January 2025

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

P.O. Box 127 Graceville, FL 32440-0127

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Bush Hog Services 7’ cut • $100/acre

Call 850-573-3055 Custom Cattle Services

40 Years Experience • Karl Kressman (850) 557-3764

Portable Corrals & Chute Cattle Hauling Practical Cattle Vet Work Preg Testing Management & Herd Plans Cattle Penned & Caught

5905 Timberlane Rd. Bascom, FL 32423

Over 25 years

building & construction experience

Framing, trim carpentry, masonry, plaster, minor electrical & plumbing, paint, etc.

Installations: TVs, Ceiling Fans, Shelves, Satellite Internet (e.g. Starlink), etc.

Call Matt: 850-326-0933 Debbie Roney Smith

Due to bylaw requirements related to the annual meeting, mailing dates for the Feb. & March issues of the CLF may change.

2119 NW Whitewater Grade Road Clarksville, FL

Instant Orchard Packages • Retail Nursery • Edible Landscaping • Vineyards Food Forests • Bamboo Privacy Hedges • Greenhouses • Irrigation Call us or come by today to get your food forest started!

850-451-6222

Call or text: (850) 209-8039

LIC#SL642701

“Be SOLD with American Gold”

“I List - I Sell” Full Time Realtor Since 1996 4420 Lafayette St., Marianna, FL 32446

www.realtordrs.com • debson1999@gmail.com

Open Sunday-Friday 7 AM - 2 PM

Special 100 Tree Orchard Package w/Irrigation as low as $8,900!

Citrus Apples Peaches Plums Figs Nuts Bananas Kiwi

Pears Avocados Olives Pomegranates Grape Vines Berry Patches Much More

We are an all edible nursery, landscaping, and homestead. We grow, sell, and install fruit trees, berries, vines and all types of edibles with thousands to choose from. We install everything from a few backyard fruit trees to commercial orchards & vineyards. Irrigation is also available. We are open to the public for retail sales Sunday-Friday.

INSIDE ...

President’s Column: Where WFEC Members’ Power Comes From ...pg. 3 Base Charge Line Item

...pg. 5

Balancing Electricity Supply and Demand

...pg. 7

Smart Steps, Smart Choices: MakingYour Home More Energy Efficient Pages 9-10

Employee Awards ...pg. 10 Doug Hannon’s Fish & Game Forecast ... pg. 11 Local Classifieds

...pg. 13

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL 75, NO 1

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 75, NO 1

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.

WFEC Board of Trustees

Energy Efficiency Tip:

Turning 65? New to the Area? Medicaid Eligible?

Call Me. I’m Local.

Licensed/Certified/Dependable/Helpful

Melonie Wood (850) 658-2635 FL Lic.# W489703 Al Lic.# 300759370

Call for a FREE consulation regarding the new medicare plans/ more benefits/larger physician networks/larger drug formulary

Over 200 carriers: Cigna/Aetna/Humana/United Healthcare/WellCare/Blue Cross-Blue Shield/AIG/ Mutual of Omaha/Allianz/Athene/Silac/Americo

Medicare/Long Term Care/Final Expense & Life Insurance/Retirement Plans

(850) 658-2635

DAVID TATUM District 1

TIM ALFORD

District 2/President

James & Son Tree and Crane Service Insured and Reasonable

850-272-3620 District 3

DAVID CORBIN

District 5/Vice President

JOHN ADAMS

Specialist at Removing Hazardous Trees • Land Clearing • Stump Grinding • Forestry Mulching • Debris Removal

District 4

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

GEORGE C. OWENS District 6

24 Hour Emergency Response CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

RANDY BUSH District 7

District 8

John White Owner

District 9/Secretary-Treasurer

PAGE 2

WAYNE WILLIAMS

Interim Executive VP & CEO

Serving the Area for Over 60 Years Septic Tank Service, Installation & Repair • Mobile Home Pads • Land Clearing • Excavation • Dirt • Rock • Culverts Rent-All • We have everything you need! Equipment Rentals, Tractors, Trenchers, Etc.

Ph: (850) 547-3658

Plumbing • Electrical • Licensed & Insured

EPA POWER PLANT RULE

Impacts of the Rule

– Early retirement of coal and gas plants will hurt reliability, especially during peak times when the most people need the most energy.

– Shifting generation to intermittent renewables, like solar, will make it harder for your electric utilities to maintain reliable power. Renewables like solar are dependent on weather and time of day.

– Demand for power will cause supply shortfalls.

Panhandle Pump Repair & Filtration Service

MISTY ERICKSON

What’s in YOUR Water?

MYRON HUDSON

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc.

Affecting West Florida Electric Co-op. Affecting you.

Free Estimates

JACKIE POOSER

Taking steps to help your home’s heating system run more efficiently can reduce energy use and lower your winter bills.

Check to see if any air vents around your home are blocked by furniture, curtains or other items. Obstructed vents force your heating system to work harder than necessary and can increase pressure in the ductwork, causing cracks and leaks to form. If necessary, consider purchasing a vent extender, which can be placed over a vent to redirect air flow.

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

Over 40 Years Experience

Home: (850) 535-1121 Cell: (850) 260-2204 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE DECEMBER 2024 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 15

Multiple Listings (cont.) 150-500 acres pasture land, in

FREE

Where WFEC Members' Power Comes From

Homemade/handmade quilts, lap, baby, twin, full or queen; two used bathtubs, to be used for water or feed troughs, great price; 850-547-3649.

Two outdoor male kittens, about 6 months old, free to good home; 850-260-0474.

I

Real Estate 16 acres of land, in the Graceville area, portions farmable; 727-403-4463.

Recreational Vehicles Vintage 1981 Honda Goldwing 1100 GL, in good shape, $6,500; with 5x12 enclosed trailer, $8,000 OBO; 850-547-0448 or 850-373-3709.

WANTED Golf cart tire, size 22x100x8, size 280x65x8; 850-674-8585, leave message.

Holmes or Washington County; 850-234-7070.

Penny through dollar coins, loose, in jars, collections and estates; 850-326-3437.

License plates from any state, mainly Florida, prior to 1980; old motorcycles or parts prior to 1960; 850-557-7030, Greg.

Black walnuts; 850-956-2360 for information.

Looking for cow pasture to rent, the closer to Campbellton, Florida, the better; 850-703-5450.

God’s Handyman, LLC

Licensed & Insured L19000238025

Specializing in Remodeling & Antique Restoration • 20 years experience • Finish Carpentry • Interior & Exterior Doors • Decks • Vinyl Siding • Additions • Hard Wood Floor • Baseboards • Windows Restoration • Crown/Custom Trim • Painting • Kitchen & Bathroom • Chair Rail • Sheetrock Remodels • Toilets • Porches & Patios (wood or aluminim) • Flooring • Much More! (850) 209-6593 All Are Welcome!

Horses; ponies; mules; donkeys; 850-209-8532 or 850-592-2494.

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.

've mentioned in previous articles that West Florida Electric Cooperative's power supplier is PowerSouth Energy Cooperative.

In this article I share more details about them.

PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, headquartered in Andalusia, Alabama, is a generation and transmission (G&T) electric cooperative that provides wholesale power to four municipal systems and 16 electric cooperatives serving members in 39 counties in Alabama and 10 counties in Northwest Florida. (See map below).

PowerSouth Energy provides power to over 480,000 members and owns 300 plus substations throughout those 49 counties in Alabama and Florida. West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) serves approximately 21,300 of those members from 13 substations located in our four-county service area (Calhoun, Holmes, Jackson Tim Alford, WFEC Board President and Washington Counties). The power is generated using a mixture of natural gas (fossil fuel), hydro, solar (renewable energy) and nuclear power. Coal (fossil fuel) was also used for many years, but its use was discontinued several years ago.

PowerSouth is a cooperative just like West Florida Electric. We are member-owners of WFEC and WFEC is a member-owner of PowerSouth. Just as I serve as a representative of our membership on the West Florida Board of Trustees, West Florida also has representatives who serve on the PowerSouth Energy Board of Trustees.

Those representatives are Interim CEO, Wayne Williams, and District 7 Trustee, Randy Bush. They obtain up-to-date information from PowerSouth each month and provide that information back to WFEC's board and leadership team.

I hope everyone had a wonderful and blessed holiday season.

Sincerely,

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.

PAGE 14

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

CLASSIFIEDS

Bonded & Fully Insured Free Estimates

Animals/Livestock

Amaryllis bulbs, red and variegated, cleaning out my beds, $1.00 each; 850-209-2803.

Black Australorp chickens & chicks, all sizes; eggs, $3/dozen w/o carton; $2.50/with carton; 850-481-2023.

Innova Inversion table, with heat & massage functions, used very little, like new, $90, Cypress area; 850-272-1745.

Registered Red Angus bull, 14 months old, BSE/DNA complete, $4,800; 850-573-0949.

Recumbent exercise bike, w/digital display, excellent condition, $100; 850-326-1576.

Baby/Children

Two pieces of 4’x8’x 3/4” birch veneer board, medium density, $45 each; 850-547-9269.

Structure Demo Stump Grinding

(850) 326-1559 Veteran-Founded Contact Us

850-703-7922

Call me today for a quote!

Email Us

cierra.mcnulty@goosehead.com

Cierra McNulty Insurance, LLC

Insurance Broker with 40+ Carriers!

Shopping Insurance Should Be Simple. Let Me Eliminate the Stress for You. As a wife, mother, and business owner, I know the importance of your time, money, and being well protected.

Cierra McNulty

Focused on You Auto

Home

Boat

Motorcycle

RV

Flood

Renters

Umbrella

Condo

We’re We’re passionate passionate about about taking taking care care of of our our customers customers and and making making them them We’re passionate about taking care of ourour customers and Bankers making them feel at home.

Our hospitality paired with experienced feel at home. Our hospitality paired with our experienced Bankers and and feel at home.

Ourheart hospitality paired with our experienced Bankers and Lenders is at the of who we are at First Federal Bank.

Lenders is at the heart of who we are at First Federal Bank.

Lenders is at the heart of who we are at First Federal Bank.

ffbf.com || 850-638-7892 ffbf.com 850-638-7892 ffbf.com | 850-638-7892 Bonifay - Chipley - Graceville - Marianna

Bonifay - Chipley - Graceville - Marianna Bonifay - Chipley - Graceville - Marianna

Sandy Sandy Spear Spear -- Regional Regional Retail Retail Sales Sales Manager Manager Sandy Spear - Regional Retail Sales Manager Tiffany Tiffany Hitchcock Hitchcock -- Financial Financial Center Center Manager Manager Tiffany Hitchcock - Financial Center Manager David David Whitaker Whitaker -- Retail Retail Market Market Manager Manager David Whitaker - Retail Market Manager PAGE 4

Miscellaneous

Trim David & Family Cut Tree Services, LLC Remove

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

FOR SALE

White Delta children’s crib, with Naturpedic mattress, $200, like new; Nordic track RW 600 rowing 407-982-0737. machine, almost new, WIFI, 10" touchscreen, folds for space, $600; Home/Farm 850-557-7514, text.

Bahia grass hay, fertilized 4x5 rolls, Gasoline generator, excellent barn stored; 850-573-5145. condition, 6250/8500W, 30A 120/240V w/30A power Gasoline generator, 30A 120/240V cord, always stored indoors; 6250/8500W, good condition, 850-573-5117. stored in home, w/30A power cord; 850-573-5117.

Hay rings and mineral feeder, for Tifton 9 Bahia grass hay, oversized 5x5 rolls, well fertilized, located in NE Jackson County near Lovedale/Paramore community; 850-592-4740.

cattle; 850-582-4798.

Like new Olympic weight bench, with Olympic weights, excellent condition, $575; 850-693-8110.

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.

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

New engine, 383 Stroker, The Wise Guy Base Package, painted royal blue chrome valve covers, flex plate, GM dipstick, $3,500; 850-768-4265.

Six-person hot tub, bought new 2018, $2,000, works very well, with all documents/operating manuals; 850-814-9953, leave message.

Yamaha 6 string acoustic medium light guitar, strings, sound hole pick up, $250; 850-956-2221, Kenny.

Multiple Listings Grain wagon; Three-horse slant trailer; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; aluminum dog box; 850-209-8532 or 850-592-2494.

Mechanic shop liquidation, various tools, toolboxes, miscellaneous items; 850-525-5074.

Local Telephone Prefixes Alford 579 Altha 762 Bascom/Malone 569 Blountstown 674, 237 Bonifay 547 Caryville 548 Chipley 638, 415 Cottondale 352 Graceville 263

Grand Ridge Greenwood Marianna Ponce de Leon Sneads Sunny Hills Vernon Westville

592 594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

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)

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

Community Calendar Home Buyer Education Class January 25; 9 AM - 4 PM; Jackson Co. Extension, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna & Bay Co. Extension, 2728 E. 14th St., Panama City Understand home buying, analyze personal financial and credit situations and learn basic home care/maintenance to help maintain the value of your home and save money.

Pre-registration is required. The Florida Cooperative Extension service is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Completion of the course satisfies the homeownership education requirements for the SHIP and USDA Rural Development program. To register, call 850-482-9620, 850-638-6265 or 850-784-6105.

2025 Tri-State Fruit & Vegetable Conference January 28; 7:15 - registration & 8 AM - conference; Jackson Co. Extension, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna Gain new info & knowledge about growing fruits and vegetables. New info will be shared about cucurbit crops and pesticide applicator CEUs will be available. The conference will focus on cucurbit disease and insect management, new data on growing media alternatives, and more. Admission is $10 and lunch will be provided. Pre-registration preferred. Call 850-482-9620 for more info or email payne.abigail@ufl.edu.

Spring 2025 Garden to Table Workshop Series February 4; 6-8 PM; Jackson Co. Extension, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna The first session of a 3 part series will focus on growing and cooking food from your own garden and cover what to do in the month of Feb. to have a flourishing spring garden. This includes best practices for starting from seeds and saving seeds for future use. Participants will prepare a snack with vegetables they can grow at home and take home a seed starter kit.

The series will continue with a session on summer gardening and herbs. Each workshop is $15 for one or $10 for all three. Pre-registration is required. Visit the office or register online: http://JacksonCountyFCS.eventbrite.com. *UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. Require assistance? Call 800-955-8771.*

Sweet Potato Pie

Submitted by: Viola Smith

Ingredients: 3 large sweet potatoes 1 stick butter 1/4 cup flour 3 eggs 2 tablespoons vanilla flavoring 11/2 to 3 cups of sugar or sugar substitute pinch of cinnamon 1/4 cup milk 3 pie shells

ROW Update: WFEC Right-of-Way Crews will be cutting & trimming in the following area(s) during

January:

West Florida Electric Cooperative's Monthly Base Charge for providing residential electric service to each member is $35.

This charge has previously been included in the energy charge line item on WFEC's bills. Beginning this month, this charge will be listed as a separate line item on a member's monthly bill.

Please note this is not a new charge.

South Alford & North Chipley

See examples below.

Previous Bill Layout

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.

$35 Charge Included Here

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC Levon Carnley

Specialized in: Decorative Concrete • Interior/Exterior Pool Decks • Porches Patios • Garages

New Line Item Added

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Phone: 850-703-0318

Licensed

Justin Joyner 850-658-2890

& Land Clearing

Directions: Cut potatoes into cubes and boil until done.

Add potatoes and mix all ingredients together.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Base Charge Line Item

Chainlink Barbed Wire Vinyl Fence Wood Fence Field Fence “New” “Used” Repairs

McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

(850) 593-0009 • 7524 Old U.S. 90 Ln., Sneads, FL

PAGE 12

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

BREAKING NEWS!!!

Guaranteed Approval Life Insurance Ages: 0-85

SOUTHSIDE

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Sales, Service, Leasing, Maintenance, Installation, Ice Vending Machines Commercial & Residential

Call: Agent: Jeff Cooper (850) 209-4038 for details!

BUSH PAINT & SUPPLY Graceville, FL

D West Florida Turf SO SO Centipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda D

(850) 263-4744 or (850) 263-6345

Centipede Seed

850-703-5486

Est. 1980

www.mysouthsideair.com

Open: Monday-Friday • 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Local help with your Medicare questions.

Gene Alford

Licensed Sales Agent 850-209-1381, TTY 711 genealford@gmail.com MyUHCagent.com/gene.alford

Art’s Home Services Carpenter/Handyman Build It - Fix It Clean It - Haul It

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 OLEN BARFIELD

Have Sawmill, Will Travel

Efficient & portable bandsaw can cut your trees into lumber on your site with minimal sawdust waste.

638-7105

Armondi Roofing, LLC Re-roof Specialist Shingles • Flat Roofs • Re-Roofs New Roofs & All Types of Repairs

Free Estimates

5 Year Workmanship Warranty Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

(850) 547-2934 PAGE 6

DOUBLE-TIME Pest Control

(850) 718-6109

Veteran Owned & Operated Detect * Eliminate * Defend Against Unwanted Pests

Call for a Free Quote Today

Need Ice? Ice Machine Leasing

Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic • Wood Feed• Seed • Fertilizer

On the Farm Delivered or Installed 850-638-4860 • Cellular 415-0385

State Certified Contractor CAC1819784

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

Voted Best of Tri-County for Washington, Jackon & Holmes Counties 2020, 2021 & 2022 Voted “Top 3 Best of Bay Co. in 2023”

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks” For All Your Propane Needs

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay

Since 1969

4” to 12”

Water Well Drilling & Pump Repair Residential, Commercial, Agricultural Water Analysis & Treatment

850-263-8064

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Roger Lonsway

Mobile: 850-260-5438 Land Clearing & Forestry Services Dozer and Excavation Work Heavy-Duty Brush Cutting Ponds • Road Building • Demolition Pine Tree Planting • Herbicide Spraying Fire Line Plowing • Burning • Root Raking Chopping • Bedding www.claycoforestry.com clayslandclearing@gmail.com

Gary McIntosh

#RM0048955

Doug Hannon's Fish & Game Forecast JAN. 2025

Excellent Times AM PM

WED.

1

1:06-3:06

1:30-3:30

THU.

2

1:54-3:54

FRI.

3

2:42-4:42

SAT.

4

Moon Stage

7:57-9:27

2:18-4:18

8:21-9:51

8:45-10:15

3:06-5:06

9:09-10:39

9:33-11:03

3:30-5:30

3:54-5:54

9:57-11:27

10:21-11:51

SUN.

5

4:18-6:18

4:42-6:42

10:45-12:15

11:09-12:39

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS

MON.

6

5:06-7:06

5:30-7:30

11:33-1:03

11:57-1:27

TUE.

7

5:54-7:54

6:18-8:18

N/A

12:45-2:15

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

WED.

8

6:42-8:42

7:06-9:06

1:09-2:39

1:33-3:03

THU.

9

7:30-9:30

7:54-9:54

1:57-3:27

2:21-3:51

FRI.

10

8:18-10:18

8:42-10:42

2:45-4:15

3:09-4:39

(850) 593-0009

Scan the QR code below to download the mobile app!

Clay O’Neal:

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

200-Amp Power Pole $599.95

Good Times AM PM 7:33-9:03

SAT.

11

9:06-11:06

9:30-11:30

3:33-5:03

3:57-5:27

SUN.

12

9:54-11:54

10:18-12:18

4:21-5:51

4:45-6:15

MON.

13

10:42-12:42

11:06-1:06

5:09-6:39

5:33-7:03

TUE.

14

11:30-1:30

11:54-1:54

5:57-7:27

6:21-7:51

WED.

15

N/A

12:42-2:42

6:45-8:15

7:09-8:39

THU.

16

1:06-3:06

1:30-3:30

7:33-9:03

7:57-9:27

FRI.

17

1:54-3:54

2:18-4:18

8:21-9:51

8:45-10:15

SAT.

18

2:42-4:42

3:06-5:06

9:09-10:39

9:33-11:03

SUN.

19

3:30-5:30

3:54-5:54

9:57-11:27

10:21-11:51

MON.

20

4:18-6:18

4:42-6:42

10:45-12:15

11:09-12:39

547-3696

100 - Amp Power Pole $499.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc. Anthony Register 850-573-0219

Larry Englert Owner

Pool cages, screen rooms, car ports, rescreening & repairs.

Larry’s Rescreening, LLC Veteran owned with 30 years experience

Licensed & insured

(850) 630-9225 • Glass Shower

Enclosures • Window Panes

TUE.

21

5:06-7:06

5:30-7:30

11:33-1:03

11:57-1:27

WED.

22

5:54-7:54

6:18-8:18

N/A

12:45-2:15

• Mirrors

THU.

23

6:42-8:42

7:06-9:06

1:09-2:39

1:33-3:03

FRI.

24

7:30-9:30

7:54-9:54

1:57-3:27

2:21-3:51

• Screens

SAT.

25

8:18-10:18

8:42-10:42

2:45-4:15

3:09-4:39

SUN.

26

9:06-11:06

9:30-11:30

3:33-5:03

3:57-5:27

MON.

27

9:54-11:54

10:18-12:18

4:21-5:51

4:45-6:15

TUE.

28

10:18-12:18

10:42-12:42

4:48-6:28

5:11-6:41

WED.

29

10:42-12:42

11:06-1:06

5:09-6:39

5:33-7:03

THU.

30

11:30-1:30

11:54-1:54

5:57-7:27

6:21-7:51

FRI.

31

N/A

12:42-2:42

6:45-8:15

7:09-8:39

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

NEW

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

• Tabletops

PAGE 11

Balancing Electricity Supply and Demand

E

WFEC employees had the privilege of visiting several local assisted living facilities this holiday season to gift soft & warm blankets to residents.

lectricity is essential for nearly every aspect of daily life - so essential that we rarely think about how it's produced and delivered to our homes. You might be surprised to learn that behind the scenes, a network of experts is working daily (and even by the minute) to anticipate how much electricity you need before you even use it.

We're all connected to the electric grid, so ensuring the right amount of electricity for all involves a complex process of forecasting energy demand, planning for capacity and securing enough supply to meet our needs. First, electricity must be generated at a power plant using either traditional sources, such as coal, natural gas or nuclear energy, or from renewable sources, such as solar, wind or hydropower.

At West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC), we work closely with PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, our local wholesale power provider, to secure enough electricity for our communities, using a diverse mix of energy sources to generate the power we deliver. By maintaining a diverse energy mix - natural gas, hydropower, and some solar, WFEC has options to ensure reliable power at a competitive cost.

On a larger scale, across the country, electricity supply and demand are managed through a market that includes long-term planning agreements, where electricity is bought and sold just like other common goods and services.

Because WFEC works with our wholesale power supplier, which is also a cooperative, we are able to pool resources and expertise to deliver affordable A Balancing Act: power to local communities.

ELECTRICITY SUPPLY AND DEMAND Electricity supply changes Behind the scenes, a network of people and facilities work together to throughout the day because demand ensure you have electricity when you flip the switch. fluctuates based on our members' needs. For example, WFEC knows Electricity is generated at a power plant, then sent across the grid to homes, schools that we need to ensure there is more and businesses. electricity available in the mornings when you're starting your day, and in The amount of electricity generated Regional Grid Operators the evenings when you're cooking and how much is sent to where it's needed are typically coordinated and dinner, using appliances, and watching TV. Demand also increases monitored by regional grid operators that essentially act as energy traffic when weather patterns change like Regional Independent Electric managers.

Transmission System Utilities when it's extremely cold or warm.

Organizations Operators Other utilities across the country (RTOs) (ISOs) are managing the same task of As electricity demand varies throughout balancing supply and demand - that's the day, grid operators, power plant why we have a larger network of key operators and electric utilities work to players to make sure enough power forecast, plan and purchase enough electricity to everyone. is delivered across the grid.

As the energy sector undergoes rapid change, it's important for you to understand the basics of electricity Ensuring communities have the exact supply and demand. Electricity use amount of electricity they need is a challenging task, but behind the scenes, in the U.S. is expected to at least a network of industry experts make it double by 2050. At the same time, happen every day. energy policies are pushing the early Factors that Impact Electricity Supply and Demand retirement of always-available generation which could compromise • Demand Surges • Supply Chain Challenges reliability. That's why we're preparing • Extreme Temperatures • Fuel Costs • Infrastructure Costs & Availability • Federal & State Regulations now for future challenges,

PAGE 10

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

Congratulations to Candace Howell (center left) who received WFEC's 2024 Employee of the Year Award and to Terrell Culbreth (center right) who was recognized as the Outstanding Service Award Recipient.

Penny Bryan (left), VP of Administrative Services and Wayne Williams (right), Interim Executive Vice President & CEO presented the awards on behalf of the cooperative.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Small Steps, Smart Choices: Making Your Home More Energy Efficient We all have a role to play in achieving energy efficiency.

K

nowing where to start is half the battle of creating a more energy-efficient life, and making the right HVAC and appliance choices can save you money. As a member, you have control over improving the energy efficiency of your home or business. Taking a few easy steps allows you to carry out daily routines while using less.

Adjust Your Thermostat: A good starting point is setting your thermostat to 68 degrees in winter and lowering it when you're away. You can save as much as 10% on annual heating costs when you make a habit of this. A programmable thermostat can do this for you every day.

Modernize Your Lighting: Switch to LED light bulbs - they use less energy to provide light or complete tasks.

LED bulbs save money and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Considering outside lighting? Solar lighting is a great choice for outdoor areas like paths and patios.

Choose Energy Efficient Appliances: Major appliance purchases may not happen often, but you can make better choices when replacing or upgrading appliances. Look for ENERGY STAR ® certified appliances use less energy and water.

Consider Upgrading Your HVAC: If you're facing a decision about upgrading your HVAC unit, consider a highefficiency heat pump. Replacing an electric furnace with a high-efficiency heat pump will give you the greatest return on investment. Bigger is not always better - choose the system that is sized correctly for your home.

Maintain your filter and have yearly inspections done by a qualified HVAC technician.

Insulate and Seal: Walk around your home, inside and out, to spot opportunities to weatherize. Use caulking and weather-stripping to fill any gaps or cracks around windows and doors. This helps seal your home, making it easier to heat or cool it all year.

Do you live in an older home? Check your attic because you might need additional insulation. If more blanket insulation cannot be installed, a good option is spray foam. Qualified techs can do this for you and check duct work to make sure there is no air loss.

New Construction: If you are building or renovating, the construction phase can be a great opportunity to maximize insulation in walls, install energyefficient windows, and use modern building materials that can save energy and money.

PAGE 8

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Making small decisions like a lighter roofing color can improve your energy efficiency. According to the IRS, if you make qualified energy-efficient improvements to your home, you can qualify for a tax credit of up to $3,200.

This includes replacing exterior doors, windows and skylights or upgrading insulation. This program is available through 2032. Find out more at irs.gov.

Improve Power Management: The emergence of smart devices allows homeowners even greater control, like lights that can be turned off from anywhere using a smartphone or programmable thermostats with apps you can control from anywhere.

Co-ops like WFEC also provide our members with resources like energy efficiency loans (for making energy-saving improvements to your home), and rebates (on certain high-efficiency heating and cooling systems). Our members can take advantage of programs like these to achieve greater efficiency and savings.

To find out more about the energy efficiency programs offered by West Florida Electric, please visit westflorida.coop.

William

Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc. HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Florida License Number: CMC1250499 4315 Galilee Road • Graceville, FL 32440

(850) 326-0330

Email: wilcruent@bellsouth.net

(850) 956-4325 Mobile: (850) 259-0467 Fax: (850) 956-4169

SOUTHERN ROOFING, INC. All Types Licensed • Bonded • Insured

License# CCC058016

Heating and cooling costs got you down?

Let’s Talk.

Follow these

5 TIPS

and keep more of your money.

1 2

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Williams Home Improvements Serving Calhoun County Since 1990 • Now Serving Surrounding Counties

3

CRC 133715 • CCC 13344447

“No Job Too Big or Small” New Construction • Remodel Ceramic Tile • Bobcat Work Preasure Cleaning Mini Excavator Work

• HONEST • DEPENDABLE • FREE ESTIMATES

850-674-8092 Cell: 850-573-0616 ISSUE JANUARY 2025

4 5

Keep your thermostat at 68° in winter and stay cozy with a blanket and warm socks.

Clean or replace your filters once per month or as recommended.

Turn off kitchen, bath and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after use.

Keep your curtains and blinds closed – at night in winter to help keep the chill out.

Select energy-efficient products when you buy new equipment.

Source: energy.gov

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Small Steps, Smart Choices: Making Your Home More Energy Efficient We all have a role to play in achieving energy efficiency.

K

nowing where to start is half the battle of creating a more energy-efficient life, and making the right HVAC and appliance choices can save you money. As a member, you have control over improving the energy efficiency of your home or business. Taking a few easy steps allows you to carry out daily routines while using less.

Adjust Your Thermostat: A good starting point is setting your thermostat to 68 degrees in winter and lowering it when you're away. You can save as much as 10% on annual heating costs when you make a habit of this. A programmable thermostat can do this for you every day.

Modernize Your Lighting: Switch to LED light bulbs - they use less energy to provide light or complete tasks.

LED bulbs save money and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Considering outside lighting? Solar lighting is a great choice for outdoor areas like paths and patios.

Choose Energy Efficient Appliances: Major appliance purchases may not happen often, but you can make better choices when replacing or upgrading appliances. Look for ENERGY STAR ® certified appliances use less energy and water.

Consider Upgrading Your HVAC: If you're facing a decision about upgrading your HVAC unit, consider a highefficiency heat pump. Replacing an electric furnace with a high-efficiency heat pump will give you the greatest return on investment. Bigger is not always better - choose the system that is sized correctly for your home.

Maintain your filter and have yearly inspections done by a qualified HVAC technician.

Insulate and Seal: Walk around your home, inside and out, to spot opportunities to weatherize. Use caulking and weather-stripping to fill any gaps or cracks around windows and doors. This helps seal your home, making it easier to heat or cool it all year.

Do you live in an older home? Check your attic because you might need additional insulation. If more blanket insulation cannot be installed, a good option is spray foam. Qualified techs can do this for you and check duct work to make sure there is no air loss.

New Construction: If you are building or renovating, the construction phase can be a great opportunity to maximize insulation in walls, install energyefficient windows, and use modern building materials that can save energy and money.

PAGE 8

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Making small decisions like a lighter roofing color can improve your energy efficiency. According to the IRS, if you make qualified energy-efficient improvements to your home, you can qualify for a tax credit of up to $3,200.

This includes replacing exterior doors, windows and skylights or upgrading insulation. This program is available through 2032. Find out more at irs.gov.

Improve Power Management: The emergence of smart devices allows homeowners even greater control, like lights that can be turned off from anywhere using a smartphone or programmable thermostats with apps you can control from anywhere.

Co-ops like WFEC also provide our members with resources like energy efficiency loans (for making energy-saving improvements to your home), and rebates (on certain high-efficiency heating and cooling systems). Our members can take advantage of programs like these to achieve greater efficiency and savings.

To find out more about the energy efficiency programs offered by West Florida Electric, please visit westflorida.coop.

William

Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc. HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Florida License Number: CMC1250499 4315 Galilee Road • Graceville, FL 32440

(850) 326-0330

Email: wilcruent@bellsouth.net

(850) 956-4325 Mobile: (850) 259-0467 Fax: (850) 956-4169

SOUTHERN ROOFING, INC. All Types Licensed • Bonded • Insured

License# CCC058016

Heating and cooling costs got you down?

Let’s Talk.

Follow these

5 TIPS

and keep more of your money.

1 2

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Williams Home Improvements Serving Calhoun County Since 1990 • Now Serving Surrounding Counties

3

CRC 133715 • CCC 13344447

“No Job Too Big or Small” New Construction • Remodel Ceramic Tile • Bobcat Work Preasure Cleaning Mini Excavator Work

• HONEST • DEPENDABLE • FREE ESTIMATES

850-674-8092 Cell: 850-573-0616 ISSUE JANUARY 2025

4 5

Keep your thermostat at 68° in winter and stay cozy with a blanket and warm socks.

Clean or replace your filters once per month or as recommended.

Turn off kitchen, bath and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after use.

Keep your curtains and blinds closed – at night in winter to help keep the chill out.

Select energy-efficient products when you buy new equipment.

Source: energy.gov

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Balancing Electricity Supply and Demand

E

WFEC employees had the privilege of visiting several local assisted living facilities this holiday season to gift soft & warm blankets to residents.

lectricity is essential for nearly every aspect of daily life - so essential that we rarely think about how it's produced and delivered to our homes. You might be surprised to learn that behind the scenes, a network of experts is working daily (and even by the minute) to anticipate how much electricity you need before you even use it.

We're all connected to the electric grid, so ensuring the right amount of electricity for all involves a complex process of forecasting energy demand, planning for capacity and securing enough supply to meet our needs. First, electricity must be generated at a power plant using either traditional sources, such as coal, natural gas or nuclear energy, or from renewable sources, such as solar, wind or hydropower.

At West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC), we work closely with PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, our local wholesale power provider, to secure enough electricity for our communities, using a diverse mix of energy sources to generate the power we deliver. By maintaining a diverse energy mix - natural gas, hydropower, and some solar, WFEC has options to ensure reliable power at a competitive cost.

On a larger scale, across the country, electricity supply and demand are managed through a market that includes long-term planning agreements, where electricity is bought and sold just like other common goods and services.

Because WFEC works with our wholesale power supplier, which is also a cooperative, we are able to pool resources and expertise to deliver affordable A Balancing Act: power to local communities.

ELECTRICITY SUPPLY AND DEMAND Electricity supply changes Behind the scenes, a network of people and facilities work together to throughout the day because demand ensure you have electricity when you flip the switch. fluctuates based on our members' needs. For example, WFEC knows Electricity is generated at a power plant, then sent across the grid to homes, schools that we need to ensure there is more and businesses. electricity available in the mornings when you're starting your day, and in The amount of electricity generated Regional Grid Operators the evenings when you're cooking and how much is sent to where it's needed are typically coordinated and dinner, using appliances, and watching TV. Demand also increases monitored by regional grid operators that essentially act as energy traffic when weather patterns change like Regional Independent Electric managers.

Transmission System Utilities when it's extremely cold or warm.

Organizations Operators Other utilities across the country (RTOs) (ISOs) are managing the same task of As electricity demand varies throughout balancing supply and demand - that's the day, grid operators, power plant why we have a larger network of key operators and electric utilities work to players to make sure enough power forecast, plan and purchase enough electricity to everyone. is delivered across the grid.

As the energy sector undergoes rapid change, it's important for you to understand the basics of electricity Ensuring communities have the exact supply and demand. Electricity use amount of electricity they need is a challenging task, but behind the scenes, in the U.S. is expected to at least a network of industry experts make it double by 2050. At the same time, happen every day. energy policies are pushing the early Factors that Impact Electricity Supply and Demand retirement of always-available generation which could compromise • Demand Surges • Supply Chain Challenges reliability. That's why we're preparing • Extreme Temperatures • Fuel Costs • Infrastructure Costs & Availability • Federal & State Regulations now for future challenges,

PAGE 10

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

Congratulations to Candace Howell (center left) who received WFEC's 2024 Employee of the Year Award and to Terrell Culbreth (center right) who was recognized as the Outstanding Service Award Recipient.

Penny Bryan (left), VP of Administrative Services and Wayne Williams (right), Interim Executive Vice President & CEO presented the awards on behalf of the cooperative.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

BREAKING NEWS!!!

Guaranteed Approval Life Insurance Ages: 0-85

SOUTHSIDE

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Sales, Service, Leasing, Maintenance, Installation, Ice Vending Machines Commercial & Residential

Call: Agent: Jeff Cooper (850) 209-4038 for details!

BUSH PAINT & SUPPLY Graceville, FL

D West Florida Turf SO SO Centipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda D

(850) 263-4744 or (850) 263-6345

Centipede Seed

850-703-5486

Est. 1980

www.mysouthsideair.com

Open: Monday-Friday • 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Local help with your Medicare questions.

Gene Alford

Licensed Sales Agent 850-209-1381, TTY 711 genealford@gmail.com MyUHCagent.com/gene.alford

Art’s Home Services Carpenter/Handyman Build It - Fix It Clean It - Haul It

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 OLEN BARFIELD

Have Sawmill, Will Travel

Efficient & portable bandsaw can cut your trees into lumber on your site with minimal sawdust waste.

638-7105

Armondi Roofing, LLC Re-roof Specialist Shingles • Flat Roofs • Re-Roofs New Roofs & All Types of Repairs

Free Estimates

5 Year Workmanship Warranty Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

(850) 547-2934 PAGE 6

DOUBLE-TIME Pest Control

(850) 718-6109

Veteran Owned & Operated Detect * Eliminate * Defend Against Unwanted Pests

Call for a Free Quote Today

Need Ice? Ice Machine Leasing

Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic • Wood Feed• Seed • Fertilizer

On the Farm Delivered or Installed 850-638-4860 • Cellular 415-0385

State Certified Contractor CAC1819784

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

Voted Best of Tri-County for Washington, Jackon & Holmes Counties 2020, 2021 & 2022 Voted “Top 3 Best of Bay Co. in 2023”

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks” For All Your Propane Needs

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay

Since 1969

4” to 12”

Water Well Drilling & Pump Repair Residential, Commercial, Agricultural Water Analysis & Treatment

850-263-8064

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Roger Lonsway

Mobile: 850-260-5438 Land Clearing & Forestry Services Dozer and Excavation Work Heavy-Duty Brush Cutting Ponds • Road Building • Demolition Pine Tree Planting • Herbicide Spraying Fire Line Plowing • Burning • Root Raking Chopping • Bedding www.claycoforestry.com clayslandclearing@gmail.com

Gary McIntosh

#RM0048955

Doug Hannon's Fish & Game Forecast JAN. 2025

Excellent Times AM PM

WED.

1

1:06-3:06

1:30-3:30

THU.

2

1:54-3:54

FRI.

3

2:42-4:42

SAT.

4

Moon Stage

7:57-9:27

2:18-4:18

8:21-9:51

8:45-10:15

3:06-5:06

9:09-10:39

9:33-11:03

3:30-5:30

3:54-5:54

9:57-11:27

10:21-11:51

SUN.

5

4:18-6:18

4:42-6:42

10:45-12:15

11:09-12:39

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS

MON.

6

5:06-7:06

5:30-7:30

11:33-1:03

11:57-1:27

TUE.

7

5:54-7:54

6:18-8:18

N/A

12:45-2:15

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

WED.

8

6:42-8:42

7:06-9:06

1:09-2:39

1:33-3:03

THU.

9

7:30-9:30

7:54-9:54

1:57-3:27

2:21-3:51

FRI.

10

8:18-10:18

8:42-10:42

2:45-4:15

3:09-4:39

(850) 593-0009

Scan the QR code below to download the mobile app!

Clay O’Neal:

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

200-Amp Power Pole $599.95

Good Times AM PM 7:33-9:03

SAT.

11

9:06-11:06

9:30-11:30

3:33-5:03

3:57-5:27

SUN.

12

9:54-11:54

10:18-12:18

4:21-5:51

4:45-6:15

MON.

13

10:42-12:42

11:06-1:06

5:09-6:39

5:33-7:03

TUE.

14

11:30-1:30

11:54-1:54

5:57-7:27

6:21-7:51

WED.

15

N/A

12:42-2:42

6:45-8:15

7:09-8:39

THU.

16

1:06-3:06

1:30-3:30

7:33-9:03

7:57-9:27

FRI.

17

1:54-3:54

2:18-4:18

8:21-9:51

8:45-10:15

SAT.

18

2:42-4:42

3:06-5:06

9:09-10:39

9:33-11:03

SUN.

19

3:30-5:30

3:54-5:54

9:57-11:27

10:21-11:51

MON.

20

4:18-6:18

4:42-6:42

10:45-12:15

11:09-12:39

547-3696

100 - Amp Power Pole $499.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc. Anthony Register 850-573-0219

Larry Englert Owner

Pool cages, screen rooms, car ports, rescreening & repairs.

Larry’s Rescreening, LLC Veteran owned with 30 years experience

Licensed & insured

(850) 630-9225 • Glass Shower

Enclosures • Window Panes

TUE.

21

5:06-7:06

5:30-7:30

11:33-1:03

11:57-1:27

WED.

22

5:54-7:54

6:18-8:18

N/A

12:45-2:15

• Mirrors

THU.

23

6:42-8:42

7:06-9:06

1:09-2:39

1:33-3:03

FRI.

24

7:30-9:30

7:54-9:54

1:57-3:27

2:21-3:51

• Screens

SAT.

25

8:18-10:18

8:42-10:42

2:45-4:15

3:09-4:39

SUN.

26

9:06-11:06

9:30-11:30

3:33-5:03

3:57-5:27

MON.

27

9:54-11:54

10:18-12:18

4:21-5:51

4:45-6:15

TUE.

28

10:18-12:18

10:42-12:42

4:48-6:28

5:11-6:41

WED.

29

10:42-12:42

11:06-1:06

5:09-6:39

5:33-7:03

THU.

30

11:30-1:30

11:54-1:54

5:57-7:27

6:21-7:51

FRI.

31

N/A

12:42-2:42

6:45-8:15

7:09-8:39

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

NEW

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

• Tabletops

PAGE 11

Community Calendar Home Buyer Education Class January 25; 9 AM - 4 PM; Jackson Co. Extension, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna & Bay Co. Extension, 2728 E. 14th St., Panama City Understand home buying, analyze personal financial and credit situations and learn basic home care/maintenance to help maintain the value of your home and save money.

Pre-registration is required. The Florida Cooperative Extension service is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Completion of the course satisfies the homeownership education requirements for the SHIP and USDA Rural Development program. To register, call 850-482-9620, 850-638-6265 or 850-784-6105.

2025 Tri-State Fruit & Vegetable Conference January 28; 7:15 - registration & 8 AM - conference; Jackson Co. Extension, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna Gain new info & knowledge about growing fruits and vegetables. New info will be shared about cucurbit crops and pesticide applicator CEUs will be available. The conference will focus on cucurbit disease and insect management, new data on growing media alternatives, and more. Admission is $10 and lunch will be provided. Pre-registration preferred. Call 850-482-9620 for more info or email payne.abigail@ufl.edu.

Spring 2025 Garden to Table Workshop Series February 4; 6-8 PM; Jackson Co. Extension, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna The first session of a 3 part series will focus on growing and cooking food from your own garden and cover what to do in the month of Feb. to have a flourishing spring garden. This includes best practices for starting from seeds and saving seeds for future use. Participants will prepare a snack with vegetables they can grow at home and take home a seed starter kit.

The series will continue with a session on summer gardening and herbs. Each workshop is $15 for one or $10 for all three. Pre-registration is required. Visit the office or register online: http://JacksonCountyFCS.eventbrite.com. *UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. Require assistance? Call 800-955-8771.*

Sweet Potato Pie

Submitted by: Viola Smith

Ingredients: 3 large sweet potatoes 1 stick butter 1/4 cup flour 3 eggs 2 tablespoons vanilla flavoring 11/2 to 3 cups of sugar or sugar substitute pinch of cinnamon 1/4 cup milk 3 pie shells

ROW Update: WFEC Right-of-Way Crews will be cutting & trimming in the following area(s) during

January:

West Florida Electric Cooperative's Monthly Base Charge for providing residential electric service to each member is $35.

This charge has previously been included in the energy charge line item on WFEC's bills. Beginning this month, this charge will be listed as a separate line item on a member's monthly bill.

Please note this is not a new charge.

South Alford & North Chipley

See examples below.

Previous Bill Layout

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.

$35 Charge Included Here

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC Levon Carnley

Specialized in: Decorative Concrete • Interior/Exterior Pool Decks • Porches Patios • Garages

New Line Item Added

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Phone: 850-703-0318

Licensed

Justin Joyner 850-658-2890

& Land Clearing

Directions: Cut potatoes into cubes and boil until done.

Add potatoes and mix all ingredients together.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Base Charge Line Item

Chainlink Barbed Wire Vinyl Fence Wood Fence Field Fence “New” “Used” Repairs

McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

(850) 593-0009 • 7524 Old U.S. 90 Ln., Sneads, FL

PAGE 12

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

CLASSIFIEDS

Bonded & Fully Insured Free Estimates

Animals/Livestock

Amaryllis bulbs, red and variegated, cleaning out my beds, $1.00 each; 850-209-2803.

Black Australorp chickens & chicks, all sizes; eggs, $3/dozen w/o carton; $2.50/with carton; 850-481-2023.

Innova Inversion table, with heat & massage functions, used very little, like new, $90, Cypress area; 850-272-1745.

Registered Red Angus bull, 14 months old, BSE/DNA complete, $4,800; 850-573-0949.

Recumbent exercise bike, w/digital display, excellent condition, $100; 850-326-1576.

Baby/Children

Two pieces of 4’x8’x 3/4” birch veneer board, medium density, $45 each; 850-547-9269.

Structure Demo Stump Grinding

(850) 326-1559 Veteran-Founded Contact Us

850-703-7922

Call me today for a quote!

Email Us

cierra.mcnulty@goosehead.com

Cierra McNulty Insurance, LLC

Insurance Broker with 40+ Carriers!

Shopping Insurance Should Be Simple. Let Me Eliminate the Stress for You. As a wife, mother, and business owner, I know the importance of your time, money, and being well protected.

Cierra McNulty

Focused on You Auto

Home

Boat

Motorcycle

RV

Flood

Renters

Umbrella

Condo

We’re We’re passionate passionate about about taking taking care care of of our our customers customers and and making making them them We’re passionate about taking care of ourour customers and Bankers making them feel at home.

Our hospitality paired with experienced feel at home. Our hospitality paired with our experienced Bankers and and feel at home.

Ourheart hospitality paired with our experienced Bankers and Lenders is at the of who we are at First Federal Bank.

Lenders is at the heart of who we are at First Federal Bank.

Lenders is at the heart of who we are at First Federal Bank.

ffbf.com || 850-638-7892 ffbf.com 850-638-7892 ffbf.com | 850-638-7892 Bonifay - Chipley - Graceville - Marianna

Bonifay - Chipley - Graceville - Marianna Bonifay - Chipley - Graceville - Marianna

Sandy Sandy Spear Spear -- Regional Regional Retail Retail Sales Sales Manager Manager Sandy Spear - Regional Retail Sales Manager Tiffany Tiffany Hitchcock Hitchcock -- Financial Financial Center Center Manager Manager Tiffany Hitchcock - Financial Center Manager David David Whitaker Whitaker -- Retail Retail Market Market Manager Manager David Whitaker - Retail Market Manager PAGE 4

Miscellaneous

Trim David & Family Cut Tree Services, LLC Remove

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

FOR SALE

White Delta children’s crib, with Naturpedic mattress, $200, like new; Nordic track RW 600 rowing 407-982-0737. machine, almost new, WIFI, 10" touchscreen, folds for space, $600; Home/Farm 850-557-7514, text.

Bahia grass hay, fertilized 4x5 rolls, Gasoline generator, excellent barn stored; 850-573-5145. condition, 6250/8500W, 30A 120/240V w/30A power Gasoline generator, 30A 120/240V cord, always stored indoors; 6250/8500W, good condition, 850-573-5117. stored in home, w/30A power cord; 850-573-5117.

Hay rings and mineral feeder, for Tifton 9 Bahia grass hay, oversized 5x5 rolls, well fertilized, located in NE Jackson County near Lovedale/Paramore community; 850-592-4740.

cattle; 850-582-4798.

Like new Olympic weight bench, with Olympic weights, excellent condition, $575; 850-693-8110.

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.

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

New engine, 383 Stroker, The Wise Guy Base Package, painted royal blue chrome valve covers, flex plate, GM dipstick, $3,500; 850-768-4265.

Six-person hot tub, bought new 2018, $2,000, works very well, with all documents/operating manuals; 850-814-9953, leave message.

Yamaha 6 string acoustic medium light guitar, strings, sound hole pick up, $250; 850-956-2221, Kenny.

Multiple Listings Grain wagon; Three-horse slant trailer; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; aluminum dog box; 850-209-8532 or 850-592-2494.

Mechanic shop liquidation, various tools, toolboxes, miscellaneous items; 850-525-5074.

Local Telephone Prefixes Alford 579 Altha 762 Bascom/Malone 569 Blountstown 674, 237 Bonifay 547 Caryville 548 Chipley 638, 415 Cottondale 352 Graceville 263

Grand Ridge Greenwood Marianna Ponce de Leon Sneads Sunny Hills Vernon Westville

592 594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

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)

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

Multiple Listings (cont.) 150-500 acres pasture land, in

FREE

Where WFEC Members' Power Comes From

Homemade/handmade quilts, lap, baby, twin, full or queen; two used bathtubs, to be used for water or feed troughs, great price; 850-547-3649.

Two outdoor male kittens, about 6 months old, free to good home; 850-260-0474.

I

Real Estate 16 acres of land, in the Graceville area, portions farmable; 727-403-4463.

Recreational Vehicles Vintage 1981 Honda Goldwing 1100 GL, in good shape, $6,500; with 5x12 enclosed trailer, $8,000 OBO; 850-547-0448 or 850-373-3709.

WANTED Golf cart tire, size 22x100x8, size 280x65x8; 850-674-8585, leave message.

Holmes or Washington County; 850-234-7070.

Penny through dollar coins, loose, in jars, collections and estates; 850-326-3437.

License plates from any state, mainly Florida, prior to 1980; old motorcycles or parts prior to 1960; 850-557-7030, Greg.

Black walnuts; 850-956-2360 for information.

Looking for cow pasture to rent, the closer to Campbellton, Florida, the better; 850-703-5450.

God’s Handyman, LLC

Licensed & Insured L19000238025

Specializing in Remodeling & Antique Restoration • 20 years experience • Finish Carpentry • Interior & Exterior Doors • Decks • Vinyl Siding • Additions • Hard Wood Floor • Baseboards • Windows Restoration • Crown/Custom Trim • Painting • Kitchen & Bathroom • Chair Rail • Sheetrock Remodels • Toilets • Porches & Patios (wood or aluminim) • Flooring • Much More! (850) 209-6593 All Are Welcome!

Horses; ponies; mules; donkeys; 850-209-8532 or 850-592-2494.

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.

've mentioned in previous articles that West Florida Electric Cooperative's power supplier is PowerSouth Energy Cooperative.

In this article I share more details about them.

PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, headquartered in Andalusia, Alabama, is a generation and transmission (G&T) electric cooperative that provides wholesale power to four municipal systems and 16 electric cooperatives serving members in 39 counties in Alabama and 10 counties in Northwest Florida. (See map below).

PowerSouth Energy provides power to over 480,000 members and owns 300 plus substations throughout those 49 counties in Alabama and Florida. West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) serves approximately 21,300 of those members from 13 substations located in our four-county service area (Calhoun, Holmes, Jackson Tim Alford, WFEC Board President and Washington Counties). The power is generated using a mixture of natural gas (fossil fuel), hydro, solar (renewable energy) and nuclear power. Coal (fossil fuel) was also used for many years, but its use was discontinued several years ago.

PowerSouth is a cooperative just like West Florida Electric. We are member-owners of WFEC and WFEC is a member-owner of PowerSouth. Just as I serve as a representative of our membership on the West Florida Board of Trustees, West Florida also has representatives who serve on the PowerSouth Energy Board of Trustees.

Those representatives are Interim CEO, Wayne Williams, and District 7 Trustee, Randy Bush. They obtain up-to-date information from PowerSouth each month and provide that information back to WFEC's board and leadership team.

I hope everyone had a wonderful and blessed holiday season.

Sincerely,

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.

PAGE 14

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 75, NO 1

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.

WFEC Board of Trustees

Energy Efficiency Tip:

Turning 65? New to the Area? Medicaid Eligible?

Call Me. I’m Local.

Licensed/Certified/Dependable/Helpful

Melonie Wood (850) 658-2635 FL Lic.# W489703 Al Lic.# 300759370

Call for a FREE consulation regarding the new medicare plans/ more benefits/larger physician networks/larger drug formulary

Over 200 carriers: Cigna/Aetna/Humana/United Healthcare/WellCare/Blue Cross-Blue Shield/AIG/ Mutual of Omaha/Allianz/Athene/Silac/Americo

Medicare/Long Term Care/Final Expense & Life Insurance/Retirement Plans

(850) 658-2635

DAVID TATUM District 1

TIM ALFORD

District 2/President

James & Son Tree and Crane Service Insured and Reasonable

850-272-3620 District 3

DAVID CORBIN

District 5/Vice President

JOHN ADAMS

Specialist at Removing Hazardous Trees • Land Clearing • Stump Grinding • Forestry Mulching • Debris Removal

District 4

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

GEORGE C. OWENS District 6

24 Hour Emergency Response CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

RANDY BUSH District 7

District 8

John White Owner

District 9/Secretary-Treasurer

PAGE 2

WAYNE WILLIAMS

Interim Executive VP & CEO

Serving the Area for Over 60 Years Septic Tank Service, Installation & Repair • Mobile Home Pads • Land Clearing • Excavation • Dirt • Rock • Culverts Rent-All • We have everything you need! Equipment Rentals, Tractors, Trenchers, Etc.

Ph: (850) 547-3658

Plumbing • Electrical • Licensed & Insured

EPA POWER PLANT RULE

Impacts of the Rule

– Early retirement of coal and gas plants will hurt reliability, especially during peak times when the most people need the most energy.

– Shifting generation to intermittent renewables, like solar, will make it harder for your electric utilities to maintain reliable power. Renewables like solar are dependent on weather and time of day.

– Demand for power will cause supply shortfalls.

Panhandle Pump Repair & Filtration Service

MISTY ERICKSON

What’s in YOUR Water?

MYRON HUDSON

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc.

Affecting West Florida Electric Co-op. Affecting you.

Free Estimates

JACKIE POOSER

Taking steps to help your home’s heating system run more efficiently can reduce energy use and lower your winter bills.

Check to see if any air vents around your home are blocked by furniture, curtains or other items. Obstructed vents force your heating system to work harder than necessary and can increase pressure in the ductwork, causing cracks and leaks to form. If necessary, consider purchasing a vent extender, which can be placed over a vent to redirect air flow.

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

Over 40 Years Experience

Home: (850) 535-1121 Cell: (850) 260-2204 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE DECEMBER 2024 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 15

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

P.O. Box 127 Graceville, FL 32440-0127

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Bush Hog Services 7’ cut • $100/acre

Call 850-573-3055 Custom Cattle Services

40 Years Experience • Karl Kressman (850) 557-3764

Portable Corrals & Chute Cattle Hauling Practical Cattle Vet Work Preg Testing Management & Herd Plans Cattle Penned & Caught

5905 Timberlane Rd. Bascom, FL 32423

Over 25 years

building & construction experience

Framing, trim carpentry, masonry, plaster, minor electrical & plumbing, paint, etc.

Installations: TVs, Ceiling Fans, Shelves, Satellite Internet (e.g. Starlink), etc.

Call Matt: 850-326-0933 Debbie Roney Smith

Due to bylaw requirements related to the annual meeting, mailing dates for the Feb. & March issues of the CLF may change.

2119 NW Whitewater Grade Road Clarksville, FL

Instant Orchard Packages • Retail Nursery • Edible Landscaping • Vineyards Food Forests • Bamboo Privacy Hedges • Greenhouses • Irrigation Call us or come by today to get your food forest started!

850-451-6222

Call or text: (850) 209-8039

LIC#SL642701

“Be SOLD with American Gold”

“I List - I Sell” Full Time Realtor Since 1996 4420 Lafayette St., Marianna, FL 32446

www.realtordrs.com • debson1999@gmail.com

Open Sunday-Friday 7 AM - 2 PM

Special 100 Tree Orchard Package w/Irrigation as low as $8,900!

Citrus Apples Peaches Plums Figs Nuts Bananas Kiwi

Pears Avocados Olives Pomegranates Grape Vines Berry Patches Much More

We are an all edible nursery, landscaping, and homestead. We grow, sell, and install fruit trees, berries, vines and all types of edibles with thousands to choose from. We install everything from a few backyard fruit trees to commercial orchards & vineyards. Irrigation is also available. We are open to the public for retail sales Sunday-Friday.

INSIDE ...

President’s Column: Where WFEC Members’ Power Comes From ...pg. 3 Base Charge Line Item

...pg. 5

Balancing Electricity Supply and Demand

...pg. 7

Smart Steps, Smart Choices: MakingYour Home More Energy Efficient Pages 9-10

Employee Awards ...pg. 10 Doug Hannon’s Fish & Game Forecast ... pg. 11 Local Classifieds

...pg. 13

ISSUE JANUARY 2025

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL 75, NO 1