November 2024

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Is a Mini-Split System Right for Your Home? Pages 9-10 Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

Debbie Roney Smith Call or text: (850) 209-8039 “Be SOLD with American Gold”

LIC#SL642701

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

24 Hour Emergency Response

www.realtordrs.com • debson1999@gmail.com

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9 (850) 956-4325 Mobile: (850) 259-0467 Fax: (850) 956-4169

Over 25 years

SOUTHERN ROOFING, INC.

building & construction experience

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

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

◄

All Types Licensed • Bonded • Insured

DUPONT•

Authorized Agent

A Afr.lSTFAfO MFMflfA OF THf

AUTO GLASS

SAFETY COUNCIL-

Call Matt: 850-326-0933

• Any Glass • Any Vehicle

WISEFLYAUTOGLASS.COM

License# CCC058016

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Open Sunday-Friday 7 AM - 2 PM

2119 NW Whitewater Grade Road Clarksville, FL Citrus Apples Peaches Plums Figs Nuts Bananas Kiwi

Pears Avocados Olives Pomegranates Grape Vines Berry Patches Much More

Special 100 Tree Orchard Package w/Irrigation as low Instant Orchard Packages • Retail Nursery • Edible Landscaping • Vineyards as $8,900!

Food Forests • Bamboo Privacy Hedges • Greenhouses • Irrigation Call us or come by today to get your food forest started!

850-451-6222

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

INSIDE ...

President’s Column: Kilowatt Hour Usage & Energy Conservation ...pg. 3 Electricity Provides Powerful Value ...pg. 5 Levelized Billing: A Simplified Approach to Energy Costs ...pg. 8 Is a Mini-Split System Right for Your Home?

...pg. 9

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

...pg. 13

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL 74, NO 11

Panhandle Pump Repair & Filtration Service

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

What’s in YOUR Water?

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 74, 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 Tallahassee, Florida.

WFEC Board of Trustees

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

Package Land Pride implements with a power unit to get chores done! Visit landpride.com to see the full product line then ask your dealer about financing and build your tractor package today.

5003 Highway 90 Marianna, Florida 32446

DAVID TATUM

TIM ALFORD

District 1

District 2/President

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

(850) 263-4744 or (850) 263-6345 Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic • Wood Feed• Seed • Fertilizer

Custom Cattle Services

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

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

DOUBLE-TIME JACKIE POOSER

Pest Control

(850) 718-6109

JOHN ADAMS

District 3

District 4

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

District 5/Vice President

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

Turning 65? New to the Area? Medicaid Eligible?

Call Me.

GEORGE C. OWENS District 6

I’m Local.

Licensed/Certified/Dependable/Helpful

RANDY BUSH District 7

MISTY ERICKSON District 8

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

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

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

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

District 9/Secretary-Treasurer

PAGE 2

Move Over It’s the Law

Affecting West Florida Electric Co-op.

Affecting you.

5905 Timberlane Rd. Bascom, FL 32423

Call for a Free Quote Today

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

EPA POWER PLANT RULE

Panhandle Tractor

(850) 526-2257

Over 40 Years Experience

Rule Requirements –

Existing coal plants that plan to operate after 2038 and new baseload natural gas plants must reach 90% carbon capture and storage by 2032.

–

New peaking natural gas units must drastically limit operations.

–

States must notify the EPA of how they plan to meet the requirements by June 2026.

Safety behind the wheel includes slowing down & moving over when you see crews working along the the roadside. You’ll help ensure crews return home safely & continue to be there when you need them.

(850) 658-2635

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

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

Real Estate (cont.)

Recreational Vehicles

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

3BR/2BA brick ranch-style home on Tracker 1448 MVX Camo welded 47 acres, Sand Basin Road, see on aluminum boat, 2021 Suzuki 25 HP Penny through dollar coins, loose, Zillow.com; call 850-272-7120 for in jars, collections and estates; motor PowerTrim, trolling motor, appointment.

850-326-3437.

2 batteries, Tracker trailer, $9,000; 850-482-6296.

Pate Pond .40 acre lot, treated License plates from any state, wood, elevated walkway, dock mainly Florida, prior to 1980; old w/rails & fishing pole holders, motorcycles or parts prior to 1960; WANTED electrical pole to service lot/dock, 850-557-7030, Greg. beautiful setting, $15,000 for lot with improvements; 850-547-5777 Horses; ponies; mules; donkeys; Pastureland to rent, closer to or 850-217-6457.

850-209-8532 or 850-592-2494.

Campbellton the better; 850-703-5450.

Kilowatt Hour Usage & Energy Conservation

I

n my August 2024 article, I mentioned kilowatt hour (kWh) usage and this month I'd like to talk more about that. I will also talk about how using less during certain times of the year can save you money as well as every other member!

For residential accounts, West Florida Electric Cooperative's (WFEC) current kWh price is 0.11637 cents per kilowatt hour used.

If your use was 1,000 kilowatt hours, then your bill shows an Energy Usage Charge of $151.37 ($116.37 for you kWh plus $35 for the base rate, which I spoke about last month).

As members, we are aware that we use more power during the colder winter months and hotter summer months.What you may not be aware of is that WFEC is a winter peaking system, which means that we use the highest amount of power (demand) in the winter on typically the coldest morning of the year between 6 and 9 A.M., Tim Alford, WFEC Board President when everyone is getting up to start their day. How much the entire cooperative uses on that morning sets our peak demand with our power supplier, PowerSouth Energy Cooperative in Andalusia, Alabama, and that peak demand affects how much we pay for the next year!

There are quite a few things that you, as a member, can do to lower your overall energy use as well as help with that winter peak. I will give you just a couple of suggestions. One of the most important things you can do to eliminate kWh use is make sure that your home is properly insulated. Heat and cold enters and exits your home in so many places and there are small things you can do to help stop it. Check the weather stripping on your doors, windows, your home's skirting, and the pipes coming into your home. Also make sure to check the level of insulation in your attic. Another thing that you can do is make sure that all your major appliances (water heater, electric stoves, clothes dryers, air conditioners/heaters, and pump) are operating Our offices will be closed properly. Most of these operate on 220 voltage and can make a major Thursday, November 28 difference in your kWh use. (And, please don't forget to insulate your pump this winter to keep it from freezing).

Friday, November 29 If you need more information or advice about how to conserve and in observance of the Thanksgiving save, don't hesitate to reach out to the Energy Services Department by holiday. We are incredibly calling 800-342-7400. It might sound crazy, but that department is grateful for your membership dedicated to helping you buy less power! as our team spends this special time Look out for those super cold mornings and try not to use as much with loved ones. power between 6 and 9 AM on those days. Any little bit will help.

From our co-op family I hope that everyone has a safe and blessed holiday season.

We’re Grateful for Your Membership.

Notification Statement

Notice is hereby given that the West Florida Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. Board of Trustees regularly meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, unless special circumstances warrant a change.

Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400 Subscription Rate Cooperative members, $2.50 per year Non-members, $6.00 per year Change of Address Notices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current Light Flashes P. O. Box 127 Graceville, Florida 32440-0127

Sincerely,

to yours, we hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

DISCLAIMER: Although paid advertisements may appear in West Florida Electric (WFEC) publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, WFEC does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. WFEC reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish any advertisement, article or information.

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

PAGE 14

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

James & Son Tree and Crane Service Insured and Reasonable

850-272-3620 Free Estimates

Specialist at Removing Hazardous Trees • Land Clearing • Stump Grinding • Forestry Mulching • Debris Removal D West Florida Turf SO SO Centipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda D

McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

Centipede Seed

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

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC Levon Carnley

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

Licensed

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Phone: 850-703-0318

Apply for Youth Tour Today!

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 2 winners state's capital for two days.

See Counselor to Apply

will win a $1,000 college scholarship & 1 alternate will win a $500 college scholarship!

Applicants must be high school juniors and their parents or guardians must be members of West Florida Electric.

Use the QR code for more info or contact Candace Croft ccroft@westflorida.coop

Deadline to apply: December 17 PAGE 4

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

CLASSIFIEDS

Miscellaneous

FOR SALE

Grain fed Angus beef, no hormones or litter, 5 months on grain, ready April 2025, $5.20/pound, on the rail, cut & wrapped; 850-326-2754.

Animals/Livestock

Black Australorp chicks, female, $5 Power wheelchair, like new, candy each; male, $4.50 each; un-sexed, apple red, used one time, inside, $3.50 each; eggs with carton, w/o $2,500; 850-326-2799. carton, $3.00; 850-481-2023.

Cedar lumber, $2.50 a board ft.; 850-371-0105.

Home/Farm Perennial peanut hay, fresh cut, barn stored; 561-793-1210.

Snapper lawn tractor, 42” cut with 19.5 engine. gently used w/new battery, $1,800; 850-209-7072.

Bahai grass hay, fertilized, 4x5 rolls, barn stored; 850-573-5145.

Seasoned oak firewood, 4x8 foot rack, $90, delivery extra; 850-372-0105.

Retired land surveyor equipment, tripods, tri bracks, elev. rods, flagging, laths, stakes, prisms, 100’ tapes; 850-535-9715.

Tifton 9 Bahia grass hay, 5x5 rolls, Black & Decker Model D200 corded well fertilized, you pick up and haul, electric 3/8” keyless drill, $15; located in NE Jackson County near 850-573-5117.

Lovedale/Paramore; 850-592-4740.

Gasoline generator, 30A 120/240V 6250/8500W, like new condition, stored indoors w/30A power cord, Local Telephone Prefixes $750; 850-573-5117.

Alford 579 Grand Ridge 592 Altha 762 Bascom/Malone 569 Blountstown 674, 237 Bonifay 547 Caryville 548 Chipley 638, 415 Cottondale 352 Graceville 263

Greenwood Marianna Ponce de Leon Sneads Sunny Hills Vernon Westville

594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

Deer stand, tripod, Big Dog brand, 16’ with swivel seat and top, $150; 850-592-4798.

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 NOVEMBER 2024

Desert Eagle AE 50 cal. ss, SW 500 ss w/scope, guns are like new, $3,000 for both; 850-596-2681.

Craft items, rubber stamps, macrame cord, crepe paper, weaving looms and yarn, craft books, containers; 954-296-5333.

Multiple Listings Three-horse slant trailer; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; utility trailer; 850-209-8532 or 850-592-2494.

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

50 caliber SS black powder rifle with ammo, $250; doe decoy, like new, $50; 850-557-1629.

Real Estate 8.5 acres, 5086 Smokey Road, Graceville, price reduction $149,900, road frontage, farmland, hunting land; 334-560-6019.

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

CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly.

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

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

Community Calendar An Evening of Poetic Moments November 9; 6-8 PM 2873 Caledonia Street, Marianna Join The Artists Guild of Northwest Florida for an evening featuring Gospel music led by Brian Mitchell, Pianist, Charlotte Franklin, Praise Dancer, Trinity White, poetry readings and author excerpts. There will also be an art sale. Admission to this event is free.

Malone Pecan Festival & Fun Day November 16; 6AM-3PM; Parade @10 AM Malone Pecan products, family-oriented activities, and a free petting zoo. Many more activities.

Spiced Pecans

Submitted by: Dorothy Culbreth

Ingredients: 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 1/4 tsp. cream of tartar 2 cups pecans 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1/2 tsp. cinnamon Directions: Combine sugar, cream of tartar, cinnamon and water. Cook to soft boil stage. Add vanilla and pecans. Stir until pecans are sugary. Pour onto wax paper and separate pecans.

ROW Update:

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

NOVEMBER: Alford Silver Lake Sapp Church Graceville Poplar Springs

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.

Electricity Provides Powerful Value

investment, maintenance and operational expenses. Weather s we look for ways to save money in this age of increasing inflation, patterns also contribute, affecting think about your daily routine and how much value it provides both demand and generation compared to the money spent. A morning latte costs about $6, a capabilities, with extreme conditions fast-food combo with a burger, fries, and a drink will set you back around leading to heightened energy use $10, and a Netflix subscription is about $16 each month. All these daily or disruptions. Goverment policies, expenses total around $85 a week, or about $340 monthly. Is that the best such as subsidies for renewable value for your money? energy or taxes and regulations on You can power your entire home every day for the price of a medium latte. emissions, shape electricity costs as You could brew your own coffee, cook your own meals, binge a series and well. Your electric cooperative run on a treadmill for less than the cost of that one drink. That's real value. considers all these aspects when Electricity provides benefits that we often take for granted. It goes well adjusting rates, and because we're beyond short-term satisfaction by allowing us to charge devices and have a cooperative, we consider the cold food and hot water, all in a comfortable, indoor climate. Besides the impact of those costs on our privilege it affords, electricity has also remained relatively cost-stable even members. amidst rising inflation.

As our community continues to As a member-owned cooperative, WFEC does everything in our power rely on electricity for nearly to ensure your costs stay reasonable and electricity remains a great value everything, we need it to be reliable for its members. It's not always easy, as there are many factors beyond and affordable. WFEC always strives inflation that impact the price of electricity - some within our control but to put you top of mind and works most beyond it. each day to ensure electricity remains Electricity costs can fluctuate due to supply and demand, infrastructure the best value for your money.

A

William

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

(850) 326-0330

Email: wilcruent@bellsouth.net

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

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055 PAGE 12

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Since 1969

4” to 12”

God’s Handyman, LLC

Local help with your Medicare questions.

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

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

Gene Alford

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

850-263-8064

Bush Hog Services 7’ cut • $100/acre

Larry Englert Owner

All Are Welcome!

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

Larry’s Rescreening, LLC

Call 850-573-3055 Trim David & Family Cut Tree Services, LLC Remove Veteran owned with 30 years experience

Bonded & Fully Insured Free Estimates

Licensed & Insured L19000238025

Licensed & insured

(850) 630-9225

OLEN BARFIELD

Tri-County Gas

Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

Service, Inc.

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

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

638-7105

• Glass Shower

Enclosures • Window Panes

415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay

547-3696

#RM0048955

Scan the QR code below to download the mobile app!

200-Amp Power Pole $599.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $499.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

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

• Mirrors

Structure Demo Stump Grinding

• Screens • Tabletops

(850) 326-1559 Veteran-Founded

Focused on You We’re We’re passionate passionate about about taking taking care care of of our our customers customers and and making making them them We’re passionate about taking care of our customers and making them feel at home.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sandy Sandy Spear Spear -- Regional Regional Retail Retail Sales Sales Manager Manager Sandy Spear - Regional Retail Sales Manager Tiffany Tiffany Hitchcock Hitchcock -- Financial Financial Center Center Manager Manager Tiffany Hitchcock - Financial Center Manager David David Whitaker Whitaker -- Retail Retail Market Market Manager Manager David Whitaker - Retail Market Manager PAGE 6

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Doug Hannon's Fish & Game Forecast NOV. 2024

Excellent Times AM PM

Moon Stage NEW

Good Times AM PM

FRI.

1

N/A

12:06-2:06

SAT.

2

12:30-2:30

12:54-2:54

SUN.

3

N/A

12:42-2:42

MON.

4

1:06-3:06

1:30-3:30

7:33-9:03

7:57-9:27

TUE.

5

1:54-3:54

2:18-4:18

8:21-9:51

8:45-10:15

WED.

6

2:42-4:42

3:06-5:06

9:09-10:39

9:33-11:03

THU.

7

3:30-5:30

3:54-5:54

9:57-11:27

10:21-11:51

DST

6:09-7:39

6:33-8:03

6:57-8:27

7:21-8:51

6:45-8:15

7:09-8:39

FRI.

8

4:18-6:18

4:42-6:42

10:45-12:15

11:09-12:39

SAT.

9

5:06-7:06

5:30-7:30

11:33-1:03

11:57-1:27

SUN.

10

5:54-7:54

6:18-8:18

N/A

12:45-2:15

MON.

11

6:42-8:42

7:06-9:06

1:09-2:39

1:33-3:03

TUE.

12

7:30-9:30

7:54-9:54

1:57-3:27

2:21-3:51

WED.

13

8:18-10:18

8:42-10:42

2:45-4:15

3:09-4:39

THU.

14

9:06-11:06

9:30-11:30

3:33-5:03

3:57-5:27

FRI.

15

10:42-12:42

11:06-1:06

5:09-6:39

5:33-7:03

SAT.

16

11:30-1:30

11:54-1:54

5:57-7:27

6:21-7:51

SUN.

17

N/A

12:42-2:42

6:45-8:15

7:09-8:39

MON.

18

1:06-3:06

1:30-3:30

7:33-9:03

7:57-9:27

TUE.

19

1:54-3:54

2:18-4:18

8:21-9:51

8:45-10:15

WED.

20

2:42-4:42

3:06-5:06

9:09-10:39

9:33-11:03

THU.

21

3:30-5:30

3:54-5:54

9:57-11:27

10:21-11:51

FRI.

22

4:18-6:18

4:42-6:42

10:45-12:15

11:09-12:39

SAT.

23

5:06-7:06

5:30-7:30

11:33-1:03

11:57-1:27

SUN.

24

5:54-7:54

6:18-8:18

N/A

12:45-2:15

MON.

25

6:42-8:42

7:06-9:06

1:09-2:39

1:33-3:03

TUE.

26

7:30-9:30

7:54-9:54

1:57-3:27

2:21-3:51

WED.

27

8:18-10:18

8:42-10:42

2:45-4:15

3:09-4:39

THU.

28

9:06-11:06

9:30-11:30

3:33-5:03

3:57-5:27

FRI.

29

9:54-11:54

10:18-12:18

4:21-5:51

4:45-6:15

SAT.

30

10:18-12:18

10:42-12:42

4:48-6:28

5:11-6:41

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

SOUTHSIDE

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

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

Cool solutions: Mini-split systems bring additional benefits. They are quiet, improve indoor air quality, and are typically easy to install. Many come with remotes to make temperature control even easier, and because of their smaller size, mini-split systems have many placement options for indoor and outdoor units.

One of the greatest benefits of mini-splits is they typically have a higher SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating that traditonal central heating and cooling systems. The higher the unit's SEER rating, the more energy efficient it is.

Additional considerations: According to the Department of Energy, "mini-splits" cost about $1,500 to $2,000 per ton of cooling capacity.

Aesthetics are another factor to consider, as some home-owners don't like the appearance of the indoor units, which are more visible than central air conditioning vents.

If you're considering an upgrade or additional heating and cooling equipment, talk to a qualified technician to learn if a ductless mini-split system could work for your home.

Serving Calhoun County Since 1990 • Now Serving Surrounding Counties

(850) 547-2934 Justin Joyner Chainlink Barbed Wire Vinyl Fence Wood Fence Field Fence “New” “Used” Repairs

850-674-8092 Cell: 850-573-0616

www.peoplesgraceville.com

UNDYING GRATITUDE.

he communities we serve.

AMERICA WILL NEVER on Counties since 1974SACRIFICES. FORGET THEIR

NT COMMUNITY BANK

PRESIDENT HARRY S. TRUMAN

PAGE 10

Efficiency Tip:

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!

Heading out of town for the holidays?

Remember to set your home to vacation mode.

Save energy while you're away by lowering your thermostat a few degrees or creating an "away" schedule with programmable thermostat. Newer water heaters include a vacation mode setting to help save water heating costs, or you can simply lower the temperature manually.

Small actions can stack up to energy savings.

Unplug devices that consume energy when they're not in use, including phone chargers, TVs & gaming consoles.

Let’s Talk.

your thermostat 2 Keep at 68° in winter and stay cozy with a blanket and warm socks. In summer keep it at 78° and use fans to help circulate the air.

Practice peak shaving and avoid using large appliances during peak usage times. These times are 5 to 9 a.m. in winter and 2 to 7 p.m. in summer.

Consider a highefficiency heat pump that uses HALF the energy of an electric furnace.

3

850-263-3267 WOMEN IN THE SERVICE

Ph: (850) 547-3658

Plumbing • Electrical • Licensed & Insured

Mobile: 850-260-5438

Stagger appliance usage – especially washers, dryers and dishwashers – throughout the day instead of operating them all at the same time.

Graceville, FL 32440 HEROIC MEN AND VALIANT

- One Mission –

Roger Lonsway

1

Brown St OUR DEBT5306 TO THE

HAVE EARNED OUR

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Rent-All • We have everything you need! Equipment Rentals, Tractors, Trenchers, Etc.

to make a difference:

• HONEST • DEPENDABLE • FREE ESTIMATES

850-658-2890

(850) 593-0009

Serving the Area for Over 60 Years Septic Tank Service, Installation & Repair • Mobile Home Pads • Land Clearing • Excavation • Dirt • Rock • Culverts

5 IMPORTANT WAYS

New Construction • Remodel Ceramic Tile • Bobcat Work Preasure Cleaning Mini Excavator Work

Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

NEVER BE REPAID. THEY

Gary McIntosh

M i dd l e b r o o k s C o n t r a c t o r s , I n c .

Here are

“No Job Too Big or Small”

Free Estimates

OF OUR COUNTRY CAN

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

CRC 133715 • CCC 13344447

5 Year Workmanship Warranty

& Land Clearing

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS

Wondering how to lower your electric bill?

Williams Home Improvements

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

West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) offers rebates to members who install mini-split systems in their homes. This can be a conventional, stick-built home or a manufactured home. The rebates start at $300 per ton for qualifying units. To find out more, visit westflorida.coop or contact the co-op's Energy Services Dept. by calling 800-342-7400.

4

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

Roger Evans

Supervisor, Transportation National Guard

5306 Brown St

We appreciate Graceville, FL 32440 your sacrifices 850-263-3267 more than www.peoplesgraceville.com you know.

For 42 years - One Bank - One Mission – offices will be Commitment to our customers and theWFEC communities we serve. be closed on Karl McClamma Visit www.westflorida.coop for Serving 5 Jackson, Holmes and Washington Counties since 1974 Apprentice Line Worker November 11

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

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

more tips and tools to help you YOUR LOCALLY OWNED, INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY BANK to observe keep more of your money.

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

U.S. Air Force

Veterans Day

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Levelized Billing: A Simplified Approach to Energy Costs

L

evelized energy billing is a pricing strategy designed to provide our members with more predictable and stable energy costs over time.

This approach spreads energy costs evenly across a billing period, helping to mitigate the cost and pricing fluctuations often seen in traditional billing methods. Here's an overview of its key components: What is levelized energy billing? Levelized billing involves calculating an average cost of energy based on projected use and expenses over a specific time period. At West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC), that is an average of the past 12 consecutive months of utility bills. Instead of charging our members based on their actual monthly use, which can vary significantly depending on seasonal demands like weather, this method smooths out those costs, resulting in consistent monthly payments.

How it Works: 1. Average consumption: The co-op assesses historical energy use data to determine a member's average monthly energy use.

2. Cost projection: We estimate future energy costs, considering factors like expected rates, the cost to generate electricity, and operational costs.

3. Monthly billing: The total projected costs are divided by the number of months in the billing period, resulting in a fixed monthly charge.

Benefits: • Predictable - Our members can budget more effectively with fixed payments, reducing the financial stress of fluctuating monthly bills.

• Stable - This billing method protects WFEC members from spikes in energy costs during high-use summer or winter months.

• Encourages Energy Consciousness - With a steady payment structure, members may be more inclined to adopt energyefficient practices, knowing they can offset costs over time.

• Simple - Consistent energy costs facilitate easier financial planning and cash flow management.

While levelized billing offers advantages, there are some things that should be considered. One is inital overpayment. Some members might pay more initially if their actual energy use is lower than PAGE 8

projected or estimated. Another is that there could be an adjustment period. Utilities might need to adjust billing rates periodically to account for changes in energy prices or consumption patterns.

Levelized billing can be a valuable tool for co-op members who are looking for stability in their energy expenses. However, this service will not benefit all of our members. If you are considering levelized billing, we encourage you to contact our member services representatives by calling 800-342-7400. They can take a look at the last 12 month's of your utility bills and provide you with an estimate of what your average monthly bill will be.

Is a Mini-Split System Right for Your Home?

H

ow would you like a personalized comfort zone in your home? One where the temperature is customized to your liking and may be different than the temperature in the shared living areas or other rooms in the house. This flexibility and customization are precisely why mini-split systems, also known as ductless air-source heat pumps, and their energy efficiency aspects are so popular. Let's talk about some mini-split basics and explore whether this type of system is a good fit for your home heating and cooling needs.

A mini-split system is a type of HVAC equipment used for heating and cooling, allowing you to control the temperature in individual rooms or spaces. Similar to central heating and cooling, mini-split systems have two main components - an outdoor compressor and an indoor air-handling unit(s). A narrow conduit links the indoor unit(s) to the outdoor compressor.

While central heating and cooling systems feature an indoor unit connected by long lengths of ductwork, mini-splits are usually ductless. This means energy is not lost traveling through long stretches of ductwork.

Installing the air-handling unit in a desired room enables you to control the temperature more precisely, reducing energy consumption. That's because you're adjusting the temperature to a single room or space instead of the

whole home.

Is a mini-split system right for you? Mini-splits are a popular option in home additions, or to supplement heating and cooling in a space that may be furthest away from the main living area. In these instances, it may not be feasible to install or extend the ductwork. These systems are relatively easy to install requiring a small hole for the conduit connecting the indoor and outdoor units. Most systems can handle up to four indoor rooms or zones. Each of the zones can be customized because they include a thermostat that enables you to heat or cool the space as needed, saving energy and money over time. continued on page 10

Mini-Splits at a Glance

Mini-split systems, also known as ductless air-source heat pumps, heat/cool a home through an outdoor unit that connects to one ore more individual indoor air handlers, which are usually mounted on a wall.

Depending on the size of your home & personal preferences, a mini-split system is worth considering when you need to replace or upgrade your heating/ cooling system.

Mini-Split System Benefits: • Zone-controlled heating/cooling • Higher energy efficiency ratings • Easy to install • Good for heating/cooling home additions Mini-Split System Considerations: • Potentially higher upfront cost • Appearance • May require electrical upgrades • Not as effective in large spaces CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Levelized Billing: A Simplified Approach to Energy Costs

L

evelized energy billing is a pricing strategy designed to provide our members with more predictable and stable energy costs over time.

This approach spreads energy costs evenly across a billing period, helping to mitigate the cost and pricing fluctuations often seen in traditional billing methods. Here's an overview of its key components: What is levelized energy billing? Levelized billing involves calculating an average cost of energy based on projected use and expenses over a specific time period. At West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC), that is an average of the past 12 consecutive months of utility bills. Instead of charging our members based on their actual monthly use, which can vary significantly depending on seasonal demands like weather, this method smooths out those costs, resulting in consistent monthly payments.

How it Works: 1. Average consumption: The co-op assesses historical energy use data to determine a member's average monthly energy use.

2. Cost projection: We estimate future energy costs, considering factors like expected rates, the cost to generate electricity, and operational costs.

3. Monthly billing: The total projected costs are divided by the number of months in the billing period, resulting in a fixed monthly charge.

Benefits: • Predictable - Our members can budget more effectively with fixed payments, reducing the financial stress of fluctuating monthly bills.

• Stable - This billing method protects WFEC members from spikes in energy costs during high-use summer or winter months.

• Encourages Energy Consciousness - With a steady payment structure, members may be more inclined to adopt energyefficient practices, knowing they can offset costs over time.

• Simple - Consistent energy costs facilitate easier financial planning and cash flow management.

While levelized billing offers advantages, there are some things that should be considered. One is inital overpayment. Some members might pay more initially if their actual energy use is lower than PAGE 8

projected or estimated. Another is that there could be an adjustment period. Utilities might need to adjust billing rates periodically to account for changes in energy prices or consumption patterns.

Levelized billing can be a valuable tool for co-op members who are looking for stability in their energy expenses. However, this service will not benefit all of our members. If you are considering levelized billing, we encourage you to contact our member services representatives by calling 800-342-7400. They can take a look at the last 12 month's of your utility bills and provide you with an estimate of what your average monthly bill will be.

Is a Mini-Split System Right for Your Home?

H

ow would you like a personalized comfort zone in your home? One where the temperature is customized to your liking and may be different than the temperature in the shared living areas or other rooms in the house. This flexibility and customization are precisely why mini-split systems, also known as ductless air-source heat pumps, and their energy efficiency aspects are so popular. Let's talk about some mini-split basics and explore whether this type of system is a good fit for your home heating and cooling needs.

A mini-split system is a type of HVAC equipment used for heating and cooling, allowing you to control the temperature in individual rooms or spaces. Similar to central heating and cooling, mini-split systems have two main components - an outdoor compressor and an indoor air-handling unit(s). A narrow conduit links the indoor unit(s) to the outdoor compressor.

While central heating and cooling systems feature an indoor unit connected by long lengths of ductwork, mini-splits are usually ductless. This means energy is not lost traveling through long stretches of ductwork.

Installing the air-handling unit in a desired room enables you to control the temperature more precisely, reducing energy consumption. That's because you're adjusting the temperature to a single room or space instead of the

whole home.

Is a mini-split system right for you? Mini-splits are a popular option in home additions, or to supplement heating and cooling in a space that may be furthest away from the main living area. In these instances, it may not be feasible to install or extend the ductwork. These systems are relatively easy to install requiring a small hole for the conduit connecting the indoor and outdoor units. Most systems can handle up to four indoor rooms or zones. Each of the zones can be customized because they include a thermostat that enables you to heat or cool the space as needed, saving energy and money over time. continued on page 10

Mini-Splits at a Glance

Mini-split systems, also known as ductless air-source heat pumps, heat/cool a home through an outdoor unit that connects to one ore more individual indoor air handlers, which are usually mounted on a wall.

Depending on the size of your home & personal preferences, a mini-split system is worth considering when you need to replace or upgrade your heating/ cooling system.

Mini-Split System Benefits: • Zone-controlled heating/cooling • Higher energy efficiency ratings • Easy to install • Good for heating/cooling home additions Mini-Split System Considerations: • Potentially higher upfront cost • Appearance • May require electrical upgrades • Not as effective in large spaces CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Cool solutions: Mini-split systems bring additional benefits. They are quiet, improve indoor air quality, and are typically easy to install. Many come with remotes to make temperature control even easier, and because of their smaller size, mini-split systems have many placement options for indoor and outdoor units.

One of the greatest benefits of mini-splits is they typically have a higher SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating that traditonal central heating and cooling systems. The higher the unit's SEER rating, the more energy efficient it is.

Additional considerations: According to the Department of Energy, "mini-splits" cost about $1,500 to $2,000 per ton of cooling capacity.

Aesthetics are another factor to consider, as some home-owners don't like the appearance of the indoor units, which are more visible than central air conditioning vents.

If you're considering an upgrade or additional heating and cooling equipment, talk to a qualified technician to learn if a ductless mini-split system could work for your home.

Serving Calhoun County Since 1990 • Now Serving Surrounding Counties

(850) 547-2934 Justin Joyner Chainlink Barbed Wire Vinyl Fence Wood Fence Field Fence “New” “Used” Repairs

850-674-8092 Cell: 850-573-0616

www.peoplesgraceville.com

UNDYING GRATITUDE.

he communities we serve.

AMERICA WILL NEVER on Counties since 1974SACRIFICES. FORGET THEIR

NT COMMUNITY BANK

PRESIDENT HARRY S. TRUMAN

PAGE 10

Efficiency Tip:

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!

Heading out of town for the holidays?

Remember to set your home to vacation mode.

Save energy while you're away by lowering your thermostat a few degrees or creating an "away" schedule with programmable thermostat. Newer water heaters include a vacation mode setting to help save water heating costs, or you can simply lower the temperature manually.

Small actions can stack up to energy savings.

Unplug devices that consume energy when they're not in use, including phone chargers, TVs & gaming consoles.

Let’s Talk.

your thermostat 2 Keep at 68° in winter and stay cozy with a blanket and warm socks. In summer keep it at 78° and use fans to help circulate the air.

Practice peak shaving and avoid using large appliances during peak usage times. These times are 5 to 9 a.m. in winter and 2 to 7 p.m. in summer.

Consider a highefficiency heat pump that uses HALF the energy of an electric furnace.

3

850-263-3267 WOMEN IN THE SERVICE

Ph: (850) 547-3658

Plumbing • Electrical • Licensed & Insured

Mobile: 850-260-5438

Stagger appliance usage – especially washers, dryers and dishwashers – throughout the day instead of operating them all at the same time.

Graceville, FL 32440 HEROIC MEN AND VALIANT

- One Mission –

Roger Lonsway

1

Brown St OUR DEBT5306 TO THE

HAVE EARNED OUR

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Rent-All • We have everything you need! Equipment Rentals, Tractors, Trenchers, Etc.

to make a difference:

• HONEST • DEPENDABLE • FREE ESTIMATES

850-658-2890

(850) 593-0009

Serving the Area for Over 60 Years Septic Tank Service, Installation & Repair • Mobile Home Pads • Land Clearing • Excavation • Dirt • Rock • Culverts

5 IMPORTANT WAYS

New Construction • Remodel Ceramic Tile • Bobcat Work Preasure Cleaning Mini Excavator Work

Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

NEVER BE REPAID. THEY

Gary McIntosh

M i dd l e b r o o k s C o n t r a c t o r s , I n c .

Here are

“No Job Too Big or Small”

Free Estimates

OF OUR COUNTRY CAN

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

CRC 133715 • CCC 13344447

5 Year Workmanship Warranty

& Land Clearing

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS

Wondering how to lower your electric bill?

Williams Home Improvements

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

West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) offers rebates to members who install mini-split systems in their homes. This can be a conventional, stick-built home or a manufactured home. The rebates start at $300 per ton for qualifying units. To find out more, visit westflorida.coop or contact the co-op's Energy Services Dept. by calling 800-342-7400.

4

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

Roger Evans

Supervisor, Transportation National Guard

5306 Brown St

We appreciate Graceville, FL 32440 your sacrifices 850-263-3267 more than www.peoplesgraceville.com you know.

For 42 years - One Bank - One Mission – offices will be Commitment to our customers and theWFEC communities we serve. be closed on Karl McClamma Visit www.westflorida.coop for Serving 5 Jackson, Holmes and Washington Counties since 1974 Apprentice Line Worker November 11

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

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

more tips and tools to help you YOUR LOCALLY OWNED, INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY BANK to observe keep more of your money.

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

U.S. Air Force

Veterans Day

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Since 1969

4” to 12”

God’s Handyman, LLC

Local help with your Medicare questions.

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

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

Gene Alford

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

850-263-8064

Bush Hog Services 7’ cut • $100/acre

Larry Englert Owner

All Are Welcome!

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

Larry’s Rescreening, LLC

Call 850-573-3055 Trim David & Family Cut Tree Services, LLC Remove Veteran owned with 30 years experience

Bonded & Fully Insured Free Estimates

Licensed & Insured L19000238025

Licensed & insured

(850) 630-9225

OLEN BARFIELD

Tri-County Gas

Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

Service, Inc.

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

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

638-7105

• Glass Shower

Enclosures • Window Panes

415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay

547-3696

#RM0048955

Scan the QR code below to download the mobile app!

200-Amp Power Pole $599.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $499.95 Delivery & Installation Available Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

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

• Mirrors

Structure Demo Stump Grinding

• Screens • Tabletops

(850) 326-1559 Veteran-Founded

Focused on You We’re We’re passionate passionate about about taking taking care care of of our our customers customers and and making making them them We’re passionate about taking care of our customers and making them feel at home.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sandy Sandy Spear Spear -- Regional Regional Retail Retail Sales Sales Manager Manager Sandy Spear - Regional Retail Sales Manager Tiffany Tiffany Hitchcock Hitchcock -- Financial Financial Center Center Manager Manager Tiffany Hitchcock - Financial Center Manager David David Whitaker Whitaker -- Retail Retail Market Market Manager Manager David Whitaker - Retail Market Manager PAGE 6

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Doug Hannon's Fish & Game Forecast NOV. 2024

Excellent Times AM PM

Moon Stage NEW

Good Times AM PM

FRI.

1

N/A

12:06-2:06

SAT.

2

12:30-2:30

12:54-2:54

SUN.

3

N/A

12:42-2:42

MON.

4

1:06-3:06

1:30-3:30

7:33-9:03

7:57-9:27

TUE.

5

1:54-3:54

2:18-4:18

8:21-9:51

8:45-10:15

WED.

6

2:42-4:42

3:06-5:06

9:09-10:39

9:33-11:03

THU.

7

3:30-5:30

3:54-5:54

9:57-11:27

10:21-11:51

DST

6:09-7:39

6:33-8:03

6:57-8:27

7:21-8:51

6:45-8:15

7:09-8:39

FRI.

8

4:18-6:18

4:42-6:42

10:45-12:15

11:09-12:39

SAT.

9

5:06-7:06

5:30-7:30

11:33-1:03

11:57-1:27

SUN.

10

5:54-7:54

6:18-8:18

N/A

12:45-2:15

MON.

11

6:42-8:42

7:06-9:06

1:09-2:39

1:33-3:03

TUE.

12

7:30-9:30

7:54-9:54

1:57-3:27

2:21-3:51

WED.

13

8:18-10:18

8:42-10:42

2:45-4:15

3:09-4:39

THU.

14

9:06-11:06

9:30-11:30

3:33-5:03

3:57-5:27

FRI.

15

10:42-12:42

11:06-1:06

5:09-6:39

5:33-7:03

SAT.

16

11:30-1:30

11:54-1:54

5:57-7:27

6:21-7:51

SUN.

17

N/A

12:42-2:42

6:45-8:15

7:09-8:39

MON.

18

1:06-3:06

1:30-3:30

7:33-9:03

7:57-9:27

TUE.

19

1:54-3:54

2:18-4:18

8:21-9:51

8:45-10:15

WED.

20

2:42-4:42

3:06-5:06

9:09-10:39

9:33-11:03

THU.

21

3:30-5:30

3:54-5:54

9:57-11:27

10:21-11:51

FRI.

22

4:18-6:18

4:42-6:42

10:45-12:15

11:09-12:39

SAT.

23

5:06-7:06

5:30-7:30

11:33-1:03

11:57-1:27

SUN.

24

5:54-7:54

6:18-8:18

N/A

12:45-2:15

MON.

25

6:42-8:42

7:06-9:06

1:09-2:39

1:33-3:03

TUE.

26

7:30-9:30

7:54-9:54

1:57-3:27

2:21-3:51

WED.

27

8:18-10:18

8:42-10:42

2:45-4:15

3:09-4:39

THU.

28

9:06-11:06

9:30-11:30

3:33-5:03

3:57-5:27

FRI.

29

9:54-11:54

10:18-12:18

4:21-5:51

4:45-6:15

SAT.

30

10:18-12:18

10:42-12:42

4:48-6:28

5:11-6:41

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

SOUTHSIDE

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

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

Community Calendar An Evening of Poetic Moments November 9; 6-8 PM 2873 Caledonia Street, Marianna Join The Artists Guild of Northwest Florida for an evening featuring Gospel music led by Brian Mitchell, Pianist, Charlotte Franklin, Praise Dancer, Trinity White, poetry readings and author excerpts. There will also be an art sale. Admission to this event is free.

Malone Pecan Festival & Fun Day November 16; 6AM-3PM; Parade @10 AM Malone Pecan products, family-oriented activities, and a free petting zoo. Many more activities.

Spiced Pecans

Submitted by: Dorothy Culbreth

Ingredients: 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 1/4 tsp. cream of tartar 2 cups pecans 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1/2 tsp. cinnamon Directions: Combine sugar, cream of tartar, cinnamon and water. Cook to soft boil stage. Add vanilla and pecans. Stir until pecans are sugary. Pour onto wax paper and separate pecans.

ROW Update:

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

NOVEMBER: Alford Silver Lake Sapp Church Graceville Poplar Springs

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.

Electricity Provides Powerful Value

investment, maintenance and operational expenses. Weather s we look for ways to save money in this age of increasing inflation, patterns also contribute, affecting think about your daily routine and how much value it provides both demand and generation compared to the money spent. A morning latte costs about $6, a capabilities, with extreme conditions fast-food combo with a burger, fries, and a drink will set you back around leading to heightened energy use $10, and a Netflix subscription is about $16 each month. All these daily or disruptions. Goverment policies, expenses total around $85 a week, or about $340 monthly. Is that the best such as subsidies for renewable value for your money? energy or taxes and regulations on You can power your entire home every day for the price of a medium latte. emissions, shape electricity costs as You could brew your own coffee, cook your own meals, binge a series and well. Your electric cooperative run on a treadmill for less than the cost of that one drink. That's real value. considers all these aspects when Electricity provides benefits that we often take for granted. It goes well adjusting rates, and because we're beyond short-term satisfaction by allowing us to charge devices and have a cooperative, we consider the cold food and hot water, all in a comfortable, indoor climate. Besides the impact of those costs on our privilege it affords, electricity has also remained relatively cost-stable even members. amidst rising inflation.

As our community continues to As a member-owned cooperative, WFEC does everything in our power rely on electricity for nearly to ensure your costs stay reasonable and electricity remains a great value everything, we need it to be reliable for its members. It's not always easy, as there are many factors beyond and affordable. WFEC always strives inflation that impact the price of electricity - some within our control but to put you top of mind and works most beyond it. each day to ensure electricity remains Electricity costs can fluctuate due to supply and demand, infrastructure the best value for your money.

A

William

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

(850) 326-0330

Email: wilcruent@bellsouth.net

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

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055 PAGE 12

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

James & Son Tree and Crane Service Insured and Reasonable

850-272-3620 Free Estimates

Specialist at Removing Hazardous Trees • Land Clearing • Stump Grinding • Forestry Mulching • Debris Removal D West Florida Turf SO SO Centipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda D

McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

Centipede Seed

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

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC Levon Carnley

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

Licensed

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Phone: 850-703-0318

Apply for Youth Tour Today!

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 2 winners state's capital for two days.

See Counselor to Apply

will win a $1,000 college scholarship & 1 alternate will win a $500 college scholarship!

Applicants must be high school juniors and their parents or guardians must be members of West Florida Electric.

Use the QR code for more info or contact Candace Croft ccroft@westflorida.coop

Deadline to apply: December 17 PAGE 4

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

CLASSIFIEDS

Miscellaneous

FOR SALE

Grain fed Angus beef, no hormones or litter, 5 months on grain, ready April 2025, $5.20/pound, on the rail, cut & wrapped; 850-326-2754.

Animals/Livestock

Black Australorp chicks, female, $5 Power wheelchair, like new, candy each; male, $4.50 each; un-sexed, apple red, used one time, inside, $3.50 each; eggs with carton, w/o $2,500; 850-326-2799. carton, $3.00; 850-481-2023.

Cedar lumber, $2.50 a board ft.; 850-371-0105.

Home/Farm Perennial peanut hay, fresh cut, barn stored; 561-793-1210.

Snapper lawn tractor, 42” cut with 19.5 engine. gently used w/new battery, $1,800; 850-209-7072.

Bahai grass hay, fertilized, 4x5 rolls, barn stored; 850-573-5145.

Seasoned oak firewood, 4x8 foot rack, $90, delivery extra; 850-372-0105.

Retired land surveyor equipment, tripods, tri bracks, elev. rods, flagging, laths, stakes, prisms, 100’ tapes; 850-535-9715.

Tifton 9 Bahia grass hay, 5x5 rolls, Black & Decker Model D200 corded well fertilized, you pick up and haul, electric 3/8” keyless drill, $15; located in NE Jackson County near 850-573-5117.

Lovedale/Paramore; 850-592-4740.

Gasoline generator, 30A 120/240V 6250/8500W, like new condition, stored indoors w/30A power cord, Local Telephone Prefixes $750; 850-573-5117.

Alford 579 Grand Ridge 592 Altha 762 Bascom/Malone 569 Blountstown 674, 237 Bonifay 547 Caryville 548 Chipley 638, 415 Cottondale 352 Graceville 263

Greenwood Marianna Ponce de Leon Sneads Sunny Hills Vernon Westville

594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

Deer stand, tripod, Big Dog brand, 16’ with swivel seat and top, $150; 850-592-4798.

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 NOVEMBER 2024

Desert Eagle AE 50 cal. ss, SW 500 ss w/scope, guns are like new, $3,000 for both; 850-596-2681.

Craft items, rubber stamps, macrame cord, crepe paper, weaving looms and yarn, craft books, containers; 954-296-5333.

Multiple Listings Three-horse slant trailer; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; utility trailer; 850-209-8532 or 850-592-2494.

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

50 caliber SS black powder rifle with ammo, $250; doe decoy, like new, $50; 850-557-1629.

Real Estate 8.5 acres, 5086 Smokey Road, Graceville, price reduction $149,900, road frontage, farmland, hunting land; 334-560-6019.

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

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

Real Estate (cont.)

Recreational Vehicles

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

3BR/2BA brick ranch-style home on Tracker 1448 MVX Camo welded 47 acres, Sand Basin Road, see on aluminum boat, 2021 Suzuki 25 HP Penny through dollar coins, loose, Zillow.com; call 850-272-7120 for in jars, collections and estates; motor PowerTrim, trolling motor, appointment.

850-326-3437.

2 batteries, Tracker trailer, $9,000; 850-482-6296.

Pate Pond .40 acre lot, treated License plates from any state, wood, elevated walkway, dock mainly Florida, prior to 1980; old w/rails & fishing pole holders, motorcycles or parts prior to 1960; WANTED electrical pole to service lot/dock, 850-557-7030, Greg. beautiful setting, $15,000 for lot with improvements; 850-547-5777 Horses; ponies; mules; donkeys; Pastureland to rent, closer to or 850-217-6457.

850-209-8532 or 850-592-2494.

Campbellton the better; 850-703-5450.

Kilowatt Hour Usage & Energy Conservation

I

n my August 2024 article, I mentioned kilowatt hour (kWh) usage and this month I'd like to talk more about that. I will also talk about how using less during certain times of the year can save you money as well as every other member!

For residential accounts, West Florida Electric Cooperative's (WFEC) current kWh price is 0.11637 cents per kilowatt hour used.

If your use was 1,000 kilowatt hours, then your bill shows an Energy Usage Charge of $151.37 ($116.37 for you kWh plus $35 for the base rate, which I spoke about last month).

As members, we are aware that we use more power during the colder winter months and hotter summer months.What you may not be aware of is that WFEC is a winter peaking system, which means that we use the highest amount of power (demand) in the winter on typically the coldest morning of the year between 6 and 9 A.M., Tim Alford, WFEC Board President when everyone is getting up to start their day. How much the entire cooperative uses on that morning sets our peak demand with our power supplier, PowerSouth Energy Cooperative in Andalusia, Alabama, and that peak demand affects how much we pay for the next year!

There are quite a few things that you, as a member, can do to lower your overall energy use as well as help with that winter peak. I will give you just a couple of suggestions. One of the most important things you can do to eliminate kWh use is make sure that your home is properly insulated. Heat and cold enters and exits your home in so many places and there are small things you can do to help stop it. Check the weather stripping on your doors, windows, your home's skirting, and the pipes coming into your home. Also make sure to check the level of insulation in your attic. Another thing that you can do is make sure that all your major appliances (water heater, electric stoves, clothes dryers, air conditioners/heaters, and pump) are operating Our offices will be closed properly. Most of these operate on 220 voltage and can make a major Thursday, November 28 difference in your kWh use. (And, please don't forget to insulate your pump this winter to keep it from freezing).

Friday, November 29 If you need more information or advice about how to conserve and in observance of the Thanksgiving save, don't hesitate to reach out to the Energy Services Department by holiday. We are incredibly calling 800-342-7400. It might sound crazy, but that department is grateful for your membership dedicated to helping you buy less power! as our team spends this special time Look out for those super cold mornings and try not to use as much with loved ones. power between 6 and 9 AM on those days. Any little bit will help.

From our co-op family I hope that everyone has a safe and blessed holiday season.

We’re Grateful for Your Membership.

Notification Statement

Notice is hereby given that the West Florida Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. Board of Trustees regularly meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, unless special circumstances warrant a change.

Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400 Subscription Rate Cooperative members, $2.50 per year Non-members, $6.00 per year Change of Address Notices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current Light Flashes P. O. Box 127 Graceville, Florida 32440-0127

Sincerely,

to yours, we hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

DISCLAIMER: Although paid advertisements may appear in West Florida Electric (WFEC) publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, WFEC does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. WFEC reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish any advertisement, article or information.

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

PAGE 14

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

Panhandle Pump Repair & Filtration Service

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

What’s in YOUR Water?

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 74, 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 Tallahassee, Florida.

WFEC Board of Trustees

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

Package Land Pride implements with a power unit to get chores done! Visit landpride.com to see the full product line then ask your dealer about financing and build your tractor package today.

5003 Highway 90 Marianna, Florida 32446

DAVID TATUM

TIM ALFORD

District 1

District 2/President

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

(850) 263-4744 or (850) 263-6345 Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic • Wood Feed• Seed • Fertilizer

Custom Cattle Services

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

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

DOUBLE-TIME JACKIE POOSER

Pest Control

(850) 718-6109

JOHN ADAMS

District 3

District 4

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

District 5/Vice President

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

Turning 65? New to the Area? Medicaid Eligible?

Call Me.

GEORGE C. OWENS District 6

I’m Local.

Licensed/Certified/Dependable/Helpful

RANDY BUSH District 7

MISTY ERICKSON District 8

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

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

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

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

District 9/Secretary-Treasurer

PAGE 2

Move Over It’s the Law

Affecting West Florida Electric Co-op.

Affecting you.

5905 Timberlane Rd. Bascom, FL 32423

Call for a Free Quote Today

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

EPA POWER PLANT RULE

Panhandle Tractor

(850) 526-2257

Over 40 Years Experience

Rule Requirements –

Existing coal plants that plan to operate after 2038 and new baseload natural gas plants must reach 90% carbon capture and storage by 2032.

–

New peaking natural gas units must drastically limit operations.

–

States must notify the EPA of how they plan to meet the requirements by June 2026.

Safety behind the wheel includes slowing down & moving over when you see crews working along the the roadside. You’ll help ensure crews return home safely & continue to be there when you need them.

(850) 658-2635

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

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

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Is a Mini-Split System Right for Your Home? Pages 9-10 Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

Debbie Roney Smith Call or text: (850) 209-8039 “Be SOLD with American Gold”

LIC#SL642701

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

24 Hour Emergency Response

www.realtordrs.com • debson1999@gmail.com

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9 (850) 956-4325 Mobile: (850) 259-0467 Fax: (850) 956-4169

Over 25 years

SOUTHERN ROOFING, INC.

building & construction experience

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

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

◄

All Types Licensed • Bonded • Insured

DUPONT•

Authorized Agent

A Afr.lSTFAfO MFMflfA OF THf

AUTO GLASS

SAFETY COUNCIL-

Call Matt: 850-326-0933

• Any Glass • Any Vehicle

WISEFLYAUTOGLASS.COM

License# CCC058016

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Open Sunday-Friday 7 AM - 2 PM

2119 NW Whitewater Grade Road Clarksville, FL Citrus Apples Peaches Plums Figs Nuts Bananas Kiwi

Pears Avocados Olives Pomegranates Grape Vines Berry Patches Much More

Special 100 Tree Orchard Package w/Irrigation as low Instant Orchard Packages • Retail Nursery • Edible Landscaping • Vineyards as $8,900!

Food Forests • Bamboo Privacy Hedges • Greenhouses • Irrigation Call us or come by today to get your food forest started!

850-451-6222

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

INSIDE ...

President’s Column: Kilowatt Hour Usage & Energy Conservation ...pg. 3 Electricity Provides Powerful Value ...pg. 5 Levelized Billing: A Simplified Approach to Energy Costs ...pg. 8 Is a Mini-Split System Right for Your Home?

...pg. 9

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

...pg. 13

ISSUE NOVEMBER 2024

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL 74, NO 11