September 2022

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

The Power of Preparation Pages 10-11

◄

DUPONT•

Authorized Agent

A Afr.lSTFAfO MFMflfA OF THf

AUTO GLASS

SAFETY COUNCIL-

• Any Glass • Any Vehicle

WISEFLYAUTOGLASS.COM

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

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

Deck Kits!

Register Here for 5K Bull Run Oct. 2

6x8 8x10 10x12 12x16

Bulk Chlorine, Salt & Chemicals In Stock Case Knives on Sale!

Now!

(850) 676-1802

15 yard & 20 yard dumpsters for 7 day rentals Graceville, Florida

www.brianshauling.com

We offer both roll off containers & dumpster trailers to better service your needs.

INSIDE ...

Is Prepaid Power for You?

Many more sizes to choose from!

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

Dumpster Rental

Free Pool Water Testing!

5 Ways to Exercise Your Civic Duty ...pgs. 5-6

Pool Supplies

Keep Food Safe When Power Goes Out ...pgs. 7-8

Soil, Mulch Manure & Rock Available Now

www.panhandlesalvage.com

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

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

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm.*

...pgs. 3-4

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

72, NO 9

Right-of-Way Maintenance is Important

...pgs. 12-13

Community Calendar

...pgs. 14-15

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 17-18

HWY. 77 BINGO, INC. (850) 263-7788

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

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

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 72, NO 9

$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

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.

Double Action Mini-Session at 4:00 PM

Mondays & Wednesdays: T-shirt night

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

WFEC Board of Trustees

Together We Can Stay Safe David

Tim

TATUM

ALFORD

District 1

District 2

Digging too close to a pad-mounted transformer can damage underground cables, leading to electrical shock or interruptions in service.

Use caution when landscaping.

Call 811 before you dig and stay safe.

ST!”

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

HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC Residential • Commercial

John

Jackie

ADAMS

POOSER

District 4

District 3

David

George Clayton

District 5 / Vice President

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Secretary-Treasurer

District 8 / President

Over 21 Years Professional Experience

BONDURANT Attorney

District 9

# CBC1260614 • # CCC1330769 Free Estimates • 24 Hour Emergency Service

Brent Hall 850.718.7314

Serving Northwest Florida!

A perfectly cut lawn. Now for a perfectly matched offer

Ty

PEEL

Executive VP/CEO

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

Z200

0% APR

Gas powered

24 M

$5.66

average cost of a Big Mac value meal ®

Ph: (850) 547-3658 Plumbing • Electrical Licensed & Insured

Energy Efficiency Tip:

You can lower your water heating costs by using less hot water in your home.

Together we do more.®

own

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc.

Our faucets and appliances use a lot of hot water.

Get a fast, professional cut with precise, effortless control.

And legendary Kubota quality. Demo the Z200 mower today.

$0 D

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

5 Years Labor Warranty • Licensed & Insured

Frank E.

Myron

HUDSON

PAGE 2

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

Andy Hall 850.557.3368

24 Hour Emergency Response

The Value of Electricity

$3.92

average daily cost of power

Electricity is expressed on a daily basis using EIA 2020 Average U.S. Monthly Residential Bill of $117.46.

Big Mac® is a registered trademark of McDonald’s Corporation.

Water heating accounts for a large portion of home energy bills.

McDonald’s Corporation does not endorse or sponsor this material.

To save energy (and money) used for water heating, repair any leaky faucets, install low-flow fixtures and insulate accessible hot water lines.

Source: energy.gov

Sources: Economist.com and EIA, 2020 data

onths

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

© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2022. $0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for 24 months available on purchases of new Kubota Z200 series equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation USA; subject to credit approval. Example: 24 monthly payments of $41.67 per $1,000 financed. Some exceptions apply. Offers expire 9/30/22. Terms subject to change. This material is for descriptive purposes only.

Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your Dealer or KubotaUSA.com.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 19

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

T

J

G

SOUTHSIDE

T

J

G

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Commercial & Residential Sales, Service, Leasing Installation

850-703-5486 www.mysouthsideair.com License #: CAC1819784

Air Conditioning Refrigeration Ice Machines Exhausts/Make Up Air

Notification Statement

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

Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400 Subscription Rate Cooperative members, $2.50 per year Non-members, $6.00 per year Change of Address Notices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current Light Flashes P. O. Box 127 Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 DISCLAIMER: Although paid advertisements may appear in West Florida Electric (WFEC) publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, WFEC does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. WFEC reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish any advertisement, article or information.

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

PAGE 18

WANTED

Real Estate

48.8 acres farm land, in the Horses; ponies; mules; donkeys; Graceville area, access from paved 850-592-2494 or 850-209-8532. road; 651-230-2451.

150-500 acres pastureland, in One-half to two-acres available, Holmes County or Washington very affordable, homesite or farm- County; 850- 234-7070. land, located in the Graceville area; 651-230-2451.

Penny through dollar coins,

loose, in jars, collections and estates, buy, trade or sell, honest & professional; 850-326-3437.

Vehicles 1982 S-10 chopped top 350, about 650 miles on motor, custom front & rear everything new on truck, have all paperwork, $7,500 OBO; 850-263-4190.

2016 Chevy Equinox LTZ, 72,000 miles, setup for flat tow, all included, $19,000; 850-206-2329.

Housekeeper, cleaning, light yardwork, Sundays & Mondays; 850-896-2733, call or text 7 a.m.

-3 p.m.

Large size nanny goats; 850-447-4992 or 850-762-8205.

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

Is Prepaid Power for You?

D

o you want to be more cautious about how much electricity you’re using? Save money on deposits? Monitor your energy use more closely? If any of this is true, then EZ Pay Power, West Florida Electric’s prepaid metering program, is the right choice for you.

Signing up for the EZ Pay Prepaid program is easy. Just visit one of our district offices and tell them you’re interested in prepaid electric service.

Then, pay a fee of just $55 plus your first power purchase and you’ll be on your way!

How it works The process is simple. You put as much money as you want on your prepay account, and we supply you with electricity. As you use power, your account balance goes down. When the funds run out, the electricity, does too. Power is sent directly to your home using our distribution power lines.

Receive a text message notification when your balance is low or monitor your use online using the app or website to decide when you need to purchase more power.

Electricity can be purchased in the office during business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Prepaid members can also purchase electricity twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week in any dollar amount over the phone using a credit or debit card by calling 1-855-mywfeca (855-699-3322). Using the cooperative’s mobile app or online portal are also easy ways to pay. continued on page 4

Davis and Son’s Plumbing & Septic Tank Service

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

September Grand Ridge & Bascom Areas

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

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

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

ROW Update:

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

Lynn & Steve’s Helping Hands, LLC DBA

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

Serving Holmes, Jackson & Washington Counties

386-748-9035 or 850-768-0822

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

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Many of our prepaid members have noticed a reduction in the amount of power they’re using - mostly because they’ve become more conscious about when and how they’re actually using electricity. In fact, prepay power works well for people who want to take control of their electric accounts and energy use. By monitoring your power consumption on a regular basis, you will notice patterns in your day-to-day use. Any variation from this pattern, such as a houseguest (increase) or vacation (decrease), will become evident as you monitor your account. Observing and controlling daily use can help keep your electric costs down. Statistics also indicate prepaid electricity programs help you lower your electric consumption as you become more aware of use patterns. Some of our members have reduced their energy use by as much as 15 percent.

Another way you can think of prepaying for electricity from West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) is the same way you think of filling your car with gas. Instead of filling your gas tank, you’re filling your WFEC account, which buys you electricity. Just like the way your gas level goes down as you drive your car, as you use electricity, your prepaid account balance will go down. Adding money gets you more electricity.

To find out more about our prepaid service, visit www.westflorida.coop or contact your local district office by calling (800) 342-7400.

Heating and cooling account for about 50% of your energy costs.* With so many types of HVAC systems to choose from, making the best investment can be overwhelming.

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Animals/Livestock

Tifton 9 & Argentine Bahia seed & hay; 850-718-7779, Pat or 850-592-2647, Dan.

Miscellaneous

Visit www.westflorida.coop for more information about our heat pump rebate program for site-built and manufactured homes.

PAGE 4

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Two-horse trailer; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; two grain wagons; 16’ hay trailer; treeing Walker coon dogs; 850-592-2494 or 850-209-8532.

Cook's complete peanut grinding business; two machines, German Shorthair Pointer $15,000; 850-209-1361. puppies; fifth wheel travel trailer; 850-693-5001, Archie.

Remington 700 7MM Magnum Registered ABGA Boer billy STW, stainless, 26” muzzleVintage patio set, $500; goats; six & seven months old; break, composite stock Leopold refrigerator, two-door, $200; 850-849-2426.

3x9, 50MM, fast, hard hitting, front load washer, $400; trailer, $1,700; 850-447-0494. $500; safe, $150; round oak Appliances Homemade/handmade quilts, lap table, $100; 850-956-1224. quilts, baby quilts, twin, full or 2015 Samsung front load 16” metal lathe, 7’ between queen; two used bathtubs, great washer, with pedestal, VRT, HE, price; 850-547-3649. centers, 110 volts; 3-point hitch, PTO drive; corn sheller; has steam cycles; 334-464-5789.

850-956-2789.

4-drawer lateral file cabinet, 42x18 5/8”x 2½ LxWxH, good Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC Home/Farm condition, $65; 850-638-8166.

Levon Carnley Mini Kunianna piglets, very small, indoor or outdoor, littertrainable and smart, $400; 352-212-9010.

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

Coastal hay, 5x5 roll, fertilized, excellent quality, stored in barn; 850-592-4798.

Licensed

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

Phone: 850-703-0318

Citrus Apples Nuts Peaches Figs Plums Pears Avocados Berry Patches Olives Bananas Tropicals and many more Florida grown trees Let us help you eat fresh picked fruit from your yard all year long!

We will design and install your backyard fruit tree orchard.

Very affordable, call for appointment! 15 tree minimum.

592 594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

Clarksville (850) 451-6222

Licensed family owned and operated since Hurricane Michael Schuckelberry Farms Retail Nursery and Edible Landscaping

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 SEPTEMBER 2022

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Instant Orchard Packages

Local Telephone Prefixes

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

Our energy experts are here to help you.

Multiple Listings

CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly.

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

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 17

Five Ways to Exercise Your Civic Duty

Make a

Change

A

merica’s electric cooperatives, including West Florida Electric 2. Get informed. In addition to Cooperative (WFEC), understand the value of building ensuring your registration is up relationships with elected officials at all levels of government. to date, learning about local There are many important policy issues that directly impact electric utilities policy issues and candidates is and ultimately, you, the members we proudly serve. Strengthening our one of the best ways you can relationships with elected leaders positions us to advocate for our local prepare to vote. communities.

3. Get active on social media.

While WFEC is a locally-owned cooperative, we’re part of a larger Follow @coopsvote on Facebook, network of electric co-ops. Through our non-partisan grassroots program Twitter and Instagram and let known as “Co-ops Vote,” we’re working to enhance the political strength others know you’re a #coopvoter of electric co-ops and boost voter turnout. There’s power in numbers, and and #VoteReady; encourage your when we all show up at the polls, we can voice the issues that matter most friends and family to do the to our community. same.

National Voter Registration Day is September 20, and midterm 4. Help others prepare to vote. elections are right around the corner. If you’re looking to get involved Work a National Voter or simply make sure you’re ready to vote, here are five easy ways you can registration Day event (visit www. exercise your civic duty. nationalvoterregistrationday.org/ 1. Don’t assume your voter registration status is up to date. Visit events), volunteer to be a poll www.vote.coop, then click “Election Resources” to verify your status. worker during midterm elections or offer to drive others to their polling places.

5. Vote! It’s the easiest––and most important––way you can exercise your civic duty.

Voting is a form of personal empowerment that gives you the opportunity to voice your opinion on the issues that matter most to you. Make a plan to vote and help others in our community get #VoteReady.

You can also contact your local Supervisor of Elections office to register to vote, check your status, or volunteer to work a poll.

The deadline to register to vote in any election is 29 days before any election. For example voters must be registered for the general election on November 8th by October 11th.

that Pays!

Stay

COMFORTABLE year round by upgrading your home's heating and cooling system.

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

You'll enjoy a cozier home & savings on your electric bill. *Applies to site-built homes* PAGE 16

continued on page 6

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Community Calendar (cont.)

Here is how to contact your local Supervisor of Elections Office: Calhoun County: Phone: (850) 674-8568 Ext. 4 Website: www.votecalhoun.com Address: 20859 Central Ave., East, Rm. 117 Blountstown, FL 32424 Holmes County: Phone: (850) 547-1107 Website: www.holmeselections.com Address: 201 N. Oklahoma St., Suite 102 Bonifay, FL 32425 Jackson County: Phone: (850) 482-9652 Website: www.jacksoncountysoe.org Address: 2851 Jefferson St. Marianna, FL 32448 Washington County: Phone: (850) 638-6230 Website: www.wcsoe.org Address: 1424 Jackson Ave., Suite C Chipley, FL 32428 We encourage everyone, regardless of political beliefs, to vote, stand up for our local community and make a collective impact.

tion Installa ! le Availab

CBC1257046 backwoodsbuildings@yahoo.com

1240 South Blvd. • Chipley, FL 32428 www.backwoodsbuildings.net

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

850-676-4903

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

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

David & Family Tree Services

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

(850) 326-1559

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

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

Trim Cut Remove Stump Grinding Veteran-Owned

Take advantage of Medicare plans with a variety of benefits.

When you are turning 65, your opportunity to enroll in Medicare plan begins. I can meet with you one-on-one to discuss your unique needs and answer any questions you may have about AARP® Medicare Advantage plans from UnitedHealthcare®.

Get one-on-one help. Call me today.

D SO

West Florida Turf SOD

Centipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda Centipede Seed

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

PAGE 6

Gene Alford

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

Garden to Table Herbs September 27; 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Jackson Co. Ag Offices, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna Join us in the continuation of our Garden to Table series workshop on herbs. The cost is $15 per person and participants will be able to take home a small planter of herbs, sample jar of dried herbs, and have the chance to taste several ways to use herbs in cooking. Pre-registration is required – no walk-ins are permitted. Visit https://JacksonCountyFCS.Eventbrite.com/ or call 850-482-9620. UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. Persons with disabilities requiring special accommodations, contact Florida Relay Service, 800-955-8771 at least 5 working days prior to the class.

Homebuyer Education Class September 29; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Washington Co. Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Ave., Chipley October 10; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Jackson Co. Ag Offices, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna Better understand the homebuying process, analyze personal financial and credit situations, and learn basic home care/maintenance techniques to maintain the value of your home and save money on repairs. Open to all participants, from individuals just beginning to those further along in the process. Completion of this course satisfies the homeownership education requirement for the SHIP/USDA Rural Development programs. Florida Cooperative Extension Service is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Pre-registration is required - no walk-ins permitted. For more info, call the Holmes Co. Extension, 850-547-1108, the Washington Co. Extension, 850-638-6265, or the Jackson Co. Extension, 850-4829620, or visit https://tinyurl.com/FCSCalendarOfEvents. UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. Persons with disabilities requiring special accommodations, contact Florida Relay Service, 800-955-8771 at least 5 working days prior to the class so that proper consideration may be given the request.

119th Annual Andrew Williams Family Reunion October 1; Registration: 9:00 a.m. & Program begins at 10:00 a.m.

Galilee United Methodist Church, Galilee Road, Graceville Contact Lamar Faircloth at 850-547-2275 or 850-326-3045 for more info.

Since 1969

4” to 12”

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

Gary McIntosh

(850) 593-0009

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Roger Lonsway

Mobile: 260-5438 McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

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

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

Free Estimates

5 Year Workmanship Warranty

Water Well Drilling & Pump Repair

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organizationwith a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. AARP isn’t an insurer, doesn’t recommend products, and encourages you to evaluate your needs. AARP does not employ or endorse Y0066_21SPRJ56516_C SPRJ56516B agents, producers or brokers. ©United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved.

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS

Residential, Commercial, Agricultural Water Analysis & Treatment

850-263-8064

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

(850) 547-2934

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 15

Jackson Farm Well Services Patrick Jackson

850-573-6623 William Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc. • Refrigeration • Heating & Cooling • Ice Machines • Residential/Commercial

License Number: CMC1250499

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

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

Community Calendar Companion Planting Monthly Talk September 13; 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Jackson Co. Ag Offices Clover Room, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna This talk will cover the benefits of companion planting and the benefits this has on home gardens and what plants are good companions. $5 fee at the door; no need to register. Call 850-482-9620 for more information.

Fall Gardening Workshop September 17; 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Jackson Co. Ag Offices Auditorium, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna This workshop will answer gardening questions about the fall and winter months in the Panhandle. Master Gardeners will present info focusing on best practices for growing a winter vegetable garden and more. $15 per person. Pre-registration is required – no walk-ins permitted. Visit http://JacksonCountyHorticulture.Eventbrite.com or call 850-482-9620 for more information.

Private Well & Water Quality Workshop September 22; 5:00-7:30 p.m.

3783 Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL Jackson Co. Ag Offices, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna Do you know where your well water comes from or how it may become contaminated? Learn how private wells and septic systems work, maintenance, and protecting drinking water quality. Facilitated Tri-County Gas water testing available; discounted rates offered on first come, first Service, Inc. Tri-County Gas serve basis. $5 per person; water testing rates vary depending on “Home Folks Service, Inc. Serving the test requested. For testing prices and additional details, visit Home Folks” https://JacksonCountyFCS.Eventbrite.com/ or call 850-482-9620. UF is For All Your Propane Needs 415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay an Equal Opportunity Institution. Persons with disabilities requiring special 547-3696 accommodations, contact Florida Relay Service, 800-955-8771 at least 5 #RM0048955 working days prior to the class.

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

G l e n S c o tt

Stump Grinding Best Service

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Tractor work Marianna, Florida

200-Amp Power Pole $499.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $399.95 Delivery & Installation Available

Keep Food Safe When the Power Goes Out

S

evere winds, lightning and even squirrels can temporarily cause the power to go out. We understand power outages of any length can be frustrating, especially when your fridge is stocked with perishable foods.

Extended power outages are rare, but when they occur, it’s important to understand what food safety measures you should take to avoid illness.

Here are some food safety tips to keep in mind before, during and after a power outage.

Before an outage A good rule of thumb is to keep an emergency supply kit on hand. Be sure to include nonperishable food items like bottled water, powdered milk, canned goods, cereal and protein bars.

If you have advance warning that an outage is possible, fill a cooler with ice––just in case the outage spans several hours. Having a cooler ready to go can buy extra time for your refrigerated, perishable items.

During an outage If an outage occurs, do not open the refrigerator or freezer unless absolutely necessary. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A half-full freezer will keep food frozen for about 24 hours and a full freezer for about 48 hours. If it looks like the power outage will last longer than four hours, move your important perishable items to an ice-filled cooler.

After an outage If refrigerated foods have been exposed to temperatures higher than 40 degrees for more than two hours, the American Red Cross recommends discarding the items. If any foods have an unusual color, odor or texture, they should be thrown away.

•

hard cheeses that are properly wrapped

•

butter or margarine that is properly wrapped

•

taco, barbecue and soy sauces

•

peanut butter, jelly, mustard, ketchup and relish

The best way to avoid illness from spoiled food during or after an outage is to follow the four-hour rule of thumb. After an outage, always smell and inspect foods before consuming and remember: when in doubt, throw it out. To learn more about food safety after an emergency, visit www.ready.gov/food.

KEEP YOUR FOOD SAFE DURING POWER OUTAGES

2022 Graceville Harvest Festival Pageant September 23 & 24; 6:30 p.m.

Graceville Civic Center Applications for the pageant are available and may be picked up at Graceville City Hall or found online at the Harvest Festival website.

Application deadline is September 9. Entry fee is $70; contestants may also participate in the photogenic competition for an additional $10 fee (limit one per contestant). Admission to the pageant is $5 per adult and children 3 and under are free. For more information, contact Teresa Bush at 850415-0692 or 850-263-3072 or contact Misty Smith or Michelle Watkins at the City of Graceville by calling 850-263-3250. This pageant is sponsored by the City of Graceville and all proceeds will benefit the Harvest Day Festival celebration.

Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

A refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if the door is kept closed.

A full freezer will hold its temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if half full).

If the power has been out for more than 4 hours, throw out refrigerated foods including meat, poultry, fish, eggs and milk.

Once power is restored, use appliance thermometers to keep the freezer at 0 degrees F or below, and the refrigerator at 40 degrees or below.

Use dry ice or freeze containers of water and gel packs to help keep food cold if the power goes out.

Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

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

PAGE 14

While most perishable foods should be thrown out after an extended outage, there are a few items that are safe to consume after a two-hour exposure to 40+ degrees:

WHEN IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Source: USDA

Freeze containers of water & gel packs to help keep food cold if the power goes out.

Put appliance thermometers in your refrigerator and freezer.

Keep freezer

Group foods together in the freezer to help food stay colder longer.

0o F

or below Refrigerator

40o F

or below

Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk & fresh meat/poultry that you don't need immediately.

If you think power will be out more than 4 hrs. consider moving food to a cooler with ice.

Buy dry or block ice to keep the refrigerator or freezer cold.

Store non-perishable foods on higher shelves to avoid flood waters.

... a full freezer will hold its temperature for HOURS

48 24

Keep the refrigerator & freezer doors closed to maintain cold temperatures.

... a fridge will keep food safe for

Check the temperature inside your refrigerator & freezer. If they're still a safe temperature, your food should be fine. Discard perishable foods that have been at an unsafe temp.

Never taste food to determine its safety!

4

HOURS

Raw meat, poultry or seafood

if half-full

HOURS

Place perishable foods in a cooler w/ice before food starts to go bad

Soft & shredded cheeses

Milk, cream, yogurt & other dairy

Trees growing into and touching power lines also pose a major safety hazard not only for WFEC linemen, but also for members and their families. Trees that come into contact with power lines may become energized and if touched, could shock or electrocute someone. Our primary concern is the safety of our workers and members. Properly maintained ROW keeps our crews safe when they are restoring service and maintaining our system. Keeping trees clear of power lines also keeps your family safe.

From making sure a child’s tree house doesn’t hit power lines to creating a safe environment while doing yard work, a well-maintained ROW helps avoid tragedy.

To reduce tree-related problems, line crews and contractors look for foliage growing under lines, overhanging branches, leaning or other types of “danger” trees and trees growing into lines. This is a job that is never done – by the time crews finish trimming along the 4,800 miles of power lines, vegetation has started growing back at the starting point. This is currently a five-year cycle.

WFEC respects your property and decides how to trim trees based on the amount of clearance needed around wires, the line voltage, the tree’s growth rate and the right-of-way maintenance cycle (how frequently trimming along the line is performed).

Clear rights-of-way give line crews the ability to respond to storm damage with minimal disruption of electricity and allow safe access to the power lines. They also reduce outage times and improve system reliability and reduce safety hazards. A well-maintained ROW leads to fewer outages and faster response times. When trees fall, crews are able to restore service more quickly than they could with poorly maintained areas.

When right-of-way (ROW) crews are trimming in your area, there may be several days between ROW cutting & clean-up crews due to inclement weather, equipment failure or other unforeseen circumstances. If you have any questions about the cooperative’s right-of-way/vegetation management program, please contact us at (800) 342-7400.

Triple S Outdoor Maintenance LLC Backed by 21 Years of U.S. Military Experience

Hard cheeses

Grated Parmesan or Romano

Butter or margarine

Opened Opened fruit juices canned fruit

Jelly, relish, BBQ, soy, taco sauce, mustard Hoisin sauces ketchup, olives, pickles

Opened baby formula

Call for a free estimate!

Dough, cooked pasta Peanut Opened Bread, rolls, Breakfast butter vinegar-based cakes, muffins, foods dressings quick breads, tortillas

PAGE 8

Fruit pies

Fresh mushrooms, herbs/spices

Uncut vegetables & fruit

Eggs & egg products

Some of our full spectrum outdoor services include: • Land Clearing • Skid Steer Work • Mini Excavator Work • Tree & Stump Removal • Driveway & Pads • Ditch Digging & Clearing

Leftovers

Cooked or cut produce

When In Doubt, Throw It Out! CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

(850) 693-9999

We Need Your Help!

We're looking for recipes for the Current Light Flashes publication. Please send photos if available.

Remember to submit your name, so we can give credit where credit is due.

Ways to Submit: 1. Mail: PO. Box 127 Graceville, FL 32440 2. Email: clf@westflorida.coop 3. Drop: at your local district office

Why trust your valuable property & investment to just any service? Let us show you how a decorated veteran leads this family business through hard work, integrity & attention to detail.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

YOUR

SAFETY

CONNECTION

Stay away from downed power lines. They can still be energized.

Never attempt to move or drive over them.

Instead, call 911 to report fallen power lines.

PAGE 12

Why Right-of Way Maintenance is Important

OLEN BARFIELD

Sunshine Casserole

Have Sawmill, Will Travel

Submitted by: Sue Cronkite

Ingredients:

W

est Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) delivers power to a system of approximately 4,800 miles of overhead power lines in four counties. Maintaining the right-of-way on that many miles of line is a process that takes time – however, it is a very important process because when trees interfere with power lines, reliability and safety are compromised.

WFEC has an aggressive right-of-way strategy which entails cutting rights-of-ways near power lines by cutting from ground to sky. It is very important to remove trees, branches, and brush from all rights-of-ways because they might: 1) Cause power outages 2) Cause lights to blink 3) Become a safety hazard for members 4) Obstruct visual inspections, making repairs difficult and costly 5) Block access for maintenance and repairs, causing delays

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

638-7105

2 cups finely shredded carrots 2 cups cooked rice 2 eggs, beaten 11/2 cups diced processed American cheese 1 can (143/4 oz.) cream style corn 1/4 cup milk 1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted 1 tablespoon dried, minced onion 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper Directions: Combine all ingredients in a 2 quart baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until set. Yields 6-8 servings.

Bush Paint & Supply

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

263-4744 • 971 6th Ave., Graceville

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611

Banking For Everyone Our accounts are designed to grow with you. Our team can answer all your questions and find the right account or loan for you or your business.

ffbf.com | 850-547-3624

6) Waste electricity by drawing it into the ground 7) Become a fire hazard Right-of-way (ROW) maintenance keeps tree limbs and other obstacles away from high-voltage power lines. Vegetation like trees, shrubs and brush growing too close to power lines and distribution equipment lead to about sixty percent of all power interruptions. These interruptions can occur when branches break and fall across lines or when trees fall onto them.

When strong winds blow, limbs growing too close to lines may sway and touch them. continued on page 13 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Friendly. Stable. Flexible.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

The Power of Preparation

W

ith severe weather events occurring more frequently, now more than ever, it makes sense to be prepared. During a prolonged power outage or other emergency, this means having enough food, water, and supplies to last at least a few days.

In honor of National Preparedness Month in September, we want to remind members of our community about the power of preparation. While you don’t have to achieve a “doomsday prepper” level of preparedness, there are several practical steps you can take to keep you and your family safe.

Even at a modest level, preparation can help reduce stress, anxiety, and lessen the impact of an emergency event. We recommend starting with the basics. Here are general guidelines recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Always here for you

supplies on hand to weather an outage lasting several days or more.

For families with pets, having a plan in place in the event of a prolonged outage or an emergency will help reduce worry and stress especially if you need to make a decision during an emergency.

If severe weather causes outages, your cooperative is already prepared to:

• Microchip your pet and ensure the contact information is up to date.

• Store pet medical records on a USB drive or in an easy-to-remember location.

• Create an emergency kit for pets (include shelf-safe food, bottled water, medications, and other supplies).

• Assemble a grab-and-go disaster kit. Include items like nonperishable food, water (one gallon per person, per day), diapers, formula and any baby supplies, batteries, flashlights, prescription medications, first-aid kit, battery-powered radio, and phone chargers.

• Develop a plan for communicating with family and friends (i.e., via text, social media, third party, etc.).

• Have some extra cash available; during a power outage, electronic card readers and cash machines may not work.

• Store important documents (birth certificates, property deed, etc.) in safe place away from home (for example, a bank safe deposit box).

• Keep neighbors and coworkers apprised of your emergency plans.

Respond day or night

• Fill your car with gas.

• Organize your supplies so they are together in an easily accessible location that family members know about.

Caring for vulnerable family members If you have older family members or those with special needs, make sure they have enough medication and supplies for a few days. If they rely on medical equipment such as oxygen, a CPAP or any other items for their health and well-being, please make sure they have extra oxygen, batteries, or other necessary supplies – enough to last them several days or more.

If they don’t live with you, arrange for a neighbor to check in on them.

If a severe weather event is expected, consider having your relative stay with you or check on them daily. If you have an infant or young children, make certain that you have ample formula, diapers, medications, and other PAGE 10

• Bring pets indoors at the first sign of a storm or other emergency. Pets can become disoriented and frightened during severe weather and may wander off during an emergency.

Secure additional help Restore power quickly and safely

WFEC also thoughtfully prepares for nature's fury. Those efforts include crews trimming power line rights-of-way along roads and other corridors.

That maintenance helps keep trees and limbs from taking down power lines. You may notice lineworkers replacing and upgrading utility poles and power lines to better withstand challenging weather conditions.

Many actions to prepare happen behind the scenes. Mechanics service our vehicles keeping crews safe and ready to get out into the field.

Warehouse personnel inventory and order crucial supplies and equipment, so it is there when needed.

Throughout the year, lineworkers work to keep their skills sharp through regular safety training sessions. Our IT department keeps cybersecurity at the highest possible level and we maintain our phone and telecommunication systems as well.

Member services representatives and administrative personnel are ready to step into any role needed including coordinating meals for outside crews and securing accommodations for workers from other places who assist with restoration efforts. Management staff works to finalize agreements with professional contract crews so they will be on standby and ready to assist us if needed.

Your cooperative dedicates time and energy to storm preparation because you depend on us to energize your lives - from food storage to keeping mobile devices charged.

At West Florida Electric Cooperative, we care about your safety.

Planning for an emergency today can give you more confidence to deal with severe weather and potential outages in the future.

Mr. Fence

Commercial • Residential • Farm • Industrial

Chris & Sheryl Tate

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

Locally Owned & Operated for 28 Years

(850) 547-5516 Your Privacy is Our Business

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

The Power of Preparation

W

ith severe weather events occurring more frequently, now more than ever, it makes sense to be prepared. During a prolonged power outage or other emergency, this means having enough food, water, and supplies to last at least a few days.

In honor of National Preparedness Month in September, we want to remind members of our community about the power of preparation. While you don’t have to achieve a “doomsday prepper” level of preparedness, there are several practical steps you can take to keep you and your family safe.

Even at a modest level, preparation can help reduce stress, anxiety, and lessen the impact of an emergency event. We recommend starting with the basics. Here are general guidelines recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Always here for you

supplies on hand to weather an outage lasting several days or more.

For families with pets, having a plan in place in the event of a prolonged outage or an emergency will help reduce worry and stress especially if you need to make a decision during an emergency.

If severe weather causes outages, your cooperative is already prepared to:

• Microchip your pet and ensure the contact information is up to date.

• Store pet medical records on a USB drive or in an easy-to-remember location.

• Create an emergency kit for pets (include shelf-safe food, bottled water, medications, and other supplies).

• Assemble a grab-and-go disaster kit. Include items like nonperishable food, water (one gallon per person, per day), diapers, formula and any baby supplies, batteries, flashlights, prescription medications, first-aid kit, battery-powered radio, and phone chargers.

• Develop a plan for communicating with family and friends (i.e., via text, social media, third party, etc.).

• Have some extra cash available; during a power outage, electronic card readers and cash machines may not work.

• Store important documents (birth certificates, property deed, etc.) in safe place away from home (for example, a bank safe deposit box).

• Keep neighbors and coworkers apprised of your emergency plans.

Respond day or night

• Fill your car with gas.

• Organize your supplies so they are together in an easily accessible location that family members know about.

Caring for vulnerable family members If you have older family members or those with special needs, make sure they have enough medication and supplies for a few days. If they rely on medical equipment such as oxygen, a CPAP or any other items for their health and well-being, please make sure they have extra oxygen, batteries, or other necessary supplies – enough to last them several days or more.

If they don’t live with you, arrange for a neighbor to check in on them.

If a severe weather event is expected, consider having your relative stay with you or check on them daily. If you have an infant or young children, make certain that you have ample formula, diapers, medications, and other PAGE 10

• Bring pets indoors at the first sign of a storm or other emergency. Pets can become disoriented and frightened during severe weather and may wander off during an emergency.

Secure additional help Restore power quickly and safely

WFEC also thoughtfully prepares for nature's fury. Those efforts include crews trimming power line rights-of-way along roads and other corridors.

That maintenance helps keep trees and limbs from taking down power lines. You may notice lineworkers replacing and upgrading utility poles and power lines to better withstand challenging weather conditions.

Many actions to prepare happen behind the scenes. Mechanics service our vehicles keeping crews safe and ready to get out into the field.

Warehouse personnel inventory and order crucial supplies and equipment, so it is there when needed.

Throughout the year, lineworkers work to keep their skills sharp through regular safety training sessions. Our IT department keeps cybersecurity at the highest possible level and we maintain our phone and telecommunication systems as well.

Member services representatives and administrative personnel are ready to step into any role needed including coordinating meals for outside crews and securing accommodations for workers from other places who assist with restoration efforts. Management staff works to finalize agreements with professional contract crews so they will be on standby and ready to assist us if needed.

Your cooperative dedicates time and energy to storm preparation because you depend on us to energize your lives - from food storage to keeping mobile devices charged.

At West Florida Electric Cooperative, we care about your safety.

Planning for an emergency today can give you more confidence to deal with severe weather and potential outages in the future.

Mr. Fence

Commercial • Residential • Farm • Industrial

Chris & Sheryl Tate

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

Locally Owned & Operated for 28 Years

(850) 547-5516 Your Privacy is Our Business

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

YOUR

SAFETY

CONNECTION

Stay away from downed power lines. They can still be energized.

Never attempt to move or drive over them.

Instead, call 911 to report fallen power lines.

PAGE 12

Why Right-of Way Maintenance is Important

OLEN BARFIELD

Sunshine Casserole

Have Sawmill, Will Travel

Submitted by: Sue Cronkite

Ingredients:

W

est Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) delivers power to a system of approximately 4,800 miles of overhead power lines in four counties. Maintaining the right-of-way on that many miles of line is a process that takes time – however, it is a very important process because when trees interfere with power lines, reliability and safety are compromised.

WFEC has an aggressive right-of-way strategy which entails cutting rights-of-ways near power lines by cutting from ground to sky. It is very important to remove trees, branches, and brush from all rights-of-ways because they might: 1) Cause power outages 2) Cause lights to blink 3) Become a safety hazard for members 4) Obstruct visual inspections, making repairs difficult and costly 5) Block access for maintenance and repairs, causing delays

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

638-7105

2 cups finely shredded carrots 2 cups cooked rice 2 eggs, beaten 11/2 cups diced processed American cheese 1 can (143/4 oz.) cream style corn 1/4 cup milk 1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted 1 tablespoon dried, minced onion 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper Directions: Combine all ingredients in a 2 quart baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until set. Yields 6-8 servings.

Bush Paint & Supply

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

263-4744 • 971 6th Ave., Graceville

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611

Banking For Everyone Our accounts are designed to grow with you. Our team can answer all your questions and find the right account or loan for you or your business.

ffbf.com | 850-547-3624

6) Waste electricity by drawing it into the ground 7) Become a fire hazard Right-of-way (ROW) maintenance keeps tree limbs and other obstacles away from high-voltage power lines. Vegetation like trees, shrubs and brush growing too close to power lines and distribution equipment lead to about sixty percent of all power interruptions. These interruptions can occur when branches break and fall across lines or when trees fall onto them.

When strong winds blow, limbs growing too close to lines may sway and touch them. continued on page 13 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Friendly. Stable. Flexible.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Source: USDA

Freeze containers of water & gel packs to help keep food cold if the power goes out.

Put appliance thermometers in your refrigerator and freezer.

Keep freezer

Group foods together in the freezer to help food stay colder longer.

0o F

or below Refrigerator

40o F

or below

Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk & fresh meat/poultry that you don't need immediately.

If you think power will be out more than 4 hrs. consider moving food to a cooler with ice.

Buy dry or block ice to keep the refrigerator or freezer cold.

Store non-perishable foods on higher shelves to avoid flood waters.

... a full freezer will hold its temperature for HOURS

48 24

Keep the refrigerator & freezer doors closed to maintain cold temperatures.

... a fridge will keep food safe for

Check the temperature inside your refrigerator & freezer. If they're still a safe temperature, your food should be fine. Discard perishable foods that have been at an unsafe temp.

Never taste food to determine its safety!

4

HOURS

Raw meat, poultry or seafood

if half-full

HOURS

Place perishable foods in a cooler w/ice before food starts to go bad

Soft & shredded cheeses

Milk, cream, yogurt & other dairy

Trees growing into and touching power lines also pose a major safety hazard not only for WFEC linemen, but also for members and their families. Trees that come into contact with power lines may become energized and if touched, could shock or electrocute someone. Our primary concern is the safety of our workers and members. Properly maintained ROW keeps our crews safe when they are restoring service and maintaining our system. Keeping trees clear of power lines also keeps your family safe.

From making sure a child’s tree house doesn’t hit power lines to creating a safe environment while doing yard work, a well-maintained ROW helps avoid tragedy.

To reduce tree-related problems, line crews and contractors look for foliage growing under lines, overhanging branches, leaning or other types of “danger” trees and trees growing into lines. This is a job that is never done – by the time crews finish trimming along the 4,800 miles of power lines, vegetation has started growing back at the starting point. This is currently a five-year cycle.

WFEC respects your property and decides how to trim trees based on the amount of clearance needed around wires, the line voltage, the tree’s growth rate and the right-of-way maintenance cycle (how frequently trimming along the line is performed).

Clear rights-of-way give line crews the ability to respond to storm damage with minimal disruption of electricity and allow safe access to the power lines. They also reduce outage times and improve system reliability and reduce safety hazards. A well-maintained ROW leads to fewer outages and faster response times. When trees fall, crews are able to restore service more quickly than they could with poorly maintained areas.

When right-of-way (ROW) crews are trimming in your area, there may be several days between ROW cutting & clean-up crews due to inclement weather, equipment failure or other unforeseen circumstances. If you have any questions about the cooperative’s right-of-way/vegetation management program, please contact us at (800) 342-7400.

Triple S Outdoor Maintenance LLC Backed by 21 Years of U.S. Military Experience

Hard cheeses

Grated Parmesan or Romano

Butter or margarine

Opened Opened fruit juices canned fruit

Jelly, relish, BBQ, soy, taco sauce, mustard Hoisin sauces ketchup, olives, pickles

Opened baby formula

Call for a free estimate!

Dough, cooked pasta Peanut Opened Bread, rolls, Breakfast butter vinegar-based cakes, muffins, foods dressings quick breads, tortillas

PAGE 8

Fruit pies

Fresh mushrooms, herbs/spices

Uncut vegetables & fruit

Eggs & egg products

Some of our full spectrum outdoor services include: • Land Clearing • Skid Steer Work • Mini Excavator Work • Tree & Stump Removal • Driveway & Pads • Ditch Digging & Clearing

Leftovers

Cooked or cut produce

When In Doubt, Throw It Out! CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

(850) 693-9999

We Need Your Help!

We're looking for recipes for the Current Light Flashes publication. Please send photos if available.

Remember to submit your name, so we can give credit where credit is due.

Ways to Submit: 1. Mail: PO. Box 127 Graceville, FL 32440 2. Email: clf@westflorida.coop 3. Drop: at your local district office

Why trust your valuable property & investment to just any service? Let us show you how a decorated veteran leads this family business through hard work, integrity & attention to detail.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

Jackson Farm Well Services Patrick Jackson

850-573-6623 William Crutchfield Enterprises, Inc. • Refrigeration • Heating & Cooling • Ice Machines • Residential/Commercial

License Number: CMC1250499

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

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

Community Calendar Companion Planting Monthly Talk September 13; 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Jackson Co. Ag Offices Clover Room, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna This talk will cover the benefits of companion planting and the benefits this has on home gardens and what plants are good companions. $5 fee at the door; no need to register. Call 850-482-9620 for more information.

Fall Gardening Workshop September 17; 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Jackson Co. Ag Offices Auditorium, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna This workshop will answer gardening questions about the fall and winter months in the Panhandle. Master Gardeners will present info focusing on best practices for growing a winter vegetable garden and more. $15 per person. Pre-registration is required – no walk-ins permitted. Visit http://JacksonCountyHorticulture.Eventbrite.com or call 850-482-9620 for more information.

Private Well & Water Quality Workshop September 22; 5:00-7:30 p.m.

3783 Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL Jackson Co. Ag Offices, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna Do you know where your well water comes from or how it may become contaminated? Learn how private wells and septic systems work, maintenance, and protecting drinking water quality. Facilitated Tri-County Gas water testing available; discounted rates offered on first come, first Service, Inc. Tri-County Gas serve basis. $5 per person; water testing rates vary depending on “Home Folks Service, Inc. Serving the test requested. For testing prices and additional details, visit Home Folks” https://JacksonCountyFCS.Eventbrite.com/ or call 850-482-9620. UF is For All Your Propane Needs 415 S. Waukesha St., Bonifay an Equal Opportunity Institution. Persons with disabilities requiring special 547-3696 accommodations, contact Florida Relay Service, 800-955-8771 at least 5 #RM0048955 working days prior to the class.

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

G l e n S c o tt

Stump Grinding Best Service

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Tractor work Marianna, Florida

200-Amp Power Pole $499.95 100 - Amp Power Pole $399.95 Delivery & Installation Available

Keep Food Safe When the Power Goes Out

S

evere winds, lightning and even squirrels can temporarily cause the power to go out. We understand power outages of any length can be frustrating, especially when your fridge is stocked with perishable foods.

Extended power outages are rare, but when they occur, it’s important to understand what food safety measures you should take to avoid illness.

Here are some food safety tips to keep in mind before, during and after a power outage.

Before an outage A good rule of thumb is to keep an emergency supply kit on hand. Be sure to include nonperishable food items like bottled water, powdered milk, canned goods, cereal and protein bars.

If you have advance warning that an outage is possible, fill a cooler with ice––just in case the outage spans several hours. Having a cooler ready to go can buy extra time for your refrigerated, perishable items.

During an outage If an outage occurs, do not open the refrigerator or freezer unless absolutely necessary. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A half-full freezer will keep food frozen for about 24 hours and a full freezer for about 48 hours. If it looks like the power outage will last longer than four hours, move your important perishable items to an ice-filled cooler.

After an outage If refrigerated foods have been exposed to temperatures higher than 40 degrees for more than two hours, the American Red Cross recommends discarding the items. If any foods have an unusual color, odor or texture, they should be thrown away.

•

hard cheeses that are properly wrapped

•

butter or margarine that is properly wrapped

•

taco, barbecue and soy sauces

•

peanut butter, jelly, mustard, ketchup and relish

The best way to avoid illness from spoiled food during or after an outage is to follow the four-hour rule of thumb. After an outage, always smell and inspect foods before consuming and remember: when in doubt, throw it out. To learn more about food safety after an emergency, visit www.ready.gov/food.

KEEP YOUR FOOD SAFE DURING POWER OUTAGES

2022 Graceville Harvest Festival Pageant September 23 & 24; 6:30 p.m.

Graceville Civic Center Applications for the pageant are available and may be picked up at Graceville City Hall or found online at the Harvest Festival website.

Application deadline is September 9. Entry fee is $70; contestants may also participate in the photogenic competition for an additional $10 fee (limit one per contestant). Admission to the pageant is $5 per adult and children 3 and under are free. For more information, contact Teresa Bush at 850415-0692 or 850-263-3072 or contact Misty Smith or Michelle Watkins at the City of Graceville by calling 850-263-3250. This pageant is sponsored by the City of Graceville and all proceeds will benefit the Harvest Day Festival celebration.

Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

A refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if the door is kept closed.

A full freezer will hold its temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if half full).

If the power has been out for more than 4 hours, throw out refrigerated foods including meat, poultry, fish, eggs and milk.

Once power is restored, use appliance thermometers to keep the freezer at 0 degrees F or below, and the refrigerator at 40 degrees or below.

Use dry ice or freeze containers of water and gel packs to help keep food cold if the power goes out.

Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

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

PAGE 14

While most perishable foods should be thrown out after an extended outage, there are a few items that are safe to consume after a two-hour exposure to 40+ degrees:

WHEN IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Community Calendar (cont.)

Here is how to contact your local Supervisor of Elections Office: Calhoun County: Phone: (850) 674-8568 Ext. 4 Website: www.votecalhoun.com Address: 20859 Central Ave., East, Rm. 117 Blountstown, FL 32424 Holmes County: Phone: (850) 547-1107 Website: www.holmeselections.com Address: 201 N. Oklahoma St., Suite 102 Bonifay, FL 32425 Jackson County: Phone: (850) 482-9652 Website: www.jacksoncountysoe.org Address: 2851 Jefferson St. Marianna, FL 32448 Washington County: Phone: (850) 638-6230 Website: www.wcsoe.org Address: 1424 Jackson Ave., Suite C Chipley, FL 32428 We encourage everyone, regardless of political beliefs, to vote, stand up for our local community and make a collective impact.

tion Installa ! le Availab

CBC1257046 backwoodsbuildings@yahoo.com

1240 South Blvd. • Chipley, FL 32428 www.backwoodsbuildings.net

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

850-676-4903

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

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

David & Family Tree Services

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

(850) 326-1559

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

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

Trim Cut Remove Stump Grinding Veteran-Owned

Take advantage of Medicare plans with a variety of benefits.

When you are turning 65, your opportunity to enroll in Medicare plan begins. I can meet with you one-on-one to discuss your unique needs and answer any questions you may have about AARP® Medicare Advantage plans from UnitedHealthcare®.

Get one-on-one help. Call me today.

D SO

West Florida Turf SOD

Centipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda Centipede Seed

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

PAGE 6

Gene Alford

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

Garden to Table Herbs September 27; 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Jackson Co. Ag Offices, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna Join us in the continuation of our Garden to Table series workshop on herbs. The cost is $15 per person and participants will be able to take home a small planter of herbs, sample jar of dried herbs, and have the chance to taste several ways to use herbs in cooking. Pre-registration is required – no walk-ins are permitted. Visit https://JacksonCountyFCS.Eventbrite.com/ or call 850-482-9620. UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. Persons with disabilities requiring special accommodations, contact Florida Relay Service, 800-955-8771 at least 5 working days prior to the class.

Homebuyer Education Class September 29; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Washington Co. Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Ave., Chipley October 10; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Jackson Co. Ag Offices, 2741 Penn Ave., Marianna Better understand the homebuying process, analyze personal financial and credit situations, and learn basic home care/maintenance techniques to maintain the value of your home and save money on repairs. Open to all participants, from individuals just beginning to those further along in the process. Completion of this course satisfies the homeownership education requirement for the SHIP/USDA Rural Development programs. Florida Cooperative Extension Service is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Pre-registration is required - no walk-ins permitted. For more info, call the Holmes Co. Extension, 850-547-1108, the Washington Co. Extension, 850-638-6265, or the Jackson Co. Extension, 850-4829620, or visit https://tinyurl.com/FCSCalendarOfEvents. UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. Persons with disabilities requiring special accommodations, contact Florida Relay Service, 800-955-8771 at least 5 working days prior to the class so that proper consideration may be given the request.

119th Annual Andrew Williams Family Reunion October 1; Registration: 9:00 a.m. & Program begins at 10:00 a.m.

Galilee United Methodist Church, Galilee Road, Graceville Contact Lamar Faircloth at 850-547-2275 or 850-326-3045 for more info.

Since 1969

4” to 12”

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

Gary McIntosh

(850) 593-0009

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Roger Lonsway

Mobile: 260-5438 McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

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

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

Free Estimates

5 Year Workmanship Warranty

Water Well Drilling & Pump Repair

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organizationwith a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. AARP isn’t an insurer, doesn’t recommend products, and encourages you to evaluate your needs. AARP does not employ or endorse Y0066_21SPRJ56516_C SPRJ56516B agents, producers or brokers. ©United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved.

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS

Residential, Commercial, Agricultural Water Analysis & Treatment

850-263-8064

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

(850) 547-2934

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 15

Five Ways to Exercise Your Civic Duty

Make a

Change

A

merica’s electric cooperatives, including West Florida Electric 2. Get informed. In addition to Cooperative (WFEC), understand the value of building ensuring your registration is up relationships with elected officials at all levels of government. to date, learning about local There are many important policy issues that directly impact electric utilities policy issues and candidates is and ultimately, you, the members we proudly serve. Strengthening our one of the best ways you can relationships with elected leaders positions us to advocate for our local prepare to vote. communities.

3. Get active on social media.

While WFEC is a locally-owned cooperative, we’re part of a larger Follow @coopsvote on Facebook, network of electric co-ops. Through our non-partisan grassroots program Twitter and Instagram and let known as “Co-ops Vote,” we’re working to enhance the political strength others know you’re a #coopvoter of electric co-ops and boost voter turnout. There’s power in numbers, and and #VoteReady; encourage your when we all show up at the polls, we can voice the issues that matter most friends and family to do the to our community. same.

National Voter Registration Day is September 20, and midterm 4. Help others prepare to vote. elections are right around the corner. If you’re looking to get involved Work a National Voter or simply make sure you’re ready to vote, here are five easy ways you can registration Day event (visit www. exercise your civic duty. nationalvoterregistrationday.org/ 1. Don’t assume your voter registration status is up to date. Visit events), volunteer to be a poll www.vote.coop, then click “Election Resources” to verify your status. worker during midterm elections or offer to drive others to their polling places.

5. Vote! It’s the easiest––and most important––way you can exercise your civic duty.

Voting is a form of personal empowerment that gives you the opportunity to voice your opinion on the issues that matter most to you. Make a plan to vote and help others in our community get #VoteReady.

You can also contact your local Supervisor of Elections office to register to vote, check your status, or volunteer to work a poll.

The deadline to register to vote in any election is 29 days before any election. For example voters must be registered for the general election on November 8th by October 11th.

that Pays!

Stay

COMFORTABLE year round by upgrading your home's heating and cooling system.

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

You'll enjoy a cozier home & savings on your electric bill. *Applies to site-built homes* PAGE 16

continued on page 6

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Lynn & Steve’s Helping Hands, LLC DBA

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

Serving Holmes, Jackson & Washington Counties

386-748-9035 or 850-768-0822

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

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Many of our prepaid members have noticed a reduction in the amount of power they’re using - mostly because they’ve become more conscious about when and how they’re actually using electricity. In fact, prepay power works well for people who want to take control of their electric accounts and energy use. By monitoring your power consumption on a regular basis, you will notice patterns in your day-to-day use. Any variation from this pattern, such as a houseguest (increase) or vacation (decrease), will become evident as you monitor your account. Observing and controlling daily use can help keep your electric costs down. Statistics also indicate prepaid electricity programs help you lower your electric consumption as you become more aware of use patterns. Some of our members have reduced their energy use by as much as 15 percent.

Another way you can think of prepaying for electricity from West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) is the same way you think of filling your car with gas. Instead of filling your gas tank, you’re filling your WFEC account, which buys you electricity. Just like the way your gas level goes down as you drive your car, as you use electricity, your prepaid account balance will go down. Adding money gets you more electricity.

To find out more about our prepaid service, visit www.westflorida.coop or contact your local district office by calling (800) 342-7400.

Heating and cooling account for about 50% of your energy costs.* With so many types of HVAC systems to choose from, making the best investment can be overwhelming.

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Animals/Livestock

Tifton 9 & Argentine Bahia seed & hay; 850-718-7779, Pat or 850-592-2647, Dan.

Miscellaneous

Visit www.westflorida.coop for more information about our heat pump rebate program for site-built and manufactured homes.

PAGE 4

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Two-horse trailer; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; two grain wagons; 16’ hay trailer; treeing Walker coon dogs; 850-592-2494 or 850-209-8532.

Cook's complete peanut grinding business; two machines, German Shorthair Pointer $15,000; 850-209-1361. puppies; fifth wheel travel trailer; 850-693-5001, Archie.

Remington 700 7MM Magnum Registered ABGA Boer billy STW, stainless, 26” muzzleVintage patio set, $500; goats; six & seven months old; break, composite stock Leopold refrigerator, two-door, $200; 850-849-2426.

3x9, 50MM, fast, hard hitting, front load washer, $400; trailer, $1,700; 850-447-0494. $500; safe, $150; round oak Appliances Homemade/handmade quilts, lap table, $100; 850-956-1224. quilts, baby quilts, twin, full or 2015 Samsung front load 16” metal lathe, 7’ between queen; two used bathtubs, great washer, with pedestal, VRT, HE, price; 850-547-3649. centers, 110 volts; 3-point hitch, PTO drive; corn sheller; has steam cycles; 334-464-5789.

850-956-2789.

4-drawer lateral file cabinet, 42x18 5/8”x 2½ LxWxH, good Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC Home/Farm condition, $65; 850-638-8166.

Levon Carnley Mini Kunianna piglets, very small, indoor or outdoor, littertrainable and smart, $400; 352-212-9010.

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

Coastal hay, 5x5 roll, fertilized, excellent quality, stored in barn; 850-592-4798.

Licensed

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

Phone: 850-703-0318

Citrus Apples Nuts Peaches Figs Plums Pears Avocados Berry Patches Olives Bananas Tropicals and many more Florida grown trees Let us help you eat fresh picked fruit from your yard all year long!

We will design and install your backyard fruit tree orchard.

Very affordable, call for appointment! 15 tree minimum.

592 594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

Clarksville (850) 451-6222

Licensed family owned and operated since Hurricane Michael Schuckelberry Farms Retail Nursery and Edible Landscaping

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 SEPTEMBER 2022

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Instant Orchard Packages

Local Telephone Prefixes

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

Our energy experts are here to help you.

Multiple Listings

CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly.

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

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 17

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

T

J

G

SOUTHSIDE

T

J

G

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Commercial & Residential Sales, Service, Leasing Installation

850-703-5486 www.mysouthsideair.com License #: CAC1819784

Air Conditioning Refrigeration Ice Machines Exhausts/Make Up Air

Notification Statement

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

Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400 Subscription Rate Cooperative members, $2.50 per year Non-members, $6.00 per year Change of Address Notices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current Light Flashes P. O. Box 127 Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 DISCLAIMER: Although paid advertisements may appear in West Florida Electric (WFEC) publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, WFEC does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. WFEC reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish any advertisement, article or information.

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

PAGE 18

WANTED

Real Estate

48.8 acres farm land, in the Horses; ponies; mules; donkeys; Graceville area, access from paved 850-592-2494 or 850-209-8532. road; 651-230-2451.

150-500 acres pastureland, in One-half to two-acres available, Holmes County or Washington very affordable, homesite or farm- County; 850- 234-7070. land, located in the Graceville area; 651-230-2451.

Penny through dollar coins,

loose, in jars, collections and estates, buy, trade or sell, honest & professional; 850-326-3437.

Vehicles 1982 S-10 chopped top 350, about 650 miles on motor, custom front & rear everything new on truck, have all paperwork, $7,500 OBO; 850-263-4190.

2016 Chevy Equinox LTZ, 72,000 miles, setup for flat tow, all included, $19,000; 850-206-2329.

Housekeeper, cleaning, light yardwork, Sundays & Mondays; 850-896-2733, call or text 7 a.m.

-3 p.m.

Large size nanny goats; 850-447-4992 or 850-762-8205.

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

Is Prepaid Power for You?

D

o you want to be more cautious about how much electricity you’re using? Save money on deposits? Monitor your energy use more closely? If any of this is true, then EZ Pay Power, West Florida Electric’s prepaid metering program, is the right choice for you.

Signing up for the EZ Pay Prepaid program is easy. Just visit one of our district offices and tell them you’re interested in prepaid electric service.

Then, pay a fee of just $55 plus your first power purchase and you’ll be on your way!

How it works The process is simple. You put as much money as you want on your prepay account, and we supply you with electricity. As you use power, your account balance goes down. When the funds run out, the electricity, does too. Power is sent directly to your home using our distribution power lines.

Receive a text message notification when your balance is low or monitor your use online using the app or website to decide when you need to purchase more power.

Electricity can be purchased in the office during business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Prepaid members can also purchase electricity twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week in any dollar amount over the phone using a credit or debit card by calling 1-855-mywfeca (855-699-3322). Using the cooperative’s mobile app or online portal are also easy ways to pay. continued on page 4

Davis and Son’s Plumbing & Septic Tank Service

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

September Grand Ridge & Bascom Areas

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

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

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

ROW Update:

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

HWY. 77 BINGO, INC. (850) 263-7788

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

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

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 72, NO 9

$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

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.

Double Action Mini-Session at 4:00 PM

Mondays & Wednesdays: T-shirt night

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

WFEC Board of Trustees

Together We Can Stay Safe David

Tim

TATUM

ALFORD

District 1

District 2

Digging too close to a pad-mounted transformer can damage underground cables, leading to electrical shock or interruptions in service.

Use caution when landscaping.

Call 811 before you dig and stay safe.

ST!”

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

HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC Residential • Commercial

John

Jackie

ADAMS

POOSER

District 4

District 3

David

George Clayton

District 5 / Vice President

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Secretary-Treasurer

District 8 / President

Over 21 Years Professional Experience

BONDURANT Attorney

District 9

# CBC1260614 • # CCC1330769 Free Estimates • 24 Hour Emergency Service

Brent Hall 850.718.7314

Serving Northwest Florida!

A perfectly cut lawn. Now for a perfectly matched offer

Ty

PEEL

Executive VP/CEO

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

Z200

0% APR

Gas powered

24 M

$5.66

average cost of a Big Mac value meal ®

Ph: (850) 547-3658 Plumbing • Electrical Licensed & Insured

Energy Efficiency Tip:

You can lower your water heating costs by using less hot water in your home.

Together we do more.®

own

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc.

Our faucets and appliances use a lot of hot water.

Get a fast, professional cut with precise, effortless control.

And legendary Kubota quality. Demo the Z200 mower today.

$0 D

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

5 Years Labor Warranty • Licensed & Insured

Frank E.

Myron

HUDSON

PAGE 2

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

Andy Hall 850.557.3368

24 Hour Emergency Response

The Value of Electricity

$3.92

average daily cost of power

Electricity is expressed on a daily basis using EIA 2020 Average U.S. Monthly Residential Bill of $117.46.

Big Mac® is a registered trademark of McDonald’s Corporation.

Water heating accounts for a large portion of home energy bills.

McDonald’s Corporation does not endorse or sponsor this material.

To save energy (and money) used for water heating, repair any leaky faucets, install low-flow fixtures and insulate accessible hot water lines.

Source: energy.gov

Sources: Economist.com and EIA, 2020 data

onths

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

© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2022. $0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for 24 months available on purchases of new Kubota Z200 series equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation USA; subject to credit approval. Example: 24 monthly payments of $41.67 per $1,000 financed. Some exceptions apply. Offers expire 9/30/22. Terms subject to change. This material is for descriptive purposes only.

Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your Dealer or KubotaUSA.com.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 19

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

The Power of Preparation Pages 10-11

◄

DUPONT•

Authorized Agent

A Afr.lSTFAfO MFMflfA OF THf

AUTO GLASS

SAFETY COUNCIL-

• Any Glass • Any Vehicle

WISEFLYAUTOGLASS.COM

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

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

Deck Kits!

Register Here for 5K Bull Run Oct. 2

6x8 8x10 10x12 12x16

Bulk Chlorine, Salt & Chemicals In Stock Case Knives on Sale!

Now!

(850) 676-1802

15 yard & 20 yard dumpsters for 7 day rentals Graceville, Florida

www.brianshauling.com

We offer both roll off containers & dumpster trailers to better service your needs.

INSIDE ...

Is Prepaid Power for You?

Many more sizes to choose from!

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

Dumpster Rental

Free Pool Water Testing!

5 Ways to Exercise Your Civic Duty ...pgs. 5-6

Pool Supplies

Keep Food Safe When Power Goes Out ...pgs. 7-8

Soil, Mulch Manure & Rock Available Now

www.panhandlesalvage.com

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

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

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm.*

...pgs. 3-4

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2022

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

72, NO 9

Right-of-Way Maintenance is Important

...pgs. 12-13

Community Calendar

...pgs. 14-15

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 17-18