Apply for an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., and grab your chance to be part of something extraordinary. Page 4
November 2025 • Volume 15, No. 1
CEO Michael Shepard
SENIOR VP OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Chasity Anderson, CCC
DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Noble Sprayberry
SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC
FLORIDA CURRENTS EDITORS Sable Riley, CCC; Valeri Saldanha Rosa
ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Hampton, CCC; David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea, CCC
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
SENIOR MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
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Volunteers serve homemade lasagnas to many in need Spotlight, Page 12
Page 16
Get ready, because Peace River Electric Cooperative is rolling out an opportunity you’ll never forget. PRECO is now accepting applications for the 2026 Youth Tour to Washington, D.C, and we want you on board.
Why Apply?
Picture yourself:
Exploring national monuments and historic landmarks in our nation’s capital.
Meeting and learning from elected congressional representatives.
Building friendships that last a lifetime.
Gathering with over 1,800 students from across the country.
Discovering how electric cooperatives like PRECO make a di erence in communities across the country.
Gathering with over 1,800 students from across the country. is
And the best part? It’s all-expenses-paid. That means this six-day adventure is completely free for students chosen as PRECO delegates.
Trip dates: June 15–20, 2026
Who can apply: Current 11th graders who attend approved schools within PRECO’s service area.
Deadline to apply: Jan. 16, 2026
Don’t just read about history—experience it! This isn’t just another trip. It’s a ticket to unforgettable memories, personal growth and a front-row seat to history in the making. Past Youth Tour delegates have called it “lifechanging” and “the best week of high school.”
So what are you waiting for?
Apply today at PRECO.coop/Youth-Tour and grab your chance to be part of something extraordinary.
By Abby Berry
Lighting is something most of us don’t think much about—until it’s wrong. Maybe the living room feels too dim for reading or the kitchen lights cast an odd glow. We often grab whatever bulb or fixture looks good without considering how it will perform. With a little planning, your home can be brighter, cozier and more energy efficient.
Watts vs. Lumens
When shopping for light bulbs, it’s easy to focus on wattage, but that only measures how much energy is used. When it comes to brightness, what matters is the lumen count.
Lumens measure the actual light output. For example, an 800-lumen LED bulb gives off about the same amount of light as an old-fashioned 60-watt incandescent bulb.
You’ve likely replaced all incandescent bulbs with long-lasting, energy-efficient LEDs. If not, it’s time to make a switch.
A rule of thumb: The higher the lumens, the brighter the light while lower watts result in less energy consumed. Check wattage ratings for fixtures and install bulbs that meet the fixture’s wattage safety requirements.
Color Temperature and Consistency
Light bulbs vary in color temperature. This detail is often overlooked—until you replace one bulb and notice the new light doesn’t
match the others.
Consider installing bulbs of the same brand and wattage at the same time. That way, the look stays consistent, and you won’t be stuck hunting for a perfect match later.
Installing dimmers in place of on/off switches can be a game changer. Dimmers give you more control over brightness, help save energy and create a more comfortable atmosphere. Not all bulbs are dimmable, so double check labels before buying.
While thinking about light switches, consider whether you have enough of them and whether they’re in the right places.
A light you can only turn off from one end of a hallway becomes annoying. For installations or upgrades, it’s best to hire a licensed electrician to ensure everything is wired safely and efficiently.
Bulbs are only part of the equation—fixtures matter, too. Each type serves a purpose.
Ambient lighting from sconces or glasscovered ceiling fixtures provides general illumination. Task lighting—provided by pendants, desk lamps or track lighting— focuses light where you need it most.
When choosing a fixture, think beyond looks. Does the light provides the right amount of brightness for the space? A beautiful chandelier might look perfect over
the dining table but leaves the rest of the room too dim. Alternatively, an oversized fixture could flood the room with more light than needed, wasting energy and money.
Smart lighting adds a layer of control, but the real magic is convenience. With smart bulbs, you can adjust brightness and colors, and set schedules from your phone or an assistant such as Alexa or Google Assistant. Want the lights to dim automatically for movie night or to turn on before you get home? Smart bulbs make it easy.
Smart lighting also personalizes your space. You can go classic with warm, white tones or experiment with colors to set the mood—anything from a soft glow for winding down to vibrant hues for a party.
Smart bulbs rely on power from a wall switch, which needs to stay in the “on” position for remote controls to work. If you prefer using a physical switch, consider pairing smart bulbs with a smart light switch. Many of today’s smart switches also come with motion detectors, adding another level of efficiency and convenience.
Good lighting makes your home look better and feel better. You can create spaces that are welcoming, functional and energy efficient. Whether you stick to traditional bulbs and fixtures or explore the flexibility of smart lighting, thoughtful choices today will brighten your home for years to come.
By Erin Kelly, NRECA
Across the United States, electric cooperatives are supporting a new bipartisan bill that would streamline the Federal Emergency Management Agency and speed up delivery of crucial disaster relief funds to electric co-ops hit hard by hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes and other natural disasters.
The Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act of 2025 (FEMA Act) would keep in place FEMA’s essential Public Assistance program, which provides money to co-ops to restore power and rebuild systems damaged by natural disasters. Without those funds, rebuilding would take much more time and money for rural communities.
to its former status as an independent agency that reports directly to the president.
The bill would make FEMA a stronger, more responsive agency and help strengthen rural resilience, protect taxpayer dollars and ensure essential services are restored as quickly as possible after a natural disaster.
Sponsors from the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee introduced the legislation on July 23—the day the House adjourned for its summer recess. The committee is expected to conduct hearings on the bill after Congress returns in September to the nation’s capital. Then it will vote on whether to send it to the House for consideration.
The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association— the national trade association representing more than 900 cooperatives—and its member co-ops have been strong advocates for improving FEMA while keeping the agency intact. The FEMA Act aims to reduce the amount of time it takes for co-ops to receive reimbursements from the agency.
Specifically, it would direct the FEMA administrator to reimburse co-ops for emergency work no later than 120 days after a request is submitted. The president would first need to determine that at least 90% of estimated costs are eligible for reimbursement, says Will Mitchell, an NRECA legislative affairs director who lobbies Congress on FEMA issues.
For longer-term projects to rebuild or replace infrastructure, FEMA would be required to review a co-op’s cost estimate of necessary work within 90 days of its application, Will says. After that, the agency would have 30 days to disburse the funds for the project.
If passed by the House, the legislation would need to be approved by the Senate and signed into law by President Donald Trump.
“The American people need an emergency management system that works quickly and effectively, not one that makes disaster recovery more difficult,” says Missouri Rep. Sam Graves. He is the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee chairman and one of the lead sponsors of the bill.
“This bill does more than any recent reforms to cut through the bureaucracy, streamline programs, provide flexibility, and return FEMA to its core purpose of empowering the states to lead and coordinating the federal response when it’s needed,” he says.
Arizona Rep. Greg Stanton, who is the FEMA Act’s co-sponsor and the senior Democrat on the panel’s economic development, public buildings and emergency management subcommittee, says the bill would strengthen FEMA’s mission “to help Americans in their darkest hour.”
“That would be a huge change in the timeline,” he says. “Right now, most co-ops are waiting years for reimbursement.”
Another major improvement is that co-ops would be allowed to build stronger, more resilient systems in the aftermath of disasters rather than being forced by the agency to build everything back exactly as it was before.
FEMA is a crucial partner for electric co-ops in efforts to restore power after disaster strikes. The legislation would separate FEMA from the Department of Homeland Security and return it
“The agency isn’t perfect, and its job is getting harder as disasters grow more frequent and more severe,” he says. “But the solution is not to tear FEMA down—it’s to work across the aisle to build FEMA up. This bipartisan bill takes commonsense steps to streamline the agency and make sure communities get disaster assistance quickly, efficiently and fairly.”
As the FEMA Act of 2025 moves through the legislative process, NRECA and electric cooperative leaders continue work to make things better for co-ops and the local communities they serve.
Pets for Vets is a four-star-rated, nonprofit organization that relies on donations to provide free services to veterans. There are several ways to donate.
Donate online: Visit petsforvets.com/donate to make a secure online donation.
Donate by mail: Pets for Vets Inc., P.O. Box 10860 Wilmington, NC 28404
By Jen Calhoun
When Clarissa Black first took her husky-malamute mix, Bear, to visit veterans at a Veterans Administration medical center, she had no idea he was about to change hundreds of lives.
Of course, she knew Bear was special. He had a way about him. When someone needed quiet company, Bear could lie perfectly still for hours. If someone was working on improving mobility, Bear would position himself at the perfect distance, paws up, as if to offer encouragement. And when people looked into the dog’s eyes and spoke to him, he’d cock his head and let out one of his husky “woos” right on cue.
“People really felt like he was talking to them,” says Clarissa, whose background in animal science and anthrozoology gave her a deeper insight into the interactions. “They felt seen, and they felt heard.”
Clarissa’s experience with Bear at the VA hospital sparked the idea for Pets for Vets, a nonprofit organization that matches veterans with specially trained companion animals. Since she founded it more than 15 years ago, Pets for Vets has matched more than 800 animals with veterans across the country.
The program generally serves veterans dealing with posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries, but the organization is open to helping any vet who could benefit from a deep connection with a pet. While the service is completely free to the veterans, it relies on donations from the public and a network of more than 100 volunteer animal trainers across the United States.
Other ways to give: The organization accepts cryptocurrency and vehicle donations, including cars, trucks, boats and motorcycles.
Volunteer: Fill out the volunteer form at petsforvets.com to offer your time and expertise.
For more information about the program or to apply for a companion animal, visit petsforvets.com or email contactus@petsforvets.com.
After Leif Mesinger returned home from Iraq, the world felt different. It was harder to navigate and harder to understand. The Army infantryman and gunner suffered a traumatic brain injury from an improvised explosive device blast, and it changed everything.
“My mind was racing, and I struggled to communicate,” Leif says in a Pets for Vets testimonial video. “I felt disconnected from everything I used to know.”
Help arrived in the form of a tiny, hairless waif of a dog named Spyder. Clarissa Black, founder of Pets for Vets, discovered the dog after meeting with Leif and finding out what he might need in a companion animal.
Spyder’s superpower was that he loved to jump into people’s laps and lick them. It was a trait Clarissa intentionally honed in Spyder before presenting him to Leif. She knew that kind of gentle, rhythmic contact could ground a person dealing with anxiety.
In time, Spyder’s constant presence gave Leif a growing sense of purpose and a deepening bond. Thanks to more than 15 years with Spyder, Leif’s communication with others has improved and his life is more fulfilling than ever.
“Spyder was kind of like that saving grace that centered me again and brought me back,” he says.
It’s important to note that Pets for Vets animals aren’t service dogs that have been highly trained to assist people with disabilities. Still, the organization works hard to meet the veterans’ needs as well as the animals’.
“We’re not just asking what the dog gives the veteran,” Clarissa says. “We want to know what the veteran gives the dog. We’re looking for that reciprocal match where both are getting exactly what they want.”
LEFT: Spyder’s tendency to jump in laps and lick faces helps calm and center Leif Mesinger when he feels frustrated. PHOTOS COURTESY OF PETS FOR VETS
OPPOSITE PAGE: Clarissa Black, founder and executive director of Pets for Vets, with her late dog, Bear, who sparked the idea for the nonprofit organization.
Once the group approves a veteran’s application for a companion animal, the search gets underway. Clarissa’s experience as a marine mammal trainer taught her the most powerful relationships happen when both parties get what they need. The process isn’t about finding a good dog. It’s about finding exactly the right dog.
The matching process is not only thorough, it’s personal. Veterans work closely with trainers to identify their needs and prepare for pet ownership.
“We spend a lot of time getting to know our veterans, finding out what it is they need, what they’re looking for and what would be a good fit for them,” Clarissa says. Meanwhile, trainers visit shelters and rescue groups to conduct one-on-one “interviews” with potential companion animals, which can include cats, rabbits and other species, as well. If a veteran enjoys outdoor activities, for example, the trainer might look for a more active dog that loves to fetch and hike. On the other hand, a more sedentary vet might need a peaceful pooch or calm cat.
From there, each animal undergoes foundation training customized for its future human. During this time, which often
takes place in a foster situation, trainers enhance what Clarissa calls the animal’s “superpowers,” or the natural behaviors that made them perfect for their veteran in the first place.
“Ultimately, that connection is what’s going to fulfill them and maybe even heal them,” she says. “There’s some research out there that suggests that it’s not just any dog, it’s the right dog—the dog that people feel connected to—that can help mitigate anxiety and depression.” n
Born of the pandemic, organization matches home-cooked lasagna with those in need of a meal
By Cheré Coen
It’s a common dilemma, one that unfortunately plagues society daily. The world’s so big and full of pain, what can one person do?
Rhiannon Menn found the answer in a pan of homemade lasagna.
The need in Rhiannon’s community became painfully clear in 2020 as she witnessed medical workers in San Diego stretched thin and families and individuals isolated inside their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. California was the first state to shut down, and many residents lost their jobs, leaving some destitute. Rhiannon began making meals she left on doorsteps— a pan of lasagna to feed her neighbors and remind them they weren’t alone.
What she didn’t expect from her simple act of comfort-food kindness is how the neighborhood, then the city, then the world, would react.
As word spread about Rhiannon’s lasagnas, others reached out, asking to join the effort. A network soon came together to match those in need with home chefs wanting to cook. No one asked questions or required information from those seeking help. They just offered support within a home-cooked meal.
“It started to grow like firecrackers,” says Andria R. Larson, executive director of Lasagna Love, the nonprofit that grew out of Rhiannon’s original delivery. “We were able to bring people together through nourishment.”
As word got out in late 2020, Rhiannon and Andria had to develop spreadsheets to keep up with the demand. A volunteer from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology helped develop their website.
“We were just random acts of kindness that came together,” Andria says. “And the ripple effect keeps going. We’re now in four countries and all 50 states.”
Lasagna Love’s mission is simple: address food insecurity in an oldfashioned way, with a home-cooked dish. Those in need—people who have lost their job or housing, families struggling to make ends meet or even college students away from home longing for a home-cooked meal—can register on Lasagna Love’s website. The main office sends on the information to local leaders throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom, who match them with home chefs. The lasagna chefs are volunteers—as are 99% of the organization’s members. The chefs buy the ingredients, prepare the lasagnas and deliver the meals to recipients with notes of encouragement.
Not everyone who volunteers with Lasagna Love cooks. Some donate money and ingredients, while others provide administrative help.
“Some love to cook, some want to donate their skill set,” Andria says. “They are all part of the larger mission.”
To date, more than 23 million people have been affected by Lasagna Love, with more than 80,000 volunteers serving up assistance in one capacity or another.
Lasagna Love ambassadors deliver, on average, 3,500 lasagnas each week.
“Radical kindness and generosity continues to spread,” Andria says. “What better way to do that than a pan of homemade lasagna?”
Ingredients of Love
Andria insists that even those who have difficulty in the kitchen can create a pan of lasagna.
“It’s really not that complicated,” she says. “It’s meat, sauce, noodles, cheese, and repeat.”
main ingredient is always a desire to help.
“Through all of it, kindness continues to be needed and woven back into our community,” Andria says. “No one should be without food, but we find many in need.”
Home chefs may be individuals, families or groups, but the primary contact must be at least 18 years old.
In Tennessee, state director Melanie Johnson finds many groups wanting to
community service goals with earning a Lasagna Love Patch. To receive a patch, Scouts explore how to initiate positive change in their neighborhoods, engage in activities that match the core values of Lasagna Love and explore the challenges individuals face today, such as food insecurity. Participating troops help address local waitlists by preparing and delivering meals “while learning invaluable skills and fostering a spirit of
Radical kindness and generosity continues to spread. What better way to do that than a pan of homemade lasagna?
Some recipe tweaks are necessary if recipients have dietary restrictions. For instance, some noodles might need to be gluten free, and vegetarians may request a meatless dish. Many chefs incorporate family recipes, so recipients receive a meal that’s been beloved for generations. Some chefs may use recipes from the main office, along with a tutorial on how to put the pieces together.
No matter which recipe is used, the
— Andria R. Larson, executive director of Lasagna Love
serve lasagna weekly across the state. She continually works with church groups, parents homeschooling their children and those looking for community service hours. Members of a ladies group in Clarksville deliver their lasagnas once a quarter. She’s even had a yoga class volunteer.
“It’s a great group activity,” Melanie says. “For families, it’s a great opportunity to involve kids at different age levels.”
Lasagna Love recently partnered with the Girl Scouts to marry the Scouts’
altruism,” according to the organization.
Andria agrees that creating and delivering lasagna is “passion work” and fosters the idea of a village mentality when society’s support systems fail or are not in place. She insists volunteers receive just as much emotional support as the recipients.
“It’s an emotional connection that you can’t duplicate,” she says of cooking and delivering the meals. “This is definitely more than lasagna.”
For recipients, it’s as easy as signing up on the Lasagna Love website. There are no hoops to jump through, no paperwork to determine need. No fee is required, and privacy is paramount. Deliveries are contact-free to the doorstep unless the recipient requests otherwise. Recipients set the time, date and place of the delivery, and the process crosses all language and cultural barriers.
Sometimes, it’s not the lack of finances that brings people to Lasagna Love. It may be someone in need of emotional sustenance.
“Most people have a need, but sometimes it’s a harried parent who’s working and tired of bringing home fast food,” says Brenda Walkenhorst, local leader for the New Orleans metropolitan area. “You don’t have to show reason.”
For some, it’s the first time they have asked for help. The lack of bureaucracy eases their anxiety, Andria says.
“We want to make the experience easy,” she says. “There’s no judgment, no qualifications. Hard times can happen anytime. We don’t want people to face it alone. We’re here.”
Lasagna Love is always in need of volunteers—and not just those who love to cook. The organization accepts donations, and sponsors may be called on to do everything from helping in the organization’s administration to providing ingredients to chefs each month.
“It’s a way for people to get involved without cooking,” Andria says.
Volunteers may cook as many or as few lasagnas as they’re able, as individual volunteers or as a group activity. Many volunteers use the opportunity to create lasagna with family members, church groups and other organizations. They sometimes add their own styles to the pan.
Those who wish to cook must complete a brief online training course on safe food preparation and share how often they wish to take part. Volunteers may participate as much or as little as they are able.
The ripple effect Rhiannon and Andria started in 2020 remains, Andria says, and the organization continues to grow thanks to the steady stream of volunteers. This year, Lasagna Love began spreading kindness in the United Kingdom.
“One of the things I did not expect from a group of five women to the state we are in now was being able to see how many people generally want to help,” she says. “It really is impressive to see.” n
For more information about Lasagna Love, visit lasagnalove.org.
Messages of hope are delivered with each pan of lasagna.
The Tampa Bay region presents a challenge for local leader Rachael Page, but she meets it head-on every Monday. That’s when Lasagna Love’s head office sends her a list of recipients in need of a home-cooked pan of lasagna.
“It’s a big region—big in size and big in population,” Rachael says, adding that many recipients are still on a waiting list. “There are a lot of people out there in need.”
Lasagna Love’s website matches recipients with home chefs offering to cook and deliver lasagna. Geographical information, including how far a chef will travel, and recipients’ dietary requests and restrictions are considered.
“They do an automatic match using algorithms,” Rachael says. “I make sure it’s a good match. I’m a second set of eyes.”
It’s all part of Rachael’s role as a local leader for Lasagna Love. She oversees delivery throughout Tampa and
Hillsborough County, St. Petersburg and Pinellas County, and half of Pasco County. Once she notifies her chefs of their assignments, they double-check dietary requests and ask what else the recipient might need, such as plastic utensils.
“The chef delivers the lasagna usually within a day or two,” Rachael says. “It’s just kindness. Our chefs are such kind people, and they provide recipients with what they need.”
Rachael began her journey with Lasagna Love as a home chef and still cooks in addition to her leadership duties. A full-time nurse and clinical risk manager, she enlists friends and her partner to help buy ingredients, cook lasagna and deliver pans of goodness that Rachael calls “a nice hug.”
“I have a very big support system,” she says. “Lasagna Love is my feel-good because my work is really heavy.”
Rachael has made and delivered 78
pans of lasagna since she began cooking in March 2024. For this year’s National Lasagna Day on July 29, she delivered 13 pans of the cheesy noodle dish to an underserved area of Tampa.
The organization set a national goal of delivering 50,000 pans in July.
“We beat that goal,” Rachael says.
For her work helping feed the Tampa Bay area, Rachael was nominated for a Golden Heart Award by Senior Actors Guild & Education Services, a nonprofit theater organization that produces plays about aging.
Like many local leaders across the country, Rachael always needs more chefs to meet the ongoing demand. She posts regularly on Facebook to enlist volunteers and to let those in need know there’s an organization that can help.
“We’re trying to get the word out there, to let them know we’re here for them,” she says. n
1½ cups chickpea flour
3 cups water
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt, plus extra for sprinkling
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 pinch fennel seeds
Sunflower oil for frying
Lemon wedges for serving
Place chickpea flour, water and salt in a medium-sized saucepan. Whisk until smooth. Set over medium heat, and whisk constantly as the mixture slowly heats. Keep whisking, scraping the bottom and sides of the pan frequently, until the mixture is smooth, thick and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in parsley and fennel seeds.
Pour mixture onto a parchment-covered baking sheet that is approximately 12-by-15 inches. Quickly spread the mixture with a spatula, before it cools and sets, so it fills the pan in an even layer, about ¼-inch thick. Refrigerate for about an hour, until completely firm.
Once cooled, cut into squares with a sharp knife. Carefully lift the pieces from the pan with a spatula or your hands.
To fry the panelle, pour enough oil into a wide, heavy skillet to cover the bottom to a depth of ½ inch, and set over medium heat. When the oil is hot, fry the panelle about 3 minutes, until the underside is crisp and golden. Flip and brown the other side, about 2-3 minutes.
Place the panelle on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot.
1 yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon chili flakes
14-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
½ cup sundried tomatoes, sliced
1 can full-fat coconut milk
3 tablespoons tomato paste
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 cup baby spinach
4-5 fresh basil leaves, julienned
Garlic naan
In a large pan over medium heat, saute onion in olive oil until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic, oregano and chili flakes. Saute for another 1-2 minutes.
Add chickpeas, sundried tomatoes, coconut milk, tomato paste, salt and pepper to the pan. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Add basil and spinach. Stir until wilted. Serve with naan.
Creamy Chickpea Tomato Soup
3 garlic cloves, unpeeled
4 medium, fresh tomatoes
1 small yellow onion, sliced into quarters
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
½ teaspoon sea salt, plus a pinch for sprinkling
Freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup canned chickpeas
14-ounce can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
½ teaspoon maple syrup
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Croutons or crusty garlic bread
Heat oven to 450 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wrap garlic cloves in a piece of foil. Place them on the baking sheet with whole tomatoes and onion wedges. Drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tomatoes and onions are browned. Peel garlic, and transfer roasted vegetables to a blender.
Reduce oven to 400 F. Line baking sheet with a fresh sheet of parchment paper.
To the blender, add chickpeas, canned diced tomatoes, vinegar, syrup, thyme, 1 tablespoon olive oil, red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Blend until creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. At this stage, the soup should still be hot. If not, pour into a pot to reheat. Serve with croutons or garlic bread.
Chickpea Korma Curry
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped or minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped or grated
1 tablespoon fresh green chili, finely chopped
1 tablespoon mild curry powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons butter
1 can coconut milk
2 cans chickpeas
½ teaspoon salt
A handful fresh cilantro, roughly chopped Cooked rice or naan
Heat coconut oil in a large, deep pan. Cook onion for 3-4 minutes over medium heat.
Add garlic, ginger and fresh green chili. Cook for 1 minute.
Stir in spices, and cook for 1 minute. Add tomato paste, butter and coconut milk. Stir to combine until sauce is smooth.
Add chickpeas and salt. Bring to boil, then lower heat. Cover the pot, and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in cilantro. Serve over rice or with naan.
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon sea salt
Dash of cinnamon
Dash of cayenne
2 14-ounce cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 14–ounce cans fireroasted diced tomatoes, undrained
Cucumbers, chopped
Couscous, cooked
Mint, minced
Parsley, minced
Cilantro, minced
Yogurt or hummus
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Toasted pita wedges
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, and saute until soft. Add garlic, spices, salt and chickpeas. Stir until fragrant. Add tomatoes. Simmer for 20 minutes while preparing the other ingredients. Arrange bowls with desired amounts of remaining ingredients.
D810, 48mm lens
By Dave LaBelle
One of the most famous Christ statues in the world sits on the summit of Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro, in southeastern Brazil. Christ the Redeemer was built in 1931 and stands 98 feet tall.
There is no shortage of statues honoring Jesus Christ across the globe. Many cemeteries, often Catholic, have Christ statues as their centerpieces.
Even as a young photographer, I have always been drawn to cemeteries, especially older ones, with interesting lines, shapes and simple markers. Some of the cemeteries in the Midwest and South often have unusual, contrasting backgrounds.
Cemeteries are usually places of tranquil respite from the rest of the loud and busy world. Like most who wander among the headstones reading names, dates of birth, dates of passing and farewell sentiments, I find graveyards a place to rest and maybe even reset priorities.
When I see others cleaning gravesites or placing flowers, I often approach them and ask about those they are visiting. Most are willing to talk about loved ones gone and often thank me for asking. However, I also realize not everybody can visit a cemetery, nor do they feel comfortable sharing with a stranger.
author and lecturer
has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog at bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
Find a cemetery, preferably one that has served an area for decades, even centuries. Go early or visit late in the day and study the lines, shapes and tones. Walk quietly, listening. See if you can make a photograph that embodies the unusual beauty or serenity of the place. Moments when snow blankets the earth are great times to visit and photograph.
Email your best image—just one—with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to gph@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
When it’s you against nature, there’s only one tool you need: the tempered steel Stag Hunter from Stauer—now ONLY $59!
That first crack of thunder sounded like a bomb just fell on Ramshorn Peak. Black clouds rolled in and the wind shook the trees. I had ventured off the trail on my own, gambled with the weather and now I was trapped in the forest. Miles from camp. Surrounded by wilderness and watching eyes. I knew that if I was going to make it through the night I needed to find shelter and build a fire... fast. As the first raindrops fell, I reached for my Stag Hunter Knife
Stauer 30x60 HD Pocket Binoculars -a $99 valuewith your purchase of the Stag Hunter Knife
Forget about smartphones and GPS, because when it comes to taking on Mother Nature, there’s only one tool you really need. Our stunning Stag Hunter is the ultimate sidekick for surviving and thriving in the great outdoors. Priced at $149, the Stag Hunter can be yours today for an unbelievable $59! Call now and we’ll include a bonus leather sheath!
A legend in steel. The talented knifemakers of Trophy Stag Cutlery have done it again by crafting a fixedblade beauty that’s sharp in every sense of the word. The Stag Hunter sports an impressive 5⅓" tempered German stainless steel blade with a genuine deer stag horn and stained Pakkawood™ handle, brass hand guard and polished pommel. You get the best in 21st-century construction with a classic look inspired by legendary American pioneers.
But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 30x60 HD pocket binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Stag Hunter Knife.
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the craftsmanship. If you’re not completely impressed, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. But we believe that once you wrap your fingers around the Stag Hunter’s handle, you’ll be ready to carve your own niche into the wild frontier.
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of
Native to South America and the Caribbean islands, green iguanas came to Florida in the 1960s. These lizards can exceed 5 feet long and are pests around the greater Miami-Fort Lauderdale area.
Florida offers many varied sporting opportunities for hunting and fishing , including green iguanas. Native to Central and South America, green iguanas first appeared in the Sunshine State in the 1960s.
The lizards flourished in the warm, semitropical environment. A big male iguana can measure more than 5 feet long and weigh 17 pounds. The extensive South Florida canal system lined with thick brush provides excellent habitat for the tropical reptiles only a few yards from major highways and expensive homes.
The state of Florida and many homeowners in the area want the invasive reptiles gone. Florida allows people to kill the exotic invaders year-round without limit. People cannot hunt the Everglades National Park and some other preserves, but Florida does allow iguana hunting on other public properties.
“Many people want us to come onto their properties to eradicate these invasive reptiles from their backyards,” says Brett Isackson, of Fort Lauderdale, who hunts all over South Florida. “Iguanas can carry bacterial diseases and ticks. They have small teeth but
can cut someone. When going down the canals, many people give us a thumbs up.”
The green lizards climb trees and flatten themselves on branches where they virtually disappear among the leaves and become extremely difficult to hit. To kill one of these tough animals, shooters must bullseye its tiny brain, a target about the size of a quarter, usually from a bobbing boat.
“Iguanas blend in well with the foliage,” Brett says. “They are very tough, with tough skin. It’s all about shot placement. It’s not hard to hit a whole iguana, but shooting for the brain is the challenge.”
In the urban or suburban environment, people can’t shoot high-powered firearms. Therefore, most hunters use air rifles as they cruise down the canals looking for lizards.
Fishing guide John Larsen, of Bass Flats & Beyond, shoots FX Impact and Dreamline air rifles when he hunts Palm Beach and Broward counties.
“A .25- or .30-caliber tend to perform the best,” he says. “When we see an iguana, we stop the boat and let everything and everyone settle down for 10 seconds so we have a more stable shooting platform to get
off a good shot.”
Even with an air rifle, always check the background before pulling the trigger, especially in a populated area. If the iguana doesn’t present a safe shot, try another angle or go look for another.
“I use a scoped Hatsan Flash Pup .22-caliber air rifle,” Brett says. “I also shoot a Gauntlet 2 Air Rifle that delivers .22-caliber pellets with 1,200-foot pounds of energy.”
The maze of canals and natural waterways crisscrossing South Florida also hold many fish species not found elsewhere in the United States. The catch might include peacock bass, oscars, clown knifefish, snakeheads and other exotics.
To book trips with Brett, call 954-445-4516 or 888-629-2277. To book online, visit bassonline. com/fl/fishing-guides/capt-brett-isackson.
For John, call 561-339-5076 or visit Bassflatsandbeyond.com.
John N. Felsher is a freelance writer, broadcaster, photographer and editor. He’s written more than 3,500 articles on a wide variety of outdoor topics. Contact him at j.felsher@hotmail.com or through Facebook.
Amemorable beach moment: You’re basking in the warm sun, toes in the sand, letting the gentle turn of the foam-capped waves lull you into a state of complete relaxation. As your eyes scan the endless horizon of blue on blue, you’re rewarded with a pod of dolphins making their way across the sea.
There’s no denying their signature shape as they leap from the water. If you don’t see anything else extraordinary the rest of day, you can take solace knowing you’ve witnessed one of nature’s most playful and human-like creatures in their natural habitat.
Why not re-create that special moment with our Balinese Dolphin Pendant? We’ve captured two dolphins midjump in sterling silver crafted in the Balinese style. Tucked between these beloved sea mammals is a full carat of shimmering blue topaz. Made by some of Indonesia’s finest artisans, this pendant is an absolute steal at JUST $29! That’s what we call our Stauer IMPOSSIBLE PRICE!
Nothing captures the shimmering color of the ocean in the midday sun like blue topaz. With its sparkling, clear blue color and high reflective index, blue topaz is one of the world’s top-selling gemstones. The Gemological Institute of America lauds topaz for its hardness, noting that blue topaz is known for its intense color that’s better than aquamarine. With this special price, you can score quite the catch.
Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Enjoy the Balinese Dolphin Pendant for 30 days. If it doesn’t pass the test swimmingly, send it back for a full refund of the item price.
Limited reserves. This pendant is already one of our best sellers this year. A full carat of genuine blue topaz set in .925 sterling silver for this price is as rare as a dolphin sighting. We cannot guarantee availability for long. Call today! This offer is limited to the first 1,900 responders to this ad!
Jewelry Specifications:
• Made in Indonesia
• Blue topaz and .925 sterling silver
Balinese Dolphin Pendant (1 carat)
$299 $29* + S&P Save $270
*Special price only for customers using the offer code.
Chain sold separately.
One carat of shimmering blue topaz set in sterling silver for $29
What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Topaz
“Just lovely! Would recommend it as a purchase. Thank you STAUER.” — Mary L.
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.
Nov. 1
Country Farmers Market
Nov. 6-8
Emerald Coast Cruizin’ Car Show
The Crooked River Lighthouse continues to host its popular country farmers markets from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST on the first and third Saturdays each month at the foot of the historic lighthouse. These lively markets are the perfect chance to shop small, shop local, and discover unique gifts and tasty treats while supporting regional vendors, artists, bakers, artisans and crafters.
www.crookedriverlighthouse.com; 850-697-2732
Nov. 5
Sunset and Full Moon Climb
Visitors can enjoy this opportunity to view St. George Island, the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola Bay under the evening sky. The climb is 5:307:30 p.m. Fifteen-minute time slots will be allotted for each group on a firstcome, first-served basis. Purchase your tickets in the gift shop and then sign up for a time slot with the lighthouse keeper. Up to 12 people are allowed in each 15-minute time slot. Cost is $10 per climber for the general public and $7 for members of the St. George Lighthouse Association. Climbers must be at least 40 inches tall, and children must be 13 or older to access the outside catwalk. stgeorgelight.org/event/november-sunset-and-full-moon-climb-2; 850-927-7745
They’re fast, they’re furious, and they’re getting revved up for you and your friends. Make your way to Aaron Bessant Park and our classic car show to see some awesome hot rods. This event features live music and awards. Across the street, Pier Park offers more than 125 stores for fabulous shopping.
emeraldcoastcruizin.com; 662-576-1448
Nov. 8
Lake Wales Ridge Fire Fest
Explore the role of fire in Florida’s ecosystems from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lake Wales Ridge Fire Fest in Highlands Hammock State Park. The festival is free, but the park entrance fee is $6. The festival offers educational presentations in the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum, including Fire 101, Burning for Wildlife, Fire History & Culture, and Burning for Ranchlands. The highlight of the day is a live prescribed burn demonstration with expert interpretation, showcasing fire’s ecological benefits and crew coordination. Partners include conservation organizations, fire and forestry services, and research institutions. Attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs and spend the day discovering how fire supports wildlife, ranchlands and landscapes. www.archbold-station.org/events/fire-fest-2025; 863-840-0997
Nov. 23
33rd Annual Ponies Under the Palms Charity Mustang and Ford Show Mustang and Ford enthusiasts throughout the region compete for awards from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free to see older and newer Mustangs. This charity event accepts Ford-powered cars and trucks of all years, makes and models. This is an independent, car show with third-party judges. Class awards will be presented for various years and models. On show day, we draw raffle awards and our 50/50 winner. Tickets can be purchased at the show. Proceeds will benefit Denis V. Cooper Foundation’s Wishes for Heroes and Take Stock in Children.
www.mustangclubofwestcentralflorida.com; 717-781-7315
Nov. 9
U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus
Come see The United States Army Field Band at 3 p.m. As the premier touring musical representative for the U.S. Army, this internationally acclaimed organization travels thousands of miles each year presenting a variety of music. The U.S. Army Field Band is considered by music critics to be one of the most versatile and inspiring musical organizations in the world. Its members are selected through a highly competitive audition and represent some of the finest musical talents in the nation. More than six decades as the military’s most traveled musicians have earned them the title, The Musical Ambassadors of the Army. bit.ly/3I4w44S; 863-784-7178
Nov. 11
Veterans’ Memorial
Take time this Veterans Day to honor those who’ve served. The annual ceremony is at the newly renovated Veteran’s Memorial on West Park Drive just south of Aaron Bessant Park at Pier Park. The memorial honors all branches of the U.S. military and those who served. Over the years, the memorial has not only honored the past but has also become a symbol of community unity. It serves as a reminder of the enduring values of courage, sacrifice and duty that continue to shape the nation. 850-233-5100
Nov. 13-16
Holly Fair
Mark your calendars for a shopping extravaganza at Edgewater Beach Resort in Northwest Florida. The fair promises to be the ultimate Southern holiday upscale shopping event, bringing together the finest merchants and artisans for four days of festivities. www.jlpanamacity.org/hollyfair; 850-785-7870
Nov. 15
Let it Grow Garden and Plant Festival
The Highlands County Master Gardener volunteers are back for the eighth year as this beloved event fills the Bert J. Harris Jr. Agricultural Center with more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, expert gardening classes, food trucks, children’s activities and the Master Gardener plant sale. Discover unique plants, score unbeatable garden deals and enjoy a day full of fun for the whole family. There’s also a raffle and silent auction you won’t want to miss. Admission is free, so bring your wagon and let it grow. 863-402-6540
Nov. 29
Pops in the Park
Join this free outdoor band concert with the theme of Things With Wings from 4-5 p.m. at Founders Park, MM87. This is a day that’s fun for the whole family. Special guests include Sunshine Corvette Car Club, and a local Scouts America troop will present the flag to honor veterans with a musical tribute. www.keyscommuntiyconcertand.org; 305-394-1123
Nov. 28-29
Beach Home for the Holidays
Thanksgiving Thursday may be the time for turkey, but that weekend, Santa Claus is coming to town. Beach Home for the Holidays waves goodbye to fall and sets the stage for the most magical month of the year. Starting at 3:30 p.m., Aaron Bessant Park serves as the site of carol-themed concerts, s’mores, an appearance by Santa and activities for children. Each evening will culminate in a fireworks display. bit.ly/4nepXtK; 850-233-5070
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.
The holidays are in full swing. What better way to brighten the ambience than with decorative floral arrangements? Filling your home with sensational aromas and color can undoubtedly add to your holiday cheer. Many of these wonderful treasures can be found in your own backyard or your neighbors’ if you ask.
Designing your floral arrangements is a matter of imagery, tools and location.
Think about the vision you are trying to create, but remember it doesn’t have to be intricate art. Sometimes, simple is better.
After choosing the design, ask yourself if you need any specific tools to create the arrangement. Some essential tools are cutters or pruning shears, tape, and wiring.
When designing a wreath, you need all the tools mentioned above. If you’re creating a tabletop arrangement, you may only need cutters.
The next item to determine is the location of the arrangement.
If you have a gardening enthusiast in your family, consider giving them a plant for the holiday.
Plants are wonderful gifts, as they hold sentimental value and can be appreciated
for years to come—depending on the plant.
Many of these plants can be found at your local nurseries or big box stores: Norfolk Island pine, holly, cyclamen, amaryllis, narcissus, poinsettia, Christmas cactus, rosemary, ferns and herbs.
Repurpose for Your Homescape
Depending on the type of plant, you can pot it and keep it as a houseplant. Store it in a window area to receive sunlight and water, as needed.
Many of the holiday plants we receive as gifts are sensitive to cold temperatures, so
they may be best kept as houseplants for the Central Florida area.
For more information on holiday flora and fauna, visit these links:
bit.ly/4pOCGW0
bit.ly/3IqMbKp
bit.ly/4nUYOMF
bit.ly/3VJ8w94
Plant
Magnolia
Hollies
Palm seed pods
Pine needles
Pinecones
Spanish moss
Fresh cut tree rings
Boxwood
Abelia
Palm fronds (small)
Turk’s cap
Foliage for wreaths, tabletop decor, or accent pieces
Foliage, berries add for accent pieces
Tabletop decor
Accent pieces, great aroma
Accent pieces, great aroma, can be used for holiday crafts for making Christmas trees or wreaths
Accent pieces, fillers for tabletop decor and wreaths
Decor base for candles or other accent pieces
Foliage and accent pieces
Foliage and accent pieces
Great background accent pieces for home decor
Accent pieces, filler for tabletop decor and wreaths
Peace River Electric Cooperative invites you to reserve a booth at its 86th Annual Membership Meeting on March 21, 2026.
This is your chance to:
• Showcase the incredible work your organization does for our community.
• Connect face-to-face with PRECO members.
• Shine a spotlight on your services and programs.
Booth space is free, but spots fill up fast. Don’t miss this opportunity to let your group take center stage at one of PRECO’s most celebrated events.
By Miranda Boutelle
Q: How do I calculate the return on investment when considering home upgrades?
Let’s put the calculation to work on a few examples. Keep in mind, the numbers used below are hypothetical. Prices will vary based on the scale of your project and the cost of labor and materials in your area.
A: A home is often the biggest investment we make in our lives. We want to make good decisions to protect and maximize the benefits of the investments in our homes.
Energy-efficiency upgrades are investments that can pay for themselves over time and potentially save money by reducing energy use in your home. Rooftop solar is one of the many energy investment that can generate your own energy at home.
Calculating an estimated return on investment can determine the benefit of an upgrade. ROI measures the gain or loss from an investment relative to the cost.
To find the ROI percentage, divide the net profit—the total cost of the investment subtracted from total revenue generated—by the cost of the investment and multiply by 100. The higher the percentage, the better the investment. If you take out a loan, home equity line of credit or use a credit card for your upgrades, add the borrowed amount and interest rate into the investment cost.
Adding insulation and air sealing your home are two of the most cost-effective projects that can save money year-round by reducing the energy needed from your heating and cooling systems.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates air sealing and insulation can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs or an average of 11% on total energy costs, with higher savings in the north and south because of more extreme temperature swings. Attics, walls, rim joists or floors over crawlspaces should be insulated. The ROI will vary based on your location, existing insulation levels and project cost.
Let’s say you spend $3,000 to insulate your home, saving $330 a year for the next 20 years. Your net profit is $3,600. Divide that by the total cost of the investment, $3,000. Multiply the quotient by 100. That’s an ROI of 120%.
The energy-efficiency impact of new windows in your home depends on the difference in efficiency between the new and existing windows. You will see the most improvement when you go from the least efficient to the most efficient new windows. The exact ROI for your home will also depend on your location, energy costs, and the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.
The EPA estimates upgrading single-pane windows to Energy Star windows can save about 12% of your annual energy use. Let’s say you replace your existing windows for $5,000, saving $360 a year for the next 20 years. The ROI is 44%.
Windows and insulation upgrades have the added benefit of making your home quieter, and they can add value if you sell your home.
Rooftop solar is another investment to consider. Let’s say a solar system costs $20,000 and is projected to save $30,000 over 25 years. With a net profit of $10,000, the ROI is 50%. Solar system costs and savings vary depending on where you live, how you pay for the system and your cost for electricity.
Rooftop solar also has the potential of adding value to your home if you sell. Yet, if you have a solar system loan and lease, a home sale can be more complex. You might be eligible for tax credits or incentives through your electric utility or state programs to reduce upfront costs for energy-efficiency or renewable energy projects.
Most of us have limited funds for investing in our homes. Compare costs and potential savings to make the best decisions for your home and your bank account.
Miranda Boutelle has more than 20 years of experience helping people save energy. She has worked on energyefficiency projects from the Midwest to the West Coast. Today, Miranda is chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energyefficiency company.
With Fields & Forests, you can have a successful farm and get paid to grow healthy forests. By enrolling, you can diversify your land by planting pine on your unused or marginal land, while still growing crops or raising livestock on adjacent acres.
No upfront costs, no change in ownership, no impact on your land rights, no sharing your timber revenue, just expert support and guaranteed payments for 30 years.
Now enrolling landowners with 30+ acres of open fields in Florida, as well as Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina.
Learn more at fieldsandforests.org
One in four Veterans lives in rural areas. Every day, we strive to extend our reach, to make sure they have access to the compassionate care and attention they need—from advanced telehealth services to community-based outpatient clinics. Because all our Veterans deserve it, no matter where they are. We believe it’s up to us to ensure they lead healthier, happier lives. Visit vacareers.va.gov to lend a hand.
Nominating committee names director candidates.
Members vote for directors at district meetings.
Nominating committee information is published in Florida Currents on Page 29. Qualified candidates should contact the committee if interested in running for a seat on the board.
Nominations by member petition must be submitted by Jan. 2. District meeting and candidate information is mailed to voters in each voting district.
Newly elected board members are seated at PRECO’s Annual Membership Meeting.
Peace River Electric is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative. As part-owner of the co-op, you have a voice in who serves on its board of directors.
To ensure strong local leadership, members elect directors, on a rotating basis, from each of our nine districts. In 2026, terms are expiring for Districts 1, 4 and 7.
If you would like to run for a seat on the board of directors, there are two ways to qualify for the ballot: nomination by committee or nomination by petition. Contact the cooperative for details and official forms.
Anyone who meets the qualifications is eligible to serve as a director. For a complete listing of director qualifications, please read Article IV, Section 2 of the cooperative’s bylaws. Copies are available online at PRECO.coop or any PRECO office.
If you have questions about the election process, please contact Ashleigh Hayes at 800-282-3824 or Ashleigh.Hayes@preco.coop.
Board of Director Nominating Committee members meet in December to select candidates for Districts 1, 4 and 7. If you would like to be considered for nomination to the board of directors for your district, please contact a member of your nominating committee.
Bobby Buckley
Jeremy Goodwyn
Carol Ackerly 659 Torrey Road 5161 N. County Road 663 2850 County Road 664 Bowling Green, FL 33834 Bowling Green, FL 33834
863-375-4088
DISTRICT 4
John Lipe Sr.
863-832-7900
Bowling Green, FL 33834
863-220-6571
Robert Sunday
William Wise 9080 SW Lipe Road 8510 Carlson Lane 5614 Mercer St. Arcadia, FL 34269 Zolfo Springs, FL 33890 Arcadia, FL 34266 352-214-8276
863-512-1183
7
David Jackson
863-990-1477
Jacqueline Wiley
Joseph Zarlenga 17233 Polo Trail 22110 64th Ave. E. 6708 193rd St. E. Bradenton, FL 34211 Bradenton, FL 34211 Bradenton, FL 34211 941-962-2981
813-728-8515 630-235-2226
Meetings will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 11.
DISTRICT 1
Wauchula Administration Building
DISTRICT 4
Wauchula Administration Building
DISTRICT 7
Manatee Service Center
You can find your district by using our district lookup tool at PRECO.coop or scanning the QR code on the district map on Page 28.
From the setting of the sun to the creatures that make their homes in your backyard, Florida is filled with beautiful moments. The scenes you capture have a chance to brighten someone’s day.
Before the Blue Angels take to the skies, the scene is calm.
“The calm before the jet-fueled storm,” Sheriah Little says. “What an epic day.”
Waves crash onto Florida’s shore during an early, peaceful morning. PHOTO BY SHERIAH
LITTLE
From time to time, we share some readers’ photos in this space. If we use your photo here, we will send you your choice of a $25 gift card to REI or Amazon.
Submit your photo by emailing a JPEG to photos@floridacurrents.com.
Include “Before You Go” in the subject line. Please share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo. n
PRECO.coop
800-282-3824
TO REPORT A POWER OUTAGE
Use the SmartHub app.
Text OUT to 800-282-3824.
Call 800-282-3824.
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
210 Metheny Road
Wauchula, FL 33873
MANATEE SERVICE CENTER
14505 Arbor Green Trail Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
District 1
LEONARD CRAWLEY
District 2
KENNETH ODEN
District 3
BRUCE VICKERS
District 4
HOLLIS ALBRITTON
District 5
MARIE DASHER
District 6
DAN PUCCIO
District 7
CHRIS PORTALE
District 8
ELLEN BACHMAN
District 9
WILLIE DAWES
BOARD MEETINGS
Nov. 18
Dec. 16
Any PRECO member may attend board meetings. Due to building security requirements and to facilitate attendance, members should contact the cooperative in a timely manner for logistical information regarding meetings.
ONLINE E-ZINE
Prefer to receive Florida Currents online? Sign up through your online account or call us at 800-282-3824.
As the holiday season approaches and the Florida air becomes a little more refreshing, we’re reminded that this truly is the season of giving. It’s a time for gratitude, generosity and looking out for one another—and at Peace River Electric Cooperative, that’s something we take to heart year-round.
You’ve probably heard us talk about our concern for community. It’s not just a nice phrase—it’s one of the core principles that make electric cooperatives like ours different from other utilities. We’re not just here to keep the lights on, though of course, we’re always working hard to do that. We’re here to make life better for the people we serve—our members, our neighbors and our friends.
Over the years, we’ve faced challenges together, and every time, our co-op family has stepped up. We’ve come together to support those in need, to keep our community strong and to build something better for the future. That spirit of generosity is never more evident than during the holiday season.
Take our Operation Round Up program, for example. Thanks to the generosity of members like you who round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar, we’re able to provide real help to local families who are struggling to make ends meet. Every little bit adds up—and it makes a big difference.
their futures. That’s giving in the most meaningful way—by investing in tomorrow’s leaders.
And because we care deeply about safety, we also spend time visiting schools throughout the communities we serve, holding demonstrations and teaching folks of all ages how to stay safe around electricity. We believe knowledge is a gift, too, and we love sharing it.
You’ll also find our team out in the community beyond work—coaching youth sports, volunteering at local events, serving on nonprofit boards and partnering with the local chambers of commerce to keep the local economy strong. Because when you’re part of a co-op, giving back isn’t a requirement. It’s just what you do.
We’re also proud to support local students through Youth Tour, where we send some of our community’s brightest young people to Washington, D.C., to see democracy in action and dream big about
While the holiday season is a festive time, we understand these can be tough times for many. If you need advice on saving energy to reduce your utility bills, want to explore payment plan options or you simply have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help— not just during the holiday season, but all year long.
At PRECO, we believe concern for community is more than a value, it’s the heart of who we are. And during this season of giving, we’re especially grateful to be part of such a caring, generous community.
From all of us at PRECO, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful, safe and bright holiday season.
