USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 75, NO 8
Current Light Flashes is the official voice of West Florida Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., a member-owned Touchstone Energy® cooperative serving Calhoun, Holmes, Jackson, and Washington counties. It is published as a service to the Co-op’s members. Periodicals postage is paid at Tallahassee, Florida.
You may or may not have noticed, but recently, West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) adopted a new logo. In the past, WFEC used an outside company for the design work, but this new logo was designed by one of WFEC's journeyman lineworkers, Tyler Love. An article was recently published in May 2025 in the Current Light Flashes (CLF) reflecting this change and it was also published on the WFEC website. The new logo was inexpensive and a smooth transition remains ongoing. Good job, Mr. Love.
One of the places you will see the new logo (other than on the trucks) is the new billing statement you might have already received, depending on which bill cycle you are on. West Florida has had the same bill statement for as long as I can remember. Hopefully the bill will be more self-explanatory. If you haven't seen the new bill statement, check out the June and July CLF for explanations on the changes and where to find everything on the new statement. The new bill features a fresh and easy to read layout. You've also been provided an example with your utility statement for July. If you have questions or concerns, please contact WFEC's Member Services Department to assist you by calling 800-342-7400.
Tim Alford, WFEC Board President
In an effort to make everything they send to members look consistent, WFEC plans to introduce a new Current Light Flashes in the next few months. The cost savings will be tremendous in minimizing the Current Light Flashes on a monthly basis. Advertisements will not be included in the new version of the CLF, it will contain only a few pages, and it will be mailed with your utility bill monthly. I'm not sure yet if there will be enough space to include my monthly article in it!
Last, but definitely not least, I would like to announce that the WFEC Board of Trustees recently hired Mr. Nathan Berry as the cooperative's Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer (EVP & CEO). Mr. Berry joins us, most recently, from Alabama Power - Southern Company. He has a vast knowledge and skill set that includes leadership, management, operation strategic planning, contract negotiations-collective bargaining agreements, communication, motivation, oversight of regulatory compliance, fuel understanding of power generating and transmission operations, interface with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), Southeastern Electric Reliability Corporation (SERC), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Rural Utilities Service (RUS), and economic development activities. We welcome Mr. Berry to West Florida Electric Cooperative.
Everyone please be safe in this heat and stay hydrated. I pray everyone has a blessed month.
Going paperless is a great way to eliminate mailing delays that may impact you!
Sign up for paperless billing online (www.westflorida.coop) or by calling our office at (800) 342-7400.
Sincerely,
West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) is pleased to welcome Nathan Berry as our next EVP & CEO.
Berry and his family will be moving from Kentucky in late July. He has been married to his wife, Carrie, for 23 years, and they have two daughters, Addison (17) and Maddie (15). Nathan and his family enjoy boating, camping and traveling. Both Addison and Maddie show horses and are dedicated to their sport.
Berry has a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology and an MBA from the University of Louisville.
After graduation, Berry began his career at Louisville Gas & Electric Trimble County Generating Station as a Maintenance Supervisor. He transitioned to Duke Energy Gibson Generating Station working as System Engineer. Following his tenure at Duke, Berry joined Alabama Power Company in the Birmingham Region as an Engineering Team Leader before being promoted to Operations Team Leader at Miller Steam Plant.
Berry joined the cooperative family by accepting the Operations Manager position at Big Rivers Electric Corporation, a generation and transmission cooperative that serves wholesale electricity to three member distribution cooperatives in Western Kentucky. He progressed through the company, first serving as Plant Manager of their D.B. Wilson Generating Station, then as the Vice President of Production where he was responsible for Power Generation, Fuel Procurement, and Environmental Compliance. Berry was then promoted to Chief Operating Officer where he was responsible for Power Production, Transmission, Economic Development, and Information Technology.
Berry and his family are excited about this next chapter in their lives, and he says he is looking forward to working with all the members at West Florida Electric.
Rooftop solar can be a great option for some homeowners but it's important to start with the facts. At West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC), we're here to help you make informed energy decisions that are both cost-effective and practical.
Start with Your Co-op: If you're considering solar, contact WFEC first. As your trusted energy advisor, we can help you:
• Understand how solar will affect your electric bill.
• Navigate the interconnection process, including required forms, fees, and inspections.
• Learn about billing, metering, and how your system connects to our grid.
• Estimate how long it may take to recover your investment.
You may benefit more from investing in energy efficiency measures than rooftop solar.
Know What to Expect: A rooftop solar system includes solar panels, an inverter, and mounting equipment. A licensed electrician will need to modify your home's electrical panel, and all components must meet national and local safety standards.
You might also consider battery storage. However, most home batteries only hold a limited amount of power, and you'll still rely on the grid especially at night, during cloudy weather, or when demand is high.
Safety and Insurance Matter: Improperly installed solar systems can pose safety risks, such as back feeding electricity onto power lines, endangering lineworkers. That's why inspections by local or state authorities are required before your system can operate. You should also speak with your insurance provider and local fire department to make sure you are covered and compliant.
Solar Myths vs. Facts: As interest in solar grows, so do the myths. Here are a few common misconceptions:
Myth: Solar will eliminate your power bill.
Fact: Most members who go solar stay connected to the grid, so you'll still receive a monthly electric bill.
Myth: Solar is always the best first step.
Fact: You may save more and spend less by improving efficient first. Upgrades like insulation, LED lighting, and smart thermostats can reduce your energy use immediately.
Myth: Solar provides 24/7 energy.
Fact: Solar works only when the sun shines. Batteries help but are costly and limited. Reliable access to the grid is still essential.
We're Here to Help: WFEC supports renewable energy solutions like solar when they are safe, affordable, and fair. Even if you use less electricity, the cooperative must continue maintaining power plants, substations, and lines that keep your lights on. These fixed costs must be shared fairly among members - those who install solar and those who don't.
Begin Your Solar Journey the Right Way: If solar is on your mind, don't go it alone. Contact WFEC first by calling 800-342-7400. We will walk you through the process and help you explore all your options, whether that's installing solar, improving energy efficiency, or both.
Congratulations to Amanda Evans, HR Specialist at West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) on earning her SHRM certification.
Awarded by the Society for Human Resource Management, the world's largest HR professional organization, this certification is a respected credential that reflects her dedication to the HR field and her commitment to supporting the co-op's workforce.
SHRM certification is known as the gold standard in human resources. It recognizes professionals who demonstrate strong knowledge, real-world experience, and a commitment to ongoing learning. By achieving this certification, Evans has shown she:
• Is highly committed to the HR profession
• Has passed a rigorous exam based on SHRM's recognized body of knowlege
• Possesses broad experience across key HR functions
• Is well-prepared to address workplace challenges
• Values continuous professional growth
This achievement will strengthen Amanda's ability to support WFEC employees - helping her navigate complex regulations, design effective benefits strategies, and improve communication and engagement across the co-op.
Please join us in celebrating Amanda's outstanding accomplishment!
If you own a manufactured home or plan to buy one, West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) can help you save energy and money with our heat pump rebate program.
We're offering valuable incentives to upgrade from an electric furnace to a high-efficiency heat pump in both new and existing manufactured homes. This simple upgrade can reduce your heating costs by an average of $550 each year while improving your home's comfort.
Buying a new manufactured home? If it comes with an electric furnace, we will cover the cost difference of $400 to $700 to upgrade to a heat pump - at no extra cost to you. This rebate is paid directly to the home dealer at the point of sale and won't increase your mortgage.
Already own a manufactured home? You can receive a rebate of up to $400 per ton when you replace an existing electric furnace with a high-efficiency heat pump. Plus, low-interest financing may be available to help with the upgrade.
Visit www.westflorida.coop or call our energy experts at 800-342-7400 to learn more about our rebate program and start saving today.
Despite flight delays, rainy weather, and summer heat, West Florida Electric Cooperatives's (WFEC's) 2025 Youth Tour delegates, Bella Coley (Blountstown High School) and Ian Hatcher (Malone School) enjoyed an unforgettable trip to Washington, D.C., this June.
"This was the first time I'd ever experienced flying, and with that, delays and cancellations. From flights changing twice to us spending the night in a hotel stuck in Tallahassee, it allowed all of use a chance to get to know each other better and become close before even reaching D.C.," said Coley.
Once they arrived, our students spent a week learning how our government works, the role electric cooperatives play in local communities, and the importance of civic involvement. They toured famous monuments and memorials, including the Jefferson, Lincoln, and World War II, Viet
Nam Memorials, as well as the Holocaust Museum, Mount Vernon, and Arlington National Cemetery. Both students said the Holocaust Museum had a powerful impact on them. "Talking to a Holocaust survivor really moved me," said Hatcher. Bella added, "Talking with a Holocaust survivor truly impacted me. Seeing movies and reading books about the Holocaust and what people went through teaches you a lot, but
walking through exhibits and seeing their shoes, clothes, hearing their voices, and seeing a room full of lights representing children who lost their lives brings a new depth of understanding of the true hardships the Jews and the people who helped them went through during this time."
The group also attended a Washington Nationals baseball game - another first for both Bella and Ian.
"Being able to see the halls of government and so many people doing exactly what I want to do in the future really impacted me," said Hatcher. "Talking with the co-ops' lobbyist and getting his advice was one of my favorite experiences."
During Youth Day, students from across the country gathered to hear from motivational speaker and Paralympic gold medalist Mike Schlappi, who inspired them with his story of overcoming adversity. Bella reflected on the experience - the speakers were vulnerable and real. They helped me see that challenges are a part of life - and that how we face them matters most.
"This experience was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I am so blessed and beyond thankful to West Florida Electric and its members. I learned so much about our nation's history, about rural electric cooperatives and their importance, and more so, I learned several life lessons about overcoming challenges, communication, and leadership. Now I am able to take what I've learned and share it with others in my community," said Coley.
Ian said the trip confirmed his interest in political science and helped him connect with other students who share his goals. " I learned how valuable it is to be surrounded by positive, like-minded people in a positive atmosphere."
The Youth Tour is more than just a trip - it's an opportunity for students to grow. Through new friendships, thought-provoking experiences, and direct engagement with our nation's history and democratic process, students come home with a broader perspective and renewed purpose. For both Bella and Ian, the journey offered a chance to step outside their comfort zones connect with others from across the country, and return inspired to serve their communities in meaningful ways.
Interested in Youth Tour? The program is open to high school juniors whose parents or guardians are members of West Florida Electric Cooperative. Each fall, local high schools select a representative for the State Youth Tour. The selected representatives then go on to compete for the slots available for the National Youth Tour trip.
If you'll be a junior during the 2025-2026 school year, talk to your school counselor or contact Candace Croft, WFEC's Communications and Public Relations Coordinator, at ccroft@westflorida.coop to learn more.
10 2:06-4:06 2:30-4:30 8:33-10:03 8:57-10:27 THU. 11 2:54-4:54 3:18-5:18 9:21-10:51 9:45-11:15 FRI. 12 3:42-5:42 4:06-6:06 10:09-11:39 10:33-12:03
Homebuyer Education Class • August 19 6-9 PM
Washington Co. Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Avenue, Chipley
Understand home buying, analyze personal financial and credit situations & learn basic home care/maintenance to help maintain the value of your home/save money. Pre-registration is required. The Florida Cooperative Extension service is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Completion of the course satisfies the home ownership education requirements for the SHIP and USDA Rural Development program. Preregistration is required due to class size limitations. To register, call 850-482-9620, 850-638-6265 or 850-674-8323.
WFEC Right-of-Way Crews will be cutting & trimming in the following area(s) during
When ROW crews are trimming in your area, there may be several days between ROW cutting & clean-up crews due to inclement weather, equipment failure or other unforeseen circumstances.
F-1 heifers, black and some tiger striped, aged 6 months to 14 months, some oldest possibly bred, $1,900 to $2,300; 850-209-3970.
AKC black lab puppies, block heads, first shots, dewormed, parents on site, $7,000; 850-209-9401, call or text.
Full Anatolian Shepard puppies, one male, one female, born 12/19/24, rehoming fee; 850-326-9845, text.
Early 1940s 8-person serving dinnerware set, complete, Syracuse China, 14k gold trim, bowls and platters, $500; 850-209-6581.
Alford 579
Altha 762
Bascom/Malone 569
Blountstown 674, 237
Bonifay 547
Caryville 548
Chipley 638, 415
Cottondale 352
Graceville 263
Grand Ridge 592
Greenwood 594
Marianna 482, 526
Ponce de Leon 836
Sneads 593
Sunny Hills 773
Vernon 535
Westville 956
Vintage Chinese decorative eggs, five total, 3 large & 2 small, $500 OBO; lots of other old items; collection of Chinese, Japanese, American pottery, porcelain, paints, watches, art objects, knives, cameras and more, over 200 items; 850-674-6242.
International Harvester tractor, Cub-Loboy, I-185, gas with 60 inch belly mower, great condition, $2,500 OBO; 850-260-5088.
Kubota B2320 HST, 4WD, PS, mint condition with disc, bush hog, dirt scoop, cultivator, and plow, $9,000; 850-272-7120.
Whirlpool refrigerator, double doors, ice maker needs repairs, some drawers in disrepair, cools, freezes good, great for shop, $200; 850-694-9699.
1946 Gibson guitar, with sunburst finish, great condition, $2,000 OBO; Alvarez guitar, $600 OBO; 850-209-0798.
CLF Free Ad Policy (Limited to one ad per household)
WFEC publishes free classified ads in the Current Light Flashes as a service to its members. The following limitations apply: 1) Ads must be 20 words or less and must be legible, with an active electric account number at the top. 2) Ads exceeding 20 words are subject to elimination. 3) Submit ads to the Graceville office by the 5th of the month to appear in the following month’s issue. (Example: An ad arriving by Jan. 5 will appear in the Feb. CLF) 4) Ads for services & businesses are not free. Service businesses include, but are not limited to, pet or livestock breeders or stud services, rentals, baby-sitting, etc. 5) Any buying or selling on a regular basis will be considered a business. On-going garage sales & the sale of similar items on a repeated basis do not qualify for free advertising. 6) WFEC may refuse to publish any ad . 7) You may submit your ad online at www.westflorida.coop WFEC will not accept ads over the phone.
Complete drum set; 850-258-2595.
12’x5’ utility trailer, lift gate/ front tie down, metal floor; 850-272-5319, Bob.
5' wooden glider swings, $150 each; 850-326-3270.
Taurus TX 22 competition; Keltec 22 PMR30, both new in boxes, $625 for the pair, won’t last long; 850-596-2681.
Dog crates, 42” and 36”, $20 and $10; expandable indoor gate, $20; 850-209-6581.
5.4 cubic ft. refrigerator; 5 cubic ft. chest freezer; 5000-watt window unit; 75 ft. generator cord with twist lock, new condition; 850-272-7120.
Homemade/handmade quilts, lap, baby, twin, full or queen; two used bathtubs for water or feed troughs, great price; 850-547-3649.
CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly. Name Acct. # St. Address/P.O. Box City Phone # For Sale • Wanted • Free • Thank You • Lost (circle one)
Wrought iron table with four chairs, needs repainting, $100; truck tool box, $50; Weber grill, new, $150; 850-525-5074.
2004 Fleetwood Class A motor home, 300 Cummins diesel, 39Z model, slide out, queen bed, dinette, new batteries, $20,000; 850-526-8027.
2021 travel trailer, Independence Trail, 188 DBK, length 22’3”, good condition, toilet, shower, refrigerator/freezer, microwave, dual gas burners, $14,000, Marianna; 904-248-2351.
2012 Nissan Maxima SV, silver, loaded, 139,000 miles, $5,000; 850-209-0290.
Notification Statement
Notice is hereby given that the West Florida Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. Board of Trustees regularly meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, unless special circumstances warrant a change.
Main Business and Publications Offices
5282 Peanut Road
Graceville, Florida 32440-0127
(850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400
Subscription Rate
Cooperative members, $2.50 per year Non-members, $6.00 per year
Change of Address Notices
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current Light Flashes
P. O. Box 127
Graceville, Florida 32440-0127
DISCLAIMER: Although paid advertisements may appear in West Florida Electric (WFEC) publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, WFEC does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. WFEC reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish any advertisement, article or information.
This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
2012 Toyota Prius V, 53,537 miles, excellent condition, one owner, $15,000; 850-547-6484.
To trade two baby gates for a baby high chair; 850-263-4339.
150-500 acres of pasture land, in Holmes or Washington County; 850-234-7070.
Coins and currency, United States and foreign, paying top dollar, buy, trade or sell; 850-326-3437.
License plates from any state, mainly Florida prior to 1980; old motorcycles or parts prior to 1960; 850-557-7030, Greg.
VCR tape machine, used, good condition; older model Corvette, does not need to run; 607-349-4844.
Ingredients:
3 lbs. yellow squash, sliced
1/2 cup diced Vidalia onion (optional)
10.5 oz. can cream of chicken soup
1 cup mayo
1 egg
8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. fresh ground pepper
Topping: 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
1 stick melted butter
Pasture land to rent, the closer to Campbellton the better; 850-703-5450.
Flintlock black powder rifle or pistol, old or new; 850-718-6149.
Replace your cooling system's filter regularly to maintain strong airflow and boost energy efficiency. A clean filter means your system doesn't have to work as hard, saving energy and lowering utility bills. Factors like allergies and pets can impact how often filters should be replaced. Check the filter every month and replace it as needed. Changing filters regularly also reduces wear and tear on your cooling system helping extend the life of the unit.
Submitted by: Lynn Gosnell
Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Wash & slice squash into small medalions or dice into smaller pieces. Pour into large bowl for mixing with the filling. In a separate bowl, mix together soup, mayo, eggs, onions, salt and pepper. Pour over squash. Stir until well-mixed. Then pour into casserole dish for baking. Crush crackers, pour crushed crackers into a bowl, melt the butter and drizzle on top. Bake until bubbly and brown on top (about 40-45 minutes). Bake for an additional 30 minutes covered with foil to prevent burning. Uncover & bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden brown on top.
