November 2023

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

How Timing Affects Power Prices Pages 8-9

Debbie Roney Smith Call or text: (850) 209-8039

LIC#SL642701

“Be SOLD with American Gold”

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

www.realtordrs.com • debson1999@gmail.com

HWY. 77 BINGO, INC.

INSIDE ...

Paying Your Bill is Easy as 1, 2, 3 ...pgs. 3-4

(850) 263-7788

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

Open 6 days a week. Closed Tuesdays. Session at 7:30 nightly. $50 payouts before & after session. Pull tab games up to $1,000!

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays: All session games pay $250!

Saturdays 7 Sundays: Jackpot games @ 4-5-6-7-9 & 10 PM Double Action Mini-Session at 4:00 PM

Mondays & Wednesdays: T-shirt night

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL 73, NO 11

Vets Power Us

pg... 4

5 Ways to Safeguard Your Home this Winter

...pg. 5

Apply for Youth Tour

...pg. 7

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 13-14

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

Brown St OUR DEBT5306 TO THE

Graceville, FL 32440 HEROIC MEN AND VALIANT

850-263-3267 WOMEN IN THE SERVICE

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 73, NO 11

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.

OF OUR COUNTRY CAN

www.peoplesgraceville.com

NEVER BE REPAID. THEY

HAVE EARNED OUR For 42 years - One Bank - One Mission –

UNDYING GRATITUDE.

Commitment to our customers and the communities we serve.

AMERICA WILL NEVER Serving Jackson, Holmes and Washington Counties since 1974SACRIFICES. FORGET THEIR YOUR LOCALLY OWNED, INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY BANK

PRESIDENT HARRY S. TRUMAN

We Salute Our Veterans Honoring All Who Served Thank You for Your Service

Peoples Bank of Graceville Your Locally Owned, Independent Community Bank We’re Banking on Service!

For 42

Commitment t Serving

5306 Brown Street • Graceville, FL 32440 • 850-263-3267 • peoplesgraceville.com

WFEC Board of Trustees

Together We Can Stay Safe David

Tim

TATUM

ALFORD

Jackie

John

District 1

District 2

ADAMS

POOSER District 3

District 4

David

George Clayton

District 5 / Vice President

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Secretary-Treasurer

District 8 / President

Myron

Frank E.

BONDURANT

HUDSON

Attorney

District 9

Shawn

Efficiency Tip: The holiday season is upon us, and that means we’ll be using more energy in the kitchen! When possible, cook with smaller countertop appliances instead of the stovetop or oven. Smaller appliances like slow cookers, air fryers and Instant Pots consume less energy.

When using the oven or stovetop, match the size of the pot to the heating element and place a lid over the pot while cooking.

The food will cook faster and you’ll use less energy.

24 Hour Emergency Response CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

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

Ph: (850) 547-3658

WALLING

Executive VP/CEO

PAGE 2

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

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.

Plumbing • Electrical • Licensed & Insured

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 15

YOUR L

Multiple Listings (cont.) Recreational Vehicles Three-horse slant trailer; grain wagon; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; Exiss aluminum trailer; coon dog; 850-592-2494 or 850-209-8532.

TL center pivot irrigation parts, center tower, pipe, etc.; Winchester 30-30 AE, model 94 rifle; 850-592-4798.

26 old paintings/art works; 120 pieces of pottery, porcelain, ceramics, Oriental, American; 2 trolling motors, motor guide, Minn Kota clamp-on, $150; 850-6746242.

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

16’ Jon boat w/trailer, trolling motor w/battery, great shape, $3,150; 813-317-1907.

Blue 2022 Rider 10 ATV, like new, $1,200 OBO; 850-209-0163.

50 HP ETEC outboard motor with cables, SS prop, serious inquiries only, $1,500 OBO; 850-209-3626, text or call.

2022 Coleman 400 UTV, used, like new, 15 hours, red/black, $5,600; 850-209-7383, text.

2021 Triton TRX 179, 18’ w/115 four-stroke Mercury motor, Lowrance Fish Finder & trolling motor, low hours, barn kept w/ cover, $30,000 OBO; 850-5576793, for more info.

WANTED

150-500 acres pasture land, in Holmes or Washington County; 850-234-7070.

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

Sugar cane, 100 stalks, will top out and cut myself, want enough for one grinding and to plant; 850-573-0456.

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.

November:

FREE 25 choir robes, burgundy bodies w/ cream neck pieces; 850-263-7371, ask for Rodney.

Seven kittens, ready for good homes; 850-638-8166, if interested.

WFEC offices will be closed: 11/10 - Veterans Day; 11/23 & 24 - Thanksgiving

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.

Malone

I

t's easy to sign up for EZ Pay Power, West Florida Electric's prepaid metering program.

1. Apply for service online and select prepaid metering or 2. Visit a district office and tell them you are interested in prepaid electric service 3. Pay a fee of just $105+ your first power purchase It's really a simple process. Put as much money as you want into your pre-pay account and the co-op will supply you with electricity. As you use the power, your account balance goes down. When funds run out, the electricity does too. Power is sent directly to your home using distribution power lines.

Receive text message notifications when your balance is low or use our app or website to monitor use. You can also purchase more power using the mobile app, online, or over the phone when you need to do so.

Electricity can also be purchased in the office during business hours, Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Many prepaid members notice a reduction in the amount of power they use - mostly because they are more conscious about when and how they use electricity. Prepaid power works well for people who want to take control of their electric accounts and energy use.

By monitoring power consumption on a regular basis, you will notice patterns in your day-to-day use. You will also notice variations in those patterns - like when you have a houseguest (use increases) or go on vacation (use decreases).

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

PAGE 14

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

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

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

Notification Statement

Paying Your Bill is Easy as 1, 2, 3

When ROW crews are trimming in your area, there may be several days between ROW cutting & clean-up crews due to inclement weather, equipment failure or other unforeseen circumstances.

continued on page 4 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

Observing and controlling daily use can help keep electric costs down. In fact, some WFEC members have reduced energy consumption by as much as 15 percent.

You can think of pre-paying for electricity like filling your car with gas.

Instead of filling your gas tank, you are filling your WFEC account, which buys you electricity. Just like the way your gas level goes down, as you drive,

Thank you to the veterans who power us and all of our members who served our country!

Roger Evans

Supervisor, Transportation National Guard

as you use electricity, your prepaid account balance goes down. Adding money gets you more electricity.

To find out more about prepaid electricity, visit westflorida.coop or call 800-342-7400.

Bruce Sorey

Supervisor, Warehousing U.S. Army

PAGE 4

FOR SALE Animals/Livestock

Coastal hay, 5x5 roll, excellent quality, every cutting fertilized, barn stored, never wet, 850-592-4798.

Long 445 tractor, w/bush hog and leveling blade; 251-979-5971.

Grain fed Angus beef, no hormones, Miscellaneous corn-fed 5 months, ready April 2024, $4.75/lb. on the rail, cut & 1958 Army collection Class A wrapped; 850-326-2754. uniform, helmet, camo cover, liner duffel bag, Ft. Jackson training Red Angus & Semi-Angus bulls & book, $300 OBO; 850-674-6242. heifers, all purebred w/registration papers; 850-573-0949.

Used Tyger T3 soft tri-fold Tonneau cover, for 2015-2020 Ford F-150, Shih Tzu puppies, small, gold w/ 5.5’ bed, in good condition; 850mask, born late August, adorable, 573-5117. happy to text a pic, $875, Westville; 850-768-0556.

Honda 5 HP pressure washer, new tires, new spray gun, 25’ of hose and Five AMGA registered bucks, from all nozzles, works fine; 850-5732-8 months old, great herd builders; 5117.

850-849-2426.

Home/Farm Adjustable round table, great for that Thanksgiving dinner; 850-2634339.

Bahia grass hay, 5x4 rolls, fertilized/barn-stored; 850-573-5145.

We appreciate your sacrifices more than you know.

WFEC offices will be closed on Friday, November 10 to observe Veterans Day

CLASSIFIEDS

Automatic transmission, for a 2005 Explorer SUV, worked when it was removed, $400 OBO; 850-6388166.

Dog kennels, like new, 6’ high x 10’ long, $200 OBO; 850-693-5001, Archie Jones.

CLF Free Ad Policy (Limited to one ad per household)

Dan Rutko

Line Crew Leader U.S. Air Force

Karl McClamma Apprentice Line Worker U.S. Air Force

Not pictured: David Gilpin, Journeyman Line Worker CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

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 NOVEMBER 2023

Multiple Listings Square bale annual peanut hay; grass hay, 5x5 rolls; walk-in cooler; shelled ear corn; 850-263-3427.

Cell phones, new active, $70 OBO; 13” color TV, new in box, $100 OBO; 850-299-2260 or 850-7031947, call before 8 p.m.

Furniture; garden tools; mechanics tools; power tools, ever tool for any job; 850-372-7500.

Three-wheel bike, used 3 times, like new, $100; treadmill, very good condition, $75; 850-527-9090.

TCL 65” TV, works good, $100; Iron Man inversion table, used very little, $100; Clevermade lock box, $45; 850-547-1519.

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

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

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

592 594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly.

Name Acct. # St. Address/P.O. Box City Phone #

For Sale • Wanted • Free • Thank You • Lost (circle one)

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

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

Greg A. Varner Owner

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

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

1945 Tower Lane Westville, FL 32464

License# CCC058016

Stump Grinding David & Family Trim Tree Services, LLC Cut Bonded & Fully Insured Free Estimates

(850) 326-1559

Remove Structure Demo

Veteran-Founded

We Buy Vintage

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

BUSH PAINT & SUPPLY Graceville, FL Open: Monday-Friday • 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

(850) 263-4744 or (850) 263-6345 Randy: (850) 415-2222 Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic Wood • Laminate Feed Seed Fertilizer Bonnie Plants

Call Us First

Syrup kettles Advertisement Items Vintage Items Records

850-209-2012

We Buy One Piece or Entire Collections Local help with your Medicare questions.

Gene Alford

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

Since 1969

4” to 12”

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

850-263-8064

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC Levon Carnley

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

Licensed

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

PAGE 12

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS

Centipede Seed Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Phone: 850-703-0318

638-7105

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

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

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

Mr. Fence

Gary McIntosh

(850) 593-0009

SURVEYOR

Commercial • Residential • Farm • Industrial

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Locally Owned & Operated for 28 Years

Roger Lonsway

Your Privacy is Our Business

Mobile: 850-260-5438

Chris & Sheryl Tate

(850) 547-5516

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

5 Ways to Safeguard Your Home this Winter

A

s the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there is a natural carbon monoxide that inclination to create a warm and cozy haven at home. Unfortunately, seeps indoors. as we see increased use of heating equipment, candles, gas and 5. Practice safety in the kitchen. electrical items, the number of home fires tends to increase during winter As we spend more time in the months. Here are five ways you can safeguard your home for the winter kitchen during the holiday season: season, be mindful of potential 1. Ensure carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working properly. fire hazards. Never leave food If your detectors are battery-operated, replace the batteries annually. Test that is cooking on the stovetop the detectors once a month and give them a good dusting to make sure unattended. Clean and remove the sensors are clear of dirt and debris. spilled foods from cooking 2. Inspect electrical cords. We depend on more cords during winter, surfaces and be mindful of whether for holiday lighting, extension cords or portable heaters. Before where you place flammable items using any corded items, double check to make sure cords aren't frayed like dish towels. or cracked. If you use portable space heaters, remember to keep them at least 3 feet away from flammable items. Use models that include an West Florida Electric Cooperative auto shut-off feature and overheat protection. Space heaters can take a (WFEC) wants you and your family toll on your energy bills. Use them efficiently (to heat smaller spaces) and to stay safe during the winter season. safely. Never plug a space heater into a power strip.

Visit www.westflorida.coop for more safety tips.

3. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and power strips. When overloaded with electrical items, outlets and power strips can overheat and catch fire. If you use power strips for multiple devices, make sure the strip can handle the electrical load. For a safer bet, look for power strips that include surge There's nothing better than a warm protection.

4. Clean the fireplace to fire on a chilly night, but it's improve safety and important to maintain your efficiency. There's fireplace for safety. nothing bettter than a warm fire on a chilly night, but it's important to maintain your fireplace for safety. As wood burns, a sticky substance known as creosote builds up in the chimney. When creosote buildup becomes too thick, a chimney fire can ignite.

The chimney should be cleaned at least once a year to reduce fire risks.

Regular cleaning also improves air flow and limits the amount of ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

200-Amp Power Pole $499.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $399.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc. Contact Rick at 850-526-2183 or Anthony Register at 850-573-0219

God’s Handyman, LLC

Licensed & Insured L19000238025

Specializing in Remodeling & Antique Restoration • 20 years experience • Decks • Finish Carpentry • Interior & Exterior Doors • Additions • Hard Wood Floor • Vinyl Siding • Baseboards • Windows Restoration • Crown/Custom Trim • Painting • Kitchen & Bathroom • Chair Rail • Sheetrock Remodels • Toilets • Much More!

• Flooring (850) 209-6593 All Are Welcome!

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

Make a Change that Pays Pays!!

Stay comfortable year round by upgrading your home's heating & cooling system.

Install a high-efficiency dual-fuel or mini-split system and get rebates of up to $350/ton!

Clay O’Neal:

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055

You Choose Your Rewards Earning Points is Easy!

LOCAL INSURANCE ADVISOR

Armondi Roofing, LLC

Offering: *Final Expense *Mortgage Protection *Long Term Care (Affordable Alternative) *Critical Illness *Cancer *Affordable Dental Plans

5 Year Workmanship Warranty

30 Years Experience • Free Policy Reviews

Contact Jeff Cooper (850) 209-4038 for details!

“Father Rooster to all of my Clients”

Use any First Federal Bank debit card or Visa® rewards credit card to start earning.

Gift Cards

Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

SOUTHSIDE

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Travel & More

Livestock Fencing

To open an account or register your card, visit: ffbf.com

Materials, Maintenance & Installation Board, Privacy, and Chain-link

Reward points may take up to 40 days to show in your account. Cash back rewards may be subject to tax reporting.

PAGE 6

Free Estimates

(850) 547-2934

Redeem Points For: Cash Back

Re-roof Specialist Shingles • Flat Roofs • Re-Roofs New Roofs & All Types of Repairs

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

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

Need Ice? Ice Machine Leasing

850-703-5486 State Certified Contractor CAC1819784

www.mysouthsideair.com

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

Always here for you

Sweet Potato Dumplings

Submitted by: Sherri Johnson

Ingredients: 2 packages crescent rolls 8 round yam patties (cut in half) 11/2 sticks butter 3/4 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup white sugar 11/2 cup water

Directions: Safety behind the wheel includes slowing down & moving over when you see crews working along the roadside.

You'll help ensure crews return home safely to their families & continue to be there when you need them.

Larry Englert Owner

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

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

Licensed & insured

(850) 630-9225

W&S Farm and Service Tractor & Equipment Repair Welding Irrigation Repair Excavator & Bulldozer Work Land Clearing Earth Moving

(850) 326-8419 PAGE 10

Wrap each yam patty in a crescent roll and place in a 9x13 baking pan. Melt the 11/2 sticks butter in a separate pan and add all of the brown sugar, the white sugar and the water. Bring to a boil and pour over the dumplings. Sprinkle with cinnamon and bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes.

James & Son Tree and Crane Service

Apply for Youth Tour!

Youth Tour (YT) is an annual contest sponsored

by West Florida Electric Cooperative that gives high school juniors the opportunity to compete for a FREE week-long trip to Washington, D.C. Everyone who participates in WFEC’s Youth Tour program will earn a trip to our state's capital for two days.

To Apply, Students must be High School Juniors and their Parents or Guardians must be Members of West Florida Electric Cooperative.

Insured and Reasonable

850-272-3620 Free Estimates

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

Use the QR code for more info or contact Candace Croft at ccroft@westflorida.coop Deadline to apply: December 1, 2023

Your local source for Medicare.

Gene Alford Licensed Sales Agent 850-209-1381, TTY 711

2 winners will receive a $1,000 college scholarship & 1 alternate will receive a $500 college scholarship!

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

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

See counselor to apply

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

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

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

How Timing Affects Power Prices

T

iming is everything, according to some. That is certainly true when it comes to the price we pay for power. Like gas at the pump, or tickets to an amusement park, prices increase when demand is high.

Try buying gas when lines are long, and you will pay more for it. The same is true for various food products, too. Demand drives prices.

While we do everything we can to keep rates as low as possible, there is a way you can help, as well. It will not cost you a thing, and it should not inconvenience you, either. You simply join other members in shifting or delaying the times you use electricity.

It is all based on what we call "peak demand times." These are periods when many people are using electricity at the same time. Electricity is more expensive during these "peaks." "Peaks" typically happen on cold winter mornings from 5-9 a.m.

During the winter, you can make the biggest impact by lowering your thermostat a few degrees in the morning. Delaying chores that use large appliances until after 9 a.m. helps, as does setting your dishwasher to run later in the day. You could hold off washing or drying clothes until after the peak time has passed, too. If you can postpone chores that require hot water when a peak demand time is expected, you will help hold down the cost of electricity. Even turning off a light is helpful If you and your family members can shower in the evening during winter, that will also help shave the peak. Showering also helps use less water than a typical soaking bath. These simple actions may not seem like much, but they are energy-saving measures.

Peak demands for electricity directly affect power costs. That is because we must have enough power generation available to serve all members at that moment when demand for electricity is at its highest. This ensures we have a continuous, reliable supply of power around the clock.

Making these shifts when you use electricity helps reduce the overall demand for it and helps manage power costs for all members. It also reduces the need for new power generation of any kind, whether renewable, nuclear, or fossil fuels.

Reduce peak demand and help keep wholesale power costs low.

Finally - a reward for postponing those chores.

Justin Joyner

Always here for you

850-658-2890

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

Lawn Care Service

Keep your cooperative’s cost of wholesale power down and your bills low. During “peak” times when many people demand electricity at once, simply delay your energy use.

Call Gary • 912-271-5781 McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

On cold winter mornings (5 to 9 a.m.) do the following:

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 William

Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc.

Adjust your thermostat.

Delay chores that use large appliances until after 9 a.m. in the winter months to help hold down the cost of electricity.

License Number: CMC1250499

(850) 326-0330

Email: wilcruent@bellsouth.net

Postpone dishwashing, laundry and baths.

Turn off unneeded lights and devices.

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

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

3783 Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

Davis Home and Lawn, LLC No Job Too Small

Get more details at www.westflorida.coop 800-342-7400 PAGE 8

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

Home Repair Lawn Care

(850) 849-3703 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

How Timing Affects Power Prices

T

iming is everything, according to some. That is certainly true when it comes to the price we pay for power. Like gas at the pump, or tickets to an amusement park, prices increase when demand is high.

Try buying gas when lines are long, and you will pay more for it. The same is true for various food products, too. Demand drives prices.

While we do everything we can to keep rates as low as possible, there is a way you can help, as well. It will not cost you a thing, and it should not inconvenience you, either. You simply join other members in shifting or delaying the times you use electricity.

It is all based on what we call "peak demand times." These are periods when many people are using electricity at the same time. Electricity is more expensive during these "peaks." "Peaks" typically happen on cold winter mornings from 5-9 a.m.

During the winter, you can make the biggest impact by lowering your thermostat a few degrees in the morning. Delaying chores that use large appliances until after 9 a.m. helps, as does setting your dishwasher to run later in the day. You could hold off washing or drying clothes until after the peak time has passed, too. If you can postpone chores that require hot water when a peak demand time is expected, you will help hold down the cost of electricity. Even turning off a light is helpful If you and your family members can shower in the evening during winter, that will also help shave the peak. Showering also helps use less water than a typical soaking bath. These simple actions may not seem like much, but they are energy-saving measures.

Peak demands for electricity directly affect power costs. That is because we must have enough power generation available to serve all members at that moment when demand for electricity is at its highest. This ensures we have a continuous, reliable supply of power around the clock.

Making these shifts when you use electricity helps reduce the overall demand for it and helps manage power costs for all members. It also reduces the need for new power generation of any kind, whether renewable, nuclear, or fossil fuels.

Reduce peak demand and help keep wholesale power costs low.

Finally - a reward for postponing those chores.

Justin Joyner

Always here for you

850-658-2890

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

Lawn Care Service

Keep your cooperative’s cost of wholesale power down and your bills low. During “peak” times when many people demand electricity at once, simply delay your energy use.

Call Gary • 912-271-5781 McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

On cold winter mornings (5 to 9 a.m.) do the following:

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 William

Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc.

Adjust your thermostat.

Delay chores that use large appliances until after 9 a.m. in the winter months to help hold down the cost of electricity.

License Number: CMC1250499

(850) 326-0330

Email: wilcruent@bellsouth.net

Postpone dishwashing, laundry and baths.

Turn off unneeded lights and devices.

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

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

3783 Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

Davis Home and Lawn, LLC No Job Too Small

Get more details at www.westflorida.coop 800-342-7400 PAGE 8

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

Home Repair Lawn Care

(850) 849-3703 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Always here for you

Sweet Potato Dumplings

Submitted by: Sherri Johnson

Ingredients: 2 packages crescent rolls 8 round yam patties (cut in half) 11/2 sticks butter 3/4 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup white sugar 11/2 cup water

Directions: Safety behind the wheel includes slowing down & moving over when you see crews working along the roadside.

You'll help ensure crews return home safely to their families & continue to be there when you need them.

Larry Englert Owner

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

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

Licensed & insured

(850) 630-9225

W&S Farm and Service Tractor & Equipment Repair Welding Irrigation Repair Excavator & Bulldozer Work Land Clearing Earth Moving

(850) 326-8419 PAGE 10

Wrap each yam patty in a crescent roll and place in a 9x13 baking pan. Melt the 11/2 sticks butter in a separate pan and add all of the brown sugar, the white sugar and the water. Bring to a boil and pour over the dumplings. Sprinkle with cinnamon and bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes.

James & Son Tree and Crane Service

Apply for Youth Tour!

Youth Tour (YT) is an annual contest sponsored

by West Florida Electric Cooperative that gives high school juniors the opportunity to compete for a FREE week-long trip to Washington, D.C. Everyone who participates in WFEC’s Youth Tour program will earn a trip to our state's capital for two days.

To Apply, Students must be High School Juniors and their Parents or Guardians must be Members of West Florida Electric Cooperative.

Insured and Reasonable

850-272-3620 Free Estimates

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

Use the QR code for more info or contact Candace Croft at ccroft@westflorida.coop Deadline to apply: December 1, 2023

Your local source for Medicare.

Gene Alford Licensed Sales Agent 850-209-1381, TTY 711

2 winners will receive a $1,000 college scholarship & 1 alternate will receive a $500 college scholarship!

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

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

See counselor to apply

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

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

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

200-Amp Power Pole $499.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $399.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc. Contact Rick at 850-526-2183 or Anthony Register at 850-573-0219

God’s Handyman, LLC

Licensed & Insured L19000238025

Specializing in Remodeling & Antique Restoration • 20 years experience • Decks • Finish Carpentry • Interior & Exterior Doors • Additions • Hard Wood Floor • Vinyl Siding • Baseboards • Windows Restoration • Crown/Custom Trim • Painting • Kitchen & Bathroom • Chair Rail • Sheetrock Remodels • Toilets • Much More!

• Flooring (850) 209-6593 All Are Welcome!

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

Make a Change that Pays Pays!!

Stay comfortable year round by upgrading your home's heating & cooling system.

Install a high-efficiency dual-fuel or mini-split system and get rebates of up to $350/ton!

Clay O’Neal:

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055

You Choose Your Rewards Earning Points is Easy!

LOCAL INSURANCE ADVISOR

Armondi Roofing, LLC

Offering: *Final Expense *Mortgage Protection *Long Term Care (Affordable Alternative) *Critical Illness *Cancer *Affordable Dental Plans

5 Year Workmanship Warranty

30 Years Experience • Free Policy Reviews

Contact Jeff Cooper (850) 209-4038 for details!

“Father Rooster to all of my Clients”

Use any First Federal Bank debit card or Visa® rewards credit card to start earning.

Gift Cards

Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

SOUTHSIDE

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Travel & More

Livestock Fencing

To open an account or register your card, visit: ffbf.com

Materials, Maintenance & Installation Board, Privacy, and Chain-link

Reward points may take up to 40 days to show in your account. Cash back rewards may be subject to tax reporting.

PAGE 6

Free Estimates

(850) 547-2934

Redeem Points For: Cash Back

Re-roof Specialist Shingles • Flat Roofs • Re-Roofs New Roofs & All Types of Repairs

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

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

Need Ice? Ice Machine Leasing

850-703-5486 State Certified Contractor CAC1819784

www.mysouthsideair.com

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

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

Greg A. Varner Owner

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

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

1945 Tower Lane Westville, FL 32464

License# CCC058016

Stump Grinding David & Family Trim Tree Services, LLC Cut Bonded & Fully Insured Free Estimates

(850) 326-1559

Remove Structure Demo

Veteran-Founded

We Buy Vintage

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

BUSH PAINT & SUPPLY Graceville, FL Open: Monday-Friday • 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

(850) 263-4744 or (850) 263-6345 Randy: (850) 415-2222 Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic Wood • Laminate Feed Seed Fertilizer Bonnie Plants

Call Us First

Syrup kettles Advertisement Items Vintage Items Records

850-209-2012

We Buy One Piece or Entire Collections Local help with your Medicare questions.

Gene Alford

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

Since 1969

4” to 12”

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

850-263-8064

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC Levon Carnley

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

Licensed

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

PAGE 12

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS

Centipede Seed Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Phone: 850-703-0318

638-7105

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

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

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

Mr. Fence

Gary McIntosh

(850) 593-0009

SURVEYOR

Commercial • Residential • Farm • Industrial

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Locally Owned & Operated for 28 Years

Roger Lonsway

Your Privacy is Our Business

Mobile: 850-260-5438

Chris & Sheryl Tate

(850) 547-5516

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

5 Ways to Safeguard Your Home this Winter

A

s the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there is a natural carbon monoxide that inclination to create a warm and cozy haven at home. Unfortunately, seeps indoors. as we see increased use of heating equipment, candles, gas and 5. Practice safety in the kitchen. electrical items, the number of home fires tends to increase during winter As we spend more time in the months. Here are five ways you can safeguard your home for the winter kitchen during the holiday season: season, be mindful of potential 1. Ensure carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working properly. fire hazards. Never leave food If your detectors are battery-operated, replace the batteries annually. Test that is cooking on the stovetop the detectors once a month and give them a good dusting to make sure unattended. Clean and remove the sensors are clear of dirt and debris. spilled foods from cooking 2. Inspect electrical cords. We depend on more cords during winter, surfaces and be mindful of whether for holiday lighting, extension cords or portable heaters. Before where you place flammable items using any corded items, double check to make sure cords aren't frayed like dish towels. or cracked. If you use portable space heaters, remember to keep them at least 3 feet away from flammable items. Use models that include an West Florida Electric Cooperative auto shut-off feature and overheat protection. Space heaters can take a (WFEC) wants you and your family toll on your energy bills. Use them efficiently (to heat smaller spaces) and to stay safe during the winter season. safely. Never plug a space heater into a power strip.

Visit www.westflorida.coop for more safety tips.

3. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and power strips. When overloaded with electrical items, outlets and power strips can overheat and catch fire. If you use power strips for multiple devices, make sure the strip can handle the electrical load. For a safer bet, look for power strips that include surge There's nothing better than a warm protection.

4. Clean the fireplace to fire on a chilly night, but it's improve safety and important to maintain your efficiency. There's fireplace for safety. nothing bettter than a warm fire on a chilly night, but it's important to maintain your fireplace for safety. As wood burns, a sticky substance known as creosote builds up in the chimney. When creosote buildup becomes too thick, a chimney fire can ignite.

The chimney should be cleaned at least once a year to reduce fire risks.

Regular cleaning also improves air flow and limits the amount of ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Observing and controlling daily use can help keep electric costs down. In fact, some WFEC members have reduced energy consumption by as much as 15 percent.

You can think of pre-paying for electricity like filling your car with gas.

Instead of filling your gas tank, you are filling your WFEC account, which buys you electricity. Just like the way your gas level goes down, as you drive,

Thank you to the veterans who power us and all of our members who served our country!

Roger Evans

Supervisor, Transportation National Guard

as you use electricity, your prepaid account balance goes down. Adding money gets you more electricity.

To find out more about prepaid electricity, visit westflorida.coop or call 800-342-7400.

Bruce Sorey

Supervisor, Warehousing U.S. Army

PAGE 4

FOR SALE Animals/Livestock

Coastal hay, 5x5 roll, excellent quality, every cutting fertilized, barn stored, never wet, 850-592-4798.

Long 445 tractor, w/bush hog and leveling blade; 251-979-5971.

Grain fed Angus beef, no hormones, Miscellaneous corn-fed 5 months, ready April 2024, $4.75/lb. on the rail, cut & 1958 Army collection Class A wrapped; 850-326-2754. uniform, helmet, camo cover, liner duffel bag, Ft. Jackson training Red Angus & Semi-Angus bulls & book, $300 OBO; 850-674-6242. heifers, all purebred w/registration papers; 850-573-0949.

Used Tyger T3 soft tri-fold Tonneau cover, for 2015-2020 Ford F-150, Shih Tzu puppies, small, gold w/ 5.5’ bed, in good condition; 850mask, born late August, adorable, 573-5117. happy to text a pic, $875, Westville; 850-768-0556.

Honda 5 HP pressure washer, new tires, new spray gun, 25’ of hose and Five AMGA registered bucks, from all nozzles, works fine; 850-5732-8 months old, great herd builders; 5117.

850-849-2426.

Home/Farm Adjustable round table, great for that Thanksgiving dinner; 850-2634339.

Bahia grass hay, 5x4 rolls, fertilized/barn-stored; 850-573-5145.

We appreciate your sacrifices more than you know.

WFEC offices will be closed on Friday, November 10 to observe Veterans Day

CLASSIFIEDS

Automatic transmission, for a 2005 Explorer SUV, worked when it was removed, $400 OBO; 850-6388166.

Dog kennels, like new, 6’ high x 10’ long, $200 OBO; 850-693-5001, Archie Jones.

CLF Free Ad Policy (Limited to one ad per household)

Dan Rutko

Line Crew Leader U.S. Air Force

Karl McClamma Apprentice Line Worker U.S. Air Force

Not pictured: David Gilpin, Journeyman Line Worker CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

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 NOVEMBER 2023

Multiple Listings Square bale annual peanut hay; grass hay, 5x5 rolls; walk-in cooler; shelled ear corn; 850-263-3427.

Cell phones, new active, $70 OBO; 13” color TV, new in box, $100 OBO; 850-299-2260 or 850-7031947, call before 8 p.m.

Furniture; garden tools; mechanics tools; power tools, ever tool for any job; 850-372-7500.

Three-wheel bike, used 3 times, like new, $100; treadmill, very good condition, $75; 850-527-9090.

TCL 65” TV, works good, $100; Iron Man inversion table, used very little, $100; Clevermade lock box, $45; 850-547-1519.

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

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

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

592 594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly.

Name Acct. # St. Address/P.O. Box City Phone #

For Sale • Wanted • Free • Thank You • Lost (circle one)

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

Multiple Listings (cont.) Recreational Vehicles Three-horse slant trailer; grain wagon; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; Exiss aluminum trailer; coon dog; 850-592-2494 or 850-209-8532.

TL center pivot irrigation parts, center tower, pipe, etc.; Winchester 30-30 AE, model 94 rifle; 850-592-4798.

26 old paintings/art works; 120 pieces of pottery, porcelain, ceramics, Oriental, American; 2 trolling motors, motor guide, Minn Kota clamp-on, $150; 850-6746242.

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

16’ Jon boat w/trailer, trolling motor w/battery, great shape, $3,150; 813-317-1907.

Blue 2022 Rider 10 ATV, like new, $1,200 OBO; 850-209-0163.

50 HP ETEC outboard motor with cables, SS prop, serious inquiries only, $1,500 OBO; 850-209-3626, text or call.

2022 Coleman 400 UTV, used, like new, 15 hours, red/black, $5,600; 850-209-7383, text.

2021 Triton TRX 179, 18’ w/115 four-stroke Mercury motor, Lowrance Fish Finder & trolling motor, low hours, barn kept w/ cover, $30,000 OBO; 850-5576793, for more info.

WANTED

150-500 acres pasture land, in Holmes or Washington County; 850-234-7070.

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

Sugar cane, 100 stalks, will top out and cut myself, want enough for one grinding and to plant; 850-573-0456.

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.

November:

FREE 25 choir robes, burgundy bodies w/ cream neck pieces; 850-263-7371, ask for Rodney.

Seven kittens, ready for good homes; 850-638-8166, if interested.

WFEC offices will be closed: 11/10 - Veterans Day; 11/23 & 24 - Thanksgiving

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.

Malone

I

t's easy to sign up for EZ Pay Power, West Florida Electric's prepaid metering program.

1. Apply for service online and select prepaid metering or 2. Visit a district office and tell them you are interested in prepaid electric service 3. Pay a fee of just $105+ your first power purchase It's really a simple process. Put as much money as you want into your pre-pay account and the co-op will supply you with electricity. As you use the power, your account balance goes down. When funds run out, the electricity does too. Power is sent directly to your home using distribution power lines.

Receive text message notifications when your balance is low or use our app or website to monitor use. You can also purchase more power using the mobile app, online, or over the phone when you need to do so.

Electricity can also be purchased in the office during business hours, Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Many prepaid members notice a reduction in the amount of power they use - mostly because they are more conscious about when and how they use electricity. Prepaid power works well for people who want to take control of their electric accounts and energy use.

By monitoring power consumption on a regular basis, you will notice patterns in your day-to-day use. You will also notice variations in those patterns - like when you have a houseguest (use increases) or go on vacation (use decreases).

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

PAGE 14

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

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

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

Notification Statement

Paying Your Bill is Easy as 1, 2, 3

When ROW crews are trimming in your area, there may be several days between ROW cutting & clean-up crews due to inclement weather, equipment failure or other unforeseen circumstances.

continued on page 4 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

Brown St OUR DEBT5306 TO THE

Graceville, FL 32440 HEROIC MEN AND VALIANT

850-263-3267 WOMEN IN THE SERVICE

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 73, NO 11

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.

OF OUR COUNTRY CAN

www.peoplesgraceville.com

NEVER BE REPAID. THEY

HAVE EARNED OUR For 42 years - One Bank - One Mission –

UNDYING GRATITUDE.

Commitment to our customers and the communities we serve.

AMERICA WILL NEVER Serving Jackson, Holmes and Washington Counties since 1974SACRIFICES. FORGET THEIR YOUR LOCALLY OWNED, INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY BANK

PRESIDENT HARRY S. TRUMAN

We Salute Our Veterans Honoring All Who Served Thank You for Your Service

Peoples Bank of Graceville Your Locally Owned, Independent Community Bank We’re Banking on Service!

For 42

Commitment t Serving

5306 Brown Street • Graceville, FL 32440 • 850-263-3267 • peoplesgraceville.com

WFEC Board of Trustees

Together We Can Stay Safe David

Tim

TATUM

ALFORD

Jackie

John

District 1

District 2

ADAMS

POOSER District 3

District 4

David

George Clayton

District 5 / Vice President

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Secretary-Treasurer

District 8 / President

Myron

Frank E.

BONDURANT

HUDSON

Attorney

District 9

Shawn

Efficiency Tip: The holiday season is upon us, and that means we’ll be using more energy in the kitchen! When possible, cook with smaller countertop appliances instead of the stovetop or oven. Smaller appliances like slow cookers, air fryers and Instant Pots consume less energy.

When using the oven or stovetop, match the size of the pot to the heating element and place a lid over the pot while cooking.

The food will cook faster and you’ll use less energy.

24 Hour Emergency Response CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

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

Ph: (850) 547-3658

WALLING

Executive VP/CEO

PAGE 2

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

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.

Plumbing • Electrical • Licensed & Insured

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 15

YOUR L

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

How Timing Affects Power Prices Pages 8-9

Debbie Roney Smith Call or text: (850) 209-8039

LIC#SL642701

“Be SOLD with American Gold”

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

www.realtordrs.com • debson1999@gmail.com

HWY. 77 BINGO, INC.

INSIDE ...

Paying Your Bill is Easy as 1, 2, 3 ...pgs. 3-4

(850) 263-7788

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

Open 6 days a week. Closed Tuesdays. Session at 7:30 nightly. $50 payouts before & after session. Pull tab games up to $1,000!

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays: All session games pay $250!

Saturdays 7 Sundays: Jackpot games @ 4-5-6-7-9 & 10 PM Double Action Mini-Session at 4:00 PM

Mondays & Wednesdays: T-shirt night

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2023

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL 73, NO 11

Vets Power Us

pg... 4

5 Ways to Safeguard Your Home this Winter

...pg. 5

Apply for Youth Tour

...pg. 7

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 13-14