September 2019

FLASHES CURRENT LIGHT

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Solar in the Sunshine State Pages 10-12

Energy Efficiency Tip

A Cut Above TREE SERVICE LLC

Owner: Jason Morris

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

BUS: (850) 415-1217 • CELL: (850) 573-1270 Hybrid Barn Kits Available!

INSIDE ...

Engineered Buildings Available!

Cookware Tip: Copper-bottomed pans heat faster on the stove. In the oven, ceramic & glass dishes are better than metal. With ceramic & glass dishes, you can turn the oven down about 25 degrees & your meal will cook just as quickly.

Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

Look Out for Scams ... pg. 5

Deck Kits!

Concrete Steps in Stock

www.panhandlesalvage.com

6x8 - $269 8x10 - $369 10x10 - $499 12x12 - $589 12x16 - $729

Many more sizes to choose from!

Treated Swings in Stock!

850-547-9354

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

405 W. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL

...pgs. 3-4

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm.*

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

69, NO 9

SBA Loans Available

...pg. 6

Safety Tips for Farmworkers

....pg. 8

What’s a Touchstone?

...pgs. 13-14

Community Calendar

...pgs. 14-16

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 17-18

CURRENT LIGHT

MSA 120 C-BQ Chain Saw

FLASHES

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 69, NO 9

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.

12” bar Includes AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger

FSA 56 Battery Trimmer $ 19995 Includes AK 10 battery and AL 101 charger

“I Love the Fast and Clean Cutting.” GrandmaSaw

PANHANDLE TRACTOR

WFEC Board of Trustees

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Vice President

David

TATUM

ADAMS

District 1

District 4 / Secretary-Treasurer

ST!”

HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC

Brent Hall 850.718.7314 Jackie

Tim

POOSER

ALFORD

District 3

District 2

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

Over 21 Years Professional Experience 5 Years Labor Warranty • Licensed & Insured

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

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Representing Sellers & Buyers of Farms, Timberland & Homestead Properties

Tony Mitchell (850) 526-8466 David

George Clayton

District 5

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Frank E.

Myron

BONDURANT

HUDSON

Attorney

District 9

Ty

PEEL

Executive VP/CEO

PAGE 2

www.KubotaUSA.com

©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2019

© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2019. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult your local Kubota dealer. For the complete disclaimer, go to KubotaUSA.com/disclaimers and see the posted disclaimer.

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

Andy Hall 850.557.3368

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

5003 Highway 90 • Marianna, Florida 32446

Residential • Commercial

John

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

Panhandle Tractor • (850) 526-2257

5006 Highway 90 Marianna, FL 32446 850-526-2257

All prices DSRP at participating dealers while supplies last. The actual listed guide bar length may vary from the effective cutting length based on which powerhead it is installed on. Check out these reviews and others on the product pages at STIHLdealers.com. © 2019 STIHL

District 8 / President

Where there’s work to be done, there’s Kubota’s equipment ready to get it done right. With reliable diesel engines and an array of attachments, it’s time to conquer every task. Visit us today.

“Light, Powerful, Long Battery Life ” BunnyMan

29995

$

Battery Power.

Made By STIHL.

Work ethic comes standard.

Licensed Real Estate Agent in Florida & Alabama tony.mitchell@afmforest.com • www.americanforestmanagement.com

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc. 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

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

Dirt • Rock • Culverts

Tracey R. Kent Realtor/Property Manager

850-326-7463 (cell)

Southern Way Realty, Inc. 1014 Main Street, Chipley, FL 32428 traceykent828@gmail.com • www.southernwayrealty.com

Thinking of BUYING or SELLING? Whether it’s residential home, land or commercial, we specialize in all property types. Let’s work together to get your property SOLD or let me help you find your next dream property.

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

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

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

North Bonifay

24 Hour Emergency Response

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Clay Patrick Owner/Broker United Country Real Estate | Properties South 850-693-6610 cpatrick@propertiessouth.com|www.propertiessouth.com

Attention Members:

Reps from McLean Engineering are doing a damage assessment follow-up survey. This survey will help WFEC obtain FEMA reimbursements. They're inspecting poles, wire & attachments & are currently working around the Sneads & Alford area this month. They’ll be taking photos, so please don’t be alarmed if you see someone on your property. Their trucks have WFEC Contractor decals on the side. Questions? Contact your district office.

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.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 19

Multiple Listings (cont.)

Sannier-Wilhem Co. BCA regulation billiard table, $800; Story & Clark piano, excellent condition, original owner, $200; 763-6052.

Real Estate 1 acre level & dry lot on Edison in Compass Lake in the Hills, build or hold for investment, mobile homes are not allowed, close to clubhouse & picnic area for McCormick Lake, a 200+ acre spring fed crystal clear lake ideal for swimming & fishing, lake access only for owners, $5,000, email serious inquiries: rojefo494@gmail.com.

McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

Beautiful fenced half acre lot on Hwy 69, with well & septic, two miles north of Hwy. 90 in Grand Ridge; has a 2BR/2BA single wide mobile home that needs some TLC; $40,000; 334-393-1444.

Vicion Model 2400 hay cutter, must be in good condition, will pay a premium price; 592-4740.

2017 Legacy mobile home, 32x64, 3BR/2BA, front porch, open concept, large rooms; 638-7269.

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

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

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

1973 Winn mobile home, $800; 768-3935.

FREE

Recreational Vehicles

Glasstron boat; 260-1510.

Bass Tracker metal boat, Mercury 40 HP, on board gas tank, battery charger, run on trailer, spare tire & more; $11,000 OBO; 263-9572.

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

Notification Statement

1983 24’ pontoons only, with no trailer, $1,500; 326-1959.

Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400

2003 TXT golf cart, 36 volt, new batteries, rebuilt controller, front & rear lights, 4 passenger; 326-4842, no texts please.

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.

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.

WANTED Used barber chair; 569-2964 or stop by Mia’s Hair Salon, Marianna.

This Institution is an equal opportunity Horses; ponies; mules; 592-2494 or 209-8532. provider and employer.

PAGE 18

23’ used boat trailer or 23’ trailer w/old boat; new/used cast iron skillets; 209-3945.

Disasters Don't Plan Ahead.

You Can. September is National Preparedness Month

Little girl’s toys, clothes, dolls, pink stroller & high chair; assorted home decor, craft books, paint, glassware, Grand Ridge area; 394-6876.

TV antenna, fully-functional at vacant house, you dismantle & transport, special equipment needed; 593-2408, leave message.

Dachshund mix; 768-9491.

Adams Tree Service, llc

FEMA News Photo

I

t’s the worst-case scenario. A major storm was predicted and this time, the predictions were right. Many power lines are down, and your electricity may be out for several days or weeks. You are low on everything––food, pet supplies, toilet paper, batteries, diapers and your medication.

Imagine how you would feel in this situation. Some of us even experienced these scenarios first-hand. While you can’t predict which weather forecast will come true, you can plan ahead so when a severe

ALDAY’S Bobcat & Tree Service

Family Owned & Operated w/ 20 Years Experience

Tree Removal Hazardous Tree Removal Trimming/Bobcat Work

• Fully Insured

Licensed & Insured LI20000696600

• FREE Estimates

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

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Josh Alday

(850) 209-2501 ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

Stacey Alday

Owner/Operator (850) 557-7290

weather event strikes, you have the tools and resources to effectively weather the storm.

September is National Preparedness Month. It's a good time to visit www.ready.gov/make-a-plan and brush up on your storm preparedness plan. Here are some items to consider: • Stock your pantry with a 3-7 day (or more) supply of non-perishable food, such as canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, powdered milk, water and other essentials (i.e., diapers/toiletries).

• Confirm you have adequate sanitation & hygiene supplies including towelettes, soap & hand sanitizer.

• Stock your First Aid kit with pain relievers, bandages, medical essentials & make sure your prescriptions are current.

• Set aside basic household items, including flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener & portable, battery-powered radio or TV. • Organize emergency supplies so they are in an easily accessible location.

If a severe storm such as a hurricane is expected with high winds and sustained rain, you may need to take extra steps to safeguard your home. Shutter windows and securely close exterior doors. Fully charge all cell phones, laptops and devices so you have maximum power in the event of a power outage. If continued on page 4

BOBCAT SERVICES • • • •

Debris Clean Up Driveways Grading Free Estimates

(850) 209-1381

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

you plan to use a small generator, make sure it’s rated to handle the amount of power you will need, and always review the manufacturer’s instructions to operate it safely.

In the event of an outage, turn off appliances, TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics. This will help avert damage from a power surge, and will also help prevent overloading the circuits during power restoration. That said, do leave one light on so you will know when power is restored. If utilizing a small household generator, consider using LED holiday lights to illuminate a living area. A strand of 100 white lights draws little energy yet produces considerable light.

Solar lights also work, if they can receive some sunlight during the day for charging.

Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates, or check West Florida Electric’s (WFEC) app, Facebook page or website for restoration updates.

After the storm, avoid downed power lines and walking through flooded areas where power lines could be submerged. Allow ample room for utility crews to safely perform their jobs – including on your property.

Advance planning for severe storms or other emergencies can reduce stress and anxiety caused by the weather event and can lessen the impact of the storm’s effects.

Sign up for NOAA emergency alerts and warnings and install WFEC’s app to your phone to stay abreast of restoration efforts and other important co-op news and information. Act today, because there is power in planning.

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

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

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

Hinson Land Clearing

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

(850) 481-2960

FOR SALE

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 DAVIDSON EQUIPMENT

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

10% Off with this Ad CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Fertilized, barn stored hay, 4x5 rolls; 258-0020.

Singer sewing machine, #5810, works great, many stitch settings, zipper foot, pressure Animals/Livestock feet, bobbins, $125; 6-drawer German Shepherd puppies, black floor cabinet for machine, $100; 263-9171. & tan, mother & father on site, first shots & de-wormed, $350 Bowflex, excellent condition, each; 209-0748. $700; 557-4877, leave message.

Chihuahua puppies, projected date born is September 18, both Hay, fertilized, barn stored, 4x4 parents on site, first come, $300/ rolls, $22.50/roll; 579-2732. each; 260-9058, call or text.

AKC German Shepherd puppies, parents on-site, 3 males, 3 females, black & tan & black, $800 each; 573-1239.

Two Amazon parrots, $600 for pair; guinea pigs, $10; ducks, $10; geese, $20; 768-9491.

Appliances Frigidaire refrigerator/top freezer, black, only a couple years old, works perfectly, $125, firm; 394-6876.

We Do the Job For You • Free Estimates

PAGE 4

CLASSIFIEDS

Home/Farm Last year’s hay, 46 rolls, 4x5, $10/roll for all; $15/roll if 1-2 purchased, you load, Cottondale; 352-266-6437, leave message or call before 5:00 p.m.

Kubota tractor, M4900, 2WD, 33 hours, excellent condition, 5 cylinder, $12,000 OBO; 209-0610.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

Square bale annual peanut hay, 5x5 rolls; grass hay; walk-in freezer, almost new; 263-3427.

10’ HD bush hog rotary mower, 3-point hitch, $7,900; 3 bottom plow, $300; 4 bottom plow, $400; HD lift pole, $350; 1/3 cubic yard dirt slip, $250; 326-2754.

Kenmore buttonhole attachment; Queen Anne bench, rich burgundy, excellent condition; 326-8907, before 8:00 p.m.

Commercial kitchen equipment, 60’’; gas griddle; 48’’ AccuTemp Miscellaneous stainless steal electric steam griddle; Vulcan double gas conUpholstery material, over 300 vection ovens; 60’’ cold bar; bolts of upholstery material for double-sided coffee makers & vehicles or furniture, $1,000 for all; 557-4877, leave message if no more; 415-0851, text or call. answer.

Dog house by Dogloo, opening 16.5 high, 17.5 wide, $20; metal Glass electric connectors, 1 bed frame, twin to double, $12; large, 1 medium, 1 small; $30 547-4639 package; 638-1261.

Mobile detailing trailer, good condition, turn key business, $1,000; 2007 Dodge Daytona Charger, Hemi V8, excellent condition, $10,000; 849-5340.

Multiple Listings 1971 Massey Ferguson 35 tractor; breaking plow; 5’ disc plow; bush hog, $4,000 for all, negotiable; 209-1239.

Jet ski w/race motor; antique John Deere mower; twin beds, complete, $100 each; 2 recliners; 260-1510.

Mail boxes; bird houses; toys; furniture & more; 547-9269.

Gravity flow & peanut wagons; hay dolly; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; small grain wagon; hay fork; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

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

PAGE 17

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

Community Calendar Cont.

Look Out for Scams

Surveying/GIS/Utilities • ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys • As-built Surveys • Boundary Surveys • Construction Layout Surveys • Design Surveys • Route Surveys • Foundation Surveys

• GPS Field Data Collection • Hydrographic Surveys • Legal Descriptions • Mean High Water Survey • Plats • Plot Plans • ROW Surveying & Mapping • Topographic Survey

southeasternsurveying.com

Tri-County Gas S ervice , I nc .

Tri-County Gas S ervice , I nc .

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks”

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

547-3696 #RM0048955

Glen Scott

Stump Grinding Best Service

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Marianna, Florida

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

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc.

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

Hill’s Tree Service

• Tree Removal • Tree Trimming • Stump Grinding Insured • Free Estimates

593-4455 Finch’s Welding Supply Oxygen • Acetylene • C02 • Argon 75/25 Rods, Tips, Wire Welding Accessories We service all welding machines.

850.768.3697 850.768.3114 PAGE 16

3433 Pear Tree Lane Bonifay, FL 32425

Washington County Heritage Festival September 27-28; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Falling Waters State Park Florida Farm Bureau & Farm Bureau Insurance is proud to present the 5th Annual Washington County Heritage Festival. Friday will be open as an educational field trip day for area schools to learn the rich heritage of Washington County. Experience how life used to be lived by visiting with demonstrators including blacksmiths to flint knappers in our Native American village to a full agricultural display complete with 4-H show animals, antique tractors & farm implements. Chad Gainey will be giving live chain saw art demonstrations throughout both days. We will also have local arts & crafts vendors selling their homemade wares. North Florida Artillery will have their Civil War re-enactors camp set-up with two cannons firing every 45 minutes. A Kid Zone will be available with a bounce house, inflatable slide & pony rides. Great food & the backdrop of one of the most beautiful state parks in Florida will round out this event. You can even hold a baby gator or get your photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Cost for entry to the park is $5 per vehicle. Off site parking will be at RiverTown Community Church on State Park Rd. with shuttle service to bring guests to the festival grounds. Handicap parking will be available inside the park. Check out www.floridastateparks.org/fallingwaters, www.visitwcfla.com or call 638-6130 for more information.

U

nfortunately, in today’s world, scams are inevitable. Scammers can threaten you with everything from legal action involving the IRS to turning off power to your home.

Utility scams often involve an individual or group posing as an employee of your electric cooperative. The scammer may use threatening language in order to frighten you into offering your credit card or bank account information. Don’t fall victim to these types of scams. Understand the threats posed and your best course of action: • If someone calls your home or cell phone demanding you pay your electric bill immediately, gather as much information as you can from that individual, hang-up the phone and contact the local authorities.

Scammers often use threats and urgency to pressure you into giving them your bank account number or loading a pre-paid credit or debit card (such as a Green Dot card). West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) will never ask you to offer up personal finance information over the phone. If you have any doubts about your utility bill, contact our member payment center either in person, or over the phone at 800-342-7400.

Homecoming Services October 19; 10:00 a.m.

Lighthouse Assembly of God, Bonifay Services begin at 10:00 a.m. with singing, preaching by Brother Michael Presley at 11:00 a.m. and lunch at noon.

O&L FARMS Perennial Peanut - A Forage

916 White Avenue • Graceville, FL Every Thursday: 5 PM - until Miscellaneous & Animals Legume of Commercial Importance

• No Buyer Premiums • Open to Public

Round 4x5 rolls also available

#AB3552

Art Little

• Government agencies like the IRS will never call to inform you that you have unpaid taxes or other liens against you. You will always receive this type of information in the mail. If someone calls claiming to be the IRS, hang-up immediately.

• If you receive an email from an unknown sender; an email riddled with spelling errors and typos; or an email threatening action unless a sum of money is paid, do not click any links provided within the email, and do not respond to the email. Simply delete the email, or send it to your spam folder.

WFEC wants to make sure you avoid any and all types of scams that could put you or your financial information in jeopardy.

850-573-2157 850-263-0793

Perennial Peanut is a high-quality persistent tropical forage legume that can be grazed or fed to horses, dairy and beef cattle, hogs, goats, sheep, and rabbits. It can be stored as dry hay or silage and is an ideal substitute for imported alfalfa.

There are other types of scams consumers should watch out for:

• If someone calls your home claiming to have discovered a virus on your computer, hang-up. This caller’s intent is to access personal information you may be keeping on your computer.

Graceville Goat, Sheep, Chicken Auction, LLC

Square Bales Available for Sale

• If someone comes to your home claiming to be an employee of WFEC that needs to collect money or inspect parts of your property, call us to verify they are, in fact, an employee. If they are not, call local authorities for assistance and do not let the individual into your home.

Buyers & Sellers Welcome

Lawn Care Service & Tractor Work

Also Food Plot Installation

(850) 547-1794 (850) 303-4364

Tyler Poole, LLC

850.573.1599 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 EMERGENCY PLUMBING & CONSTRUCTION, LLC Quinn Williams

850-373-7186 RF11067708

Located in Bonifay, FL Residential & Commercial Plumbing

TOGETHER We can be safe.

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

PAGE 6

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available

T

he Small Business Administration recently announced that Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and private nonprofit organizations located in Florida as a result of Hurricane Michael.

The loans are available in the following counties: Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rose, Taylor, Wakulla, Walton and Washington counties.

“When Secretary of Agriculture issues a disaster declaration to help farmers recover from damage and losses to crops, the Small Business Administration issues a declaration to eligible entities affected by the same disaster,” said Ken Fleming, director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to eligible farm-related and non-farm related entities that suffered financial losses as a direct result of this disaster. With the exception of aquaculture enterprises, SBA cannot provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers and ranchers.

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates of 2.5 percent for private nonprofit organizations of all sizes and 3.675 percent for small businesses for terms up to 30 years. The SBA determines eligibility based on the size of the applicant, type of activity and its financial resources. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. These working capital loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred. The loans are not intended to replace lost sales or profits.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application via SBA’s secure website: disasterloan.sba.gov.

Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Loan applications can be downloaded from disasterloan.sba.gov. Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing & Disbursement Center, 14925 Kinsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

Submit completed applications to SBA no later than November 20, 2019.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Community Calendar Cont.

Bush Paint & Supply

Growing Better Roses September 21; 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Washington County Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Avenue, Chipley IFAS & Washington County Master Gardeners will be presenting a workshop on growing roses. Learn about the easiest and most successful ways to grow beautiful and healthy roses. Learn to propagate roses and take home your own rose. Matthew Orwat will discuss rose selection, planting, fertilizer, disease control & insect control. You will learn everything you have ever wanted to know about how to be successful in growing roses in our area. The cost is $10. Register by calling 638-6180.

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

263-4744 • 971 6th Ave., Graceville D West Florida Turf SO SOCentipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda D Centipede Seed

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

Jackson Farm Well Services

Crafty 'Crows Scarecrows, Arts & Crafts Fair September 21; 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Farmer's Market Pavilion in Downtown Chipley Join us for fun for the whole family. There will be a scarecrow building contest with cash prizes, ribbons & certificates and many exciting categories to enter. All prizes will be awarded at 1:00 p.m. at the gazebo area. There will also be lots of arts & crafts vendors on site, the farmer's market will be open and music and refreshments will be available. There will also be a free kid's craft activity. For more information about the scarecrow contest, call 260-4049 and for crafters or vendors interested in setting up a booth, call 638-0358 or email wchistorical@gmail.com. This event is jointly sponsored by the Chipley Garden Club and Washington County Historical Society.

WISEFLY AUTO GLASS - EST. 2007

Medicare Supplement Plans

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

insured by

Medicare supplement insurance Call me today: plan questions? Gene Alford Let’s sit down face-to-face to talk about your needs.

United Healthcare Insurance Company

Licensed Insurance Agent Contracted with UnitedHelathcare Insurance Company

850-209-1381

AS3035FL

AARP endorses the AARP® Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans, insured by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company. UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, brokers or producers. You must be an AARP member in order to enroll in an AARP Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan. Insured by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company, Horsham, PA. Policy form No. GRP 79171 GPS-1 (G-36000-4). In some states plans may be available to persons under age 65 who are eligible for Medicare by reason of disability or End-State Renal Disease. Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the federal Medicare program. This is a solicitation of insurance.

A licensed insurance agent/producer may contact you. THESE PLANS HAVE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS, EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS. FOR COSTS AND COMPLETE DETAILS (INCLUDING OUTLINES OF COVERAGE), CALL A LICENSED INSURANCE AGENT/PRODUCER AT THE NUMBER SHOWN.

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 SEPTEMBER 2019

Patrick Jackson

850-592-9530 or 850-573-6623 Debbie Roney Smith Full Time Realtor since 1996 Multi-Million Dollar Producer

4420 Lafayette St. Marianna, FL 32446 Call or Text (850) 209-8039 debson1999@gmail.com

I’m a REALTOR~I’m American Gold

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

638-7105

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 15

members. Each board member represents your voice when making policy decisions. Being fiscally responsible is another way the cooperative shows accountability and integrity to its members.

The goal is to provide members with electricity at a price that is as close to cost as possible.

As part of Touchstone Energy®, our co-op can access innovative solutions and state-of-the-art technology to better serve members and meet their needs including cutting-edge programs promoting energy efficiency, and numerous member-benefit programs.

Touchstone Energy Cooperatives also helps local co-ops and business members forge stronger partnerships through a national site selection website, educational events, web conferences and ongoing communications.

Across the country, local Touchstone Energy® co-ops work to improve its members’ quality of life by investing time, money and expertise to better local communities and strengthen relationships with memberowners. That includes taking a leadership role in community and economic development projects, educating students about safety and environment, as well as generously donating time, energy and resources to charities, schools and community events.

As part of the Touchstone Energy® family, West Florida Electric Cooperative strives to remain a ‘touchstone’ and maintain these values and characteristics.

PAGE 14

Community Calendar Senior Singles Gathering Every 3rd Friday of the month; 2:00 p.m.

Sonny’s, Marianna For more information, contact Linda at 850-394-8228.

4th Annual Holmes County Outdoor Expo September 14 Holmes County Ag Center, Bonifay The Holmes County Outdoor Expo is much more than an outdoor expo!

It is host to the 2019 Florida State Turkey Calling Contest, an NWTF qualifier & Call Makers Contest. The Expo features interactive booths focusing on natural resource management & outdoor recreations such as fish pond management, food plots, aquatic invertebrates, lion fish, gun safety & more. Vendors include all things outdoors, food trucks, taxidermy, custom knives, boutiques, games & rides for the kids & feed stores. Proceeds benefit UF/IFAS Holmes County Extension Programs & the Holmes County Backpack Ministry, a program that provides backpacks of food over the weekend, to children who likely would go without a meal until they return to school on Monday. If your business is involved in the outdoors, or has merchandise that appeals to outdoorsmen/women, become a part of UF/IFAS Holmes County Outdoor Expo in 2019. For more information please visit our webpage www.hcoutdoorexpo.com or call Kalyn Waters at 407-619-9862.

Fall Flea Across Florida September 13-14; 6:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

T&B Hidden Treasures, Downtown Chipley Florida's longest yard sale, Flea Across Florida is coming to Chipley.

Featuring booths for gently used items or homemade arts & crafts along Hwy. 90. Don't forget to check out the boutiques, specialty shops & restaurants downtown while visiting. For more info, contact Bill Tinsley at 768-0272.

Gifts from the Kitchen September 17; 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Washington County Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Avenue, Chipley With the holidays approaching, it’s not too early to begin making your gift list. Learn how to make unique homemade gifts from the kitchen.

Registration is $5 & includes samples/materials. Space is limited.

Pre-registration is required by contacting the Washington County Extension Office, 638-6265, or the Holmes County Extension Office, 547-1108. For persons with disabilities requiring special accommodations, please contact, 638-6265 (TDD, via Florida Relay Service, 800-955-8771) at least five working days prior to the class.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Unforgiven Cattle & Fence

Cattle Sales

Residential & Ag Fences

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

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

Barbwire • Field Fence • Deer Fence • Chainlink • Vinyl • Privacy & More

Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

Prices With & Without Materials

1001 USES

Dylan Eady (850) 573-8060

Cassy Long (850) 557-2471

Portable Buildings, Carports & Garages Mobile Home & RV Supplies

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

850-526-3797

Roger Lonsway Home Office: 638-7412

E WE MOV LE PORTAB GS BUILDIN

Mobile: 260-5438

4673 HIGHWAY 90 E.

MARIANNA (Across from CVS)

Earn Points While You Shop with First Federal Bank’s Debit Card Rewards Program

SHOP - Using Your FFB Debit Card • EARN - uChoose Rewards Points* REDEEM - Gift Cards, Travel, Cash, More Stop By Your First Federal Branch for Details.

ffbf.com

|

Bonifay: 850.547.3624 • Marianna: 850.526.7144 Graceville: 850.263.3225 • Chipley: 850.638.7892 ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

ffbf.com | *Earn 1 point for every $3.00 spent. Points may take up to 40 days to show in your uChoose Rewards account. Must be registered to redeem points. Cash back rewards may be subject to tax reporting.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

HARVEST SAFETY TIPS FOR

FARMWORKERS

What's a Touchstone?

Being a part of the Touchstone Energy® family means that WFEC is dedicated to serving members with accountability, integrity, innovation, ‘touchstone’ is a measure of quality and value. Touchstone Energy and commitment to community— was selected as the most effective name for communicating the core values all Touchstone Energy unique characteristics that convey the special nature of cooperatives Cooperatives share. WFEC by the Touchstone Energy® brand back in 1998. demonstrates accountability and West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) has been a proud member of integrity by striving to do what the Touchstone Energy® brand since 1999, and we’re not alone. Touchstone is best for all members, not a Energy Cooperatives represent a network of more than 730 co-ops serving particular subset or group. In members, all committed to improving the quality of life for families and fact, as a cooperative, WFEC businesses in the communities. But what does it mean to be a member? is run by a board of trustees Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives is a national network of electric elected democratically by you, the cooperatives across 46 states that provides resources and leverages partnerships to help member cooperatives like WFEC better engage and continued on page 14 serve their members. By working together, Touchstone Energy® cooperatives stand as a source of power and information to over 32 million members WFEC recently participated in back to every day. Co-ops who join the Touchstone Energy® brand have access to school events in Washington & Holmes a wealth of educational and training tools, member benefit programs and counties, donating school supplies to over more for use in the local communities.

1,000 local children.

A

• Maintain a 10-foot clearance around all utility equipment in all directions.

• Use a spotter and deployed flags to maintain safe distances from power lines and other equipment when doing field work.

• If your equipment makes contact with an energized or downed power line, contact us immediately by phone and remain inside the vehicle until the power line is de-energized.

In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jump out of the cab, without touching it at the same time, and hop away to safety.

• Consider equipment and cargo extensions of your vehicle.

Lumber, hay, tree limbs, irrigation pipe and even bulk materials can conduct electricity, so keep them out of contact with electrical equipment.

PAGE 8

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

WFEC directly for important information about the Co-gen Rate the cooperative uses for solar installations and information about how it works. Here’s a brief explanation – for the kilowatt hours members put back onto the distribution system when generating energy using solar or another form of renewable energy, the cooperative will pay the wholesale rate that it pays to PowerSouth Energy Cooperative (our generation & transmission cooperative) for power. That rate is .052 cents per kilowatt hour. For any kilowatt hours used on the WFEC system, co-generation members will pay the same residential rate all of the coop’s other members pay. Members who install solar or other forms of co-generation are also required to maintain a $100,000 liability homeowner’s insurance policy.

Many times, cooperative members never contact the cooperative until their co-generation system is already installed. This is a problem since the solar panel companies do not know WFEC’s specific policies for co-generation installations. We encourage any member who is considering installing co-generation applications or who has questions about the cooperative’s policies and procedures regarding these applications, to contact us directly by calling your local district office.

We can assure you that when you call you will be encouraged to “go solar” if it is right for you. You will also be told the truth about the overall benefit of your investment.

Most importantly, you will be glad you contacted your local, memberowned electric cooperative before you signed a contract for this major investment.

PAGE 12

Bush Well Drilling

Smash Cake

Pump Sales & Service • Irrigation Systems • Water Treatment

Mulching, Excavation, Land Clearing Since 1969 • Licensed & Insured

Office:

850-263-8064

• Cell:

Mobile Home Power Pole 100 amp $23695 200 amp $31995

with 2-0 copper wire, ground rod & main breaker Ask about delivery

850-573-1229

TATUM’S HARDWARE Hwy. 71 Marianna

(850) 482-5513

Ag Sprayers Sprayer Repair Parts Baler Twine

Touchton’s Barns & Sheds

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

Over 20 years experience

“We Work to please YOU”

(850) 307-4449

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

Davis

(850) 593-0009

and

Septic

Submitted by: Rita Mansfield

Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix 3 eggs - divided use 1 stick butter (melted) 1/2 cup chopped pecans 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla or lemon extract 1 pound box confectioner's sugar

For Rent

12x60 mobile home $400/month

(850) 548-5619

Son’s Plumbing & Tank Service

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

Clay O’Neal:

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055

Directions: Mix cake mix, 1 egg, melted butter & pecans. Mix well and press into a 9x13 pan - sit aside. Mix cream cheese, 2 eggs, vanilla or lemon extract and the confectioner's sugar. Spread that mixture over the cake mix. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, then bake for 30 minutes. Cool on rack and cut into squares. Makes 2 dozen.

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

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

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

Excavator, Dozer & Dump Truck Service

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

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

Land Clearing, Pond Building, Demolition, Site Preparation, Ditch Work, Tree & Debris Removal, Sand & Top Soil

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

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

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

Friday nights: All sessions pay $250!

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

Wednesdays & Sundays: T-shirt night

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

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

#CBC1256015 “In God We Trust”

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS Gary McIntosh

Land Clearing & Forestry Services

Visit www.hwy77bingo.com for all early bird, daily, monthly & holiday specials.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Solar in the Sunshine State

A

s our country’s energy landscape continues evolving and new technologies emerge, West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) wants to be your trusted and preferred source for information.

In fact, if you are a member of the co-op and you are considering a solar installation at your home, your first call should be to the energy experts at your local electric cooperative.

There is a perception in our society that electric utilities like WFEC are not proponents of solar energy or other forms of renewable energy.

This is not true at all. WFEC supports any form of renewable energy as long as generating this type of energy is safe, reliable and affordable, or at the very least, a good value for our members’ investment. Technology for generating renewable energy is improving almost daily and becoming more and more affordable for our members. WFEC is excited and fully supports the use of this technology.

One hurdle solar energy faces is the availability of sunlight. Although it may seem like sunlight is plentiful in the Southeast, and in the “sunshine state” specifically, the truth is that solargenerated electricity isn’t going to be a major energy saver because even during daylight hours, cloud cover often interrupts electricity production. In fact, in 2018, 27 solar members were interconnected with the WFEC distribution system and the average kilowatt hours (kWh) those members generated back onto the distribution system was just over 3,000 kWh per year. The average monthly payment those members received for putting energy back on to the co-op’s system was less than $15.

Companies selling solar panels could promise you that you will never pay a WFEC bill again if you install their solar application, unfortunately, this is false. Our concern PAGE 10

10 steps to take before going solar as a co-op, is that our members are being misled into believing they will produce enough energy to bring their energy usage down to nearly nothing. While the co-op cannot totally qualify the amount of solar generation a member is producing or consuming, it can speak to their continued kilowatt hour usage. On average, the co-op still delivered nearly 1,000 kWh per month to co-generation (solar) members.

It is extremely important for members who are considering a solar installation to contact

continued on page 12

01 Think efficiency.

Research.

Your power provider can answer questions, provide resources and direct you to reputable sources for more information.

Know the policies.

Each utility sets policies and rates for connecting rooftop solar systems to their lines.

02

03

Financial incentives could offset upfront costs. Visit www.dsireusa.org for a list of available credits, grants, loans and rebates.

Follow safety measures.

Protect the safety of your family, utility employees and first responders by properly connecting your system to the grid.

Keep good records.

Maintain a record of all your research, expenses and other details about your system.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

Know how to connect.

Contact your local utility for information on how to safely connect rooftop solar panels to their electric grid.

04

05

Look for incentives.

Maximizing your home's energy effieciency is always best prior to investing in solar panels. Putting solar panels on a home that isn't energy energy efficient is like continuing to put ice in an un-insulated cooler.

Tally upfront costs.

It pays to calculate all expenses and compare them with the financial benefits of solar energy systems.

06

Think long term.

07

Before you buy, be sure to understand the long-term responsibilties of owning a rooftop solar system.

08

Choose wisely.

09

Choose a reputable contractor and installer by checking references, asking questions and comparing bids.

10

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

Solar in the Sunshine State

A

s our country’s energy landscape continues evolving and new technologies emerge, West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) wants to be your trusted and preferred source for information.

In fact, if you are a member of the co-op and you are considering a solar installation at your home, your first call should be to the energy experts at your local electric cooperative.

There is a perception in our society that electric utilities like WFEC are not proponents of solar energy or other forms of renewable energy.

This is not true at all. WFEC supports any form of renewable energy as long as generating this type of energy is safe, reliable and affordable, or at the very least, a good value for our members’ investment. Technology for generating renewable energy is improving almost daily and becoming more and more affordable for our members. WFEC is excited and fully supports the use of this technology.

One hurdle solar energy faces is the availability of sunlight. Although it may seem like sunlight is plentiful in the Southeast, and in the “sunshine state” specifically, the truth is that solargenerated electricity isn’t going to be a major energy saver because even during daylight hours, cloud cover often interrupts electricity production. In fact, in 2018, 27 solar members were interconnected with the WFEC distribution system and the average kilowatt hours (kWh) those members generated back onto the distribution system was just over 3,000 kWh per year. The average monthly payment those members received for putting energy back on to the co-op’s system was less than $15.

Companies selling solar panels could promise you that you will never pay a WFEC bill again if you install their solar application, unfortunately, this is false. Our concern PAGE 10

10 steps to take before going solar as a co-op, is that our members are being misled into believing they will produce enough energy to bring their energy usage down to nearly nothing. While the co-op cannot totally qualify the amount of solar generation a member is producing or consuming, it can speak to their continued kilowatt hour usage. On average, the co-op still delivered nearly 1,000 kWh per month to co-generation (solar) members.

It is extremely important for members who are considering a solar installation to contact

continued on page 12

01 Think efficiency.

Research.

Your power provider can answer questions, provide resources and direct you to reputable sources for more information.

Know the policies.

Each utility sets policies and rates for connecting rooftop solar systems to their lines.

02

03

Financial incentives could offset upfront costs. Visit www.dsireusa.org for a list of available credits, grants, loans and rebates.

Follow safety measures.

Protect the safety of your family, utility employees and first responders by properly connecting your system to the grid.

Keep good records.

Maintain a record of all your research, expenses and other details about your system.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

Know how to connect.

Contact your local utility for information on how to safely connect rooftop solar panels to their electric grid.

04

05

Look for incentives.

Maximizing your home's energy effieciency is always best prior to investing in solar panels. Putting solar panels on a home that isn't energy energy efficient is like continuing to put ice in an un-insulated cooler.

Tally upfront costs.

It pays to calculate all expenses and compare them with the financial benefits of solar energy systems.

06

Think long term.

07

Before you buy, be sure to understand the long-term responsibilties of owning a rooftop solar system.

08

Choose wisely.

09

Choose a reputable contractor and installer by checking references, asking questions and comparing bids.

10

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

WFEC directly for important information about the Co-gen Rate the cooperative uses for solar installations and information about how it works. Here’s a brief explanation – for the kilowatt hours members put back onto the distribution system when generating energy using solar or another form of renewable energy, the cooperative will pay the wholesale rate that it pays to PowerSouth Energy Cooperative (our generation & transmission cooperative) for power. That rate is .052 cents per kilowatt hour. For any kilowatt hours used on the WFEC system, co-generation members will pay the same residential rate all of the coop’s other members pay. Members who install solar or other forms of co-generation are also required to maintain a $100,000 liability homeowner’s insurance policy.

Many times, cooperative members never contact the cooperative until their co-generation system is already installed. This is a problem since the solar panel companies do not know WFEC’s specific policies for co-generation installations. We encourage any member who is considering installing co-generation applications or who has questions about the cooperative’s policies and procedures regarding these applications, to contact us directly by calling your local district office.

We can assure you that when you call you will be encouraged to “go solar” if it is right for you. You will also be told the truth about the overall benefit of your investment.

Most importantly, you will be glad you contacted your local, memberowned electric cooperative before you signed a contract for this major investment.

PAGE 12

Bush Well Drilling

Smash Cake

Pump Sales & Service • Irrigation Systems • Water Treatment

Mulching, Excavation, Land Clearing Since 1969 • Licensed & Insured

Office:

850-263-8064

• Cell:

Mobile Home Power Pole 100 amp $23695 200 amp $31995

with 2-0 copper wire, ground rod & main breaker Ask about delivery

850-573-1229

TATUM’S HARDWARE Hwy. 71 Marianna

(850) 482-5513

Ag Sprayers Sprayer Repair Parts Baler Twine

Touchton’s Barns & Sheds

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

Over 20 years experience

“We Work to please YOU”

(850) 307-4449

20-Years Limited Warranty 21 Colors to Choose From

Davis

(850) 593-0009

and

Septic

Submitted by: Rita Mansfield

Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix 3 eggs - divided use 1 stick butter (melted) 1/2 cup chopped pecans 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla or lemon extract 1 pound box confectioner's sugar

For Rent

12x60 mobile home $400/month

(850) 548-5619

Son’s Plumbing & Tank Service

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

Clay O’Neal:

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055

Directions: Mix cake mix, 1 egg, melted butter & pecans. Mix well and press into a 9x13 pan - sit aside. Mix cream cheese, 2 eggs, vanilla or lemon extract and the confectioner's sugar. Spread that mixture over the cake mix. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, then bake for 30 minutes. Cool on rack and cut into squares. Makes 2 dozen.

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

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

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

Excavator, Dozer & Dump Truck Service

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

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

Land Clearing, Pond Building, Demolition, Site Preparation, Ditch Work, Tree & Debris Removal, Sand & Top Soil

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

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

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

Friday nights: All sessions pay $250!

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

Wednesdays & Sundays: T-shirt night

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

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

#CBC1256015 “In God We Trust”

AFFORDABLE SEAMLESS GUTTERS Gary McIntosh

Land Clearing & Forestry Services

Visit www.hwy77bingo.com for all early bird, daily, monthly & holiday specials.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

HARVEST SAFETY TIPS FOR

FARMWORKERS

What's a Touchstone?

Being a part of the Touchstone Energy® family means that WFEC is dedicated to serving members with accountability, integrity, innovation, ‘touchstone’ is a measure of quality and value. Touchstone Energy and commitment to community— was selected as the most effective name for communicating the core values all Touchstone Energy unique characteristics that convey the special nature of cooperatives Cooperatives share. WFEC by the Touchstone Energy® brand back in 1998. demonstrates accountability and West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) has been a proud member of integrity by striving to do what the Touchstone Energy® brand since 1999, and we’re not alone. Touchstone is best for all members, not a Energy Cooperatives represent a network of more than 730 co-ops serving particular subset or group. In members, all committed to improving the quality of life for families and fact, as a cooperative, WFEC businesses in the communities. But what does it mean to be a member? is run by a board of trustees Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives is a national network of electric elected democratically by you, the cooperatives across 46 states that provides resources and leverages partnerships to help member cooperatives like WFEC better engage and continued on page 14 serve their members. By working together, Touchstone Energy® cooperatives stand as a source of power and information to over 32 million members WFEC recently participated in back to every day. Co-ops who join the Touchstone Energy® brand have access to school events in Washington & Holmes a wealth of educational and training tools, member benefit programs and counties, donating school supplies to over more for use in the local communities.

1,000 local children.

A

• Maintain a 10-foot clearance around all utility equipment in all directions.

• Use a spotter and deployed flags to maintain safe distances from power lines and other equipment when doing field work.

• If your equipment makes contact with an energized or downed power line, contact us immediately by phone and remain inside the vehicle until the power line is de-energized.

In case of smoke or fire, exit the cab by making a solid jump out of the cab, without touching it at the same time, and hop away to safety.

• Consider equipment and cargo extensions of your vehicle.

Lumber, hay, tree limbs, irrigation pipe and even bulk materials can conduct electricity, so keep them out of contact with electrical equipment.

PAGE 8

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

members. Each board member represents your voice when making policy decisions. Being fiscally responsible is another way the cooperative shows accountability and integrity to its members.

The goal is to provide members with electricity at a price that is as close to cost as possible.

As part of Touchstone Energy®, our co-op can access innovative solutions and state-of-the-art technology to better serve members and meet their needs including cutting-edge programs promoting energy efficiency, and numerous member-benefit programs.

Touchstone Energy Cooperatives also helps local co-ops and business members forge stronger partnerships through a national site selection website, educational events, web conferences and ongoing communications.

Across the country, local Touchstone Energy® co-ops work to improve its members’ quality of life by investing time, money and expertise to better local communities and strengthen relationships with memberowners. That includes taking a leadership role in community and economic development projects, educating students about safety and environment, as well as generously donating time, energy and resources to charities, schools and community events.

As part of the Touchstone Energy® family, West Florida Electric Cooperative strives to remain a ‘touchstone’ and maintain these values and characteristics.

PAGE 14

Community Calendar Senior Singles Gathering Every 3rd Friday of the month; 2:00 p.m.

Sonny’s, Marianna For more information, contact Linda at 850-394-8228.

4th Annual Holmes County Outdoor Expo September 14 Holmes County Ag Center, Bonifay The Holmes County Outdoor Expo is much more than an outdoor expo!

It is host to the 2019 Florida State Turkey Calling Contest, an NWTF qualifier & Call Makers Contest. The Expo features interactive booths focusing on natural resource management & outdoor recreations such as fish pond management, food plots, aquatic invertebrates, lion fish, gun safety & more. Vendors include all things outdoors, food trucks, taxidermy, custom knives, boutiques, games & rides for the kids & feed stores. Proceeds benefit UF/IFAS Holmes County Extension Programs & the Holmes County Backpack Ministry, a program that provides backpacks of food over the weekend, to children who likely would go without a meal until they return to school on Monday. If your business is involved in the outdoors, or has merchandise that appeals to outdoorsmen/women, become a part of UF/IFAS Holmes County Outdoor Expo in 2019. For more information please visit our webpage www.hcoutdoorexpo.com or call Kalyn Waters at 407-619-9862.

Fall Flea Across Florida September 13-14; 6:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

T&B Hidden Treasures, Downtown Chipley Florida's longest yard sale, Flea Across Florida is coming to Chipley.

Featuring booths for gently used items or homemade arts & crafts along Hwy. 90. Don't forget to check out the boutiques, specialty shops & restaurants downtown while visiting. For more info, contact Bill Tinsley at 768-0272.

Gifts from the Kitchen September 17; 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Washington County Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Avenue, Chipley With the holidays approaching, it’s not too early to begin making your gift list. Learn how to make unique homemade gifts from the kitchen.

Registration is $5 & includes samples/materials. Space is limited.

Pre-registration is required by contacting the Washington County Extension Office, 638-6265, or the Holmes County Extension Office, 547-1108. For persons with disabilities requiring special accommodations, please contact, 638-6265 (TDD, via Florida Relay Service, 800-955-8771) at least five working days prior to the class.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Unforgiven Cattle & Fence

Cattle Sales

Residential & Ag Fences

GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

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

Barbwire • Field Fence • Deer Fence • Chainlink • Vinyl • Privacy & More

Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

Prices With & Without Materials

1001 USES

Dylan Eady (850) 573-8060

Cassy Long (850) 557-2471

Portable Buildings, Carports & Garages Mobile Home & RV Supplies

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

850-526-3797

Roger Lonsway Home Office: 638-7412

E WE MOV LE PORTAB GS BUILDIN

Mobile: 260-5438

4673 HIGHWAY 90 E.

MARIANNA (Across from CVS)

Earn Points While You Shop with First Federal Bank’s Debit Card Rewards Program

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Bonifay: 850.547.3624 • Marianna: 850.526.7144 Graceville: 850.263.3225 • Chipley: 850.638.7892 ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

ffbf.com | *Earn 1 point for every $3.00 spent. Points may take up to 40 days to show in your uChoose Rewards account. Must be registered to redeem points. Cash back rewards may be subject to tax reporting.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 EMERGENCY PLUMBING & CONSTRUCTION, LLC Quinn Williams

850-373-7186 RF11067708

Located in Bonifay, FL Residential & Commercial Plumbing

TOGETHER We can be safe.

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

PAGE 6

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available

T

he Small Business Administration recently announced that Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and private nonprofit organizations located in Florida as a result of Hurricane Michael.

The loans are available in the following counties: Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rose, Taylor, Wakulla, Walton and Washington counties.

“When Secretary of Agriculture issues a disaster declaration to help farmers recover from damage and losses to crops, the Small Business Administration issues a declaration to eligible entities affected by the same disaster,” said Ken Fleming, director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to eligible farm-related and non-farm related entities that suffered financial losses as a direct result of this disaster. With the exception of aquaculture enterprises, SBA cannot provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers and ranchers.

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates of 2.5 percent for private nonprofit organizations of all sizes and 3.675 percent for small businesses for terms up to 30 years. The SBA determines eligibility based on the size of the applicant, type of activity and its financial resources. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. These working capital loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred. The loans are not intended to replace lost sales or profits.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application via SBA’s secure website: disasterloan.sba.gov.

Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Loan applications can be downloaded from disasterloan.sba.gov. Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing & Disbursement Center, 14925 Kinsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

Submit completed applications to SBA no later than November 20, 2019.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Community Calendar Cont.

Bush Paint & Supply

Growing Better Roses September 21; 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Washington County Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Avenue, Chipley IFAS & Washington County Master Gardeners will be presenting a workshop on growing roses. Learn about the easiest and most successful ways to grow beautiful and healthy roses. Learn to propagate roses and take home your own rose. Matthew Orwat will discuss rose selection, planting, fertilizer, disease control & insect control. You will learn everything you have ever wanted to know about how to be successful in growing roses in our area. The cost is $10. Register by calling 638-6180.

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

263-4744 • 971 6th Ave., Graceville D West Florida Turf SO SOCentipede • St. Augustine • 419 Bermuda D Centipede Seed

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

Jackson Farm Well Services

Crafty 'Crows Scarecrows, Arts & Crafts Fair September 21; 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Farmer's Market Pavilion in Downtown Chipley Join us for fun for the whole family. There will be a scarecrow building contest with cash prizes, ribbons & certificates and many exciting categories to enter. All prizes will be awarded at 1:00 p.m. at the gazebo area. There will also be lots of arts & crafts vendors on site, the farmer's market will be open and music and refreshments will be available. There will also be a free kid's craft activity. For more information about the scarecrow contest, call 260-4049 and for crafters or vendors interested in setting up a booth, call 638-0358 or email wchistorical@gmail.com. This event is jointly sponsored by the Chipley Garden Club and Washington County Historical Society.

WISEFLY AUTO GLASS - EST. 2007

Medicare Supplement Plans

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

insured by

Medicare supplement insurance Call me today: plan questions? Gene Alford Let’s sit down face-to-face to talk about your needs.

United Healthcare Insurance Company

Licensed Insurance Agent Contracted with UnitedHelathcare Insurance Company

850-209-1381

AS3035FL

AARP endorses the AARP® Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans, insured by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company. UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, brokers or producers. You must be an AARP member in order to enroll in an AARP Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan. Insured by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company, Horsham, PA. Policy form No. GRP 79171 GPS-1 (G-36000-4). In some states plans may be available to persons under age 65 who are eligible for Medicare by reason of disability or End-State Renal Disease. Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the federal Medicare program. This is a solicitation of insurance.

A licensed insurance agent/producer may contact you. THESE PLANS HAVE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS, EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS. FOR COSTS AND COMPLETE DETAILS (INCLUDING OUTLINES OF COVERAGE), CALL A LICENSED INSURANCE AGENT/PRODUCER AT THE NUMBER SHOWN.

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 SEPTEMBER 2019

Patrick Jackson

850-592-9530 or 850-573-6623 Debbie Roney Smith Full Time Realtor since 1996 Multi-Million Dollar Producer

4420 Lafayette St. Marianna, FL 32446 Call or Text (850) 209-8039 debson1999@gmail.com

I’m a REALTOR~I’m American Gold

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

638-7105

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 15

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

Community Calendar Cont.

Look Out for Scams

Surveying/GIS/Utilities • ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys • As-built Surveys • Boundary Surveys • Construction Layout Surveys • Design Surveys • Route Surveys • Foundation Surveys

• GPS Field Data Collection • Hydrographic Surveys • Legal Descriptions • Mean High Water Survey • Plats • Plot Plans • ROW Surveying & Mapping • Topographic Survey

southeasternsurveying.com

Tri-County Gas S ervice , I nc .

Tri-County Gas S ervice , I nc .

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks”

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

547-3696 #RM0048955

Glen Scott

Stump Grinding Best Service

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Marianna, Florida

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

Florida Meter Pole Company, Inc.

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

Hill’s Tree Service

• Tree Removal • Tree Trimming • Stump Grinding Insured • Free Estimates

593-4455 Finch’s Welding Supply Oxygen • Acetylene • C02 • Argon 75/25 Rods, Tips, Wire Welding Accessories We service all welding machines.

850.768.3697 850.768.3114 PAGE 16

3433 Pear Tree Lane Bonifay, FL 32425

Washington County Heritage Festival September 27-28; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Falling Waters State Park Florida Farm Bureau & Farm Bureau Insurance is proud to present the 5th Annual Washington County Heritage Festival. Friday will be open as an educational field trip day for area schools to learn the rich heritage of Washington County. Experience how life used to be lived by visiting with demonstrators including blacksmiths to flint knappers in our Native American village to a full agricultural display complete with 4-H show animals, antique tractors & farm implements. Chad Gainey will be giving live chain saw art demonstrations throughout both days. We will also have local arts & crafts vendors selling their homemade wares. North Florida Artillery will have their Civil War re-enactors camp set-up with two cannons firing every 45 minutes. A Kid Zone will be available with a bounce house, inflatable slide & pony rides. Great food & the backdrop of one of the most beautiful state parks in Florida will round out this event. You can even hold a baby gator or get your photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Cost for entry to the park is $5 per vehicle. Off site parking will be at RiverTown Community Church on State Park Rd. with shuttle service to bring guests to the festival grounds. Handicap parking will be available inside the park. Check out www.floridastateparks.org/fallingwaters, www.visitwcfla.com or call 638-6130 for more information.

U

nfortunately, in today’s world, scams are inevitable. Scammers can threaten you with everything from legal action involving the IRS to turning off power to your home.

Utility scams often involve an individual or group posing as an employee of your electric cooperative. The scammer may use threatening language in order to frighten you into offering your credit card or bank account information. Don’t fall victim to these types of scams. Understand the threats posed and your best course of action: • If someone calls your home or cell phone demanding you pay your electric bill immediately, gather as much information as you can from that individual, hang-up the phone and contact the local authorities.

Scammers often use threats and urgency to pressure you into giving them your bank account number or loading a pre-paid credit or debit card (such as a Green Dot card). West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) will never ask you to offer up personal finance information over the phone. If you have any doubts about your utility bill, contact our member payment center either in person, or over the phone at 800-342-7400.

Homecoming Services October 19; 10:00 a.m.

Lighthouse Assembly of God, Bonifay Services begin at 10:00 a.m. with singing, preaching by Brother Michael Presley at 11:00 a.m. and lunch at noon.

O&L FARMS Perennial Peanut - A Forage

916 White Avenue • Graceville, FL Every Thursday: 5 PM - until Miscellaneous & Animals Legume of Commercial Importance

• No Buyer Premiums • Open to Public

Round 4x5 rolls also available

#AB3552

Art Little

• Government agencies like the IRS will never call to inform you that you have unpaid taxes or other liens against you. You will always receive this type of information in the mail. If someone calls claiming to be the IRS, hang-up immediately.

• If you receive an email from an unknown sender; an email riddled with spelling errors and typos; or an email threatening action unless a sum of money is paid, do not click any links provided within the email, and do not respond to the email. Simply delete the email, or send it to your spam folder.

WFEC wants to make sure you avoid any and all types of scams that could put you or your financial information in jeopardy.

850-573-2157 850-263-0793

Perennial Peanut is a high-quality persistent tropical forage legume that can be grazed or fed to horses, dairy and beef cattle, hogs, goats, sheep, and rabbits. It can be stored as dry hay or silage and is an ideal substitute for imported alfalfa.

There are other types of scams consumers should watch out for:

• If someone calls your home claiming to have discovered a virus on your computer, hang-up. This caller’s intent is to access personal information you may be keeping on your computer.

Graceville Goat, Sheep, Chicken Auction, LLC

Square Bales Available for Sale

• If someone comes to your home claiming to be an employee of WFEC that needs to collect money or inspect parts of your property, call us to verify they are, in fact, an employee. If they are not, call local authorities for assistance and do not let the individual into your home.

Buyers & Sellers Welcome

Lawn Care Service & Tractor Work

Also Food Plot Installation

(850) 547-1794 (850) 303-4364

Tyler Poole, LLC

850.573.1599 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

you plan to use a small generator, make sure it’s rated to handle the amount of power you will need, and always review the manufacturer’s instructions to operate it safely.

In the event of an outage, turn off appliances, TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics. This will help avert damage from a power surge, and will also help prevent overloading the circuits during power restoration. That said, do leave one light on so you will know when power is restored. If utilizing a small household generator, consider using LED holiday lights to illuminate a living area. A strand of 100 white lights draws little energy yet produces considerable light.

Solar lights also work, if they can receive some sunlight during the day for charging.

Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates, or check West Florida Electric’s (WFEC) app, Facebook page or website for restoration updates.

After the storm, avoid downed power lines and walking through flooded areas where power lines could be submerged. Allow ample room for utility crews to safely perform their jobs – including on your property.

Advance planning for severe storms or other emergencies can reduce stress and anxiety caused by the weather event and can lessen the impact of the storm’s effects.

Sign up for NOAA emergency alerts and warnings and install WFEC’s app to your phone to stay abreast of restoration efforts and other important co-op news and information. Act today, because there is power in planning.

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

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

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

Hinson Land Clearing

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

(850) 481-2960

FOR SALE

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 DAVIDSON EQUIPMENT

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

10% Off with this Ad CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Fertilized, barn stored hay, 4x5 rolls; 258-0020.

Singer sewing machine, #5810, works great, many stitch settings, zipper foot, pressure Animals/Livestock feet, bobbins, $125; 6-drawer German Shepherd puppies, black floor cabinet for machine, $100; 263-9171. & tan, mother & father on site, first shots & de-wormed, $350 Bowflex, excellent condition, each; 209-0748. $700; 557-4877, leave message.

Chihuahua puppies, projected date born is September 18, both Hay, fertilized, barn stored, 4x4 parents on site, first come, $300/ rolls, $22.50/roll; 579-2732. each; 260-9058, call or text.

AKC German Shepherd puppies, parents on-site, 3 males, 3 females, black & tan & black, $800 each; 573-1239.

Two Amazon parrots, $600 for pair; guinea pigs, $10; ducks, $10; geese, $20; 768-9491.

Appliances Frigidaire refrigerator/top freezer, black, only a couple years old, works perfectly, $125, firm; 394-6876.

We Do the Job For You • Free Estimates

PAGE 4

CLASSIFIEDS

Home/Farm Last year’s hay, 46 rolls, 4x5, $10/roll for all; $15/roll if 1-2 purchased, you load, Cottondale; 352-266-6437, leave message or call before 5:00 p.m.

Kubota tractor, M4900, 2WD, 33 hours, excellent condition, 5 cylinder, $12,000 OBO; 209-0610.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

Square bale annual peanut hay, 5x5 rolls; grass hay; walk-in freezer, almost new; 263-3427.

10’ HD bush hog rotary mower, 3-point hitch, $7,900; 3 bottom plow, $300; 4 bottom plow, $400; HD lift pole, $350; 1/3 cubic yard dirt slip, $250; 326-2754.

Kenmore buttonhole attachment; Queen Anne bench, rich burgundy, excellent condition; 326-8907, before 8:00 p.m.

Commercial kitchen equipment, 60’’; gas griddle; 48’’ AccuTemp Miscellaneous stainless steal electric steam griddle; Vulcan double gas conUpholstery material, over 300 vection ovens; 60’’ cold bar; bolts of upholstery material for double-sided coffee makers & vehicles or furniture, $1,000 for all; 557-4877, leave message if no more; 415-0851, text or call. answer.

Dog house by Dogloo, opening 16.5 high, 17.5 wide, $20; metal Glass electric connectors, 1 bed frame, twin to double, $12; large, 1 medium, 1 small; $30 547-4639 package; 638-1261.

Mobile detailing trailer, good condition, turn key business, $1,000; 2007 Dodge Daytona Charger, Hemi V8, excellent condition, $10,000; 849-5340.

Multiple Listings 1971 Massey Ferguson 35 tractor; breaking plow; 5’ disc plow; bush hog, $4,000 for all, negotiable; 209-1239.

Jet ski w/race motor; antique John Deere mower; twin beds, complete, $100 each; 2 recliners; 260-1510.

Mail boxes; bird houses; toys; furniture & more; 547-9269.

Gravity flow & peanut wagons; hay dolly; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; small grain wagon; hay fork; 592-2494 or 209-8532.

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

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

PAGE 17

Multiple Listings (cont.)

Sannier-Wilhem Co. BCA regulation billiard table, $800; Story & Clark piano, excellent condition, original owner, $200; 763-6052.

Real Estate 1 acre level & dry lot on Edison in Compass Lake in the Hills, build or hold for investment, mobile homes are not allowed, close to clubhouse & picnic area for McCormick Lake, a 200+ acre spring fed crystal clear lake ideal for swimming & fishing, lake access only for owners, $5,000, email serious inquiries: rojefo494@gmail.com.

McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

Beautiful fenced half acre lot on Hwy 69, with well & septic, two miles north of Hwy. 90 in Grand Ridge; has a 2BR/2BA single wide mobile home that needs some TLC; $40,000; 334-393-1444.

Vicion Model 2400 hay cutter, must be in good condition, will pay a premium price; 592-4740.

2017 Legacy mobile home, 32x64, 3BR/2BA, front porch, open concept, large rooms; 638-7269.

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

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

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

1973 Winn mobile home, $800; 768-3935.

FREE

Recreational Vehicles

Glasstron boat; 260-1510.

Bass Tracker metal boat, Mercury 40 HP, on board gas tank, battery charger, run on trailer, spare tire & more; $11,000 OBO; 263-9572.

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

Notification Statement

1983 24’ pontoons only, with no trailer, $1,500; 326-1959.

Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400

2003 TXT golf cart, 36 volt, new batteries, rebuilt controller, front & rear lights, 4 passenger; 326-4842, no texts please.

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.

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.

WANTED Used barber chair; 569-2964 or stop by Mia’s Hair Salon, Marianna.

This Institution is an equal opportunity Horses; ponies; mules; 592-2494 or 209-8532. provider and employer.

PAGE 18

23’ used boat trailer or 23’ trailer w/old boat; new/used cast iron skillets; 209-3945.

Disasters Don't Plan Ahead.

You Can. September is National Preparedness Month

Little girl’s toys, clothes, dolls, pink stroller & high chair; assorted home decor, craft books, paint, glassware, Grand Ridge area; 394-6876.

TV antenna, fully-functional at vacant house, you dismantle & transport, special equipment needed; 593-2408, leave message.

Dachshund mix; 768-9491.

Adams Tree Service, llc

FEMA News Photo

I

t’s the worst-case scenario. A major storm was predicted and this time, the predictions were right. Many power lines are down, and your electricity may be out for several days or weeks. You are low on everything––food, pet supplies, toilet paper, batteries, diapers and your medication.

Imagine how you would feel in this situation. Some of us even experienced these scenarios first-hand. While you can’t predict which weather forecast will come true, you can plan ahead so when a severe

ALDAY’S Bobcat & Tree Service

Family Owned & Operated w/ 20 Years Experience

Tree Removal Hazardous Tree Removal Trimming/Bobcat Work

• Fully Insured

Licensed & Insured LI20000696600

• FREE Estimates

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

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Josh Alday

(850) 209-2501 ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

Stacey Alday

Owner/Operator (850) 557-7290

weather event strikes, you have the tools and resources to effectively weather the storm.

September is National Preparedness Month. It's a good time to visit www.ready.gov/make-a-plan and brush up on your storm preparedness plan. Here are some items to consider: • Stock your pantry with a 3-7 day (or more) supply of non-perishable food, such as canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, powdered milk, water and other essentials (i.e., diapers/toiletries).

• Confirm you have adequate sanitation & hygiene supplies including towelettes, soap & hand sanitizer.

• Stock your First Aid kit with pain relievers, bandages, medical essentials & make sure your prescriptions are current.

• Set aside basic household items, including flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener & portable, battery-powered radio or TV. • Organize emergency supplies so they are in an easily accessible location.

If a severe storm such as a hurricane is expected with high winds and sustained rain, you may need to take extra steps to safeguard your home. Shutter windows and securely close exterior doors. Fully charge all cell phones, laptops and devices so you have maximum power in the event of a power outage. If continued on page 4

BOBCAT SERVICES • • • •

Debris Clean Up Driveways Grading Free Estimates

(850) 209-1381

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

CURRENT LIGHT

MSA 120 C-BQ Chain Saw

FLASHES

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 69, NO 9

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.

12” bar Includes AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger

FSA 56 Battery Trimmer $ 19995 Includes AK 10 battery and AL 101 charger

“I Love the Fast and Clean Cutting.” GrandmaSaw

PANHANDLE TRACTOR

WFEC Board of Trustees

Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Vice President

David

TATUM

ADAMS

District 1

District 4 / Secretary-Treasurer

ST!”

HALL Roofing, Siding & Building, LLC

Brent Hall 850.718.7314 Jackie

Tim

POOSER

ALFORD

District 3

District 2

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

Over 21 Years Professional Experience 5 Years Labor Warranty • Licensed & Insured

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

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Representing Sellers & Buyers of Farms, Timberland & Homestead Properties

Tony Mitchell (850) 526-8466 David

George Clayton

District 5

District 6

CORBIN

OWENS

Frank E.

Myron

BONDURANT

HUDSON

Attorney

District 9

Ty

PEEL

Executive VP/CEO

PAGE 2

www.KubotaUSA.com

©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2019

© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2019. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult your local Kubota dealer. For the complete disclaimer, go to KubotaUSA.com/disclaimers and see the posted disclaimer.

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

Andy Hall 850.557.3368

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

5003 Highway 90 • Marianna, Florida 32446

Residential • Commercial

John

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

Panhandle Tractor • (850) 526-2257

5006 Highway 90 Marianna, FL 32446 850-526-2257

All prices DSRP at participating dealers while supplies last. The actual listed guide bar length may vary from the effective cutting length based on which powerhead it is installed on. Check out these reviews and others on the product pages at STIHLdealers.com. © 2019 STIHL

District 8 / President

Where there’s work to be done, there’s Kubota’s equipment ready to get it done right. With reliable diesel engines and an array of attachments, it’s time to conquer every task. Visit us today.

“Light, Powerful, Long Battery Life ” BunnyMan

29995

$

Battery Power.

Made By STIHL.

Work ethic comes standard.

Licensed Real Estate Agent in Florida & Alabama tony.mitchell@afmforest.com • www.americanforestmanagement.com

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc. 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

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

Dirt • Rock • Culverts

Tracey R. Kent Realtor/Property Manager

850-326-7463 (cell)

Southern Way Realty, Inc. 1014 Main Street, Chipley, FL 32428 traceykent828@gmail.com • www.southernwayrealty.com

Thinking of BUYING or SELLING? Whether it’s residential home, land or commercial, we specialize in all property types. Let’s work together to get your property SOLD or let me help you find your next dream property.

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

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

CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

North Bonifay

24 Hour Emergency Response

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Clay Patrick Owner/Broker United Country Real Estate | Properties South 850-693-6610 cpatrick@propertiessouth.com|www.propertiessouth.com

Attention Members:

Reps from McLean Engineering are doing a damage assessment follow-up survey. This survey will help WFEC obtain FEMA reimbursements. They're inspecting poles, wire & attachments & are currently working around the Sneads & Alford area this month. They’ll be taking photos, so please don’t be alarmed if you see someone on your property. Their trucks have WFEC Contractor decals on the side. Questions? Contact your district office.

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.

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019 TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE! (1.844.688.2431) PAGE 19

FLASHES CURRENT LIGHT

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Solar in the Sunshine State Pages 10-12

Energy Efficiency Tip

A Cut Above TREE SERVICE LLC

Owner: Jason Morris

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

BUS: (850) 415-1217 • CELL: (850) 573-1270 Hybrid Barn Kits Available!

INSIDE ...

Engineered Buildings Available!

Cookware Tip: Copper-bottomed pans heat faster on the stove. In the oven, ceramic & glass dishes are better than metal. With ceramic & glass dishes, you can turn the oven down about 25 degrees & your meal will cook just as quickly.

Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

Look Out for Scams ... pg. 5

Deck Kits!

Concrete Steps in Stock

www.panhandlesalvage.com

6x8 - $269 8x10 - $369 10x10 - $499 12x12 - $589 12x16 - $729

Many more sizes to choose from!

Treated Swings in Stock!

850-547-9354

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

405 W. Hwy. 90 • Bonifay, FL

...pgs. 3-4

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm.*

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2019

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL

69, NO 9

SBA Loans Available

...pg. 6

Safety Tips for Farmworkers

....pg. 8

What’s a Touchstone?

...pgs. 13-14

Community Calendar

...pgs. 14-16

Local Classifieds

...pgs. 17-18