March 2021

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Spring Toward Efficiency this Month

Tracey R. Kent, Realtor Property Manager

Southern Way Realty, Inc. 850-326-7463

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

Pages 10-12 Specializing in Spray Foam Insulation

INSIDE ...

Deck Kits!

Case Knives on Sale!

6x8 8x10 10x12 12x16

Many more sizes to choose from!

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

...pg. 3

Reduction in Rate Components Announced

...pg. 4

... pg. 6

Iron in Stock!

Annual Meeting Postponed

... pg. 7

Panhandle Lumber & Supply

The Cooperative Difference

... pgs. 13-14

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 17-18

Lodge Cast

Concrete Steps in Stock

www.panhandlesalvage.com

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

850-547-9354 • 405 W. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm.*

Letting hot air into your home due to gaps around your windows and doors might be costing you more than you expect.Weather stripping is easy to install and could save you between 5-30% per year.

Bush Earns Director Gold Credential ...pg. 5 WFEC Adds EV Resources to Website

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

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

Trustee Elections are Soon

ISSUE MARCH 2021

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

71, NO 3

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 71, NO 3

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

Vote for and Re-Elect

PAULK FARMS

Myron Hudson WFEC Board of Trustees District 9

• WFEC Member for 46 years • Credentialed Cooperative Director (NRECA) • Member of Florida Farm Bureau • Retired Educator – Ag. Teacher, Principal, Superintendent • Owner/Operator of local farm • Married to Susan for 44 years, 3 children & 9 grandchildren

Ballots Mailed March 25

“As your WFEC board member, I will continue to work diligently to maintain an effective and efficient co-op that will BEST serve all member-owners. Thank you for your vote and support.”

Pd. Pol. Adv. Pd. for and approved by Myron Hudson

Zero-turn gets it done quick.

Zero compromise gets it done right.

1. Certified Tif-Quik (PVP TitleV) 2. Certified Tifton 9 3. Certified AU Sand Mountain™ (Trade Marked)

TifQuik and Tifton 9 developed by USDA-ARS and University of Georgia • AU Sand Mountain developed by Auburn University

Telephone: (850) 658-0008 or (334) 360-4831 Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

The New Z200 Gas powered

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Vice President

District 8 / President

Together we do more.

Visit today to see how the new Z200 delivers a fast cut and Kubota quality.

David

John

TATUM

ADAMS

District 1

District 4 / Secretary-Treasurer

• Professional-level cut • Pecise and effortless control

Together We Can Stay Safe

Certified Bahiagrass Seed • 30+ years experience producing Certified Bahiagrass Seed • Dedicated harvest equipment for each Certified variety • Brunswick Grass seed free

24 Hour Emergency Response CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

• Improved traction and performance • Comfortable and easy to use

Panhandle Tractor • (850) 526-2257 5003 Highway 90 • Marianna, Florida 32446

KubotaUSA.com © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2020. 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, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your local dealer or go to KubotaUSA.com.

ST!”

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

HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC Residential • Commercial

Jackie

Tim

POOSER

ALFORD

District 3

District 2

David & Family Tree Services

Prices Normally Run 25% less than other insured competitors David

George Clayton

District 5

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Bonded & Fully Insured • Free Estimates

(850) 326-1559

Trim Cut Remove Stump Grinding Veteran-Owned

Andy Hall 850.557.3368 Brent Hall 850.718.7314

Frank E.

Myron

BONDURANT Attorney

District 9

Ty

PEEL

PAGE 2

# CBC1260614 • # CCC1330769 Free Estimates • 24 Hour Emergency Service Serving Northwest Florida!

(850) 263-7788

Jeremy Rolling

Open 6 days a week. Closed Tuesdays. Session at 7:30 nightly.

WFEC District 9 Trustee

$50 payouts before & after session. Pull tab games up to $1,000!

Friday nights: All sessions pay $250!

Saturdays: Jackpot games @ 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 & 10 Sundays: Balloon games - win up to $250!

Wednesdays & Sundays: T-shirt night

Thank you for your consideration!

Saturday & Sundays - Double Action Mini-Session at 4:00 PM

Paid political ad paid for & approve by Jeremy Rolling

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

5 Years Labor Warranty • Licensed & Insured

Paper Only Bingo. Located across the street from Graceville High School.

“I believe agriculture is the greatest asset to our community. I want to be a voice for our local farmers as well as all members, if elected.”

Executive VP/CEO

Over 21 Years Professional Experience

HWY. 77 BINGO, INC.

Elect

HUDSON

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

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.

ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 19

Multiple Listings (cont.)

75x150 lot, St. Joe Beach, Magellan Street, 2nd block Two horse trailer; 1991 Toyota from beach, X flood zone, cleared, $100,000; 643-6100 transmission; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; Treeing or 209-3711.

Walker Coon dogs; gentle horse; grain wagon; 592-2494 Vehicles or 209-8532.

Three glass cabinets, small, $100, medium, $200, large, $300 or $500 for all; exercise bike, $65; three-drawer dresser, $30; lovely, slide-up desk, $65; 272-6611.

Real Estate 71 acre pasture in Washington County, small pond, fenced, $3,000/acre; 234-7070.

Notification Statement

WANTED

Trustee Elections are Soon

Bahia grass pastures, 20 acres fields or larger, for rent or lease, in Jackson County; 334-803-2117, call or text.

Old beer cans (not aluminum recycling) or trays & other brewery items; 352-408-8515, Keith.

B

2003 Ford Explorer, 4 door, heavy duty trailer & hitch, runs good, no AC, good heater Horses; ponies; mules; & radio, $3,500; 849-0361. donkeys; aluminum dog box; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

2006 Ford Expedition, sun

roof, seats 7, loaded w/options, 150-500 acre pasture land in gray, one owner, $3,000; Holmes or Washington County; 569-2227, leave message.

234-7070.

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

Single shot .22; bolt action; 956-2221, Kenny.

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

Each election packet will include: • A letter from Carr, Riggs and Ingram, Certified Public Accountants & Advisors, the certified public accounting firm that receives and counts all completed ballots and announces the results to ensure fairness.

• A nominating committee report listing qualified candidates for the Board of Trustees.

• Profiles of each candidate.

• An official ballot.

• A pre-addressed, postage paid reply envelope.

Ballots are due back by Wednesday, April 14, and should be received no later than 5:00 p.m. Ballots received after this deadline will be declared invalid. Do not deliver your ballot to any WFEC office. Please follow the voting procedures listed in the packet you receive.

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

allots and election materials for West Florida Electric Cooperative’s Board of Trustee Elections will be mailed on Thursday, March 25.

Each WFEC member’s voting packet will arrive in an envelope marked: “Annual Election Materials.” This packet will contain everything you will need to exercise your voting rights as a member-owner of WFEC. Seats on the board in Districts 7, 8 and 9 are up for election this year.

To be eligible to serve as a trustee, a person must be a bona fide WFEC member in good standing, residing in the respective district, and meet certain other requirements set forth in WFEC’s bylaws. Desired qualifications include the ability to become bonded, the capability of receiving and sending electronic mail transmissions and successfully meeting all requirements to become a National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Credentialed Cooperative Director within 36 months. All candidates must agree to abide by Board Policy No. 126: Board Election Campaign Policy.

The Berean Bible Study is a traditional in-depth Bible study seriously

studying the holy and inerrant Word of God. If you are looking to really develop a mature understanding of the Scriptures, then this study group is for you.

Currently studying the book of Hebrews.

When: Weekly - Tuesday Evenings Time: 5:30-7:30 PM Where: Caryville area Cost: Free

Berean Bible Study Information: 813-966-6017 May we be stripped of all ground of glorying that He alone may shine forth glorious and we be glorified in Him. - John Calvin

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Vote for Honesty, Integrity, Experience & Dependability Re-Elect

Randy Bush WFEC Trustee - District 7

• Currently Vice President of the WFEC Board of Trustees • 40 Year Self-Employed, Independent Businessman • Has Earned & Renewed Director Gold National Credentials • National Board Leadership Certified • WFEC Member for 45 Years • Former Florida Rural Electric Credit Union Representative • Former Member Holmes County Development Commission • Lifelong Holmes County Resident

ISSUE MARCH 2021

Easy to talk to & always available to the public

Bush Paint: 263-4744 or 263-6345 Home: 263-3072 Cell: 415-2222 Pd. Pol. Adv. Pd. for and Approved by Randy Bush

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

March

South Alford & Pittman 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.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

Reduction in Rate Components Announced

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE

W

est Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) is proud to announce a difference in your monthly electric bill caused by a decrease in fuel costs to our power supplier, PowerSouth Energy Cooperative. This reduction in rate components took place January 28, 2021.

WFEC’s power cost adjustment is changing from -$6.83 per 1,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) to -$14.08 per 1,000 kWh. This means that the average WFEC member (with a 1,500 kWh monthly electric bill) will notice a net decrease of about $10.87 on their monthly electric bill.

A power cost adjustment is a modification on a member’s monthly electric bill caused by an increase or decrease in the cost of an electric utility’s fuel supply. This cost fluctuates as fuel costs increase or decrease and is adjusted semi-annually.

At this time, fuel costs are lower than anticipated or projected, so the charge decreased and these savings are being passed along to WFEC members. As the price of fuel changes, so will this charge.

The Board of Trustees and Executive Vice President and CEO, Ty Peel, are very pleased to pass these savings along to WFEC’s membership at this time.

HILL’S

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

TREE SERVICE (Hill Services, Inc.)

638-7105

Owners: Darren & Alisa Hill

Peggy’s House Cleaning Service

• Land & Lot Clearing • Demolition - Residential & Commercial • Dump Truck Services • Dirt Delivery Fully & • Debris Removal ed ed nsur p Cover I • Stump Grinding m o n C o s s k er • Complete Tree Removal WorkServing Jaycfor unt s o C Services ar 5 Ye

Call

Call

(850) 209-0629 McIntosh

Two registered Black Angus bills, 2.5 years old, 1.5 years old, good condition; 263-7448, leave message.

Belgium Malinois puppies, $400; 643-7894.

Portable building, 12x36,

Florida certified, excellent condition, includes straps, pads, blocks, $8,500, Cottondale, buyer must move; 334-718-1682.

Multiple Listings Dining table, 4 chairs, 2 leaves, $100; convection oven w/ bakeware, $50; women’s golf clubs/bag, $50; 254-206-9730.

Skilsaw, 71/4 inch circular saw; Like new glass shower doors, used, like new 2.3 hp, 18.4 cm, rails, mounting hardware, each 13 amp, $50; 849-7750. set $100; bathroom fixtures, Home/Farm faucets; 209-3623.

Fertilized barn stored hay, 4x5 Trading card collection, Fleer Topps Score baseball, Square bale annual peanut rolls; 258-0020. football & basketball, 1986+ hay, 5x5 rolls; grass hay; NFL champs, 1967-1989, walk-in cooler; grain fed beef; Riding lawn mower, make offer; 547-3359.

263-3427.

Simplicity, tractor style, 50 inch cut, 20 Hp Vanguard Briggs and Stratton; 592-4798.

Touchton’s Barns & Sheds

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

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

Over 20 years experience

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

enfingerplumbing@gmail.com

LIC# CFC1430832

Service • Sales Commercial • Residential

(850) 557-9311 PAGE 4

Miscellaneous

Animals/Livestock

Pump house, metal roof, could be dog house, 50" wide, 74" long, 50" high, 64" at peak, $90; 263-9171.

Leave message

2

593-HILL 850-593-4455

Honest & Reliable

Tifton 9 Bahia seed & hay, 718-7779, Pat or 592-2647, Dan.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

“We Work to please YOU”

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

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 MARCH 2021

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 592 Greenwood 594 Marianna 482, 526 Ponce de Leon 836 Sneads 593 Sunny Hills 773 Vernon 535 Westville 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 17

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

Community Calendar

Bush Earns Director Gold Credentials from NRECA

Homebuyer Education Class Thursday, March 11; 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Holmes County Chamber of Commerce, 106 E. Byrd Avenue, Bonifay

This course is designed to help you better understand the home buying process, analyze your personal financial and credit situation, and learn basic home care and maintenance techniques to maintain the value of your Clay O’Neal: home and save money on repairs. Completion of this course satisfies the 850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055 homeownership education requirement for the SHIP and USDA Rural Development programs. The Florida Cooperative Extension Service is a Jackson Farm HUD approved housing counseling agency. Per UF policy, all attendees Well Services must wear a mask and socially distance. No walk-ins permitted. Call 547Patrick Jackson 1108 or 482-9620 to register. Pre-registration required due to size limits.

For a director to earn the Director Gold certificate, they must have already earned the CCD and BLC certificates. Director Gold includes a continuing education requirement which calls for directors to earn three credits of approved course work and/or conferences every two years to maintain their Director Gold status.

NRECA represents the nation's more than 900 private, memberowned electric cooperatives, which provide electric service to more than 42 million people in 47 states.

850-573-6623

Statement of Non-Discrimination West Florida Electric Cooperative is a recipient of Federal financial assistance from the Rural Utilities Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Therefore, in accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retialiation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA conducted or filing deadlines by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested on form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992.

Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: 1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistance Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; 2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or 3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

West Florida Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider, and employer.

PAGE 16

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

(850) 638-0790 southeasternsurveying.com

Randy Bush, District 7 Trustee recently completed continuing education hours to renew his Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

R

andy Bush, District 7 Trustee, recently renewed his Director Gold Credential certificate from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

An ever-changing business environment has imposed new demands on electric cooperative directors, requiring increased knowledge of changes in the electric utility business, new governance skills and a solid knowledge of the cooperative principles and business model. Electric cooperatives in Florida have a commitment to work through the Florida Electric Cooperatives Association (FECA) and NRECA to sharpen this body of knowledge for the benefit of their electric cooperative member-owners.

Director Gold Credential (DGC) recognizes directors who have already earned their Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) and who wish to continue to learn throughout their service on the board.

"The Director Gold certificate is geared toward directors, like Randy, who are committed to continuing their education beyond CCD and BLC and who desire a tangible credential that reinforces their stature as part of an experienced and educated group of trustees," said Ty Peel, Executive Vice President and CEO. "Director Gold also demonstrates to co-op members these directors' ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duty to the best of their ability," he said.

ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOGETHER We can be safe.

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.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Own a manufactured home?

Save

WFEC Adds EV Resources to Website

Water Well Drilling & Pump Repair

850-263-8064

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

Greg A. Varner

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

Owner

r year

Panhandle Pump Repair & Filtration Service What’s in YOUR Water?

on heating costs!

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

John White Owner

W

PAGE 6

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

4” to 12”

Residential, Commercial, Agricultural Water Analysis & Treatment

550 pe about $

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 per ton for converting to a heat pump from an electric furnace.

Call (850) 263-3231 today.

Since 1969

FEC has added a suite of digital tools to its website to help educate and inform our members about the benefits of electric vehicles. Just visit https://westflorida.coop/electric-vehicles to to find out more. These pages allow you to learn facts about electric vehicles, benefits of owning an electric vehicle, calculate potential savings, compare models, find out more about charging options and explore offers and incentives. There's also a guide to public charging stations available if you already own an electric vehicle.

If you're interested in exploring the options available to you for purchasing an electric vehicle, this is the perfect set of resources for you.

And, if you do decide to purchase one, make sure you check for offers and incentives. Did you know that there is currently a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for the purchase of a qualifying EV? If you have any questions about electric vehicles and would like to learn more about them, you will find this a valuable resource. We hope you'll check it out and let us know what you think.

Bush Paint & Supply

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

263-4744 • 971 6th Ave., Graceville

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

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

Lynn & Steve’s Helping Hands, LLC DBA

Tri-County Tractor Work

• Bucket work • Bush Hogging • Chainsaw/Pruning Work • Light Clearing Servicing Holmes, Jackson & Washington Counties

386-748-9035 850-547-1676

(Cell)

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

SURVEYOR

Family Dentistry of Chipley 415-1411 Family Dentistry of Bonifay 547-9290

Roger Lonsway

Most Insurances Accepted

Mobile: 260-5438

New Chipley Location Cosmetic, General & Family Dentistry

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

1240 South Blvd. • Chipley, FL 32428

www.backwoodsbuildings.net

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

tion Installa ! le Availab

850-676-4903 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

All Types Licensed • Bonded • Insured

1945 Tower Lane Westville, FL 32464

License# CCC058016

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks”

For All Your Propane Needs 415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay

547-3696 #RM0048955

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

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

3783 Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

Branching Out Tree Care Hazardous Tree Removal

• Veneers • Crowns • Dentures • Cleanings • Whitening • Bonding

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

Dr. Ernie Hooper, Dr. John Wilson, Dr. Brian Parker & Dr. Hilary Whitaker

Jeremy Hill

New & Emergency Patients Welcome

CBC1257046 backwoodsbuildings@yahoo.com

SOUTHERN ROOFING, INC.

1410-A 410-A Brickyard Rd, Chipley ...................................... 415-1411 110 E. North Ave, Bonifay ............................................ 547-9290 ISSUE MARCH 2021

Free Estimates Licensed & Insured

850-326-0266

Nick Edenfield 850-272-2161

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 15

YOUR

SAFETY

CONNECTION

Stay away from downed power lines. They can still be energized. Never attempt to move or drive over them. Instead, call 911 to report fallen power lines.

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

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

3. Highlight "member" identity whenever possible, especially with new members. "People don't pick up that terminology when they first join a co-op," said Mullen. "The co-op tries to place effort into highlighting the cooperative difference because our members need to see examples of how the cooperative business model is different."

WFEC is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative. Each member has a voice in how the cooperative is run. Members have the right to vote in each year's trustee election where they select fellow members to represent them and speak for them.

4. Co-ops serve a technologically diverse but increasingly tech-savvy membership. Because of this WFEC has elected to provide several valuable services to our members including the ability to select a pre-paid metering option (where members pay for the power they use in advance). This billing option allows WFEC members to save on deposits, monitor their energy usage more closely, and do business with the cooperative twenty-four hours a day. The ability to report outages using a text message communication is also easy and convenient for WFEC members. The system can also receive outage updates via text message. Another way the cooperative keeps members informed is by utilizing social media. Members can also sign up to receive alerts and reminders online as well as pay their bill, monitor their energy use and more.

5. Educate members on the benefits of electric vehicles. EVs haven't caught on quite yet in rural America, but there's still "above average interest" among new members and households with higher incomes and children. The cooperative has recently added a tremendous amount of educational and informative resources about electric vehicles to its website. Just visit www.westflorida.coop/electric-vehicles to find out more. These pages allow you to learn facts about electric vehicles, calculate potential savings, compare models, find out more about charging options, and explore offers and incentives. There's also a guide to public charging stations available if you already own an electric vehicle.

Surveys like this one on the cooperative difference keeps us connected to our members and provides valuable information that helps us communicate and serve them better in the future. Conducting surveys like this one is another way to give our membership a voice in their cooperative and that's what the cooperative difference is all about.

Annual Meeting Postponed

Specializing in Remodeling & Antique Restoration

20 years experience Licensed & Insured

RR282811375/RC29027278/RF11067492

John Bruner Contractor

(850) 503-3999

E WE MOV LE PORTAB GS IN D IL U B

4673 HIGHWAY 90 E.

PAGE 14

MARIANNA (Across from CVS)

All Are Welcome!

Plumbing Painting Custom Trim Siding Windows

Sean Russell

Manager

(850) 209-6593

Official Notice: Annual Meeting Postponement

W

est Florida Electric Cooperative's 2021 Annual Meeting/ Member Appreciation Day scheduled for Saturday, April 24, 2021, has been postponed due to health concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

After lengthy discussion and deliberation at the January 26th meeting of the Board of Trustees, the decision was made to postpone the meeting and re-evaluate the feasibility of having it later this year.

Mail Ballot Packets for voting in the annual board election are scheduled to be mailed on Thursday, March 25, 2021. All ballots are due to be received by Carr, Riggs and Ingram, LLC, the certified public accounting firm certifying the election, no later than Wednesday, April 14. Results of the election will be announced via social media, press release and in the Current Light Flashes newsletter.

Please vote for and elect

Brian P. Lemieux, PE District 7 Trustee

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.

• New Vision.

• Innovative Solutions.

• Proven Results.

Hinson Land Clearing (850) 481-2960 Free Estimates

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Roofing Flooring Decks Additions Concrete

Power Out? Text Us!

Forestry Mulching

850-526-3797

Unction Contracting, LLC

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Brian P. Lemieux, PE for WFEC District 7 Trustee

ISSUE MARCH 2021

Text WFEC to (800) 342-7400 to sign up. When you need to report an outage, text OUT to (800) 342-7400. Text STATUS for any updates, HELP for more info & STOP to unsubscribe.

Remember to update your account information to include your current cell phone number before storms hit our area! *Please note that your phone plan’s standard data charges will apply.*

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 200-Amp Power Pole $299.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $199.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc.

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

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

Gary McIntosh

(850) 593-0009

Excellent Health Plan!!!

40-50% Less than the Affordable Care Act

Call

Pres

Jeff Cooper

criptio • $5,000,000 Lifetime Benefit Drug P n la • Choose Any Doctor/Facility Local A n • 20 Doctor Visits-Pays $160 in 3 Unit Plan gent!

(850) • Outpatient Benefits Paid 1st Dollar - $8,000 per year 209-4038 • #1 Network (PHCS)/Customize Your Plan • Pays Specific Dollar Amount for Specific Service • Daily Avg. Hospital Stay in FL - $2,197 Top Plan Pays $4,500 (sickness)/$6,750 (injury) • Avg. Cost of Heart Failure in Network - $8,984 Top Plan Pays $12,546 • Teledoc Gives You 24 Hr. Access to Dr. by Phone • Karis 360 (Advocacy Group) Negotiates Pricing in Network

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

The Cooperative Difference

Y

ear after year, electric cooperatives score higher than their utility counterparts in Touchstone Energy® Cooperative's Survey on the Cooperative Difference. Though 2020 had its fair share of challenges, the results of this year's survey was no exception. Here are five takeaways from the survey: 1. Co-ops actively measuring their performance provide superior service to members. The 47 co-ops taking part in the Touchstone Energy survey fared better than co-op's in ACSI's utility sector report for 2020. Co-ops continue to outperform the industry average as well as large, investor-owned utilities. Locally, WFEC has been surveying members for the past 20 years to determine member satisfaction, interest in programs and services, demographic information, communications preferences and much more. "In order to effectively communicate with our members we need to know them, know what they want and expect and know how they prefer us to communicate with them," said Terry Mullen Manager of Marketing and Communications.

2. Members are shifting their preference to digital communications.

Increasingly, members are choosing to receive urgent and non-urgent communications by text or email. And as more members are moving to online billing to save money and reduce waste, co-ops should promote that option. WFEC offers the ability to make payments using our mobile app or by visiting our website. Payments may also be made over the phone using the automated phone system. The cooperative also offers the ability to text in outage reports or report outages using the mobile app or online. continued on page 14

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

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

Glen Scott

Fluffy Yogurt Pie

Stump Grinding Best Service

Submitted by: Delores Compton Ingredients:

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Tractor work Marianna, Florida

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

License Number: CMC1250499

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

West Florida Turf SOD OD

S Centipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda Centipede Seed

On the FarmDelivered or Installed 850-638-4860 • Cellular 415-0385 Est. 1980

coils to prevent electrical fires and improve the appliance’s efficiency. Check for accumulated dirt on your window and door tracks – dirty tracks can ruin their seals and create gaps where air can escape.

Remember, an energy-efficient home will keep you comfortable while you save money. Whether you take small steps or make larger investments to make your home more efficient, you’ll see lower energy bills. Over time, those savings will typically pay for the cost of improvements. As your energy partner, we are here to help you find ways to stretch your energy budget.

• 1/4 cup boiling water • 1 package sugar free Jello (any flavor) • 2 (6 oz.) containers of fat free yogurt, compatible to Jello flavor • 8 oz. fat free Cool Whip • 6 or 9 inch graham cracker crust

Whisk Jello slowly into boiling water. Mix in yogurt, stir in Cool Whip and pour into the pie crust. Cool in the fridge overnight.

TREE SERVICE

Change That Lasts

Please note the new location in Birmingham, Alabama. The address is:

Directions:

A Cut Above

Make a

WFEC billing statements have a new return address!

LLC

Owner: Jason Morris

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

Switch to a bank with over 58 years of community banking experience.

Friendly. Stable. Flexible.

WE ARE OPEN AND READY TO SERVE YOU!

Gainesville & Oak Hammock

Call (800) 342-7400 with any questions.

Energy Efficiency Tip

FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

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

ffbf.com | 352-335-2282

West Florida Electric Cooperative Department 1340 P.O. Box 2153 Birmingham, AL 35287-1340

Don't keep you refrigerator too cold. The Dept. of Energy recommends setting a temperature of 35-38 degrees for the fresh food compartment & 0 degrees for the freezer.

Make sure the fridge doors are sealed airtight for maximum efficiency.

Source: www.energy.gov

PAGE 12

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Spring Toward Efficiency this Month

way to see if you need more insulation is to look across your uncovered attic floor. If your insulation is level with or below the attic floor joists, you probably need to add more. The recommended level for most attics is R-38 (or about 12-15 inches, depending on the insulation type).

W

armer weather gets us thinking about being outside and enjoying the sunshine. But, we may also wonder how high our electricity bills will be when we’re cooling off inside. If you’re looking to cut your cooling costs without sacrificing your family’s comfort this spring, check out these savings tips.

1. Use Those Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans are a great alternative to minimize the use of your AC unit.

Cooling your home with ceiling fans will allow you to raise your thermostat by roughly four degrees, which can reduce your energy bill by up to 30 percent. However, remember to reverse the direction of those fans to rotate counterclockwise so it pushes cool air downwards. You’ll find a tiny switch located on the fan’s base which allows you to redirect its normal rotation. Also, don’t forget to turn curtains or shades is another great way to update the look and efficiency off fans when you’re not in the room of your windows. Consider investing in some insulated, thermal-backed since fans cool people, not rooms. drapes. Keep them closed during the hottest part of the day to block out 2. Update Your Windows: During the sun and keep your room cooler. the spring and summer months, 3. Check Seals Around Your Windows and Doors: Letting hot air into direct sunlight can significantly your home due to gaps around your windows and doors might be costing warm up your home. If you have you more than you expect. Sealing any leaks or drafts in your home can older single-pane windows, your save you between five and thirty percent per year in energy costs. Sealing home may not be well-insulated these leaks is a simple process. All you need is some caulk or weatheragainst the heat. A simple fix is to stripping materials and you can block unwanted airflow in a snap. replace those windows with new, There are many different types of caulking compounds available but the double-paned windows that are most popular choice is silicone. Silicone caulk is waterproof, flexible and much more efficient and have an won’t shrink or crack. Before applying new caulk, clean and remove any old ENERGY STAR label. Installing caulk or paint with a putty knife. The area should be completely dry before PAGE 10

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

5. Tune Up Your AC: Savings begin with a well-maintained cooling system. Change your air filters monthly, check for obstructions around your outdoor compressor unit and schedule regular maintenance for your equipment.

This will prolong the life of your unit and increase its efficiency.

Operating your thermostat efficiently is also very important. Set your thermostat to a temperature your family finds comfortable and that provides humidity control, if needed. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. WFEC recommends a setting of 78 degrees during summer months. Keep your house warmer than normal while you are away. Installing a programmable thermostat allows you to do this automatically without you apply the new caulk. Apply it in one continuous stream, and make sure sacrificing comfort. it sticks to both sides of the crack or seam. Afterwards, use a putty knife to When you gear up for spring smooth out the caulk and wipe the surface with a dry cloth. cleaning this year, don’t miss the Weather-stripping is just as simple to install. Before applying new opportunity to increase your home’s weather-stripping, clean the moulding with water and soap and let the area efficiency while you’re at it. Did dry completely. Measure each side of the door or window, then cut the you know that the more dust that stripping to fit each section. Make sure it fits snugly against both surfaces so gathers in your home, the less it compresses when closed. efficient electronics run? If you have vents or computers, dust can cause 4. Check Your Insulation Levels: A well-sealed home, coupled with overheating. Make sure to check and the right amount of insulation can make a real difference on utility bills. clean the clothes dryer outside Adding insulation coupled with sealing leaks as mentioned above, can save exhaust vent and clean refrigerator up to ten percent on your annual energy bill. Insulation helps keep your home cool in the spring and summer and prevents pollen, dust and insects continued on page 12 from entering your home, not to mention, better humidity control. A quick ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

Spring Toward Efficiency this Month

way to see if you need more insulation is to look across your uncovered attic floor. If your insulation is level with or below the attic floor joists, you probably need to add more. The recommended level for most attics is R-38 (or about 12-15 inches, depending on the insulation type).

W

armer weather gets us thinking about being outside and enjoying the sunshine. But, we may also wonder how high our electricity bills will be when we’re cooling off inside. If you’re looking to cut your cooling costs without sacrificing your family’s comfort this spring, check out these savings tips.

1. Use Those Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans are a great alternative to minimize the use of your AC unit.

Cooling your home with ceiling fans will allow you to raise your thermostat by roughly four degrees, which can reduce your energy bill by up to 30 percent. However, remember to reverse the direction of those fans to rotate counterclockwise so it pushes cool air downwards. You’ll find a tiny switch located on the fan’s base which allows you to redirect its normal rotation. Also, don’t forget to turn curtains or shades is another great way to update the look and efficiency off fans when you’re not in the room of your windows. Consider investing in some insulated, thermal-backed since fans cool people, not rooms. drapes. Keep them closed during the hottest part of the day to block out 2. Update Your Windows: During the sun and keep your room cooler. the spring and summer months, 3. Check Seals Around Your Windows and Doors: Letting hot air into direct sunlight can significantly your home due to gaps around your windows and doors might be costing warm up your home. If you have you more than you expect. Sealing any leaks or drafts in your home can older single-pane windows, your save you between five and thirty percent per year in energy costs. Sealing home may not be well-insulated these leaks is a simple process. All you need is some caulk or weatheragainst the heat. A simple fix is to stripping materials and you can block unwanted airflow in a snap. replace those windows with new, There are many different types of caulking compounds available but the double-paned windows that are most popular choice is silicone. Silicone caulk is waterproof, flexible and much more efficient and have an won’t shrink or crack. Before applying new caulk, clean and remove any old ENERGY STAR label. Installing caulk or paint with a putty knife. The area should be completely dry before PAGE 10

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

5. Tune Up Your AC: Savings begin with a well-maintained cooling system. Change your air filters monthly, check for obstructions around your outdoor compressor unit and schedule regular maintenance for your equipment.

This will prolong the life of your unit and increase its efficiency.

Operating your thermostat efficiently is also very important. Set your thermostat to a temperature your family finds comfortable and that provides humidity control, if needed. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. WFEC recommends a setting of 78 degrees during summer months. Keep your house warmer than normal while you are away. Installing a programmable thermostat allows you to do this automatically without you apply the new caulk. Apply it in one continuous stream, and make sure sacrificing comfort. it sticks to both sides of the crack or seam. Afterwards, use a putty knife to When you gear up for spring smooth out the caulk and wipe the surface with a dry cloth. cleaning this year, don’t miss the Weather-stripping is just as simple to install. Before applying new opportunity to increase your home’s weather-stripping, clean the moulding with water and soap and let the area efficiency while you’re at it. Did dry completely. Measure each side of the door or window, then cut the you know that the more dust that stripping to fit each section. Make sure it fits snugly against both surfaces so gathers in your home, the less it compresses when closed. efficient electronics run? If you have vents or computers, dust can cause 4. Check Your Insulation Levels: A well-sealed home, coupled with overheating. Make sure to check and the right amount of insulation can make a real difference on utility bills. clean the clothes dryer outside Adding insulation coupled with sealing leaks as mentioned above, can save exhaust vent and clean refrigerator up to ten percent on your annual energy bill. Insulation helps keep your home cool in the spring and summer and prevents pollen, dust and insects continued on page 12 from entering your home, not to mention, better humidity control. A quick ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

Glen Scott

Fluffy Yogurt Pie

Stump Grinding Best Service

Submitted by: Delores Compton Ingredients:

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Tractor work Marianna, Florida

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

License Number: CMC1250499

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

West Florida Turf SOD OD

S Centipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda Centipede Seed

On the FarmDelivered or Installed 850-638-4860 • Cellular 415-0385 Est. 1980

coils to prevent electrical fires and improve the appliance’s efficiency. Check for accumulated dirt on your window and door tracks – dirty tracks can ruin their seals and create gaps where air can escape.

Remember, an energy-efficient home will keep you comfortable while you save money. Whether you take small steps or make larger investments to make your home more efficient, you’ll see lower energy bills. Over time, those savings will typically pay for the cost of improvements. As your energy partner, we are here to help you find ways to stretch your energy budget.

• 1/4 cup boiling water • 1 package sugar free Jello (any flavor) • 2 (6 oz.) containers of fat free yogurt, compatible to Jello flavor • 8 oz. fat free Cool Whip • 6 or 9 inch graham cracker crust

Whisk Jello slowly into boiling water. Mix in yogurt, stir in Cool Whip and pour into the pie crust. Cool in the fridge overnight.

TREE SERVICE

Change That Lasts

Please note the new location in Birmingham, Alabama. The address is:

Directions:

A Cut Above

Make a

WFEC billing statements have a new return address!

LLC

Owner: Jason Morris

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

Switch to a bank with over 58 years of community banking experience.

Friendly. Stable. Flexible.

WE ARE OPEN AND READY TO SERVE YOU!

Gainesville & Oak Hammock

Call (800) 342-7400 with any questions.

Energy Efficiency Tip

FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

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

ffbf.com | 352-335-2282

West Florida Electric Cooperative Department 1340 P.O. Box 2153 Birmingham, AL 35287-1340

Don't keep you refrigerator too cold. The Dept. of Energy recommends setting a temperature of 35-38 degrees for the fresh food compartment & 0 degrees for the freezer.

Make sure the fridge doors are sealed airtight for maximum efficiency.

Source: www.energy.gov

PAGE 12

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 200-Amp Power Pole $299.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $199.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc.

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

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

Gary McIntosh

(850) 593-0009

Excellent Health Plan!!!

40-50% Less than the Affordable Care Act

Call

Pres

Jeff Cooper

criptio • $5,000,000 Lifetime Benefit Drug P n la • Choose Any Doctor/Facility Local A n • 20 Doctor Visits-Pays $160 in 3 Unit Plan gent!

(850) • Outpatient Benefits Paid 1st Dollar - $8,000 per year 209-4038 • #1 Network (PHCS)/Customize Your Plan • Pays Specific Dollar Amount for Specific Service • Daily Avg. Hospital Stay in FL - $2,197 Top Plan Pays $4,500 (sickness)/$6,750 (injury) • Avg. Cost of Heart Failure in Network - $8,984 Top Plan Pays $12,546 • Teledoc Gives You 24 Hr. Access to Dr. by Phone • Karis 360 (Advocacy Group) Negotiates Pricing in Network

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

The Cooperative Difference

Y

ear after year, electric cooperatives score higher than their utility counterparts in Touchstone Energy® Cooperative's Survey on the Cooperative Difference. Though 2020 had its fair share of challenges, the results of this year's survey was no exception. Here are five takeaways from the survey: 1. Co-ops actively measuring their performance provide superior service to members. The 47 co-ops taking part in the Touchstone Energy survey fared better than co-op's in ACSI's utility sector report for 2020. Co-ops continue to outperform the industry average as well as large, investor-owned utilities. Locally, WFEC has been surveying members for the past 20 years to determine member satisfaction, interest in programs and services, demographic information, communications preferences and much more. "In order to effectively communicate with our members we need to know them, know what they want and expect and know how they prefer us to communicate with them," said Terry Mullen Manager of Marketing and Communications.

2. Members are shifting their preference to digital communications.

Increasingly, members are choosing to receive urgent and non-urgent communications by text or email. And as more members are moving to online billing to save money and reduce waste, co-ops should promote that option. WFEC offers the ability to make payments using our mobile app or by visiting our website. Payments may also be made over the phone using the automated phone system. The cooperative also offers the ability to text in outage reports or report outages using the mobile app or online. continued on page 14

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

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

YOUR

SAFETY

CONNECTION

Stay away from downed power lines. They can still be energized. Never attempt to move or drive over them. Instead, call 911 to report fallen power lines.

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

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

3. Highlight "member" identity whenever possible, especially with new members. "People don't pick up that terminology when they first join a co-op," said Mullen. "The co-op tries to place effort into highlighting the cooperative difference because our members need to see examples of how the cooperative business model is different."

WFEC is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative. Each member has a voice in how the cooperative is run. Members have the right to vote in each year's trustee election where they select fellow members to represent them and speak for them.

4. Co-ops serve a technologically diverse but increasingly tech-savvy membership. Because of this WFEC has elected to provide several valuable services to our members including the ability to select a pre-paid metering option (where members pay for the power they use in advance). This billing option allows WFEC members to save on deposits, monitor their energy usage more closely, and do business with the cooperative twenty-four hours a day. The ability to report outages using a text message communication is also easy and convenient for WFEC members. The system can also receive outage updates via text message. Another way the cooperative keeps members informed is by utilizing social media. Members can also sign up to receive alerts and reminders online as well as pay their bill, monitor their energy use and more.

5. Educate members on the benefits of electric vehicles. EVs haven't caught on quite yet in rural America, but there's still "above average interest" among new members and households with higher incomes and children. The cooperative has recently added a tremendous amount of educational and informative resources about electric vehicles to its website. Just visit www.westflorida.coop/electric-vehicles to find out more. These pages allow you to learn facts about electric vehicles, calculate potential savings, compare models, find out more about charging options, and explore offers and incentives. There's also a guide to public charging stations available if you already own an electric vehicle.

Surveys like this one on the cooperative difference keeps us connected to our members and provides valuable information that helps us communicate and serve them better in the future. Conducting surveys like this one is another way to give our membership a voice in their cooperative and that's what the cooperative difference is all about.

Annual Meeting Postponed

Specializing in Remodeling & Antique Restoration

20 years experience Licensed & Insured

RR282811375/RC29027278/RF11067492

John Bruner Contractor

(850) 503-3999

E WE MOV LE PORTAB GS IN D IL U B

4673 HIGHWAY 90 E.

PAGE 14

MARIANNA (Across from CVS)

All Are Welcome!

Plumbing Painting Custom Trim Siding Windows

Sean Russell

Manager

(850) 209-6593

Official Notice: Annual Meeting Postponement

W

est Florida Electric Cooperative's 2021 Annual Meeting/ Member Appreciation Day scheduled for Saturday, April 24, 2021, has been postponed due to health concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

After lengthy discussion and deliberation at the January 26th meeting of the Board of Trustees, the decision was made to postpone the meeting and re-evaluate the feasibility of having it later this year.

Mail Ballot Packets for voting in the annual board election are scheduled to be mailed on Thursday, March 25, 2021. All ballots are due to be received by Carr, Riggs and Ingram, LLC, the certified public accounting firm certifying the election, no later than Wednesday, April 14. Results of the election will be announced via social media, press release and in the Current Light Flashes newsletter.

Please vote for and elect

Brian P. Lemieux, PE District 7 Trustee

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.

• New Vision.

• Innovative Solutions.

• Proven Results.

Hinson Land Clearing (850) 481-2960 Free Estimates

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Roofing Flooring Decks Additions Concrete

Power Out? Text Us!

Forestry Mulching

850-526-3797

Unction Contracting, LLC

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Brian P. Lemieux, PE for WFEC District 7 Trustee

ISSUE MARCH 2021

Text WFEC to (800) 342-7400 to sign up. When you need to report an outage, text OUT to (800) 342-7400. Text STATUS for any updates, HELP for more info & STOP to unsubscribe.

Remember to update your account information to include your current cell phone number before storms hit our area! *Please note that your phone plan’s standard data charges will apply.*

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Own a manufactured home?

Save

WFEC Adds EV Resources to Website

Water Well Drilling & Pump Repair

850-263-8064

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

Greg A. Varner

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

Owner

r year

Panhandle Pump Repair & Filtration Service What’s in YOUR Water?

on heating costs!

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

John White Owner

W

PAGE 6

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

4” to 12”

Residential, Commercial, Agricultural Water Analysis & Treatment

550 pe about $

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 per ton for converting to a heat pump from an electric furnace.

Call (850) 263-3231 today.

Since 1969

FEC has added a suite of digital tools to its website to help educate and inform our members about the benefits of electric vehicles. Just visit https://westflorida.coop/electric-vehicles to to find out more. These pages allow you to learn facts about electric vehicles, benefits of owning an electric vehicle, calculate potential savings, compare models, find out more about charging options and explore offers and incentives. There's also a guide to public charging stations available if you already own an electric vehicle.

If you're interested in exploring the options available to you for purchasing an electric vehicle, this is the perfect set of resources for you.

And, if you do decide to purchase one, make sure you check for offers and incentives. Did you know that there is currently a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for the purchase of a qualifying EV? If you have any questions about electric vehicles and would like to learn more about them, you will find this a valuable resource. We hope you'll check it out and let us know what you think.

Bush Paint & Supply

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

263-4744 • 971 6th Ave., Graceville

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

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

Lynn & Steve’s Helping Hands, LLC DBA

Tri-County Tractor Work

• Bucket work • Bush Hogging • Chainsaw/Pruning Work • Light Clearing Servicing Holmes, Jackson & Washington Counties

386-748-9035 850-547-1676

(Cell)

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

SURVEYOR

Family Dentistry of Chipley 415-1411 Family Dentistry of Bonifay 547-9290

Roger Lonsway

Most Insurances Accepted

Mobile: 260-5438

New Chipley Location Cosmetic, General & Family Dentistry

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

1240 South Blvd. • Chipley, FL 32428

www.backwoodsbuildings.net

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

tion Installa ! le Availab

850-676-4903 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

All Types Licensed • Bonded • Insured

1945 Tower Lane Westville, FL 32464

License# CCC058016

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks”

For All Your Propane Needs 415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay

547-3696 #RM0048955

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

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

3783 Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

Branching Out Tree Care Hazardous Tree Removal

• Veneers • Crowns • Dentures • Cleanings • Whitening • Bonding

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

Dr. Ernie Hooper, Dr. John Wilson, Dr. Brian Parker & Dr. Hilary Whitaker

Jeremy Hill

New & Emergency Patients Welcome

CBC1257046 backwoodsbuildings@yahoo.com

SOUTHERN ROOFING, INC.

1410-A 410-A Brickyard Rd, Chipley ...................................... 415-1411 110 E. North Ave, Bonifay ............................................ 547-9290 ISSUE MARCH 2021

Free Estimates Licensed & Insured

850-326-0266

Nick Edenfield 850-272-2161

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 15

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

Community Calendar

Bush Earns Director Gold Credentials from NRECA

Homebuyer Education Class Thursday, March 11; 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Holmes County Chamber of Commerce, 106 E. Byrd Avenue, Bonifay

This course is designed to help you better understand the home buying process, analyze your personal financial and credit situation, and learn basic home care and maintenance techniques to maintain the value of your Clay O’Neal: home and save money on repairs. Completion of this course satisfies the 850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055 homeownership education requirement for the SHIP and USDA Rural Development programs. The Florida Cooperative Extension Service is a Jackson Farm HUD approved housing counseling agency. Per UF policy, all attendees Well Services must wear a mask and socially distance. No walk-ins permitted. Call 547Patrick Jackson 1108 or 482-9620 to register. Pre-registration required due to size limits.

For a director to earn the Director Gold certificate, they must have already earned the CCD and BLC certificates. Director Gold includes a continuing education requirement which calls for directors to earn three credits of approved course work and/or conferences every two years to maintain their Director Gold status.

NRECA represents the nation's more than 900 private, memberowned electric cooperatives, which provide electric service to more than 42 million people in 47 states.

850-573-6623

Statement of Non-Discrimination West Florida Electric Cooperative is a recipient of Federal financial assistance from the Rural Utilities Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Therefore, in accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retialiation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA conducted or filing deadlines by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested on form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992.

Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: 1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistance Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; 2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or 3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

West Florida Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider, and employer.

PAGE 16

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

(850) 638-0790 southeasternsurveying.com

Randy Bush, District 7 Trustee recently completed continuing education hours to renew his Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

R

andy Bush, District 7 Trustee, recently renewed his Director Gold Credential certificate from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

An ever-changing business environment has imposed new demands on electric cooperative directors, requiring increased knowledge of changes in the electric utility business, new governance skills and a solid knowledge of the cooperative principles and business model. Electric cooperatives in Florida have a commitment to work through the Florida Electric Cooperatives Association (FECA) and NRECA to sharpen this body of knowledge for the benefit of their electric cooperative member-owners.

Director Gold Credential (DGC) recognizes directors who have already earned their Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) and who wish to continue to learn throughout their service on the board.

"The Director Gold certificate is geared toward directors, like Randy, who are committed to continuing their education beyond CCD and BLC and who desire a tangible credential that reinforces their stature as part of an experienced and educated group of trustees," said Ty Peel, Executive Vice President and CEO. "Director Gold also demonstrates to co-op members these directors' ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duty to the best of their ability," he said.

ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOGETHER We can be safe.

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.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Reduction in Rate Components Announced

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE

W

est Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) is proud to announce a difference in your monthly electric bill caused by a decrease in fuel costs to our power supplier, PowerSouth Energy Cooperative. This reduction in rate components took place January 28, 2021.

WFEC’s power cost adjustment is changing from -$6.83 per 1,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) to -$14.08 per 1,000 kWh. This means that the average WFEC member (with a 1,500 kWh monthly electric bill) will notice a net decrease of about $10.87 on their monthly electric bill.

A power cost adjustment is a modification on a member’s monthly electric bill caused by an increase or decrease in the cost of an electric utility’s fuel supply. This cost fluctuates as fuel costs increase or decrease and is adjusted semi-annually.

At this time, fuel costs are lower than anticipated or projected, so the charge decreased and these savings are being passed along to WFEC members. As the price of fuel changes, so will this charge.

The Board of Trustees and Executive Vice President and CEO, Ty Peel, are very pleased to pass these savings along to WFEC’s membership at this time.

HILL’S

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

TREE SERVICE (Hill Services, Inc.)

638-7105

Owners: Darren & Alisa Hill

Peggy’s House Cleaning Service

• Land & Lot Clearing • Demolition - Residential & Commercial • Dump Truck Services • Dirt Delivery Fully & • Debris Removal ed ed nsur p Cover I • Stump Grinding m o n C o s s k er • Complete Tree Removal WorkServing Jaycfor unt s o C Services ar 5 Ye

Call

Call

(850) 209-0629 McIntosh

Two registered Black Angus bills, 2.5 years old, 1.5 years old, good condition; 263-7448, leave message.

Belgium Malinois puppies, $400; 643-7894.

Portable building, 12x36,

Florida certified, excellent condition, includes straps, pads, blocks, $8,500, Cottondale, buyer must move; 334-718-1682.

Multiple Listings Dining table, 4 chairs, 2 leaves, $100; convection oven w/ bakeware, $50; women’s golf clubs/bag, $50; 254-206-9730.

Skilsaw, 71/4 inch circular saw; Like new glass shower doors, used, like new 2.3 hp, 18.4 cm, rails, mounting hardware, each 13 amp, $50; 849-7750. set $100; bathroom fixtures, Home/Farm faucets; 209-3623.

Fertilized barn stored hay, 4x5 Trading card collection, Fleer Topps Score baseball, Square bale annual peanut rolls; 258-0020. football & basketball, 1986+ hay, 5x5 rolls; grass hay; NFL champs, 1967-1989, walk-in cooler; grain fed beef; Riding lawn mower, make offer; 547-3359.

263-3427.

Simplicity, tractor style, 50 inch cut, 20 Hp Vanguard Briggs and Stratton; 592-4798.

Touchton’s Barns & Sheds

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

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

Over 20 years experience

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

enfingerplumbing@gmail.com

LIC# CFC1430832

Service • Sales Commercial • Residential

(850) 557-9311 PAGE 4

Miscellaneous

Animals/Livestock

Pump house, metal roof, could be dog house, 50" wide, 74" long, 50" high, 64" at peak, $90; 263-9171.

Leave message

2

593-HILL 850-593-4455

Honest & Reliable

Tifton 9 Bahia seed & hay, 718-7779, Pat or 592-2647, Dan.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

“We Work to please YOU”

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

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 MARCH 2021

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 592 Greenwood 594 Marianna 482, 526 Ponce de Leon 836 Sneads 593 Sunny Hills 773 Vernon 535 Westville 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 17

Multiple Listings (cont.)

75x150 lot, St. Joe Beach, Magellan Street, 2nd block Two horse trailer; 1991 Toyota from beach, X flood zone, cleared, $100,000; 643-6100 transmission; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; Treeing or 209-3711.

Walker Coon dogs; gentle horse; grain wagon; 592-2494 Vehicles or 209-8532.

Three glass cabinets, small, $100, medium, $200, large, $300 or $500 for all; exercise bike, $65; three-drawer dresser, $30; lovely, slide-up desk, $65; 272-6611.

Real Estate 71 acre pasture in Washington County, small pond, fenced, $3,000/acre; 234-7070.

Notification Statement

WANTED

Trustee Elections are Soon

Bahia grass pastures, 20 acres fields or larger, for rent or lease, in Jackson County; 334-803-2117, call or text.

Old beer cans (not aluminum recycling) or trays & other brewery items; 352-408-8515, Keith.

B

2003 Ford Explorer, 4 door, heavy duty trailer & hitch, runs good, no AC, good heater Horses; ponies; mules; & radio, $3,500; 849-0361. donkeys; aluminum dog box; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

2006 Ford Expedition, sun

roof, seats 7, loaded w/options, 150-500 acre pasture land in gray, one owner, $3,000; Holmes or Washington County; 569-2227, leave message.

234-7070.

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

Single shot .22; bolt action; 956-2221, Kenny.

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

Each election packet will include: • A letter from Carr, Riggs and Ingram, Certified Public Accountants & Advisors, the certified public accounting firm that receives and counts all completed ballots and announces the results to ensure fairness.

• A nominating committee report listing qualified candidates for the Board of Trustees.

• Profiles of each candidate.

• An official ballot.

• A pre-addressed, postage paid reply envelope.

Ballots are due back by Wednesday, April 14, and should be received no later than 5:00 p.m. Ballots received after this deadline will be declared invalid. Do not deliver your ballot to any WFEC office. Please follow the voting procedures listed in the packet you receive.

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

allots and election materials for West Florida Electric Cooperative’s Board of Trustee Elections will be mailed on Thursday, March 25.

Each WFEC member’s voting packet will arrive in an envelope marked: “Annual Election Materials.” This packet will contain everything you will need to exercise your voting rights as a member-owner of WFEC. Seats on the board in Districts 7, 8 and 9 are up for election this year.

To be eligible to serve as a trustee, a person must be a bona fide WFEC member in good standing, residing in the respective district, and meet certain other requirements set forth in WFEC’s bylaws. Desired qualifications include the ability to become bonded, the capability of receiving and sending electronic mail transmissions and successfully meeting all requirements to become a National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Credentialed Cooperative Director within 36 months. All candidates must agree to abide by Board Policy No. 126: Board Election Campaign Policy.

The Berean Bible Study is a traditional in-depth Bible study seriously

studying the holy and inerrant Word of God. If you are looking to really develop a mature understanding of the Scriptures, then this study group is for you.

Currently studying the book of Hebrews.

When: Weekly - Tuesday Evenings Time: 5:30-7:30 PM Where: Caryville area Cost: Free

Berean Bible Study Information: 813-966-6017 May we be stripped of all ground of glorying that He alone may shine forth glorious and we be glorified in Him. - John Calvin

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Vote for Honesty, Integrity, Experience & Dependability Re-Elect

Randy Bush WFEC Trustee - District 7

• Currently Vice President of the WFEC Board of Trustees • 40 Year Self-Employed, Independent Businessman • Has Earned & Renewed Director Gold National Credentials • National Board Leadership Certified • WFEC Member for 45 Years • Former Florida Rural Electric Credit Union Representative • Former Member Holmes County Development Commission • Lifelong Holmes County Resident

ISSUE MARCH 2021

Easy to talk to & always available to the public

Bush Paint: 263-4744 or 263-6345 Home: 263-3072 Cell: 415-2222 Pd. Pol. Adv. Pd. for and Approved by Randy Bush

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

March

South Alford & Pittman 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.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 71, NO 3

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

Vote for and Re-Elect

PAULK FARMS

Myron Hudson WFEC Board of Trustees District 9

• WFEC Member for 46 years • Credentialed Cooperative Director (NRECA) • Member of Florida Farm Bureau • Retired Educator – Ag. Teacher, Principal, Superintendent • Owner/Operator of local farm • Married to Susan for 44 years, 3 children & 9 grandchildren

Ballots Mailed March 25

“As your WFEC board member, I will continue to work diligently to maintain an effective and efficient co-op that will BEST serve all member-owners. Thank you for your vote and support.”

Pd. Pol. Adv. Pd. for and approved by Myron Hudson

Zero-turn gets it done quick.

Zero compromise gets it done right.

1. Certified Tif-Quik (PVP TitleV) 2. Certified Tifton 9 3. Certified AU Sand Mountain™ (Trade Marked)

TifQuik and Tifton 9 developed by USDA-ARS and University of Georgia • AU Sand Mountain developed by Auburn University

Telephone: (850) 658-0008 or (334) 360-4831 Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

The New Z200 Gas powered

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Vice President

District 8 / President

Together we do more.

Visit today to see how the new Z200 delivers a fast cut and Kubota quality.

David

John

TATUM

ADAMS

District 1

District 4 / Secretary-Treasurer

• Professional-level cut • Pecise and effortless control

Together We Can Stay Safe

Certified Bahiagrass Seed • 30+ years experience producing Certified Bahiagrass Seed • Dedicated harvest equipment for each Certified variety • Brunswick Grass seed free

24 Hour Emergency Response CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

• Improved traction and performance • Comfortable and easy to use

Panhandle Tractor • (850) 526-2257 5003 Highway 90 • Marianna, Florida 32446

KubotaUSA.com © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2020. 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, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your local dealer or go to KubotaUSA.com.

ST!”

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

HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC Residential • Commercial

Jackie

Tim

POOSER

ALFORD

District 3

District 2

David & Family Tree Services

Prices Normally Run 25% less than other insured competitors David

George Clayton

District 5

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Bonded & Fully Insured • Free Estimates

(850) 326-1559

Trim Cut Remove Stump Grinding Veteran-Owned

Andy Hall 850.557.3368 Brent Hall 850.718.7314

Frank E.

Myron

BONDURANT Attorney

District 9

Ty

PEEL

PAGE 2

# CBC1260614 • # CCC1330769 Free Estimates • 24 Hour Emergency Service Serving Northwest Florida!

(850) 263-7788

Jeremy Rolling

Open 6 days a week. Closed Tuesdays. Session at 7:30 nightly.

WFEC District 9 Trustee

$50 payouts before & after session. Pull tab games up to $1,000!

Friday nights: All sessions pay $250!

Saturdays: Jackpot games @ 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 & 10 Sundays: Balloon games - win up to $250!

Wednesdays & Sundays: T-shirt night

Thank you for your consideration!

Saturday & Sundays - Double Action Mini-Session at 4:00 PM

Paid political ad paid for & approve by Jeremy Rolling

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

5 Years Labor Warranty • Licensed & Insured

Paper Only Bingo. Located across the street from Graceville High School.

“I believe agriculture is the greatest asset to our community. I want to be a voice for our local farmers as well as all members, if elected.”

Executive VP/CEO

Over 21 Years Professional Experience

HWY. 77 BINGO, INC.

Elect

HUDSON

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

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.

ISSUE MARCH 2021

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 19

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Spring Toward Efficiency this Month

Tracey R. Kent, Realtor Property Manager

Southern Way Realty, Inc. 850-326-7463

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

Pages 10-12 Specializing in Spray Foam Insulation

INSIDE ...

Deck Kits!

Case Knives on Sale!

6x8 8x10 10x12 12x16

Many more sizes to choose from!

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

...pg. 3

Reduction in Rate Components Announced

...pg. 4

... pg. 6

Iron in Stock!

Annual Meeting Postponed

... pg. 7

Panhandle Lumber & Supply

The Cooperative Difference

... pgs. 13-14

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 17-18

Lodge Cast

Concrete Steps in Stock

www.panhandlesalvage.com

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

850-547-9354 • 405 W. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm.*

Letting hot air into your home due to gaps around your windows and doors might be costing you more than you expect.Weather stripping is easy to install and could save you between 5-30% per year.

Bush Earns Director Gold Credential ...pg. 5 WFEC Adds EV Resources to Website

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

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

Trustee Elections are Soon

ISSUE MARCH 2021

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

71, NO 3