June 2020

FLASHES CURRENT LIGHT

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

The Heart of Our Co-op: The Lineman Pages 10-11

Providing quality printing and service to the Florida panhandle and south Alabama since 1961.

955 Tate Drive Dothan, Alabama 334-792-8408 • dplinc@graceba.net

Your Locally Grown Roofing Company Since 1996

Helping Our Rural Families With All Roofing Needs

C&C Construction & Roofing Residential Roofing Specialist Locally Owned & Operated Serving the Florida Panhandle & Southern Alabama Specializing in residential and commercial roofing projects

• Shingle Roofing • All Types of Metal Roofing • Roofing Repairs • All Types of Flat Roofs

Call Today for Free Estimates

(850) 547-1001

www.candcroofingandconstruction.com 690 E. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL 32425 License Numbers: FL #CCCF1327331 • AL #S-44779

Specializing in Spray Foam Insulation

A Cut Above TREE SERVICE LLC

Owner: Jason Morris

• Tree Removal • Chipper • 15 Ton Crane • Aerial Truck • Pruning & Trimming • Bobcat Work • Hazardous Tree Removal • Stump Removal • Stump Grinding

INSIDE ...

FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

BUS: (850) 415-1217 • CELL: (850) 573-1270

Elect

Tammie

HARRISON

ELECTIONS OF

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Tammie Harrison for Supervisor of Elections

...pgs. 3-4

Carbon Monoxide Dangers & Power Outages

...pg. 5-6

Powering Up After an Outage ... pg. 7

FOR

HOLMES COUNTY S SUPERVISOR UPERVISOR

I Don’t See Damage, But My Power’s Still Out. Why?

ISSUE JUNE 2020

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

70, NO 6

When in Doubt, Throw it Out

...pg. 15-16

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 17-18

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

A perfectly cut lawn.

Now for a perfectly matched offer.

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 70, NO 6

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 Graceville, Florida.

WFEC Board of Trustees

The New Z200 Gas powered

Vote for & Elect

Jena Brooks Gilmore Holmes County Clerk of Court

$0 Down 0% APR 48 Months Panhandle Tractor • (850) 526-2257

Visit Us Today For This Limited-Time Offer

5003 Highway 90 • Marianna, Florida 32446

KubotaUSA.com

I am a Holmes County native, mother of two beautiful girls, and a baby boy, a member of West Pittman Baptist Church, and wife to Brady Gilmore. I have 9 years of service to the public as a teacher and 4-H Agent with the University of Florida. I hope to bring my diverse experience to this position and lead Holmes County with you! I humbly ask for your vote and support in electing me to serve you.

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Vice President

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Jena Brooks Gilmore for Holmes County Clerk of Court

TATUM

ADAMS

District 1

District 4 / Secretary-Treasurer

© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2020. $0 Down, 0% APR financing for up to 48 months on purchases of select new Kubota Z200 Series equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 48 monthly payments of $20.83 per $1,000 financed. Offer expires 6/30/20. Terms subject to change. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety, incentive offer and product information consult your loacl dealer or go to KubotaUSA.com.

David & Family Tree Services

Prices Normally Run 25% less than other insured competitors Bonded & Fully Insured • Free Estimates

Tracey R. Kent

David

John

(850) 326-1559

Realtor/Property Manager

850-326-7463 (cell)

1014 Main Street, Chipley, FL 32428 traceykent828@gmail.com • www.southernwayrealty.com

Jackie

Tim

POOSER District 3

District 2

David

George Clayton

District 5

District 6

CORBIN

Case Knives on Sale!

Deck Kits!

6x8 - $259 8x10 - $369 10x12 - $569 12x16 - $729

OWENS

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

Frank E.

Myron

BONDURANT

HUDSON

Attorney

District 9

Pool Supplies & Chemicals In stock! www.panhandlesalvage.com

Ty

PEEL

Executive VP/CEO

PAGE 2

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

People's South Bank Payment Locations: Chipley (850) 415-1320 Greenwood (850) 594-4151 Malone (850) 569-2264

M i dd l e b r o o k s Contractors, Inc. Serving the Area for Over 60 Years Rent-All • We have everything you need!

Equipment Rentals, Tractors, Trenchers, Etc.

ST!”

“If You’ve Called the Rest • Now Call The BE Lodge Cast

Iron

in stock!

Treated Swings in Stock!

850-547-9354

Panhandle Lumber & Supply Tri-State Leader of Barn Kit & Deck Kit Sales Since 1997

405 W. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL

24 Hour Emergency Response

Many more sizes to choose from!

Engineered Buildings Available!

Trim Cut Remove Stump Grinding Veteran-Owned

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

Southern Way Realty, Inc. ALFORD

WFEC has convenient locations other than our offices, where you may pay your monthly electric bill on or before the due date.

Together we do more.

Get a fast, professional-level cut with precise, effortless control. And legendary Kubota quality. Demo the new Z200 mower today.

for

District 8 / President

WFEC Remote Pay Locations

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm.*

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC Residential • Commercial

Andy Hall 850.557.3368 Brent Hall 850.718.7314 ISSUE JUNE 2020

New Construction, Re-Roof, Additions & Repairs Shingle • Metal & More!

Septic Tank Service, Installation & Repair Mobile Home Pads • Land Clearing • Excavation Dirt • Rock • Culverts

5 Years Labor Warranty • Licensed & Insured

Ph: (850) 547-3658

Over 21 Years Professional Experience # CBC1260614 • # CCC1330769 Free Estimates • 24 Hour Emergency Service Serving Northwest Florida!

Plumbing • Electrical Licensed & Insured

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 19

Recreational Vehicles

WANTED

Bass Tracker boat, 40 HP Mercury battery charger, run on trailer, spare tire, $11,500 OBO; 263-9572.

Horses, ponies, mules, donkeys; aluminum dog box; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

Ski boat, 2012 Chaparral 8H2O, 135 HP Mercruiser I/O with trailer, low hours, $11,000; 718-7408.

Vehicles 2019 Nissan Frontier, 4-door, six cylinder, less than 9,000 miles, like new; 674-8276.

2010 Chevy Tahoe 4x4, automatic, 137,000 miles, $9,500 OBO; 258-2848 or 326-3200.

Someone to work on floor model Sears radio/stereo, turntable, need speakers; 638-7874.

150-200 acres pasture land in Holmes or Washington County area; 234-7070.

Backhoe loader, in good condition, ready to work, will pay cash for reasonably priced machine; 547-1519, leave message if not answered.

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

There's No Damage in Sight, But My Power's Still Out. Why?

Horses; ponies; mules; 709-6268.

I

Brock’s Equipment Service Cottondale • (850) 579-4863 Cell • (850) 573-1863

Excavator, Dozer & Dump Truck Service Land Clearing, Pond Building, Demolition, Site Preparation, Ditch Work, Tree & Debris Removal, Sand & Top Soil

Woolever Hydraulics, LLC Cylinder & Component Repair 3225 Twin Ponds Road, Marianna, FL 32448

(850) 762-9103 EMERGENCY PLUMBING & CONSTRUCTION, LLC Quinn Williams

850-373-7186 RF11067708

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.

PAGE 18

Davis

and

Septic

Located in Bonifay, FL Residential & Commercial Plumbing

Son’s Plumbing & Tank Service

s there anything worse than a power outage? Especially an extended one? There actually may be one thing and that is not having water.

Although the two typically go hand in hand, especially in rural areas where residents rely on a domestic well pump for their water needs. There are, however, those who benefit from a municipal water system, like WFEC Manager of Marketing & Communications, Terry Mullen. During Hurricane Michael, he was without electricity but never lost his water supply which was a major blessing.

Mullen recently helped his daughter’s family relocate to a new home.

They were very anxious to move in, especially after renting for several years. The family moved into their new home on the same day the other family moved out. Shortly after arriving, the family began moving furniture into the new home and cleaning. But, there was no water in the kitchen.

After checking the master bath, there was no water there either. Mullen immediately realized the problem and his suspicions were confirmed when a lock was located on the main water meter.

The family that moved out left the power on but failed to notify the city to leave the water on as they previously agreed. This took place after hours on a Friday evening and it was Monday before they were able to get water.

Though there was water to the meter, there was still no water to the home. All of the neighbors on either side and across the road had water at their homes but not in the family’s new home. The same thing can happen to you when it comes to your electric service. If all of your neighbors have power but you don’t, there could be a variety of causes for the outage but it strictly has to do with the isolated service to your home. In this situation, you should first make sure your breakers are on. If so, call to report your outage immediately.

Realty

Land • Commercial • Residential

J. Tyler Poole

850.573.1599

BROKER

JonathanPoole713@gmail.com

ROW Update: West Florida Electric Right of Way Clearing Crews will be cutting & trimming right of ways in the following area(s) during the month of

JUNE Chipley & Graceville

When right-of-way (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.

• New Installation • Drainfield Repair/Replacement • Septic Tank Pumping & Service • Free Estimates

Bonifay: 956-4329 • Chipley: 638-5406 State Certified CFC1425994 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Torreya

ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

Mullen says that he also recalls a time that a tree fell in the yard at his mother's home. A limb from an old, fallen oak went into the ground and severed the main water line going to his mother’s house. Needless to say, there was no water in her home and she had no idea that a tree limb had severed the main line. The cooperative often gets comments from members saying that the power is out at their home but there is no damage in their immediate area. Another common complaint is that the power is out while there is not a cloud in the sky.

These scenarios are not uncommon considering West Florida Electric has approximately 4,800 miles of over-head powerlines in a very rural fourcounty service area. Some of the causes of these power outages are trees and limbs on the line, vehicle accidents, farm and heavy equipment accidents, birds, squirrels, snakes or lightning and much more.

Just as Mullen’s mother did not see damage and could not understand why she had no water in her home WFEC members often wonder why they have no electricity. As in her case there is always a legitimate reason for the outage.

The cooperative also receives questions about how electricity is restored when large-scale outages occur. When a major storm or natural disaster causes widespread damage and outages, extended outages may result. Line crews work to restore service safely to to greatest number of members in the shortest time possible. This is the process that is always used to restore major outages. First, the transmission lines which supply power to WFEC's distribution system are repaired. These lines must be repaired first before WISEFLY AUTO GLASS - EST. 2007

WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENTS CALL NOW (850) 387-2400 MV100767 any glass any vehicle

Together We Can Stay Safe

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Roger Lonsway Home Office: 638-7412

distribution lines can safely receive power. Second, distribution substations are repaired. The transmission lines feed into these substations Problems could occur with the substation itself, or the lines feeding into the substation.

The third area that is repaired are the main distribution lines which carry power to neighborhoods and consumers whose power is provided

by WFEC. The next thing repaired is the tap lines serving homes, schools, businesses and neighborhoods.

These lines are the ones delivering power to transformers mounted on poles or placed on pads for underground service. The final areas that are repaired are the service lines (individual taps) between a transformer and a residence. The graphic on page 7 illustrates this process.

The co-op can’t guarantee an uninterrupted power supply, but every employee at WFEC is committed to restoring your power as safely and quickly as possible.

Mobile: 260-5438

Family Dentistry of Chipley 415-1411 Family Dentistry of Bonifay 547-9290 Most Insurances Accepted New Chipley Location Cosmetic, General & Family Dentistry

Digging too close to a pad-mounted transformer like the one above can damage underground cables, leading to electrical shock or interruptions in service. Use caution when landscaping. Call 811 before you dig and stay safe.

PAGE 4

• Veneers • Crowns • Dentures • Cleanings • Whitening • Bonding New & Emergency Patients Welcome

Dr. Ernie Hooper, Dr. John Wilson, Dr. Brian Parker & Dr. Hilary Whitaker 1410-A 410-A Brickyard Rd, Chipley ...................................... 415-1411 110 E. North Ave, Bonifay ............................................ 547-9290 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Animals/Livestock NSDR Registered standard size Australian Shepherd puppies, 7 total, 4 females, 3 males, first shots, tails docked, dew claws removed, wormed, $400; 451-6427 or 812-664-6226, leave message.

5’ bush hog, used once, new, $900; upright freezer, approximately 17 cubic feet, $650; 594-4838.

Miscellaneous Canning jars, pints, quarts, lots, $6/dozen; 263-4013.

Used buncher, Tiger Cat motor runs great, make me an offer; 326-7640.

German Shorthair Pointer puppies; 693-5001, Archie Jones.

Chainsaw Husquvarna 55 Rancher, 18” bar, excellent saw, $250; 592-4798.

Antiques/Collectibles

Sears Nordic track weight bench & leg press, will take best offer; 593-6088.

One antique metal single tree; two antique double trees for mules, $85 each or all for $225; 209-0748.

First responder boots, $70, size 11, Rocky brand; 638-7874.

Multiple Listings Two-horse trailer; treeing walker Coon dogs; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; gentle horse for trail riding; hay dolly; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

Real Estate Lot, Compass Lake Hills, near McCormick Lake, Edison & Holly Springs, MOL 1 acre high, flat & dry, $4,000; 305-866-2549.

71 acre pasture in Washington County, small pond, fenced; 234-7070.

1,292 square foot wood frame house, to be moved from property in Marianna, $5,000, will need new roof & TLC, 3BR/1BA, have 45 days from date of purchase to move; 557-4877.

4 straight boot & 7 angled boot coil packs, fits Ford 4.6L Brick House, 3BR/2.5BA, 2,400 square feet living space, & 5.4L engines, DG-511 & Fertilized barn stored hay, 4x5 DG-508, $20 each; 658-2010. double carport on 2.5 +/- acres rolls; 258-0020. on Hwy. 69A in Lovedale Community; 592-4798.

Saw Tooth Oaks, Swamp Square bale annual peanut White Oaks, seedlings $5-$7; hay, 5x5 rolls; grass hay; walk- 718-8763. in cooler; walk-in freezer, all most new; 263-3427.

Home/Farm

Local Telephone Prefixes

Jackson Farm Well Services Patrick Jackson

850-573-6623 ISSUE JUNE 2020

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

638-7105

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

Grand Ridge 592 Greenwood 594 Marianna 482, 526 Ponce de Leon 836 Sneads 593 Sunny Hills 773 Vernon 535 Westville 956

PAGE 17

Food may be safely refrozen if it still contains ice crystals or is at 40 butter, rice, oatmeal and dried degrees or below, however, its quality may suffer. Items such as milk, legumes will also last quite a while. meats and leftovers that you don’t need immediately can be safely • Make sure to have charcoal or transferred to the freezer during a power outage. propane on hand if you have an • Keep a cooler or two handy in case of a prolonged power outage. If it outdoor grill. Don’t forget to looks as though your power will be out for more than 2-4 hours, the stock up on charcoal or propane if American Red Cross recommends packing refrigerated food into a cooler. have an outdoor grill. If your meat You’ll want the temperature to stay at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, is starting to thaw in your fridge or so make sure the cooler is packed with ice. If the power is going to be out freezer, having a working grill will for more than a day, prepare a second cooler for your freezer items. Any save you from having to throw it food that has been exposed to temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit all out. Food that is beginning to for more than 2 hours, or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for more than thaw, but is still at a safe one hour, should be thrown away. temperature should be cooked • Stock up on shelf-stable foods that will stay good for a long time. Try first. Before cooking, check each to keep your pantry stocked with nonperishable foods and make sure you item separately. Any food that feels have a manual can opener since an electric one without batteries will not warm to the touch or has an work if the power goes out. Cans of beans and vegetables can last on the unusual odor, color, or texture shelf for 2-5 years according to the USDA. Other staples like peanut should be thrown out. Use a food thermometer to make sure each Food Type: Held Above Food Type: Held Above item is cooked to a safe internal 40 Degrees 40 Degrees temperature to kill any food borne (+2 hours): (+2 hours): bacteria.

Raw/leftover DISCARD Fresh fruit (cut) DISCARD Unsafe food can make you sick cooked meat, Fruit (uncut) KEEP even if it looks, smells and tastes poultry, fish, Fruit juices KEEP seafood, soy meat Canned fruit KEEP normal. When in doubt, throw it substitutes Dried fruit KEEP out.

Thawing meat/ poultry

DISCARD

Shredded coconut

DISCARD

Salads: meat, tuna, shrimp, chicken, egg

DISCARD

Condiments: mayo, tarter, horseradish

DISCARD

Gravy, stuffing, broth

DISCARD

Peanut butter

KEEP

Lunchmeats, hot dogs, bacon, sausage, dried beef

DISCARD

Jelly, relish, mustard, ketchup, olives, pickles

KEEP

Pizza (any type)

DISCARD

Spaghetti sauce

DISCARD

Canned meats/fish

DISCARD

Bread, rolls, cakes

KEEP

Casseroles, soups, stews

DISCARD

Cooked pasta/rice

DISCARD

Soft cheeses

DISCARD

Waffles/pancakes

KEEP

Hard/processed cheeses

KEEP

Fresh vegetables (fresh, cut)

DISCARD

Milk, cream, sour cream, yogurt, etc.

DISCARD

Fresh vegetables (fresh, uncut)

KEEP

Butter, margarine

KEEP

Vegetables, cooked

DISCARD

Baby formula

DISCARD

Tofu (cooked)

DISCARD

Eggs (any type)

DISCARD

Baked potatoes

DISCARD

Custards/puddings

DISCARD

Cheesecake

DISCARD

PAGE 16

Branching Out Tree Care Hazardous Tree Removal

Aerial Bucket Work • Tree Trimming Demolition • Stump Removal Mulching & Underbrushing

Free Estimates Licensed & Insured

Jeremy Hill

850-326-0266

Nick Edenfield 850-272-2161

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Carbon Monoxide Dangers & Power Outages

W

hen power outages occur during natural disasters and other emergencies, the use of alternative sources of fuel or electricity for cooking or powering homes can cause carbon monoxide (CO) to build up in a home, garage or camper to poison the people and animals inside.

CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if inhaled. Every home should have at least one working carbon monoxide detector. The detector’s batteries should be checked at least twice annually, at the same time smoke detector batteries are checked.

Every year, more than 400 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning. Exposure to CO can cause loss of consciousness and death.

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever having symptoms.

Generators, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices should never be used inside a home, basement, garage or camper – or even outside near an open window.

When the lights go out during storms, there’s nothing more welcome than a portable gas-powered generator. It’s hard to believe, but a single generator can create as much as one hundred times more poisonous carbon monoxide gas than a car’s exhaust. If the generator is operated too close to a house, the invisible and odorless toxic gas can easily enter the home.

According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of the non-fatal CO poisonings reported during 2004 & 2005 hurricane seasons involve generators run within seven feet of a home. Here are some other ways to prevent CO poisoning in your home:

your CO detector every five years.

• Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.

• Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters indoors.

• If you smell an odor from your gas refrigerator have an expert service it – this could mean it is leaking CO. • When you buy gas equipment, buy only equipment carrying the seal of a national testing agency, such as Underwriters’ Laboratories.

• Make sure your gas appliances are vented properly. Horizontal vent pipes for appliances, such as a water heater, should go up slightly as they go toward outdoors. This prevents CO from leaking if the joints or pipes aren’t fitted tightly.

Generators can cause CO poisoning if not operated properly. They should never be used inside a home, in a basement, garage or camper - or even outside near an open window.

• Install a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. Place your detector where it will wake you up if it alarms, such as outside your bedroom. Consider buying a detector with a digital readout. This detector can tell you the highest level of CO concentration in your home in addition to alarming. Replace ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

1001 USES Portable Buildings, Carports & Garages Mobile Home & RV Supplies

850-526-3797 E WE MOV LE PORTAB GS BUILDIN

4673 HIGHWAY 90 E.

MARIANNA (Across from CVS)

Hill(Hill’s Services , Inc. Tree Service)

Art’s Home Services

Owners: Darren & Alisa Hill

We Haul Asphalt, Fill Dirt & Limerock

Now Demolishing Residential & Commercial

Call Us:

593-Hill (593-4455)

• Have your chimney checked or cleaned every year. Chimneys can be blocked by debris and this can cause CO to build up inside your home or cabin.

• Never patch a vent pipe with tape, gum or something else. This kind of patch can make CO build up in your home.

• Never use a gas range or oven for heating.

• Never burn charcoal indoors.

• Never use a portable gas stove indoors.

• Never use a generator inside your home, basement or garage or less than 20 feet from any window, door or vent.

• When using a generator, use a battery-powered or battery backup CO detector in your home.

Carpenter/Handyman Build It - Fix It Clean It - Haul It

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(850) 638-0790 Fax: (850) 638-8069

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Bonifay: 850.547.3624 • Marianna: 850.526.7144 Graceville: 850.263.3225 • Chipley: 850.638.7892 PAGE 6

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CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

When in Doubt, Throw it Out Food safety & power outages

A

power outage can be concerning, especially when it impacts your food supply. Oftentimes, one of the biggest concerns during an extended power outage is the safety of the food inside your refrigerator and freezer.

Whether you live in an area like ours that’s prone to thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes, if the power goes out, we all have the same questions: How long can we still eat food in the refrigerator or freezer and what should we keep or pitch after the power comes back on?

Here are some steps & guides for keeping your food safe and fresh during a power outage: • Keep the refrigerator door closed for as long as possible. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), your refrigerator will keep food safe for up to four hours during a power outage if it is unopened. Remember, a full refrigerator will stay colder longer than emptier ones. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.

• Buy appliance thermometers to keep inside your refrigerator and freezer. According to USDA, refrigerators should always be kept below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and freezers at or below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

Keeping thermometers inside both your freezer and refrigerator is a great way to be proactive in the event of a power outage. It will be able to tell you when the fridge or freezer has warmed to an unsafe point. Once the temperature inside reaches 40 degrees or higher, perishable food is only good for two more hours before you should pitch it.

• Keep extra ice in your freezer and freeze bottles of water. Buy extra bags of ice to keep in your freezer to help maintain its temperature, and to use later if you have to transfer your food into a cooler. If your freezer ISSUE JUNE 2020

has an ice maker, empty the ice cubes into gallon-sized storage bags each time the tray is full. The USDA also recommends keeping bottles of water in your freezer.

Not only will this help keep frozen food cold longer, but you will also have a supply of fresh drinking water in case your water supply becomes contaminated. If water bottles are in short supply, which often happens when a storm is approaching, freeze fresh water in clean, quart-sized storage bags or food-safe plastic containers.

• Group your frozen food together in your freezer. This will help keep your food colder for a longer period of time.

• Transfer items from your refrigerator to your freezer. If there is a possibility of a power outage, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) also suggests transferring some of your refrigerated food to your freezer to keep it at a safe temperature for a longer period of time.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 15

a new meter collar device that makes connecting a portable generator safe & easy

Connecting a Portable Generator is Now Safe & Easy with GenerLink™ • After much research, the co-op is of the opinion that the GenerLink™ is one of the most reliable, affordable & safe means of connecting a portable generator to your home.

• WFEC does not sell or provide a warranty, service or repair the GenerLink™. However, the co-op will install the device at no cost to members wishing to purchase one directly from Global Power Products (GPP).

Powering Up After an OUTAGE When the power goes out, we expect it to be restored within a few hours.

But when a major storm or natural disaster causes widespread damage, extended outages may result. Our line crews work long, hard hours to restore service safely to the greatest number of members in the shortest time possible. Here's what's going on if you find yourself in the dark:

1. High-Voltage Transmission Lines: Transmission towers & cables that supply power to transmission substations (and thousands of members) rarely fail. But when damaged, these facilities must be repaired before other parts of the system can operate.

• If requested, WFEC will provide financing for members wishing to purchase a GenerLink™ from GPP. Financing will be for qualified members only at 5% interest for a maximum of 36 months. Down payment required. The down payment amount based on credit approval with the cooperative.

2. Distribution Substation:

A substation can serve hundreds or thousands of members. When a major outage occurs, line crews inspect substations to determine if problems stem from transmission lines feeding into the substation, the substation itself or if problems exist further down the line.

SAFE: • GenerLink™ eliminates the use of extension cords & other connections that can be hazardous to members and utility personnel.

• GenerLink™ detects when a generator is operating & automatically disconnects from the utility grid, eliminating dangerous backfeed.

EASY: • GenerLink™ is equipped with GenerLok™, a unique interlocking power cord system that provides a quick & easy connection of a portable generator.

• GenerLink™ is installed in 20 minutes or less by utility personnel & does not require the member's presence.

• GenerLink™ is easily installed behind a member's electric meter & requires no rewiring of the member's electrical system.

• With GenerLink™, our members have the flexibility to run virtually any appliance, up to the capacity of their generator by simply energizing appliances from their breaker panel.

800-886-3837

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.

PAGE 14

This particular process of restoring power is used industry-wide since it is the most efficient way to restore power to the greatest number of members possible.

3. Main Distribution Lines:

If the problem can't be isolated at a distribution substation, distribution lines are checked. These lines carry power to large groups of members in communities or housing developments.

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)

4. Tap Lines:

If local outages persist, supply lines (known as tap lines) are inspected. These lines deliver power to transformers, either mounted on poles or placed on pads for underground service, outside businesses, schools and homes.

5. Individual Homes:

If your home remains without power, the service line between a transformer & your home may need to be repaired. Always call to report an outage to help line crews isolate local issues.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Lynn & Steve’s Helping Hands, LLC DBA

Tri-County Tractor Work & Debris Removal • Bucket work • Bush Hogging • Chainsaw/Pruning Work • Light Clearing

Servicing Holmes, Jackson & Washington Counties

386-748-9035 850-547-1676

Hinson Land Clearing

Stump & Debris Removal Bulldozer & Excavator Work Tractor Services Including Bush Hogging, Discing & Spraying Heavy Forestry Mowing 30 Years Experience • Owned & Operated by Francis Hinson

(850) 481-2960

(Cell)

TOGETHER

William Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc. • Refrigeration • Heating & Cooling • Ice Machines • Residential/Commercial

For Service Call: (850) 263-3427 or Cell: (850) 326-0330

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS 20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

We can be safe.

Gary McIntosh

Linemen often work beside a busy roadway, & that makes a dangerous job more hazardous. When approaching a utility vehicle, move over if safe to do so, creating an empty lane buffer. When changing lanes isn’t possible, reduce your speed. Let’s work together to follow the law, pay attention, slow down, move over & stay safe.

(850) 593-0009

200-Amp Power Pole $299.95

Stump Grinding Best Service

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Marianna, Florida

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

On the FarmDelivered or Installed

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 Clay O’Neal:

850-638-4860 • Cellular 415-0385

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055

Licensed Owner/PCO: Jerry W. Davis Jr.

Tri-County Gas

Est. 1980

(850) 718-6109

100 - Amp Power Pole $199.95

S ervice , I nc .

Tri-County Gas S ervice , I nc .

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks”

Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc.

Contact Rick at 526-2183 or Anthony Register at 573-0219

Quality Seamless Rain Gutters, Inc. • Modern Equipment • Quality Materials • Many Colors to Choose From • Materials and Workmanship Warranty • Commercial or Residential Installation • Owner Operated-Professional Installation • Installation of 6 inch/7 inch gutters

(850) 209-5757

FREE

ESTIMATES PAGE 8

License Number: CMC1250499

G l e n S c o tt

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Adams Tree Service, llc

For All Your Propane Needs

Our Boots!

2020 Cutchins Road Cottondale, FL 32431

Veteran Owned

On The Ground For You!

SURGE PROTECTION

Mike Adams - Owner

547-3696 #RM0048955

Sign up today!

Take the STRIKE out of lightning!

Experience peace of mind knowing that your home & appliances are protected from power surges.

Tree Removal/Trimming Stump Grinding

(850) 547-5001 (850) 596-8767

• FREE Estimates

415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay

Lease for just $4.25/month!

Just say, "Add it to my bill!"

• Insured

Energy Efficiency Tip: Home cooling makes up a large portion of your energy bills. Try to keep the difference between the temperature of your thermostat setting & the outside temperature to a minimum. The smaller the difference, the more energy you will save.

ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

W&S Farm

and

Service

Tractor & Equipment Repair Welding Irrigation Repair Excavator & Bulldozer Work Land Clearing Earth Moving (850) 263-8831 (850) 326-8419

tion Installa ! le Availab

CBC1257046 backwoodsbuildings@yahoo.com

1240 South Blvd. • Chipley, FL 32428

850-676-4903

www.backwoodsbuildings.net

Debbie Roney Smith (850) 209-8039 debson1999@gmail.com

Outboard & Small Engine Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

Full Time Realtor since 1996 4420 Lafayette Street, Marianna, FL 32446 Property Searches • Follow my blog @http://realtordrs.com

RENTAL & TRACTORS 1764 Clayton Rd., Chipley FL (423) 313-0667

(850) 263-4861 (850) 658-2886

We Do the Job For You • Free Estimates

10% Off with this Ad

Since 1969

1.855.MYWFECA (1.855.699.3322) to make a payment!

Graceville Goat, Sheep, Chicken Auction, LLC 916 White Avenue • Graceville, FL Every Thursday: 5 PM - until Miscellaneous & Animals

850-573-2157 850-263-0793

• No Buyer Premiums • Open to Public Buyers & Sellers Welcome #AB3552

4” to 12”

4 ears corn, shucked or 2 cups frozen whole kernel corn, thawed 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 jalepeno, seeded & finely chopped 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, rinsed & drained 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1" pieces 1 cup cherry tomatoes 4 green onions, chopped (green part only) 1/2 cup chopped red onion

r year

on heating costs!

Dressing: 1/4 cup bottle reduced-calorie Italian salad dressing 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 garlic clove, minced 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce

Directions: To prepare, cut kernels off ears of corn. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn & jalepenos. Cook until corn is lightly browned, 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Transfer to a large bowl; cool slightly.

Stir in black beans, bell pepper, tomatoes, green & red onions. To prepare dressing, combine salad dressing, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, cumin & Tabasco sauce in a jar.

Secure lid & shake to blend. Pour over corn mixture, cover with plastic wrap & refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight. To serve, toss lightly & tranfer to salad bowl lined with lettuce leaves, if desired. Serves 8.

Residential, Commercial, Agricultural Water Analysis & Treatment

Forestry Mulching

with our equipment, we simply grind the bush or trees to the ground into a mulch. The mulch will decay & put nutrients back into the soil, food plots, fence runs or cut over timber.

850-263-8064

Touchton’s Barns & Sheds

Hinson Land Clearing (850) 481-2960

• Pole Barns • Equipment Sheds • Enclosed Sheds, Etc.

Over 20 years experience

“We Work to please YOU”

Free Estimates

(850) 307-4449 #CBC1256015 “In God We Trust”

Panhandle Pump Repair & Filtration Service

ALDAY’S Bobcat & Tree Service Licensed & Insured LI20000696600

(850) 209-2501

Stacey Alday

Owner/Operator (850) 557-7290

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Own a manufactured home?

Save about $550 pe

Water Well Drilling & Pump Repair

Josh Alday PAGE 12

Carpet • Paint • Feed & Seed Vinyl Flooring • Ceramic Tile Free Estimates

DAVIDSON EQUIPMENT

Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

Call

Bush Paint & Supply

263-4744 • 971 6th Ave., Graceville

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE

Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

Submitted by: Sue Conkrite

Ingredients:

F R E E E S T I M AT E S !

McIntosh

Grand Ridge

Garden Corn & Black Bean Salsa

What’s in YOUR Water?

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462 ISSUE JUNE 2020

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

Home: (850) 535-1121 Cell: (850) 260-2204

If you’re one of our electric cooperative members, we're powering savings when you replace your old unit with a new energyefficient heat pump.

Receive $400/ton for converting to a heat pump from an electric furnace. Call (850) 263-3231 today.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

The Heart of Our Co-op: The Lineman

L

"Dedication: Devotion to a task or purpose; having single-minded loyalty or integrity."

inecrews work around the clock, sometimes in difficult and dangerous conditions, to keep power flowing to our local communities. Whether they’re restoring power after a major storm or maintaining critical infrastructure to our electric system, lineworkers are at the heart of our co-op.

When a storm hits, they set aside their personal priorities because Mother Nature doesn’t work around holidays, vacations, birthdays or even wedding ceremonies. A service-oriented mentality is one of the many admirable characteristics of an electric lineworker.

“It is my job to restore power, but outsiders don’t always understand that in some of the most dangerous times, linemen have to leave their

Michael & Danielle Boatwright at their wedding ceremony on Friday, April 24, 2020.

The couple plans to have a larger ceremony with family & friends this November.

homes and families to go out and risk their lives to help restore power for others. I don’t mind putting others first because when I decided to become a lineman, that’s what I signed up to do,” said Michael Boatwright, an apprentice lineman who works in WFEC’s Bonifay district.

Being dedicated to the job is also a key characteristic you will find in many of our linemen. No one wants to restore our members’ power more than our line crews.

Recently, WFEC and its sister cooperatives have seen several severe storms that caused quite a bit of damage in the form of downed trees, power lines and widespread power outages. On April 19th and 20th, some of these storms hit our neighboring co-ops hard and they needed assistance in the form of mutual aid. Our linemen volunteered to assist them with power restoration efforts and left their families and our cooperative members to help where they were needed. These men left on a Monday, April 20th, returning home on the following Wednesday to prepare for a round of storms expected in our area on Thursday. After working long hours the previous three days, our linemen jumped into action restoring power to the over 7,000 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

WFEC members impacted by these storms by Friday evening. In fact, commitment to the job, our coWFEC also received some mutual aid assistance to restore power during op would not thrive. No matter this time. Unfortunately, these storms and power outages don’t always occur the time––day or night, weekday at convenient times. or weekend––if the lights go out, Boatwright is a good example of the dedication our linemen embody so do they. Our lineworkers and on a daily basis. He got married on Friday, April 24, and immediately after their family members are brave, his wedding ceremony, returned to work restoring power to the members committed and critical to our coimpacted by the storms mentioned above. He said he felt going back to op’s success. So remember, the next work immediately was the right thing to do because our members needed time your power is out, so are our their power back on and he needed to be there to help. And, he's not the linemen. It is also likely that one only one of our linemen who have done so. of them is missing a family event, “My wife, Danielle, has always been supportive. She knows what kind of whether it’s a child or grandchild’s work I do. She worries but she respects the job I do and is thankful that I’ve birthday party, graduation, cookout always come home safe,” said Boatwright. or even a honeymoon.

Our lineman are not the only exceptionally dedicated people – our “My family is very supportive,” linemen’s families should also be recognized for their sacrifices and said Boatwright. “My wife and mom selflessness. They are also committed to our members and the co-op’s may worry too much, but they are mission to provide affordable, reliable electric service to its members. proud to say they know a lineman A lineman’s job may be to install, repair and maintain overhead and and will stand beside me in any and underground electrical power lines and equipment, but it’s also much more. every storm,” he continued.

It’s providing a service, it’s playing a part in the bigger picture, it’s working in dangerous or challenging situations, and it’s also grueling, tiring, hard work – often in adverse weather conditions whether that be extreme heat or sideways rain and strong, steady winds.

Although it is hard work in sometimes difficult situations, Boatwright says that he enjoys the fact that being a lineman is a handson job, that it’s outside and that the electrical aspect of the job is very interesting to him. He also said that he enjoys being able to work for a small company with fewer employees because when you work so closely together you become a family. He said that when he hears the “all clear” after working extended outages that he feels thankful and that he’s relieved knowing that he and his lineman brothers have spent hours and sometimes days on end doing everything they can to restore members’ power.

Apprentice Lineman Michael Boatwright during Hurricane Michael. He said he went Our lineman and their families without power for a few days but got up every day, went out & did his job. He said are truly a breed of their own.

Hurricane Michael wasn't the first storm he worked but it was the hardest.

Without their hard work and ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

The Heart of Our Co-op: The Lineman

L

"Dedication: Devotion to a task or purpose; having single-minded loyalty or integrity."

inecrews work around the clock, sometimes in difficult and dangerous conditions, to keep power flowing to our local communities. Whether they’re restoring power after a major storm or maintaining critical infrastructure to our electric system, lineworkers are at the heart of our co-op.

When a storm hits, they set aside their personal priorities because Mother Nature doesn’t work around holidays, vacations, birthdays or even wedding ceremonies. A service-oriented mentality is one of the many admirable characteristics of an electric lineworker.

“It is my job to restore power, but outsiders don’t always understand that in some of the most dangerous times, linemen have to leave their

Michael & Danielle Boatwright at their wedding ceremony on Friday, April 24, 2020.

The couple plans to have a larger ceremony with family & friends this November.

homes and families to go out and risk their lives to help restore power for others. I don’t mind putting others first because when I decided to become a lineman, that’s what I signed up to do,” said Michael Boatwright, an apprentice lineman who works in WFEC’s Bonifay district.

Being dedicated to the job is also a key characteristic you will find in many of our linemen. No one wants to restore our members’ power more than our line crews.

Recently, WFEC and its sister cooperatives have seen several severe storms that caused quite a bit of damage in the form of downed trees, power lines and widespread power outages. On April 19th and 20th, some of these storms hit our neighboring co-ops hard and they needed assistance in the form of mutual aid. Our linemen volunteered to assist them with power restoration efforts and left their families and our cooperative members to help where they were needed. These men left on a Monday, April 20th, returning home on the following Wednesday to prepare for a round of storms expected in our area on Thursday. After working long hours the previous three days, our linemen jumped into action restoring power to the over 7,000 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

WFEC members impacted by these storms by Friday evening. In fact, commitment to the job, our coWFEC also received some mutual aid assistance to restore power during op would not thrive. No matter this time. Unfortunately, these storms and power outages don’t always occur the time––day or night, weekday at convenient times. or weekend––if the lights go out, Boatwright is a good example of the dedication our linemen embody so do they. Our lineworkers and on a daily basis. He got married on Friday, April 24, and immediately after their family members are brave, his wedding ceremony, returned to work restoring power to the members committed and critical to our coimpacted by the storms mentioned above. He said he felt going back to op’s success. So remember, the next work immediately was the right thing to do because our members needed time your power is out, so are our their power back on and he needed to be there to help. And, he's not the linemen. It is also likely that one only one of our linemen who have done so. of them is missing a family event, “My wife, Danielle, has always been supportive. She knows what kind of whether it’s a child or grandchild’s work I do. She worries but she respects the job I do and is thankful that I’ve birthday party, graduation, cookout always come home safe,” said Boatwright. or even a honeymoon.

Our lineman are not the only exceptionally dedicated people – our “My family is very supportive,” linemen’s families should also be recognized for their sacrifices and said Boatwright. “My wife and mom selflessness. They are also committed to our members and the co-op’s may worry too much, but they are mission to provide affordable, reliable electric service to its members. proud to say they know a lineman A lineman’s job may be to install, repair and maintain overhead and and will stand beside me in any and underground electrical power lines and equipment, but it’s also much more. every storm,” he continued.

It’s providing a service, it’s playing a part in the bigger picture, it’s working in dangerous or challenging situations, and it’s also grueling, tiring, hard work – often in adverse weather conditions whether that be extreme heat or sideways rain and strong, steady winds.

Although it is hard work in sometimes difficult situations, Boatwright says that he enjoys the fact that being a lineman is a handson job, that it’s outside and that the electrical aspect of the job is very interesting to him. He also said that he enjoys being able to work for a small company with fewer employees because when you work so closely together you become a family. He said that when he hears the “all clear” after working extended outages that he feels thankful and that he’s relieved knowing that he and his lineman brothers have spent hours and sometimes days on end doing everything they can to restore members’ power.

Apprentice Lineman Michael Boatwright during Hurricane Michael. He said he went Our lineman and their families without power for a few days but got up every day, went out & did his job. He said are truly a breed of their own.

Hurricane Michael wasn't the first storm he worked but it was the hardest.

Without their hard work and ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

W&S Farm

and

Service

Tractor & Equipment Repair Welding Irrigation Repair Excavator & Bulldozer Work Land Clearing Earth Moving (850) 263-8831 (850) 326-8419

tion Installa ! le Availab

CBC1257046 backwoodsbuildings@yahoo.com

1240 South Blvd. • Chipley, FL 32428

850-676-4903

www.backwoodsbuildings.net

Debbie Roney Smith (850) 209-8039 debson1999@gmail.com

Outboard & Small Engine Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

Full Time Realtor since 1996 4420 Lafayette Street, Marianna, FL 32446 Property Searches • Follow my blog @http://realtordrs.com

RENTAL & TRACTORS 1764 Clayton Rd., Chipley FL (423) 313-0667

(850) 263-4861 (850) 658-2886

We Do the Job For You • Free Estimates

10% Off with this Ad

Since 1969

1.855.MYWFECA (1.855.699.3322) to make a payment!

Graceville Goat, Sheep, Chicken Auction, LLC 916 White Avenue • Graceville, FL Every Thursday: 5 PM - until Miscellaneous & Animals

850-573-2157 850-263-0793

• No Buyer Premiums • Open to Public Buyers & Sellers Welcome #AB3552

4” to 12”

4 ears corn, shucked or 2 cups frozen whole kernel corn, thawed 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 jalepeno, seeded & finely chopped 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, rinsed & drained 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1" pieces 1 cup cherry tomatoes 4 green onions, chopped (green part only) 1/2 cup chopped red onion

r year

on heating costs!

Dressing: 1/4 cup bottle reduced-calorie Italian salad dressing 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 garlic clove, minced 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce

Directions: To prepare, cut kernels off ears of corn. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn & jalepenos. Cook until corn is lightly browned, 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Transfer to a large bowl; cool slightly.

Stir in black beans, bell pepper, tomatoes, green & red onions. To prepare dressing, combine salad dressing, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, cumin & Tabasco sauce in a jar.

Secure lid & shake to blend. Pour over corn mixture, cover with plastic wrap & refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight. To serve, toss lightly & tranfer to salad bowl lined with lettuce leaves, if desired. Serves 8.

Residential, Commercial, Agricultural Water Analysis & Treatment

Forestry Mulching

with our equipment, we simply grind the bush or trees to the ground into a mulch. The mulch will decay & put nutrients back into the soil, food plots, fence runs or cut over timber.

850-263-8064

Touchton’s Barns & Sheds

Hinson Land Clearing (850) 481-2960

• Pole Barns • Equipment Sheds • Enclosed Sheds, Etc.

Over 20 years experience

“We Work to please YOU”

Free Estimates

(850) 307-4449 #CBC1256015 “In God We Trust”

Panhandle Pump Repair & Filtration Service

ALDAY’S Bobcat & Tree Service Licensed & Insured LI20000696600

(850) 209-2501

Stacey Alday

Owner/Operator (850) 557-7290

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Own a manufactured home?

Save about $550 pe

Water Well Drilling & Pump Repair

Josh Alday PAGE 12

Carpet • Paint • Feed & Seed Vinyl Flooring • Ceramic Tile Free Estimates

DAVIDSON EQUIPMENT

Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

Call

Bush Paint & Supply

263-4744 • 971 6th Ave., Graceville

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE

Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

Submitted by: Sue Conkrite

Ingredients:

F R E E E S T I M AT E S !

McIntosh

Grand Ridge

Garden Corn & Black Bean Salsa

What’s in YOUR Water?

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462 ISSUE JUNE 2020

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

Home: (850) 535-1121 Cell: (850) 260-2204

If you’re one of our electric cooperative members, we're powering savings when you replace your old unit with a new energyefficient heat pump.

Receive $400/ton for converting to a heat pump from an electric furnace. Call (850) 263-3231 today.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Lynn & Steve’s Helping Hands, LLC DBA

Tri-County Tractor Work & Debris Removal • Bucket work • Bush Hogging • Chainsaw/Pruning Work • Light Clearing

Servicing Holmes, Jackson & Washington Counties

386-748-9035 850-547-1676

Hinson Land Clearing

Stump & Debris Removal Bulldozer & Excavator Work Tractor Services Including Bush Hogging, Discing & Spraying Heavy Forestry Mowing 30 Years Experience • Owned & Operated by Francis Hinson

(850) 481-2960

(Cell)

TOGETHER

William Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc. • Refrigeration • Heating & Cooling • Ice Machines • Residential/Commercial

For Service Call: (850) 263-3427 or Cell: (850) 326-0330

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS 20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

We can be safe.

Gary McIntosh

Linemen often work beside a busy roadway, & that makes a dangerous job more hazardous. When approaching a utility vehicle, move over if safe to do so, creating an empty lane buffer. When changing lanes isn’t possible, reduce your speed. Let’s work together to follow the law, pay attention, slow down, move over & stay safe.

(850) 593-0009

200-Amp Power Pole $299.95

Stump Grinding Best Service

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Marianna, Florida

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

On the FarmDelivered or Installed

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 Clay O’Neal:

850-638-4860 • Cellular 415-0385

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055

Licensed Owner/PCO: Jerry W. Davis Jr.

Tri-County Gas

Est. 1980

(850) 718-6109

100 - Amp Power Pole $199.95

S ervice , I nc .

Tri-County Gas S ervice , I nc .

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks”

Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc.

Contact Rick at 526-2183 or Anthony Register at 573-0219

Quality Seamless Rain Gutters, Inc. • Modern Equipment • Quality Materials • Many Colors to Choose From • Materials and Workmanship Warranty • Commercial or Residential Installation • Owner Operated-Professional Installation • Installation of 6 inch/7 inch gutters

(850) 209-5757

FREE

ESTIMATES PAGE 8

License Number: CMC1250499

G l e n S c o tt

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Adams Tree Service, llc

For All Your Propane Needs

Our Boots!

2020 Cutchins Road Cottondale, FL 32431

Veteran Owned

On The Ground For You!

SURGE PROTECTION

Mike Adams - Owner

547-3696 #RM0048955

Sign up today!

Take the STRIKE out of lightning!

Experience peace of mind knowing that your home & appliances are protected from power surges.

Tree Removal/Trimming Stump Grinding

(850) 547-5001 (850) 596-8767

• FREE Estimates

415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay

Lease for just $4.25/month!

Just say, "Add it to my bill!"

• Insured

Energy Efficiency Tip: Home cooling makes up a large portion of your energy bills. Try to keep the difference between the temperature of your thermostat setting & the outside temperature to a minimum. The smaller the difference, the more energy you will save.

ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

a new meter collar device that makes connecting a portable generator safe & easy

Connecting a Portable Generator is Now Safe & Easy with GenerLink™ • After much research, the co-op is of the opinion that the GenerLink™ is one of the most reliable, affordable & safe means of connecting a portable generator to your home.

• WFEC does not sell or provide a warranty, service or repair the GenerLink™. However, the co-op will install the device at no cost to members wishing to purchase one directly from Global Power Products (GPP).

Powering Up After an OUTAGE When the power goes out, we expect it to be restored within a few hours.

But when a major storm or natural disaster causes widespread damage, extended outages may result. Our line crews work long, hard hours to restore service safely to the greatest number of members in the shortest time possible. Here's what's going on if you find yourself in the dark:

1. High-Voltage Transmission Lines: Transmission towers & cables that supply power to transmission substations (and thousands of members) rarely fail. But when damaged, these facilities must be repaired before other parts of the system can operate.

• If requested, WFEC will provide financing for members wishing to purchase a GenerLink™ from GPP. Financing will be for qualified members only at 5% interest for a maximum of 36 months. Down payment required. The down payment amount based on credit approval with the cooperative.

2. Distribution Substation:

A substation can serve hundreds or thousands of members. When a major outage occurs, line crews inspect substations to determine if problems stem from transmission lines feeding into the substation, the substation itself or if problems exist further down the line.

SAFE: • GenerLink™ eliminates the use of extension cords & other connections that can be hazardous to members and utility personnel.

• GenerLink™ detects when a generator is operating & automatically disconnects from the utility grid, eliminating dangerous backfeed.

EASY: • GenerLink™ is equipped with GenerLok™, a unique interlocking power cord system that provides a quick & easy connection of a portable generator.

• GenerLink™ is installed in 20 minutes or less by utility personnel & does not require the member's presence.

• GenerLink™ is easily installed behind a member's electric meter & requires no rewiring of the member's electrical system.

• With GenerLink™, our members have the flexibility to run virtually any appliance, up to the capacity of their generator by simply energizing appliances from their breaker panel.

800-886-3837

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.

PAGE 14

This particular process of restoring power is used industry-wide since it is the most efficient way to restore power to the greatest number of members possible.

3. Main Distribution Lines:

If the problem can't be isolated at a distribution substation, distribution lines are checked. These lines carry power to large groups of members in communities or housing developments.

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)

4. Tap Lines:

If local outages persist, supply lines (known as tap lines) are inspected. These lines deliver power to transformers, either mounted on poles or placed on pads for underground service, outside businesses, schools and homes.

5. Individual Homes:

If your home remains without power, the service line between a transformer & your home may need to be repaired. Always call to report an outage to help line crews isolate local issues.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

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• Have your chimney checked or cleaned every year. Chimneys can be blocked by debris and this can cause CO to build up inside your home or cabin.

• Never patch a vent pipe with tape, gum or something else. This kind of patch can make CO build up in your home.

• Never use a gas range or oven for heating.

• Never burn charcoal indoors.

• Never use a portable gas stove indoors.

• Never use a generator inside your home, basement or garage or less than 20 feet from any window, door or vent.

• When using a generator, use a battery-powered or battery backup CO detector in your home.

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CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

When in Doubt, Throw it Out Food safety & power outages

A

power outage can be concerning, especially when it impacts your food supply. Oftentimes, one of the biggest concerns during an extended power outage is the safety of the food inside your refrigerator and freezer.

Whether you live in an area like ours that’s prone to thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes, if the power goes out, we all have the same questions: How long can we still eat food in the refrigerator or freezer and what should we keep or pitch after the power comes back on?

Here are some steps & guides for keeping your food safe and fresh during a power outage: • Keep the refrigerator door closed for as long as possible. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), your refrigerator will keep food safe for up to four hours during a power outage if it is unopened. Remember, a full refrigerator will stay colder longer than emptier ones. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.

• Buy appliance thermometers to keep inside your refrigerator and freezer. According to USDA, refrigerators should always be kept below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and freezers at or below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

Keeping thermometers inside both your freezer and refrigerator is a great way to be proactive in the event of a power outage. It will be able to tell you when the fridge or freezer has warmed to an unsafe point. Once the temperature inside reaches 40 degrees or higher, perishable food is only good for two more hours before you should pitch it.

• Keep extra ice in your freezer and freeze bottles of water. Buy extra bags of ice to keep in your freezer to help maintain its temperature, and to use later if you have to transfer your food into a cooler. If your freezer ISSUE JUNE 2020

has an ice maker, empty the ice cubes into gallon-sized storage bags each time the tray is full. The USDA also recommends keeping bottles of water in your freezer.

Not only will this help keep frozen food cold longer, but you will also have a supply of fresh drinking water in case your water supply becomes contaminated. If water bottles are in short supply, which often happens when a storm is approaching, freeze fresh water in clean, quart-sized storage bags or food-safe plastic containers.

• Group your frozen food together in your freezer. This will help keep your food colder for a longer period of time.

• Transfer items from your refrigerator to your freezer. If there is a possibility of a power outage, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) also suggests transferring some of your refrigerated food to your freezer to keep it at a safe temperature for a longer period of time.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 15

Food may be safely refrozen if it still contains ice crystals or is at 40 butter, rice, oatmeal and dried degrees or below, however, its quality may suffer. Items such as milk, legumes will also last quite a while. meats and leftovers that you don’t need immediately can be safely • Make sure to have charcoal or transferred to the freezer during a power outage. propane on hand if you have an • Keep a cooler or two handy in case of a prolonged power outage. If it outdoor grill. Don’t forget to looks as though your power will be out for more than 2-4 hours, the stock up on charcoal or propane if American Red Cross recommends packing refrigerated food into a cooler. have an outdoor grill. If your meat You’ll want the temperature to stay at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, is starting to thaw in your fridge or so make sure the cooler is packed with ice. If the power is going to be out freezer, having a working grill will for more than a day, prepare a second cooler for your freezer items. Any save you from having to throw it food that has been exposed to temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit all out. Food that is beginning to for more than 2 hours, or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for more than thaw, but is still at a safe one hour, should be thrown away. temperature should be cooked • Stock up on shelf-stable foods that will stay good for a long time. Try first. Before cooking, check each to keep your pantry stocked with nonperishable foods and make sure you item separately. Any food that feels have a manual can opener since an electric one without batteries will not warm to the touch or has an work if the power goes out. Cans of beans and vegetables can last on the unusual odor, color, or texture shelf for 2-5 years according to the USDA. Other staples like peanut should be thrown out. Use a food thermometer to make sure each Food Type: Held Above Food Type: Held Above item is cooked to a safe internal 40 Degrees 40 Degrees temperature to kill any food borne (+2 hours): (+2 hours): bacteria.

Raw/leftover DISCARD Fresh fruit (cut) DISCARD Unsafe food can make you sick cooked meat, Fruit (uncut) KEEP even if it looks, smells and tastes poultry, fish, Fruit juices KEEP seafood, soy meat Canned fruit KEEP normal. When in doubt, throw it substitutes Dried fruit KEEP out.

Thawing meat/ poultry

DISCARD

Shredded coconut

DISCARD

Salads: meat, tuna, shrimp, chicken, egg

DISCARD

Condiments: mayo, tarter, horseradish

DISCARD

Gravy, stuffing, broth

DISCARD

Peanut butter

KEEP

Lunchmeats, hot dogs, bacon, sausage, dried beef

DISCARD

Jelly, relish, mustard, ketchup, olives, pickles

KEEP

Pizza (any type)

DISCARD

Spaghetti sauce

DISCARD

Canned meats/fish

DISCARD

Bread, rolls, cakes

KEEP

Casseroles, soups, stews

DISCARD

Cooked pasta/rice

DISCARD

Soft cheeses

DISCARD

Waffles/pancakes

KEEP

Hard/processed cheeses

KEEP

Fresh vegetables (fresh, cut)

DISCARD

Milk, cream, sour cream, yogurt, etc.

DISCARD

Fresh vegetables (fresh, uncut)

KEEP

Butter, margarine

KEEP

Vegetables, cooked

DISCARD

Baby formula

DISCARD

Tofu (cooked)

DISCARD

Eggs (any type)

DISCARD

Baked potatoes

DISCARD

Custards/puddings

DISCARD

Cheesecake

DISCARD

PAGE 16

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CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Carbon Monoxide Dangers & Power Outages

W

hen power outages occur during natural disasters and other emergencies, the use of alternative sources of fuel or electricity for cooking or powering homes can cause carbon monoxide (CO) to build up in a home, garage or camper to poison the people and animals inside.

CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if inhaled. Every home should have at least one working carbon monoxide detector. The detector’s batteries should be checked at least twice annually, at the same time smoke detector batteries are checked.

Every year, more than 400 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning. Exposure to CO can cause loss of consciousness and death.

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever having symptoms.

Generators, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices should never be used inside a home, basement, garage or camper – or even outside near an open window.

When the lights go out during storms, there’s nothing more welcome than a portable gas-powered generator. It’s hard to believe, but a single generator can create as much as one hundred times more poisonous carbon monoxide gas than a car’s exhaust. If the generator is operated too close to a house, the invisible and odorless toxic gas can easily enter the home.

According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of the non-fatal CO poisonings reported during 2004 & 2005 hurricane seasons involve generators run within seven feet of a home. Here are some other ways to prevent CO poisoning in your home:

your CO detector every five years.

• Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.

• Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters indoors.

• If you smell an odor from your gas refrigerator have an expert service it – this could mean it is leaking CO. • When you buy gas equipment, buy only equipment carrying the seal of a national testing agency, such as Underwriters’ Laboratories.

• Make sure your gas appliances are vented properly. Horizontal vent pipes for appliances, such as a water heater, should go up slightly as they go toward outdoors. This prevents CO from leaking if the joints or pipes aren’t fitted tightly.

Generators can cause CO poisoning if not operated properly. They should never be used inside a home, in a basement, garage or camper - or even outside near an open window.

• Install a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. Place your detector where it will wake you up if it alarms, such as outside your bedroom. Consider buying a detector with a digital readout. This detector can tell you the highest level of CO concentration in your home in addition to alarming. Replace ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Mullen says that he also recalls a time that a tree fell in the yard at his mother's home. A limb from an old, fallen oak went into the ground and severed the main water line going to his mother’s house. Needless to say, there was no water in her home and she had no idea that a tree limb had severed the main line. The cooperative often gets comments from members saying that the power is out at their home but there is no damage in their immediate area. Another common complaint is that the power is out while there is not a cloud in the sky.

These scenarios are not uncommon considering West Florida Electric has approximately 4,800 miles of over-head powerlines in a very rural fourcounty service area. Some of the causes of these power outages are trees and limbs on the line, vehicle accidents, farm and heavy equipment accidents, birds, squirrels, snakes or lightning and much more.

Just as Mullen’s mother did not see damage and could not understand why she had no water in her home WFEC members often wonder why they have no electricity. As in her case there is always a legitimate reason for the outage.

The cooperative also receives questions about how electricity is restored when large-scale outages occur. When a major storm or natural disaster causes widespread damage and outages, extended outages may result. Line crews work to restore service safely to to greatest number of members in the shortest time possible. This is the process that is always used to restore major outages. First, the transmission lines which supply power to WFEC's distribution system are repaired. These lines must be repaired first before WISEFLY AUTO GLASS - EST. 2007

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Roger Lonsway Home Office: 638-7412

distribution lines can safely receive power. Second, distribution substations are repaired. The transmission lines feed into these substations Problems could occur with the substation itself, or the lines feeding into the substation.

The third area that is repaired are the main distribution lines which carry power to neighborhoods and consumers whose power is provided

by WFEC. The next thing repaired is the tap lines serving homes, schools, businesses and neighborhoods.

These lines are the ones delivering power to transformers mounted on poles or placed on pads for underground service. The final areas that are repaired are the service lines (individual taps) between a transformer and a residence. The graphic on page 7 illustrates this process.

The co-op can’t guarantee an uninterrupted power supply, but every employee at WFEC is committed to restoring your power as safely and quickly as possible.

Mobile: 260-5438

Family Dentistry of Chipley 415-1411 Family Dentistry of Bonifay 547-9290 Most Insurances Accepted New Chipley Location Cosmetic, General & Family Dentistry

Digging too close to a pad-mounted transformer like the one above can damage underground cables, leading to electrical shock or interruptions in service. Use caution when landscaping. Call 811 before you dig and stay safe.

PAGE 4

• Veneers • Crowns • Dentures • Cleanings • Whitening • Bonding New & Emergency Patients Welcome

Dr. Ernie Hooper, Dr. John Wilson, Dr. Brian Parker & Dr. Hilary Whitaker 1410-A 410-A Brickyard Rd, Chipley ...................................... 415-1411 110 E. North Ave, Bonifay ............................................ 547-9290 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Animals/Livestock NSDR Registered standard size Australian Shepherd puppies, 7 total, 4 females, 3 males, first shots, tails docked, dew claws removed, wormed, $400; 451-6427 or 812-664-6226, leave message.

5’ bush hog, used once, new, $900; upright freezer, approximately 17 cubic feet, $650; 594-4838.

Miscellaneous Canning jars, pints, quarts, lots, $6/dozen; 263-4013.

Used buncher, Tiger Cat motor runs great, make me an offer; 326-7640.

German Shorthair Pointer puppies; 693-5001, Archie Jones.

Chainsaw Husquvarna 55 Rancher, 18” bar, excellent saw, $250; 592-4798.

Antiques/Collectibles

Sears Nordic track weight bench & leg press, will take best offer; 593-6088.

One antique metal single tree; two antique double trees for mules, $85 each or all for $225; 209-0748.

First responder boots, $70, size 11, Rocky brand; 638-7874.

Multiple Listings Two-horse trailer; treeing walker Coon dogs; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; gentle horse for trail riding; hay dolly; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

Real Estate Lot, Compass Lake Hills, near McCormick Lake, Edison & Holly Springs, MOL 1 acre high, flat & dry, $4,000; 305-866-2549.

71 acre pasture in Washington County, small pond, fenced; 234-7070.

1,292 square foot wood frame house, to be moved from property in Marianna, $5,000, will need new roof & TLC, 3BR/1BA, have 45 days from date of purchase to move; 557-4877.

4 straight boot & 7 angled boot coil packs, fits Ford 4.6L Brick House, 3BR/2.5BA, 2,400 square feet living space, & 5.4L engines, DG-511 & Fertilized barn stored hay, 4x5 DG-508, $20 each; 658-2010. double carport on 2.5 +/- acres rolls; 258-0020. on Hwy. 69A in Lovedale Community; 592-4798.

Saw Tooth Oaks, Swamp Square bale annual peanut White Oaks, seedlings $5-$7; hay, 5x5 rolls; grass hay; walk- 718-8763. in cooler; walk-in freezer, all most new; 263-3427.

Home/Farm

Local Telephone Prefixes

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638-7105

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

Grand Ridge 592 Greenwood 594 Marianna 482, 526 Ponce de Leon 836 Sneads 593 Sunny Hills 773 Vernon 535 Westville 956

PAGE 17

Recreational Vehicles

WANTED

Bass Tracker boat, 40 HP Mercury battery charger, run on trailer, spare tire, $11,500 OBO; 263-9572.

Horses, ponies, mules, donkeys; aluminum dog box; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

Ski boat, 2012 Chaparral 8H2O, 135 HP Mercruiser I/O with trailer, low hours, $11,000; 718-7408.

Vehicles 2019 Nissan Frontier, 4-door, six cylinder, less than 9,000 miles, like new; 674-8276.

2010 Chevy Tahoe 4x4, automatic, 137,000 miles, $9,500 OBO; 258-2848 or 326-3200.

Someone to work on floor model Sears radio/stereo, turntable, need speakers; 638-7874.

150-200 acres pasture land in Holmes or Washington County area; 234-7070.

Backhoe loader, in good condition, ready to work, will pay cash for reasonably priced machine; 547-1519, leave message if not answered.

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

There's No Damage in Sight, But My Power's Still Out. Why?

Horses; ponies; mules; 709-6268.

I

Brock’s Equipment Service Cottondale • (850) 579-4863 Cell • (850) 573-1863

Excavator, Dozer & Dump Truck Service Land Clearing, Pond Building, Demolition, Site Preparation, Ditch Work, Tree & Debris Removal, Sand & Top Soil

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(850) 762-9103 EMERGENCY PLUMBING & CONSTRUCTION, LLC Quinn Williams

850-373-7186 RF11067708

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.

PAGE 18

Davis

and

Septic

Located in Bonifay, FL Residential & Commercial Plumbing

Son’s Plumbing & Tank Service

s there anything worse than a power outage? Especially an extended one? There actually may be one thing and that is not having water.

Although the two typically go hand in hand, especially in rural areas where residents rely on a domestic well pump for their water needs. There are, however, those who benefit from a municipal water system, like WFEC Manager of Marketing & Communications, Terry Mullen. During Hurricane Michael, he was without electricity but never lost his water supply which was a major blessing.

Mullen recently helped his daughter’s family relocate to a new home.

They were very anxious to move in, especially after renting for several years. The family moved into their new home on the same day the other family moved out. Shortly after arriving, the family began moving furniture into the new home and cleaning. But, there was no water in the kitchen.

After checking the master bath, there was no water there either. Mullen immediately realized the problem and his suspicions were confirmed when a lock was located on the main water meter.

The family that moved out left the power on but failed to notify the city to leave the water on as they previously agreed. This took place after hours on a Friday evening and it was Monday before they were able to get water.

Though there was water to the meter, there was still no water to the home. All of the neighbors on either side and across the road had water at their homes but not in the family’s new home. The same thing can happen to you when it comes to your electric service. If all of your neighbors have power but you don’t, there could be a variety of causes for the outage but it strictly has to do with the isolated service to your home. In this situation, you should first make sure your breakers are on. If so, call to report your outage immediately.

Realty

Land • Commercial • Residential

J. Tyler Poole

850.573.1599

BROKER

JonathanPoole713@gmail.com

ROW Update: West Florida Electric Right of Way Clearing Crews will be cutting & trimming right of ways in the following area(s) during the month of

JUNE Chipley & Graceville

When right-of-way (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.

• New Installation • Drainfield Repair/Replacement • Septic Tank Pumping & Service • Free Estimates

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ISSUE JUNE 2020

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

A perfectly cut lawn.

Now for a perfectly matched offer.

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 70, NO 6

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 Graceville, Florida.

WFEC Board of Trustees

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Tim

POOSER District 3

District 2

David

George Clayton

District 5

District 6

CORBIN

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Deck Kits!

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OWENS

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Pool Supplies & Chemicals In stock! www.panhandlesalvage.com

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PAGE 2

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

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HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC Residential • Commercial

Andy Hall 850.557.3368 Brent Hall 850.718.7314 ISSUE JUNE 2020

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TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 19

FLASHES CURRENT LIGHT

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

The Heart of Our Co-op: The Lineman Pages 10-11

Providing quality printing and service to the Florida panhandle and south Alabama since 1961.

955 Tate Drive Dothan, Alabama 334-792-8408 • dplinc@graceba.net

Your Locally Grown Roofing Company Since 1996

Helping Our Rural Families With All Roofing Needs

C&C Construction & Roofing Residential Roofing Specialist Locally Owned & Operated Serving the Florida Panhandle & Southern Alabama Specializing in residential and commercial roofing projects

• Shingle Roofing • All Types of Metal Roofing • Roofing Repairs • All Types of Flat Roofs

Call Today for Free Estimates

(850) 547-1001

www.candcroofingandconstruction.com 690 E. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL 32425 License Numbers: FL #CCCF1327331 • AL #S-44779

Specializing in Spray Foam Insulation

A Cut Above TREE SERVICE LLC

Owner: Jason Morris

• Tree Removal • Chipper • 15 Ton Crane • Aerial Truck • Pruning & Trimming • Bobcat Work • Hazardous Tree Removal • Stump Removal • Stump Grinding

INSIDE ...

FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

BUS: (850) 415-1217 • CELL: (850) 573-1270

Elect

Tammie

HARRISON

ELECTIONS OF

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Tammie Harrison for Supervisor of Elections

...pgs. 3-4

Carbon Monoxide Dangers & Power Outages

...pg. 5-6

Powering Up After an Outage ... pg. 7

FOR

HOLMES COUNTY S SUPERVISOR UPERVISOR

I Don’t See Damage, But My Power’s Still Out. Why?

ISSUE JUNE 2020

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

70, NO 6

When in Doubt, Throw it Out

...pg. 15-16

Local Classifieds

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