September 2023

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Available: ◄

• Concrete Block • Rebar

DUPONT•

Authorized Agent

A Afr.lSTFAfO MFMflfA OF THf

AUTO GLASS

SAFETY COUNCIL-

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

• Any Glass • Any Vehicle

WISEFLYAUTOGLASS.COM

Debbie Roney Smith

Free Pool Water Testing!

Call or text: (850) 209-8039

LIC#SL642701

“Be SOLD with American Gold”

knives available

Pool Supplies

Bulk Chlorine, Salt & Chemicals In Stock Now!

Realizing Energy Savings through Personalized Energy Audits

• Wire • Culverts

Pages 8-9

Deck Kits!

6x8 8x10 10x12 12x16

Many more sizes to choose from!

Shop online: www.panhandlelumber.com

“I List - I Sell” Full Time Realtor Since 1996

Panhandle Lumber & Supply

4420 Lafayette St., Marianna, FL 32446

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

www.realtordrs.com • debson1999@gmail.com

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

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!

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

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

Mondays & Wednesdays: T-shirt night

INSIDE ...

Congress Needs to Step Up for Electric ...pg. 3 Co-ops Vogtle Unit 3 Begins Commercial ...pgs. 4-5 Operation Don’t Fall Victim to ...pg. 11 Utility Scams Local Classifieds

...pgs. 13-14

Rhonda Byrd-Lee, WFEC Energy Services, says checking for air leaks is one of the most important things to do when conducting an energy audit. She recommends installing foam gaskets behind light switch covers and outlet covers to help stop air infiltration (as demonstrated here).

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL 73, NO 9

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

New to the Area? Turning 65?

Eligible for Medicaid?

DROP Program?

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.

I’m Local. Licensed/Certified/Dependable/Helpful Over 200 carriers:

I Can Help.

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 73, NO 9

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

Cigna/Aetna/Humana/United Healthcare/WellCare Blue Cross-Blue Shield/AIG/Mutual of Omaha/Allianz/ Athene/Silac/Americo Medicare/Long Term Care/Final Expense & Life Insurance/Retirement Plans

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

Together We Can Stay Safe

24 Hour Emergency Response CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

Call (850) 658-2635 for Free Consulation I Come to You - No Charge/No Obligation

WFEC Board of Trustees

Energy Efficiency Tip: Now’s the perfect time to schedule a tune-up for your heating system. Home heating accounts for a large portion of winter energy bills, and no matter the system, you can save energy and money by regularly maintaining your equipment.

David

Tim

TATUM

ALFORD

District 1

District 2

Combining proper equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing and thermostat settings can save about 30% on your energy bills.

Source: energy.gov

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc. John

Jackie

ADAMS

POOSER

District 4

District 3

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

Ph: (850) 547-3658

Plumbing • Electrical • Licensed & Insured

David

George Clayton

District 5 / Vice President

District 6

CORBIN

C&C Construction of Northwest Florida, LLC.

OWENS

Specializing in residential and commercial roofing projects

Call Today for Free Estimates ReRoof America

Residential Roofing Specialist • Locally Owned & Operated Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Secretary-Treasurer

District 8 / President

Multiple Financing Options Available

License Numbers: FL #CCCF1327331 • AL #S-44779

Galloway Automotive Drive a little & save a lot!

2018 Chevrolet 1500 Z-71

Frank E.

Myron

BONDURANT

HUDSON

Attorney

District 9

Shawn

WALLING

Executive VP/CEO

PAGE 2

• 4x4 crew cab • 20” wheels • 147K miles

$26,999

(850) 547-1001

www.candcroofingandconstruction.com

1284 Hwy. 81 N. • Westville, FL

(850) 393-3100

2014 Chevrolet 1500 LTZ • 4x4 crew cab • loaded • heated/cooled seats

• only 52K miles • new tires • clean • rear camera $13,950 2016 Ford Fusion SE • power seats

$22,580 2012 RAM 2500 • 4x4 crew cab • diesel • loaded • navigation • heated seats • Laramie

$25,995

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Digging too close to a pad-mounted transformer like the one above can damage underground cables, leading to electrical shock or interruptions in service. Use caution when landscaping. Call 811 before you dig and stay safe.

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

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

Women’s Birkenstock sandals, hardly used, $90; Clarity Amplified phone w/ digital answering machine, $50; 850-592-2628.

135 MF diesel, (48) 8N tractor, running, $3,800; 35 MF diesel, $3,500; 2004 Chevrolet GMC 150, $4,500; 2004 Chevrolet GMC 2500, new tires, $6,500, w/trailer $7,500, all running; 850-633-7672.

Millennium M-25 lock on tree stand, $60; 20’ of River Bottom stick climbing steps, $30, used one season; 850-768-9291, between 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Notification Statement

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

Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400 Subscription Rate Cooperative members, $2.50 per year Non-members, $6.00 per year

Tiny house, will sell with or without land; 850-693-3756 or 334-661-5419.

16 acres of land, Butler Road, Grand Ridge, great for hunting; 850-693-3756 or 334-661-5419.

Congress Needs to Step Up for Electric Co-ops

Stationary exercise bike, good condition, reasonable price; 850-718-6394, leave message.

merican families and businesses expect the lights to stay on at a cost they can afford. But that's no longer a guarantee. Nine states saw rolling blackouts last December as the demand for electricity exceeded available supply.

This is no longer a theoretical conversation. And unless policy makers change course, it's going to get worse.

America has a reliability problem. And with the help of co-op leaders across the nation, West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) has been a leading voice in sounding the alarm on reliability. Today's energy decisions will determine if there are sufficient resources to keep the lights on tomorrow.

First, lawmakers need to acknowledge the problem and identify the challenges. Five issues are currently impacting the reliable delivery of electricity across the nation. They include:

FREE

Recreational Vehicles

Tall pine trees, you cut and haul, Blue 2022 Rider 10 ATV, like new, Sneads area; 850-593-5560. $1,200 OBO; 850-209-0613.

German shepherd mix puppies, free to good homes, ready for new homes on August 25; WANTED 850-573-1239.

Someone to do upholstery work on a pontoon boat, and someone who can remove/apply decals to a pontoon boat; 850-579-4208.

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

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

THANK YOU Thank you for the food, the calls, the visits, the flowers and attending the service. Thank you, Sister Debbie Williams, Bro. Timothy Jenkins, Sister Julie Cook, the Grace and Glory praise team and Peel Funeral Home. We love and appreciate you all.

The Lafayette Shelley Family

A

• Increasing demand for electricity as other sectors of the economy are electrified.

• Decreasing electricity supply due to the disorderly retirement and insufficient replacement of existing generation.

• Permitting delays that prevent new electric infrastructure from being built and connected to the grid.

• Supply chain challenges, particularly electric transformer costs and delays.

• Problems with natural gas availability.

None of these challenges will be easy to address, but we can start by asking ourselves this question: Is this what America is supposed to be? Should the threat of rolling blackouts be a permanent facet of U.S. energy policy? The

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Licensed

Levon Carnley

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

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Phone: 850-703-0318

No Job Too Small

Home Repair Lawn Care

(850) 849-3703 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

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

September

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

Davis Home and Lawn, LLC

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.

answer to both of those questions is an obvious and resounding no for electric co-ops and the communities we serve.

The long-term solutions require policy makers and regulators to recognize the need for time, technology development and new transmission infrastructure. These are the essential ingredients for an energy future that prioritizes reliable electricity for all consumers, including 42 million Americans served by electric cooperatives.

Campbellton, Jacob & Blountstown

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

Change of Address Notices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current Light Flashes P. O. Box 127 Graceville, Florida 32440-0127

PAGE 14

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

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

Vogtle Unit 3 Begins Commercial Operation

CLASSIFIEDS

W

FOR SALE

est Florida Electric Cooperative's (WFEC) commitment to powering homes and businesses 24/7/365 requires a diverse energy mix, and the co-op has completed crucial steps toward keeping reliable power flowing in the future.

Georgia Power announced on August 1 the commercial operation of the new Unit 3 of Vogtle Nuclear Power Plant in Georgia. WFEC's wholesale power supplier, PowerSouth, will purchase 125 megawatts of the carbonfree, zero-emission electricity generated by the Unit, which along with the currently-under-construction Unit 4 - becomes the first newly-constructed nuclear asset in the United States in over three decades.

"Vogtle's addition to the reliable energy mix that serves our community will have unparalleled value," said Shawn Walling, WFEC's Executive Vice President and CEO. "It is dependable around the clock, and it will help protect our members from the cost of potential carbon restrictions in the future. Nuclear has the ability to provide large amounts of power with no air pollutants or greenhouse gas emissions."

Unlike traditional fossil-fuel generation, nuclear plants do not burn anything. They use uranium, a naturally occurring element, as fuel. The atoms in the fuel are split to generate heat, which produces steam. The steam pressure turns a turbine connected to a generator that spins to

produce electricity. A half-inch uranium pellet creates as much energy as 149 gallons of oil, 17,000 cubic feet of natural gas and one ton of coal ore.

Vogtle Unit 4 will soon follow.

Georgia Power reports the final stages of construction and testing are ongoing, and Unit 4 has received final approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to begin fuel load and startup testing.

Once online, Vogtle's two new units will produce enough energy to power half a million homes. Across the U.S., nuclear energy supplies more than half of America's carbonfree electricity. continued on page 5

Animals/Livestock Guinea pigs, hairless and American smooth coat, all ages; 334-369-9191, please text.

Antiques/Collectibles

Troy Bilt front tine tiller, 208cc engine, good running condition, used approximately 10-12 hours; $200; 850-272-2208.

2022 CK3510SEHST cab w/ KL4040QA66 loader/bucket, 60" Titan grapple, factory installed 3rd function, 5' rotary cutter, box blade, landscape rake & rotary tiller, quick attach pallet forks & 50-gallon fuel tank w/pump; 850-394-7164, leave message or email jwwatson1953@outlook.com.

Bulgarian SLR-95 AK variant, all milled, East German rain camo mag pouch w/four thirty round mags, $1,000; 850-573-8080.

Beekeeping supplies; 850-849-3033.

Multiple Listings

Coastal hay, 5x5 rolls, fertilized, excellent quality, barn stored; Kamatsu WA250-1 3-yard loader, 850-592-4798. w/bucket and brush rake, older machine, open station, $17.500; 9’ Ag-Bag silage bagger, hydraulic drive; 16’ real unload 307-460-0807. silage trailer; 12’ dump silage trailer, $5,000; 850-703-2476.

Square bale annual peanut

13” color TV, new, never used, $80; new activated Straight Talk cell phones, $50 each; 850-547-2238.

hay, 5x5 rolls; walk-in cooler; 850-263-3427.

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.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

New and used VW parts; 850-209-1554.

25 old paintings, art collection; 120 pieces old American Oriental Bahia grass hay, 5x4 rolls; pottery; porcelain; ceramics, 850-573-5145 or 850-579-2732. some could be very valuable; 850-674-6242.

3-horse slant trailer; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; grain wagon; T-post; new rolls Home/Farm of barb wire; 850-592-2494 or 850-209-8532.

Antique Long 445 tractor, w/ bush hog and blade, $5,000; 251-979-5971.

PAGE 4

Miscellaneous

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

Iron bed, full size, $120; solid wood medium oak bench, 12”Wx46”Lx33”H, $45; 20 lb. weighted king blanket, $5; thermal curtains, maroon, 4 panels, each 30”Wx104”L, rod included, $30, pics available by text; 423-429-3624.

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

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

592 594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly.

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

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

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

Gary McIntosh

(850) 593-0009

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks”

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

547-3696 #RM0048955

Make a Change that Pays!

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

Install a high-efficiency dual-fuel or mini-split system and get rebates of up to $350/ton! *Applies to site-built homes* PAGE 12

Community Calendar Archeologists at the Scarecrow Building Contest September 23 • 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Chipley Farmer's Market, 685 7th Street, Chipley Bring artifacts to have them identified or check out finds from this year's dig. Enter a scarecrow in the contest. Entry forms/rules available on the Washington Co. Historical Society Facebook page or by calling 850-260-4049. $10 entry fee. Set up 8-9 a.m. day of contest. Check out food vendors, crafts and history. Call 850-638-0358 or email wchistorical@gmail.com for more info.

Homebuyer Education Class September 23 • 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Washington County Extension Office, 1424 Jackson Ave., Chipley Understand home buying, analyze personal financial and credit situations & learn basic home care/maintenance to help maintain the value of your home/save money.

Completion satisfies the homeownership education requirement for SHIP & USDA Rural Development. Pre-registration is required. For more info call 850-638-6265 or 850-482-9620. UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. People with disabilities requiring assistance should call 800-955-8771 at least 10 working days prior to the class so proper consideration be given the request.

Graceville Harvest Festival Pageant September 23 • 6:00 p.m.

Graceville Civic Center, Graceville Entry fee is $70 w/additional $10 to participate in the photogenic contest. Apps available online, at Bush Paint & Supply, and Graceville City Hall. Apps due 9/8.

Call Teresa Bush at 850-415-0692 or City of Graceville at 850-263-3250 for info.

Multi-County Private Well & Water Quality Workshop September 26 • 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Washington County Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Ave., Chipley Ensure drinking water is safe and learn what to do to protect groundwater quality.

Topics include: how private wells and septic systems work, maintenance, and how to protect water quality. Presented by UF/IFAS Ext. Bay, Holmes, Jackson and Washington Counties. Registration is $5. Facilitated water testing is available with varying rates depending on the test. Visit JacksonCountyFCS.Eventbrite.com/ or call 850-482-9620 for more info. Pre-registration is required. Virtual options available. UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. People with disabilities requiring assistance should call 800-955-8771 at least 10 working days prior to the class so proper consideration be given the request.

120th Annual Andrew Elton Williams Family Reunion October 7 • Registration @ 9 AM & Program @ 10 AM Galilee United Methodist Church, Galilee Road, Graceville For more information, contact Lamar Faircloth at 850-547-2275 or 850-326-3045.

Holmes Co. Council on Aging Golden Dayz Fall Festival November 4 • 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

2490 Development Circle, Bonifay Vendors welcome, kid's activities, arts & crafts, live music, food trucks and more.

Call Kim Drummond at 850-547-2345 for more information.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Nuclear generation is a steady energy production resource while William renewable sources, like wind and solar, are variably limited by the weather. The cost of nuclear electricity is also projected to remain stable over the long-term, making it a predictable resource when fuel prices rise.

Enterprises, Inc. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, WFEC will continue to keep License Number: CMC1250499 expenses as low as possible. We also offer resources to help you manage (850) 326-0330 your use and your bills. Visit westflorida.coop for tips and tools.

Email: wilcruent@bellsouth.net Reliable nuclear energy will power our communities for the future. It will provide the next generation of service and affordable electricity for years.

Crutchfield

Glen Scott

Stump Grinding

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

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

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

Best Service

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Tractor work Marianna, Florida

Local help with your Medicare questions.

Gene Alford

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

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055 Larry Englert Owner

Mr. Fence

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

Commercial • Residential • Farm • Industrial

Chris & Sheryl Tate

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

Licensed & insured

(850) 630-9225

Locally Owned & Operated for 28 Years Lawn Care Service

Call Gary • 912-271-5781

Livestock Fencing Materials, Maintenance & Installation

(850) 547-5516 Your Privacy is Our Business

When many people use electricity at the same time, the demand for that power rises. This is called a “peak” and typically occurs on hot summer afternoons from 3 to 7 p.m. Peaks increase the cost of wholesale power, which can, in turn, cause your electric bill to rise.

For easy ways you can help keep rates as affordable as possible, visit www.westflorida.coop.

Board, Privacy, and Chain-link

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Don't Fall Victim to Utility Scams

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

E

638-7105

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

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

God’s Handyman, LLC

(850) 209-6593

Specializing in Remodeling & Antique Restoration

Much More!

20 years experience Licensed & Insured

Finish Carpentry Crown Baseboards Chair Rail

Vinyl Siding Floors Flooring Decks Additions

L19000238025 All Are Welcome!

Painting Custom Trim Siding Windows Sheetrock

Restore Hardwood Floors

Instant Orchard Packages - Retail Nursery - Edible Landscaping Bamboo Privacy Hedges Vineyards - Greenhouses - Irrigation Citrus Apples Nuts Peaches Figs Plums Pears Avocados Berry Patches Olives Bananas Pomegranates and much More!

21190 NW Whitewater Grade Rd., Clarksville, FL (850) 451-6222 Open Sunday-Friday 7AM-3PM Instantorchardpackage.com We’re an all edible nursery and homestead. We grow, sell & install fruit trees and edibles and have hundreds of varieties. We’ll install everything from a few backyard fruit trees to commercial orchards and vineyards. Call us or come by today to get your food forest started!

very day, millions of Americans are targeted by scammers through phone calls, emails, texts, online or in person. Scammers' tactics might change daily, which is why it is important for our members to stay on top of the latest scam reports from news outlets as well as us, your local electric cooperative.

It happens often - West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) members are targeted through a phone scam where someone demands immediate payment for their bill and threatens to shut off the power if money is not received. WFEC will never call you to demand immediate payment without notice.

Many tactics are used to perpetrate scams but there are two that seem to be trending - the overpayment trick and smishing (short for SMS phishing).

The overpayment trick is when someone contacts you and claims you have overpaid your utility bill. They will say they need your personal banking info to deposit the credit back into your account. Don't fall for this! If you overpay your WFEC bill, we will automatically apply the credit to your account, which carries over to your next billing cycle.

SMS phishing is done via text message. Most of us know to be suspicious of emails from third parties but we tend to trust texts. Always question suspicious texts, especially from someone claiming to represent the co-op.

WFEC will only send you updates via text message if you've signed up for our text notifications or outage texting service. These are just some examples of scams, so it is important to watch for any red flags.

Our increasingly connected world provides scammers with more and more opportunities to connect with unsuspecting members. Be vigilant, and report any utility scams to the cooperative so we can let others in our communities know. Together, we can help prevent our friends and neighbors from being victimized.

If you are contacted by someone claiming to represent WFEC but you're unsure, just hang up and contact the cooperative directly at (800) 342-7400 to verify.

FIRST FEDERAL BANK

Where Smiles Meet Stability We’re not just bankers, we’re friends donating time and resources to the communities we serve. Supporting our customers’ personal and business banking needs, we’re your bank for today while helping you prepare for tomorrow.

Avoid Utility Scams

ffbf.com | 850-547-3624

PAGE 6

Scammers will threaten you with everything from shutting off power to your home to legal action. Don't fall victim to these types of scams.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

•

Our employees will never show up at your door to demand payment.

•

Never give personal information to an unknown caller or visitor. Our reps have access to the details they need to service your account.

•

Demands for immediate payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards or cash reload cards should immediately raise red flags.

•

If you think you've been contacted by a scammer falsely representing the co-op, please let us know as soon as possible.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Roger Lonsway

Mobile: 850-260-5438 GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

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

3783 Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 Greg A. Varner Owner

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

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

1945 Tower Lane Westville, FL 32464

License# CCC058016

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Lynn & Steve Helping Hands, LLC Tractor Work

Bush Hogging Box Blade & Loader Work Chainsaw/Pruning & Hedge Trimming Serving Holmes, Jackson & Washington Counties

386-748-9035 or 850-768-0822 PAGE 10

White Chicken Enchiladas

Submitted by: Darlene Blue

Ingredients: 10 soft taco shells 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons flour 2 cups chicken broth 1 cup sour cream 4 oz. can diced green chilis few green onions, chopped

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

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees & grease a 9x13 baking dish. Mix chicken and half the shredded cheese, roll into the tortillas and place in pan. In a sauce pan, melt the butter, stir in the flour and cook 1 minute. Add chicken broth and whisk until smooth. Heat on medium until thick and bubbly. Stir in sour cream or yogurt and chilis. Do not boil or it will curdle the cream. Pour mixture over enchiladas and top with remaining cheese & green onions. Bake 25 minutes and put under broiler for 3 minutes to brown cheese.

Since 1969

4” to 12”

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

850-263-8064

LOCAL INSURACE ADVISOR

30 Years Experience • Free Policy Reviews Offering: *Final Expense *Mortgage Protection *Long Term Care (Affordable Alternative) *Critical Illness *Cancer *Affordable Dental Plans

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

James & Son Tree and Crane Service Insured and Reasonable

850-272-3620

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

(850) 326-1559

Remove Structure Demo

Veteran-Founded

200-Amp Power Pole $499.95 Delivery & Installation Available

Free Estimates

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

Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

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

Armondi Roofing, LLC

Always here for you

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

If you’re driving and see utility crews working on the roadside, slow down and move over. Their families will appreciate your thoughtful and safe actions. By observing the Move Over Law, you’ll help ensure those lineworkers continue to be there when you need them.

Free Estimates

5 Year Workmanship Warranty Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

We Buy Vintage

(850) 547-2934

SOUTHSIDE

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Call Us First

Syrup kettles Advertisement Items Vintage Items Records

850-209-2012

We Buy One Piece or Entire Collections CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

(850) 263-8831 (850) 326-8419

100 - Amp Power Pole $399.95

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

“Father Rooster to all of my Clients”

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

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

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

Need Ice? Ice Machine Leasing

850-703-5486 State Certified Contractor CAC1819784

www.mysouthsideair.com

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Realizing Energy Savings through Personalized Energy Audits

WFEC recommends 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter.

• Evaluate your water heater. In most homes, the water heater is the second largest energy user. Check the temperature setting. Keeping it as low as possible will save energy and money – we recommend 120 degrees. You can also easily install a water heater blanket to provide added insulation et West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) help you discover ways vegetation, fallen leaves or to the water heater – especially if it is in unconditioned space. Make sure to reduce utility bills and energy use as temperatures continue to rise. anything obstructing the airflow. to check manufacturer’s recommendations before adding a water heater Whether you are tech-savvy or prefer face-to-face interactions, we Make sure to change indoor filters blanket. have an energy audit that will appeal to you. often as well. To help you WFEC also has some useful tools on its website (westflorida.coop) that Energy audits are an indispensable tool in the arsenal of energyremember, a good rule of thumb will help you gain better insights to how and when you are using energy conscious practices. You can conduct a self-audit, use our online tools, or is to change it when you receive in your home. These customized reports based on information you enter request an in-person audit. These assessments offer valuable insights into your utility bill. Use an energyand compiled using your actual billing data can identify the largest energy energy use, identify areas for improvement and empower you to make efficient temperature setting – consumers in your informed decisions that will benefit you and your bottom line. home, illustrating just The purpose of an energy audit is to identify places in the where your money is home where energy is being wasted and to prioritize actions going. You can also see needed to fix them. Audits range from do-it-yourself audits to a comparison from the in-person audits conducted by an energy services professional previous year’s expenses from West Florida Electric. and temperatures A self-conducted audit is a good starting point and the (which directly impact information you gather will be helpful to have if you decide to how much energy you have an in-person audit. use on heating and How do you perform your own audit? cooling – the largest • Begin with a simple walk around the outside and inside of expense for most your home looking for problems like holes where air can leak homes). The tool will in or out and dripping faucets. also provide tips • Find and fix air leaks. Focus attention on places where air is designed to help you leaking into and out of your home. Make a list of places use less energy based on where leaks are occurring as you walk around. Pay special your inputs. attention to windows and doors. See if you can rattle them Finally, WFEC (movement means possible air leaks). If you can see daylight offers free energy audits around door and window frames – the door or window conducted by an energy leaks. Sealing these leaks is easy using weather-stripping or services expert from the caulk. Consider replacing old doors and windows with co-op. Any member newer, higher performance ones. The energy savings experiencing an potential from reducing air leaks can be as high as 30 unusually high bill percent. Your home is usually more comfortable after air or interested in leaks are fixed, too. energy conservation may request an • Check insulation levels. See if the level of the attic insulation audit. A cooperative is at least the minimum recommended. Adding insulation is representative will one of the best energy efficiency improvements you can come to your home to make – one that can benefit many existing homes. perform a walk-through • Take a look at your heating and cooling equipment. This is audit and obtain the largest energy consumer in your home. Inspect this additional information Inspecting heating and cooling equipment carefully is important during an energy audit since it is the largest energy consumer in equipment carefully looking for any obstructions that are using a specialized your home. Look for obstructions near the compressor unit, including vegetation or fallen leaves. Did you know the WFEC energy services department can also help you properly size your unit if you are in the market for a new one?

Just call us at 800-342-7400. near the outdoor compressor unit - this could include questionnaire. This

L

PAGE 8

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

information will help the auditor pinpoint problem areas and make suggestions about ways you can reduce your energy bill and energy consumption. These auditors use a variety of techniques (and sometimes) specialized equipment to determine the efficiency of your home. A roomby-room inspection and careful examination of past utility bills are utilized as part of the auditing process. Here are some tips that will help you get the most out of your audit: 1. Make a list of any problems or concerns you want to discuss.

2. Know what type of equipment is in your home: this includes heating & cooling, appliances, etc.

3. Do you have a tankless, gas, or electric water heater?

4. What type of insulation is in your home? What levels of insulation are in your home?

5. What type of windows do you have?

6. What are your typical thermostat settings?

WFEC is here to help if you have questions about efficiency improvements or are experiencing higher than average utility bills (even considering extreme temps). Our energy experts are just a phone call or email away so contact us at 800-342-7400 or send an email to Rhonda Byrd-Lee rbyrdlee@westflorida.coop for more information about energy saving programs and services available to WFEC members.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

Realizing Energy Savings through Personalized Energy Audits

WFEC recommends 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter.

• Evaluate your water heater. In most homes, the water heater is the second largest energy user. Check the temperature setting. Keeping it as low as possible will save energy and money – we recommend 120 degrees. You can also easily install a water heater blanket to provide added insulation et West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) help you discover ways vegetation, fallen leaves or to the water heater – especially if it is in unconditioned space. Make sure to reduce utility bills and energy use as temperatures continue to rise. anything obstructing the airflow. to check manufacturer’s recommendations before adding a water heater Whether you are tech-savvy or prefer face-to-face interactions, we Make sure to change indoor filters blanket. have an energy audit that will appeal to you. often as well. To help you WFEC also has some useful tools on its website (westflorida.coop) that Energy audits are an indispensable tool in the arsenal of energyremember, a good rule of thumb will help you gain better insights to how and when you are using energy conscious practices. You can conduct a self-audit, use our online tools, or is to change it when you receive in your home. These customized reports based on information you enter request an in-person audit. These assessments offer valuable insights into your utility bill. Use an energyand compiled using your actual billing data can identify the largest energy energy use, identify areas for improvement and empower you to make efficient temperature setting – consumers in your informed decisions that will benefit you and your bottom line. home, illustrating just The purpose of an energy audit is to identify places in the where your money is home where energy is being wasted and to prioritize actions going. You can also see needed to fix them. Audits range from do-it-yourself audits to a comparison from the in-person audits conducted by an energy services professional previous year’s expenses from West Florida Electric. and temperatures A self-conducted audit is a good starting point and the (which directly impact information you gather will be helpful to have if you decide to how much energy you have an in-person audit. use on heating and How do you perform your own audit? cooling – the largest • Begin with a simple walk around the outside and inside of expense for most your home looking for problems like holes where air can leak homes). The tool will in or out and dripping faucets. also provide tips • Find and fix air leaks. Focus attention on places where air is designed to help you leaking into and out of your home. Make a list of places use less energy based on where leaks are occurring as you walk around. Pay special your inputs. attention to windows and doors. See if you can rattle them Finally, WFEC (movement means possible air leaks). If you can see daylight offers free energy audits around door and window frames – the door or window conducted by an energy leaks. Sealing these leaks is easy using weather-stripping or services expert from the caulk. Consider replacing old doors and windows with co-op. Any member newer, higher performance ones. The energy savings experiencing an potential from reducing air leaks can be as high as 30 unusually high bill percent. Your home is usually more comfortable after air or interested in leaks are fixed, too. energy conservation may request an • Check insulation levels. See if the level of the attic insulation audit. A cooperative is at least the minimum recommended. Adding insulation is representative will one of the best energy efficiency improvements you can come to your home to make – one that can benefit many existing homes. perform a walk-through • Take a look at your heating and cooling equipment. This is audit and obtain the largest energy consumer in your home. Inspect this additional information Inspecting heating and cooling equipment carefully is important during an energy audit since it is the largest energy consumer in equipment carefully looking for any obstructions that are using a specialized your home. Look for obstructions near the compressor unit, including vegetation or fallen leaves. Did you know the WFEC energy services department can also help you properly size your unit if you are in the market for a new one?

Just call us at 800-342-7400. near the outdoor compressor unit - this could include questionnaire. This

L

PAGE 8

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

information will help the auditor pinpoint problem areas and make suggestions about ways you can reduce your energy bill and energy consumption. These auditors use a variety of techniques (and sometimes) specialized equipment to determine the efficiency of your home. A roomby-room inspection and careful examination of past utility bills are utilized as part of the auditing process. Here are some tips that will help you get the most out of your audit: 1. Make a list of any problems or concerns you want to discuss.

2. Know what type of equipment is in your home: this includes heating & cooling, appliances, etc.

3. Do you have a tankless, gas, or electric water heater?

4. What type of insulation is in your home? What levels of insulation are in your home?

5. What type of windows do you have?

6. What are your typical thermostat settings?

WFEC is here to help if you have questions about efficiency improvements or are experiencing higher than average utility bills (even considering extreme temps). Our energy experts are just a phone call or email away so contact us at 800-342-7400 or send an email to Rhonda Byrd-Lee rbyrdlee@westflorida.coop for more information about energy saving programs and services available to WFEC members.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 9

McIntosh

Outboard & Small Engine Grand Ridge

Sneads

We buy boats & motors!

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

SURVEYOR

Florida Licensed Surveyor since 1969

Roger Lonsway

Mobile: 850-260-5438 GOLF CART SALES & SERVICE Xtreme Southern Kustomizing

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

3783 Woodham Rd., Graceville, FL

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

LLC/Insured/ 40 Years Experience

(850) 638-2611 Greg A. Varner Owner

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

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

1945 Tower Lane Westville, FL 32464

License# CCC058016

Email: southroofing@centurylink.net

Lynn & Steve Helping Hands, LLC Tractor Work

Bush Hogging Box Blade & Loader Work Chainsaw/Pruning & Hedge Trimming Serving Holmes, Jackson & Washington Counties

386-748-9035 or 850-768-0822 PAGE 10

White Chicken Enchiladas

Submitted by: Darlene Blue

Ingredients: 10 soft taco shells 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons flour 2 cups chicken broth 1 cup sour cream 4 oz. can diced green chilis few green onions, chopped

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

Over 40 Years Experience License #2252

John White Owner

3024 Firefly Lane Vernon, FL 32462

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees & grease a 9x13 baking dish. Mix chicken and half the shredded cheese, roll into the tortillas and place in pan. In a sauce pan, melt the butter, stir in the flour and cook 1 minute. Add chicken broth and whisk until smooth. Heat on medium until thick and bubbly. Stir in sour cream or yogurt and chilis. Do not boil or it will curdle the cream. Pour mixture over enchiladas and top with remaining cheese & green onions. Bake 25 minutes and put under broiler for 3 minutes to brown cheese.

Since 1969

4” to 12”

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

850-263-8064

LOCAL INSURACE ADVISOR

30 Years Experience • Free Policy Reviews Offering: *Final Expense *Mortgage Protection *Long Term Care (Affordable Alternative) *Critical Illness *Cancer *Affordable Dental Plans

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

James & Son Tree and Crane Service Insured and Reasonable

850-272-3620

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

(850) 326-1559

Remove Structure Demo

Veteran-Founded

200-Amp Power Pole $499.95 Delivery & Installation Available

Free Estimates

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

Rick Carnley - Lic. # EC-13006648

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

Armondi Roofing, LLC

Always here for you

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

If you’re driving and see utility crews working on the roadside, slow down and move over. Their families will appreciate your thoughtful and safe actions. By observing the Move Over Law, you’ll help ensure those lineworkers continue to be there when you need them.

Free Estimates

5 Year Workmanship Warranty Licensed & Insured #CCC1330359

We Buy Vintage

(850) 547-2934

SOUTHSIDE

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Call Us First

Syrup kettles Advertisement Items Vintage Items Records

850-209-2012

We Buy One Piece or Entire Collections CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

(850) 263-8831 (850) 326-8419

100 - Amp Power Pole $399.95

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

“Father Rooster to all of my Clients”

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

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

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

Need Ice? Ice Machine Leasing

850-703-5486 State Certified Contractor CAC1819784

www.mysouthsideair.com

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 7

Don't Fall Victim to Utility Scams

OLEN BARFIELD Have Sawmill, Will Travel

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

E

638-7105

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

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

God’s Handyman, LLC

(850) 209-6593

Specializing in Remodeling & Antique Restoration

Much More!

20 years experience Licensed & Insured

Finish Carpentry Crown Baseboards Chair Rail

Vinyl Siding Floors Flooring Decks Additions

L19000238025 All Are Welcome!

Painting Custom Trim Siding Windows Sheetrock

Restore Hardwood Floors

Instant Orchard Packages - Retail Nursery - Edible Landscaping Bamboo Privacy Hedges Vineyards - Greenhouses - Irrigation Citrus Apples Nuts Peaches Figs Plums Pears Avocados Berry Patches Olives Bananas Pomegranates and much More!

21190 NW Whitewater Grade Rd., Clarksville, FL (850) 451-6222 Open Sunday-Friday 7AM-3PM Instantorchardpackage.com We’re an all edible nursery and homestead. We grow, sell & install fruit trees and edibles and have hundreds of varieties. We’ll install everything from a few backyard fruit trees to commercial orchards and vineyards. Call us or come by today to get your food forest started!

very day, millions of Americans are targeted by scammers through phone calls, emails, texts, online or in person. Scammers' tactics might change daily, which is why it is important for our members to stay on top of the latest scam reports from news outlets as well as us, your local electric cooperative.

It happens often - West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) members are targeted through a phone scam where someone demands immediate payment for their bill and threatens to shut off the power if money is not received. WFEC will never call you to demand immediate payment without notice.

Many tactics are used to perpetrate scams but there are two that seem to be trending - the overpayment trick and smishing (short for SMS phishing).

The overpayment trick is when someone contacts you and claims you have overpaid your utility bill. They will say they need your personal banking info to deposit the credit back into your account. Don't fall for this! If you overpay your WFEC bill, we will automatically apply the credit to your account, which carries over to your next billing cycle.

SMS phishing is done via text message. Most of us know to be suspicious of emails from third parties but we tend to trust texts. Always question suspicious texts, especially from someone claiming to represent the co-op.

WFEC will only send you updates via text message if you've signed up for our text notifications or outage texting service. These are just some examples of scams, so it is important to watch for any red flags.

Our increasingly connected world provides scammers with more and more opportunities to connect with unsuspecting members. Be vigilant, and report any utility scams to the cooperative so we can let others in our communities know. Together, we can help prevent our friends and neighbors from being victimized.

If you are contacted by someone claiming to represent WFEC but you're unsure, just hang up and contact the cooperative directly at (800) 342-7400 to verify.

FIRST FEDERAL BANK

Where Smiles Meet Stability We’re not just bankers, we’re friends donating time and resources to the communities we serve. Supporting our customers’ personal and business banking needs, we’re your bank for today while helping you prepare for tomorrow.

Avoid Utility Scams

ffbf.com | 850-547-3624

PAGE 6

Scammers will threaten you with everything from shutting off power to your home to legal action. Don't fall victim to these types of scams.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

•

Our employees will never show up at your door to demand payment.

•

Never give personal information to an unknown caller or visitor. Our reps have access to the details they need to service your account.

•

Demands for immediate payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards or cash reload cards should immediately raise red flags.

•

If you think you've been contacted by a scammer falsely representing the co-op, please let us know as soon as possible.

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 11

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

Gary McIntosh

(850) 593-0009

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

Tri-County Gas Service, Inc.

“Home Folks Serving Home Folks”

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

547-3696 #RM0048955

Make a Change that Pays!

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

Install a high-efficiency dual-fuel or mini-split system and get rebates of up to $350/ton! *Applies to site-built homes* PAGE 12

Community Calendar Archeologists at the Scarecrow Building Contest September 23 • 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Chipley Farmer's Market, 685 7th Street, Chipley Bring artifacts to have them identified or check out finds from this year's dig. Enter a scarecrow in the contest. Entry forms/rules available on the Washington Co. Historical Society Facebook page or by calling 850-260-4049. $10 entry fee. Set up 8-9 a.m. day of contest. Check out food vendors, crafts and history. Call 850-638-0358 or email wchistorical@gmail.com for more info.

Homebuyer Education Class September 23 • 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Washington County Extension Office, 1424 Jackson Ave., Chipley Understand home buying, analyze personal financial and credit situations & learn basic home care/maintenance to help maintain the value of your home/save money.

Completion satisfies the homeownership education requirement for SHIP & USDA Rural Development. Pre-registration is required. For more info call 850-638-6265 or 850-482-9620. UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. People with disabilities requiring assistance should call 800-955-8771 at least 10 working days prior to the class so proper consideration be given the request.

Graceville Harvest Festival Pageant September 23 • 6:00 p.m.

Graceville Civic Center, Graceville Entry fee is $70 w/additional $10 to participate in the photogenic contest. Apps available online, at Bush Paint & Supply, and Graceville City Hall. Apps due 9/8.

Call Teresa Bush at 850-415-0692 or City of Graceville at 850-263-3250 for info.

Multi-County Private Well & Water Quality Workshop September 26 • 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Washington County Ag Center, 1424 Jackson Ave., Chipley Ensure drinking water is safe and learn what to do to protect groundwater quality.

Topics include: how private wells and septic systems work, maintenance, and how to protect water quality. Presented by UF/IFAS Ext. Bay, Holmes, Jackson and Washington Counties. Registration is $5. Facilitated water testing is available with varying rates depending on the test. Visit JacksonCountyFCS.Eventbrite.com/ or call 850-482-9620 for more info. Pre-registration is required. Virtual options available. UF is an Equal Opportunity Institution. People with disabilities requiring assistance should call 800-955-8771 at least 10 working days prior to the class so proper consideration be given the request.

120th Annual Andrew Elton Williams Family Reunion October 7 • Registration @ 9 AM & Program @ 10 AM Galilee United Methodist Church, Galilee Road, Graceville For more information, contact Lamar Faircloth at 850-547-2275 or 850-326-3045.

Holmes Co. Council on Aging Golden Dayz Fall Festival November 4 • 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

2490 Development Circle, Bonifay Vendors welcome, kid's activities, arts & crafts, live music, food trucks and more.

Call Kim Drummond at 850-547-2345 for more information.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Nuclear generation is a steady energy production resource while William renewable sources, like wind and solar, are variably limited by the weather. The cost of nuclear electricity is also projected to remain stable over the long-term, making it a predictable resource when fuel prices rise.

Enterprises, Inc. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, WFEC will continue to keep License Number: CMC1250499 expenses as low as possible. We also offer resources to help you manage (850) 326-0330 your use and your bills. Visit westflorida.coop for tips and tools.

Email: wilcruent@bellsouth.net Reliable nuclear energy will power our communities for the future. It will provide the next generation of service and affordable electricity for years.

Crutchfield

Glen Scott

Stump Grinding

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

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

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

Best Service

Best Prices

(850) 209-2105 Tractor work Marianna, Florida

Local help with your Medicare questions.

Gene Alford

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

850.762.9402 or 850.832.5055 Larry Englert Owner

Mr. Fence

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

Commercial • Residential • Farm • Industrial

Chris & Sheryl Tate

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

Licensed & insured

(850) 630-9225

Locally Owned & Operated for 28 Years Lawn Care Service

Call Gary • 912-271-5781

Livestock Fencing Materials, Maintenance & Installation

(850) 547-5516 Your Privacy is Our Business

When many people use electricity at the same time, the demand for that power rises. This is called a “peak” and typically occurs on hot summer afternoons from 3 to 7 p.m. Peaks increase the cost of wholesale power, which can, in turn, cause your electric bill to rise.

For easy ways you can help keep rates as affordable as possible, visit www.westflorida.coop.

Board, Privacy, and Chain-link

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 5

Vogtle Unit 3 Begins Commercial Operation

CLASSIFIEDS

W

FOR SALE

est Florida Electric Cooperative's (WFEC) commitment to powering homes and businesses 24/7/365 requires a diverse energy mix, and the co-op has completed crucial steps toward keeping reliable power flowing in the future.

Georgia Power announced on August 1 the commercial operation of the new Unit 3 of Vogtle Nuclear Power Plant in Georgia. WFEC's wholesale power supplier, PowerSouth, will purchase 125 megawatts of the carbonfree, zero-emission electricity generated by the Unit, which along with the currently-under-construction Unit 4 - becomes the first newly-constructed nuclear asset in the United States in over three decades.

"Vogtle's addition to the reliable energy mix that serves our community will have unparalleled value," said Shawn Walling, WFEC's Executive Vice President and CEO. "It is dependable around the clock, and it will help protect our members from the cost of potential carbon restrictions in the future. Nuclear has the ability to provide large amounts of power with no air pollutants or greenhouse gas emissions."

Unlike traditional fossil-fuel generation, nuclear plants do not burn anything. They use uranium, a naturally occurring element, as fuel. The atoms in the fuel are split to generate heat, which produces steam. The steam pressure turns a turbine connected to a generator that spins to

produce electricity. A half-inch uranium pellet creates as much energy as 149 gallons of oil, 17,000 cubic feet of natural gas and one ton of coal ore.

Vogtle Unit 4 will soon follow.

Georgia Power reports the final stages of construction and testing are ongoing, and Unit 4 has received final approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to begin fuel load and startup testing.

Once online, Vogtle's two new units will produce enough energy to power half a million homes. Across the U.S., nuclear energy supplies more than half of America's carbonfree electricity. continued on page 5

Animals/Livestock Guinea pigs, hairless and American smooth coat, all ages; 334-369-9191, please text.

Antiques/Collectibles

Troy Bilt front tine tiller, 208cc engine, good running condition, used approximately 10-12 hours; $200; 850-272-2208.

2022 CK3510SEHST cab w/ KL4040QA66 loader/bucket, 60" Titan grapple, factory installed 3rd function, 5' rotary cutter, box blade, landscape rake & rotary tiller, quick attach pallet forks & 50-gallon fuel tank w/pump; 850-394-7164, leave message or email jwwatson1953@outlook.com.

Bulgarian SLR-95 AK variant, all milled, East German rain camo mag pouch w/four thirty round mags, $1,000; 850-573-8080.

Beekeeping supplies; 850-849-3033.

Multiple Listings

Coastal hay, 5x5 rolls, fertilized, excellent quality, barn stored; Kamatsu WA250-1 3-yard loader, 850-592-4798. w/bucket and brush rake, older machine, open station, $17.500; 9’ Ag-Bag silage bagger, hydraulic drive; 16’ real unload 307-460-0807. silage trailer; 12’ dump silage trailer, $5,000; 850-703-2476.

Square bale annual peanut

13” color TV, new, never used, $80; new activated Straight Talk cell phones, $50 each; 850-547-2238.

hay, 5x5 rolls; walk-in cooler; 850-263-3427.

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.

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

New and used VW parts; 850-209-1554.

25 old paintings, art collection; 120 pieces old American Oriental Bahia grass hay, 5x4 rolls; pottery; porcelain; ceramics, 850-573-5145 or 850-579-2732. some could be very valuable; 850-674-6242.

3-horse slant trailer; barrel, roping, pleasure saddles; tack; grain wagon; T-post; new rolls Home/Farm of barb wire; 850-592-2494 or 850-209-8532.

Antique Long 445 tractor, w/ bush hog and blade, $5,000; 251-979-5971.

PAGE 4

Miscellaneous

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

Iron bed, full size, $120; solid wood medium oak bench, 12”Wx46”Lx33”H, $45; 20 lb. weighted king blanket, $5; thermal curtains, maroon, 4 panels, each 30”Wx104”L, rod included, $30, pics available by text; 423-429-3624.

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

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

592 594 482, 526 836 593 773 535 956

CLF Free Ad Form Please Type or Print Neatly.

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

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

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 13

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

Women’s Birkenstock sandals, hardly used, $90; Clarity Amplified phone w/ digital answering machine, $50; 850-592-2628.

135 MF diesel, (48) 8N tractor, running, $3,800; 35 MF diesel, $3,500; 2004 Chevrolet GMC 150, $4,500; 2004 Chevrolet GMC 2500, new tires, $6,500, w/trailer $7,500, all running; 850-633-7672.

Millennium M-25 lock on tree stand, $60; 20’ of River Bottom stick climbing steps, $30, used one season; 850-768-9291, between 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Notification Statement

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

Main Business and Publications Offices 5282 Peanut Road Graceville, Florida 32440-0127 (850) 263-3231 or 1-800-342-7400 Subscription Rate Cooperative members, $2.50 per year Non-members, $6.00 per year

Tiny house, will sell with or without land; 850-693-3756 or 334-661-5419.

16 acres of land, Butler Road, Grand Ridge, great for hunting; 850-693-3756 or 334-661-5419.

Congress Needs to Step Up for Electric Co-ops

Stationary exercise bike, good condition, reasonable price; 850-718-6394, leave message.

merican families and businesses expect the lights to stay on at a cost they can afford. But that's no longer a guarantee. Nine states saw rolling blackouts last December as the demand for electricity exceeded available supply.

This is no longer a theoretical conversation. And unless policy makers change course, it's going to get worse.

America has a reliability problem. And with the help of co-op leaders across the nation, West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) has been a leading voice in sounding the alarm on reliability. Today's energy decisions will determine if there are sufficient resources to keep the lights on tomorrow.

First, lawmakers need to acknowledge the problem and identify the challenges. Five issues are currently impacting the reliable delivery of electricity across the nation. They include:

FREE

Recreational Vehicles

Tall pine trees, you cut and haul, Blue 2022 Rider 10 ATV, like new, Sneads area; 850-593-5560. $1,200 OBO; 850-209-0613.

German shepherd mix puppies, free to good homes, ready for new homes on August 25; WANTED 850-573-1239.

Someone to do upholstery work on a pontoon boat, and someone who can remove/apply decals to a pontoon boat; 850-579-4208.

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

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

THANK YOU Thank you for the food, the calls, the visits, the flowers and attending the service. Thank you, Sister Debbie Williams, Bro. Timothy Jenkins, Sister Julie Cook, the Grace and Glory praise team and Peel Funeral Home. We love and appreciate you all.

The Lafayette Shelley Family

A

• Increasing demand for electricity as other sectors of the economy are electrified.

• Decreasing electricity supply due to the disorderly retirement and insufficient replacement of existing generation.

• Permitting delays that prevent new electric infrastructure from being built and connected to the grid.

• Supply chain challenges, particularly electric transformer costs and delays.

• Problems with natural gas availability.

None of these challenges will be easy to address, but we can start by asking ourselves this question: Is this what America is supposed to be? Should the threat of rolling blackouts be a permanent facet of U.S. energy policy? The

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

This Institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Licensed

Levon Carnley

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

Concrete Designs by Levon, LLC

Phone: 850-703-0318

No Job Too Small

Home Repair Lawn Care

(850) 849-3703 CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

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

September

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

Davis Home and Lawn, LLC

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.

answer to both of those questions is an obvious and resounding no for electric co-ops and the communities we serve.

The long-term solutions require policy makers and regulators to recognize the need for time, technology development and new transmission infrastructure. These are the essential ingredients for an energy future that prioritizes reliable electricity for all consumers, including 42 million Americans served by electric cooperatives.

Campbellton, Jacob & Blountstown

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

Change of Address Notices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current Light Flashes P. O. Box 127 Graceville, Florida 32440-0127

PAGE 14

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

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

TOLL FREE OUTAGE HOTLINE: 1.844.OUTAGE1 (844.688.2431)

PAGE 3

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

New to the Area? Turning 65?

Eligible for Medicaid?

DROP Program?

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.

I’m Local. Licensed/Certified/Dependable/Helpful Over 200 carriers:

I Can Help.

USPS: 702-990 | ISSN: 1042-7767 | VOL 73, NO 9

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

Cigna/Aetna/Humana/United Healthcare/WellCare Blue Cross-Blue Shield/AIG/Mutual of Omaha/Allianz/ Athene/Silac/Americo Medicare/Long Term Care/Final Expense & Life Insurance/Retirement Plans

Mold Removal Remodels Water Damage Additions Fire Damage New Construction

Together We Can Stay Safe

24 Hour Emergency Response CBC1255149, CCC1330340, MRSR9

Call (850) 658-2635 for Free Consulation I Come to You - No Charge/No Obligation

WFEC Board of Trustees

Energy Efficiency Tip: Now’s the perfect time to schedule a tune-up for your heating system. Home heating accounts for a large portion of winter energy bills, and no matter the system, you can save energy and money by regularly maintaining your equipment.

David

Tim

TATUM

ALFORD

District 1

District 2

Combining proper equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing and thermostat settings can save about 30% on your energy bills.

Source: energy.gov

Middlebrooks Contractors, Inc. John

Jackie

ADAMS

POOSER

District 4

District 3

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

Ph: (850) 547-3658

Plumbing • Electrical • Licensed & Insured

David

George Clayton

District 5 / Vice President

District 6

CORBIN

C&C Construction of Northwest Florida, LLC.

OWENS

Specializing in residential and commercial roofing projects

Call Today for Free Estimates ReRoof America

Residential Roofing Specialist • Locally Owned & Operated Randy

Joe E.

BUSH

RONE

District 7 / Secretary-Treasurer

District 8 / President

Multiple Financing Options Available

License Numbers: FL #CCCF1327331 • AL #S-44779

Galloway Automotive Drive a little & save a lot!

2018 Chevrolet 1500 Z-71

Frank E.

Myron

BONDURANT

HUDSON

Attorney

District 9

Shawn

WALLING

Executive VP/CEO

PAGE 2

• 4x4 crew cab • 20” wheels • 147K miles

$26,999

(850) 547-1001

www.candcroofingandconstruction.com

1284 Hwy. 81 N. • Westville, FL

(850) 393-3100

2014 Chevrolet 1500 LTZ • 4x4 crew cab • loaded • heated/cooled seats

• only 52K miles • new tires • clean • rear camera $13,950 2016 Ford Fusion SE • power seats

$22,580 2012 RAM 2500 • 4x4 crew cab • diesel • loaded • navigation • heated seats • Laramie

$25,995

CURRENT LIGHT FLASHES

Digging too close to a pad-mounted transformer like the one above can damage underground cables, leading to electrical shock or interruptions in service. Use caution when landscaping. Call 811 before you dig and stay safe.

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

CURRENT LIGHT

FLASHES

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

West Florida Electric, Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Available: ◄

• Concrete Block • Rebar

DUPONT•

Authorized Agent

A Afr.lSTFAfO MFMflfA OF THf

AUTO GLASS

SAFETY COUNCIL-

Pole Barn Kits Available Several to choose from.

• Any Glass • Any Vehicle

WISEFLYAUTOGLASS.COM

Debbie Roney Smith

Free Pool Water Testing!

Call or text: (850) 209-8039

LIC#SL642701

“Be SOLD with American Gold”

knives available

Pool Supplies

Bulk Chlorine, Salt & Chemicals In Stock Now!

Realizing Energy Savings through Personalized Energy Audits

• Wire • Culverts

Pages 8-9

Deck Kits!

6x8 8x10 10x12 12x16

Many more sizes to choose from!

Shop online: www.panhandlelumber.com

“I List - I Sell” Full Time Realtor Since 1996

Panhandle Lumber & Supply

4420 Lafayette St., Marianna, FL 32446

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

www.realtordrs.com • debson1999@gmail.com

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

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!

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

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

Mondays & Wednesdays: T-shirt night

INSIDE ...

Congress Needs to Step Up for Electric ...pg. 3 Co-ops Vogtle Unit 3 Begins Commercial ...pgs. 4-5 Operation Don’t Fall Victim to ...pg. 11 Utility Scams Local Classifieds

...pgs. 13-14

Rhonda Byrd-Lee, WFEC Energy Services, says checking for air leaks is one of the most important things to do when conducting an energy audit. She recommends installing foam gaskets behind light switch covers and outlet covers to help stop air infiltration (as demonstrated here).

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2023

Read Online www.WestFlorida.coop

VOL 73, NO 9