actually makes them look important, not
old,” Dr. Howren said. FastHelp is expected to hit store shelves later this year. But special promotional giveaways are slated for seniors in select publications. ■
People don’t always do what their doctor says, but when sea soned vetera n emergency room physician, Dr. Philip B. Howren says every senior should have a medical alert device, you better listen up. “Seniors are just one fall away from being put in a nursing home,” Dr. Howren said. “With a medical alert device, seniors are never alone. So it keeps them living independently in their own home. That’s why seniors
Five Star Customer Reviews Hurricane Help “We had two hurricanes recently. I had no electricity for 6 days. I fell, so I pushed the button, and they came right out and picked me up off the floor. I tell many of my friends they need to get FastHelp!” - Virginia, FL
BORN AFTER 1964: You cannot use the rebate coupon to the right and must pay $299 Call: 1-800-221-9773 EXT. ADFH0826
WE LOVE THE PRODUCT “We bought it outright with no bills ever.” - Rosemary, NY
Very appreciative of having FastHelp “I did have an emergency. Help RESPONDED quickly and came in a few minutes.” - Irving, PA
Safe anywhere “This little FastHelp device is my guardian angel. I’m so glad my daughter-in-law got it for me.” - Pete, FL
A+ Rating: These are unsolicited consumer feedback from satisfied customers as reported to Universal Physicians.
HOW TO GET IT BORN BEFORE 1964: Use the rebate coupon to the right and call this Toll-Free Hotline: 1-800-221-2809 EXT. FSTH208
LIFESAVER “When I got my FastHelp I never thought I’d have to use it, but when I fell and broke my hip it saved my life.” - Harold, OH
BOTTOM LINE: You don’t need to shop around. We’ve done all the leg work, this deal is too good to pass up. With the instant FastHelp rebate, it is a real steal at just $149 and shipping. There are no monthly bills ever.
PROS: It’s the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp One-Touch 911 Button that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts or deposits. It connects you to the vast available network of cellular towers for free and saves seniors a ton of money because there are no monthly bills ever making this deal a must have. Plus it’s the only medical alert device that makes seniors look important, not old.
CONS: Consumers can’t get FastHelp in stores until later this year. That’s why it’s so important for seniors born before 1964 to call the National Rebate Center Hotline within the next 21 days. For those who miss that deadline, the sleek little medical alert device will set you back over $300 bucks.
REBATE COUPON
VALID FOR USE
21 DAYS ONLY
Amount of Rebate (AOR)
1P
2Y
1 OF 1
$150.00 OFF RE: FSTH208 DLVY: ML2077R1
PLEASE USE CHECK OR MONEY ORDER WITH NO TRANSACTION FEE. ALL OTHER PAYMENT FORMS HAVE A THREE PERCENT TRANSACTION FEE. FASTHELP IS COVERED BY A 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE LESS SHIPPING AND A 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY. FASTHELP IS A 4G CELLULAR DEVICE. FASTHELP WILL NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE 911 CALLS WHEN CELLULAR SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE SUCH AS IN REMOTE AREAS. FASTHELP USES GPS TRIANGULATIONS TO APPROXIMATE YOUR LOCATION WHEN YOUR DEVICE IS TURNED ON. DR. HOWREN IS A COMPENSATED MEDICAL ADVISOR. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. UNIVERSAL PHYSICIANS 7747 SUPREME AVE, NORTH CANTON, OH 44720. P7484 OF24593-1
FL-154
OFFICES 637 Highway 22 P.O. Box 220 Wewahitchka, FL 32465 850-639-2216 or 800-333-9392 9434 Highway 77 Southport, FL 32409 850-265-3631 Outages: 800-568-3667 6243 E. Highway 98 Panama City, FL 32404 850-481-1188
www.gcec.com CEO/GENERAL MANAGER John Bartley
TRUSTEES President Dwight Van Lierop Vice President Betty Moore Secretary/Treasurer Jimmy Black Rupert Brown Robert Byrd Carl Goodson Eddie Jones Pat Patterson Patrick Pitts Trustees normally meet at 12:30 p.m. CDT the third Tuesday of each month. The mission of GCEC: Fulfilling the changing needs of our membership and communities by providing costeffective, reliable and safe utility services through a dedicated and responsive workforce.
Access your account and report power outages 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by using our app, logging on to gcec.com or calling any of our offices at the numbers listed above. 32
A U G U ST 2026
GCEC President’s Message
Are You a Co-op Voter? Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative has joined United States electric cooperatives in supporting civic engagement through the Co-ops Vote program. This collaborative, nonpartisan effort empowers us to: • Educate policymakers about our priorities. • Raise awareness of issues affecting our co-op and community. • Advocate for smart energy policy. • Encourage our members to vote with their co-op and Dwight Van Lierop community in mind. Federal, state and local elections give us the chance to elect leaders who understand and support electric cooperatives. These officials can champion our interests on energy policy and ensure our voices are heard. Now is the perfect time to confirm your voter registration and help others register. Visit vote.coop to access voter resources and learn the five simple steps to becoming a co-op voter. Co-ops Vote was created by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, which represents more than 900 private, not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric cooperatives across 48 states. Together, co-op voters ensure national decisions reflect local needs. Co-ops are a trusted voice in Washington, D.C. When we show up at the polls, we show policymakers that our co-op community matters. The cooperative voice is powerful—and it starts with you.