Amanda Richardson – Page 20

SECO News, April 2021

Duncan’s Digest – Inverness Substation Upgrade

SECO Energy’s service territory covers 2,100 square miles, which is about the size of Delaware. At year-end 2020, we were serving 216,477 homes and businesses in seven Central Florida counties. The bulk of our members live in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties, with smaller numbers of members in Hernando, Levy and Pasco Counties.

Our cooperative purpose is to provide exceptional service to our members, co-workers and communities. That exceptional service is reflected in SECO Energy winning coveted J.D. Power awards in 2015, 2016 and 2017 when our satisfaction scores topped all utilities in the nation. In 2020, we upheld our position as an American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) frontrunner in Florida and nationally with a score of 91.

We definitely have a strong reputation to uphold. Another example of our exceptional service is a meticulous inspection and maintenance schedule that ensures day-to-day reliability while expanding an electric system that meets both current and future members’ energy needs.

In the July 2020 SECO News edition, I communicated about the Marion Oaks substation rebuild underway in Marion County. That project, including the demolition of the older adjacent substation, is almost complete.

A new project in the works is the Inverness substation rebuild in Citrus County. The Inverness substation was reconstructed in 1982. Due to its age, the substation needed a complete rebuild. This substation serves just under 6,000 members. The rebuild includes a high-side ring bus and steel structures that support the heavy, high voltage transmission line. The high-side ring bus will increase service reliability for all members served by the Inverness sub by creating redundancy through looped service.

The Inverness substation rebuild also improves reliability for members served by the nearby Floral City substation as well. Both substations are looped in with two separate Duke Energy transmission lines. Currently, members served by both substations experience an outage if even one of the Duke transmission lines experiences a fault or operates. When the new ring bus is in place at the Inverness substation, members served by our Floral City sub will no longer experience an outage if the fault occurs between the transmission line and the Inverness substation.

Along with the ring bus on the high side, we’re working to re-gasket the existing power transformer, install a new metering package and implement a state-of-the-art relay schematic. The new foundation is in place, the fence surrounding the substation has been installed, and a new control house is being constructed on-site. The Inverness substation rebuild is on schedule for completion in early summer, just in time for storm season to arrive.

The total value of our electric facilities systemwide is inching closer to the $1 billion mark. At year-end 2020, the value of SECO’s utility plant was $955.9 million. We’re spending about $3.2 million per month to improve existing members’ service reliability and to build new infrastructure to meet the growing demand in our area.

Without question, your electric service is supported by an extensive, robust and well-maintained infrastructure.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

The Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends the best days in April and May to complete indoor and outdoor projects. Ready for spring cleaning? Wash windows on April 10 and 11 and May 7 – 9, and wash floors on April 8 and 9 or May 5 and 6. The best days to bake are on April 18 and 19 and May 15 and 16. If spring yard work is on your list, the best days prune to encourage growth are April 20 and 21 and May 17 – 19. Prune to discourage growth on April 1, 2, and 10 and May 7 – 9.

Call 811 Before You Dig

Longer days and sunny weather make spring the perfect time to tackle your honey-do list. April is Safe Digging Month and Florida law requires you to call 811 or visit www.call811.com online before you dig.

811 is a free service that will locate and mark underground utilities on your property or in the area you plan to dig. Never install a fence, plant a garden, add new landscaping or trees before contacting 811. Are you working with a contractor on a project? Make sure your contractor has connected with 811 before beginning the project on your property.

Wait for the flags! Keep shovels out of the ground until the 811 locating service has responded to your request and flagged the approximate area where underground utility lines (electric, water, gas, communications, etc.) are located.

Know what’s below – call 811 before you dig. In Florida – it’s the law.

EV Charger Winner

Pamela Gladd from Minneola is the March winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

Learn more about the benefits of electric vehicle ownership on our EV website pages. You’ll find an EV savings calculator, information about CO2 reduction, an EV and PHEV model finder and a nationwide charger-finder map. Visit our Electric Vehicles website section for more details.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

Spring for Energy Savings

The Department of Energy (DOE) at energy.gov estimates the energy used to cool and heat your Central Florida home is 35 to 40% of your total energy consumption. You control how and when you use electricity. The condition and age of your home’s HVAC system, insulation, roof, windows, ducts, appliances and lifestyle also affect your energy consumption. Newer, well-insulated, properly weatherized homes with double-pane windows and ENERGY STAR-rated appliances consume less energy.

The number of people living in your home and weather also affect energy consumption. More people living in the house create more laundry, heating, cooling, cooking and increased hot water and electronics use. Central Florida is known for scorching summer temperatures that cause your HVAC to work overtime to keep the home cool. During a cold snap, the heating system also runs more frequently to warm the house.

Want help to reduce your energy consumption and lower your monthly energy bill? SECO Energy’s online energy-efficiency tools can help you spring for energy savings with low-cost and no-cost tips and ideas to help you reduce your energy use.

Home Energy Assessment

Our Home Energy Assessment is an online energy audit that you can complete from the comfort of your home. Fill out the assessment based on your home and lifestyle. Submit your answers and email address, and in just minutes you’ll receive energy-savings advice tailored to your home and lifestyle. Complete the energy-saving ideas, and you’ll be on your way to consuming less energy – and saving money.

Energy Estimator

Are you interested in seeing the math associated with your energy usage? Visit our Energy Estimator online to calculate the estimated costs for each of your home’s appliances and electronics. Submit your email address to receive no-cost and low-cost energy-savings suggestions via email.

Energy Savings Word Search

After completing our Home Energy Assessment and Energy Estimator, sharpen your energy-saving knowledge with this month’s Energy Savings word search.

2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season Early Warning

Traditionally, the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1. But the past six hurricane seasons have seen hurricanes and tropical storms form in mid-May. Because of this change, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) will begin its Atlantic Tropical Weather Outlook earlier on May 15 instead of waiting until June 1.

What does this mean for SECO Energy members? SECO is StormReady, and we encourage you to begin your preparations for hurricane season now. Don’t wait until a hurricane or tropical storm is heading our way to prepare.

Learn more about hurricanes and tropical storms in our Hurricane Handbook. You’ll find helpful information on emergency supplies for people and pets. We’ve also included tips for before, during and after a storm. Pick up a copy of our Hurricane Handbook at one of our five Member Service Centers or visit our Storm Preparation page.

Winners’ Circle

Have you engaged with our virtual assistant Electra who can answer thousands of calls without missing a beat? Ask Electra for assistance instead of waiting to speak with a representative. Each week, we’ll draw one winner who will receive a $25 gift card. Winners are drawn from all members who called and successfully took care of business with Electra.

February’s Winners Are:

Mark Fagan from Clermont

Lynn Pulchano from Inverness

Don Whittigton from Dunnellon

Sandra Ennulat-Davis from Eustis

Congratulations to our three March winners in our Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft incentive.

Narasimha Murthy from Tavares is the winner of a $200 SECO Energy bill credit.

Karen Chapman from Ocala is the winner of a NEST thermostat.

John Johnson from Summerfield is the winner of an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

Read Winners’ Circle next month for more winners.

Thank a Lineman License Plate

Members can show their support for the thousands of Florida lineworkers and utility personnel who restore power to millions of Floridians after devastating natural disasters by ordering a “Thank a Lineman” license plate. The 2020 Florida Legislature approved the plate after Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1135 into law.

This cause is local and benefits a key SECO Energy employee recruitment partner. For every “Thank a Lineman” plate sold, $25 goes to Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) to support their Electric Utility programs. According to LSSC’s website (www.lssc.edu), the college is ranked in the top 150 Community Colleges nationally. Their student job placement or continuing education rate is 97%. The scholarship boost is an exciting opportunity for LSSC, utility personnel across the state and cooperative members.

Reserve your plate today by purchasing a pre-sale voucher. Purchase avenues vary from county to county. Contact your local county tax collector’s office for guidance or visit https://myfloridaspecialtyplate.com/lineman-order.html, where you can pay for the pre-sale voucher and process your order online. Learn more at www.thankalineworker.com.

The actual “Thank a Lineman” license plates will be available once the pre-sale threshold is met.

Read the full April 2021 SECO News online.

Energy Insider – 1st Quarter 2021

Welcome to the end of Q1 2021! Needless to say, 2020 created some interesting challenges in how we conduct business. Companies found creative ways to cut overhead and do more with less due to the unparalleled consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the Inauguration in January, the direction of the country has drastically changed. The conversations about sustainable energy, in addition to the new and invigorated attention to electric vehicles (EVs), is reaching an all-time high with businesses and individuals alike.

As businesses explore EVs as a possibility for their fleet, some very interesting information has come to light and many businesses are deciding to join the EV movement. With this change, several cost savings come to fruition immediately. As an example, with a fleet of EVs, the extremely costly fleet fueling contracts become nonexistent. If you do not have the fleet fueling contracts, the unproductive man hours associated with sitting at a fuel island waiting to be fueled becomes a thing of the past. The scheduled maintenance of normal combustion engine vehicles ceases to exist, equating to more cost savings in labor, petroleum products, and downtime for the vehicle.

“Range Fear” is always an EV topic of concern for businesses and individuals. However, improvement in technology and batteries make range fear a rapidly diminishing concern. Many EVs can travel 200-300 miles on a single charge, making EVs a much more conducive option for businesses. Many batteries today have a multi-year and up to 100,000-mile warranty, helping to ease the fear of the reliability of electric vehicles.

When we discuss sustainable energy, reducing the carbon footprint is always at the heart of the matter. Many big businesses have pledged to reduce their carbon footprint with some touting to be mostly green energy fueled much sooner than later. Part of their plan is dependent upon EVs. With no tailpipe emissions, an electric vehicle fleet can greatly reduce your business’ carbon footprint.

Tax credits are still available on some makes and models as well. Taking this idea into the total budget discussion, the cost of the initial purchase is lucrative when you consider total cost of the vehicle over the life of the vehicle. Operating electric vehicles can cost three to five times LESS than a conventional internal combustion engine, depending on local fuel cost and electric rates. As a bonus, some manufacturers are giving consumers a level two charger with the purchase of a new EV.

Take “charge” of your fleet, the wave of the future is now. For more information about EVs visit our
Energy Solutions website section.

BARBIE SHAW

Manager of Key Accounts & Revenue Programs
OFFICE: (352) 569-9787
CELL: (352) 303-3567
barbie.shaw@secoenergy.com

Hank Bolduc, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

HANK BOLDUC

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9789
CELL: (352) 303-3546
hank.bolduc@secoenergy.com

Ryon Meyers, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

RYON MEYERS

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9781
CELL: (352) 636-9593
ryon.meyers@secoenergy.com

Jeff Light, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

JEFF LIGHT

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9790
CELL: (352) 303-3183
jeff.light@secoenergy.com

SECO Energy Celebrates 83rd Annual Meeting Virtually

SECO Energy celebrated its “Just Business” 83rd Annual Meeting of the Membership on Thursday, March 25. Because of the continuing COVID-cautious environment and the need to limit large gatherings, the not-for-profit cooperative held the Just Business Meeting virtually.

Members tuned in via Facebook live, YouTube and live stream to watch the cooperative’s second virtual Annual Meeting. Board President and District 4 Trustee Richard Dennison called the Meeting to order and closed the voting platform at 4:30 p.m. SECO’s VP of Corporate Communications and Energy Services Kathryn Gloria led the invocation and asked the virtual audience to join her in the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. Ms. Gloria introduced the Trustees and welcomed District 9 Trustee-elect Morgan Hatfield, who began her duties at the Trustees’ Meeting on Monday, March 29. Ms. Gloria also introduced CEO Jim Duncan, Cooperative Attorney Scott Gerken and Executive Administrator to the CEO and Board Nora Brown, who served as Recording Secretary during the Meeting. Board Secretary/Treasurer and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson certified the Official Annual Meeting Notice that was mailed to all cooperative members per the terms of the Bylaws.

Mr. Dennison began his President’s Report by welcoming the virtual audience. He thanked the members who voted electronically, in person, by phone or by mail, and announced that SECO achieved a quorum by virtue of votes cast on Annual Meeting business. Mr. Dennison stated, “Florida cooperatives are required by statute to hold an Annual Meeting and must achieve a quorum to conduct official business. I am happy to announce that member voting participation has indeed helped us achieve a quorum this year. Thank you so much to all who cast a vote this year.”

Following the President’s Report, CEO Jim Duncan began his CEO Report. Mr. Duncan welcomed the virtual audience, performed the traditional military salute and first responders’ recognition. He acknowledged the Board of Trustees’ service and employees’ hard work and dedication to members.

Mr. Duncan also formally announced his plan to retire as CEO. Duncan stated, “Today is bittersweet for me. Earlier this year, I conveyed to the Board my plan to retire from SECO Energy in January 2022. That making the 83rd Annual Meeting my last as CEO. The decision to retire was a difficult and emotional one. My wife Connie and I have been married for 53 years, and we are looking forward to more vacations, scuba diving and family time with our sons and grandchildren.”

CEO Duncan’s state of the company address included an overview of his 42-year SECO career, the cooperative’s financial health, significant meter growth and reliability improvements during his tenure as CEO. Duncan stated, “Much has changed during my three decades as CEO. If you’ve been a member for decades, you may remember the days when our unflattering but true moniker ‘Sometimes Sumter’ was coined. Not only was our reliability marginal, but our rates were also some of the highest in the state. During my tenure as CEO, we dramatically improved service reliability through increased investments in our electric infrastructure and a strengthened vegetation management program.”

Cooperative Attorney Scott Gerken certified the 2021 Annual Meeting voting results. In total, 4,576 members voted on 2021 Annual Meeting business. As to the 2021 Bylaws Revision: 4,263 members voted “Yes,” 93 members voted “No,” and 220 members abstained. As to the 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes approval: 4,368 members voted “Yes,” 7 members voted “No,” and 201 members abstained. Mr. Gerken announced, “The membership clearly approves the 2021 Bylaws Revision and 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes.”

SECO Energy established a special phone number, email address and social media presence for the Virtual Annual Meeting. A panel of SECO employees interacted with members who posed questions and comments that were read and answered during the meeting by CEO Jim Duncan.

Mr. Duncan concluded the Virtual Annual Meeting by saying, “I appreciate you joining us and participating in the cooperative governance process.” He reminded members to stay tuned for the live prize drawing.

The meeting ended with the announcement of prize winners. All members who voted were entered into the random drawing for 100 prizes. Russell Rager from Tavares won the 2011 GMC Canyon 4X4 Extended Cab. A commercial member under The Stardust Collection account from Lake Panasoffkee won the golf cart that was provided at cost by The Villages Golf Cars. The four $1,000 winners are James Wilson from The Villages, Christine Hankla from The Villages, Kenneth A. Merritt from Center Hill and Leonard J. George from The Villages. Other prizes including Apple TVs, Instapots, toolsets, Amazon Fire tablets and airfryers will be shipped directly to winners. SECO will arrange for delivery of grand prizes. View the complete list of prize winners.

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates. If you missed the virtual meeting, visit SECOEnergy.com>Your Co-op>Annual Meeting to view the video.

February 2021 Sunshine State Stats

Central Florida weather in February 2021 included some of the lowest and highest temperatures of the 2020 – 2021 winter season. Residents donned heavy winter coats in the beginning of the month and flip-flops by month’s end. High temperatures reached 80 degrees or above 13 days in the month with low daily temperatures in the 30s and 40s. Members may notice an increase in their February electric usage due to heating and cooling needs during the month.

For February 2021 the average temperature was a comfortable 66 degrees, which is the same average temperature in February 2020. The highest recorded temperature was 87 degrees and the lowest recorded was 36 degrees. The average high temperature was 76 degrees, and the average low temperature was 55.

Average rainfall in February is just under 3 inches. February 2021 rainfall was higher than average at 3.2 inches for the month. In February 2020, rainfall measured lower at 2.1 inches.

Again, members may see an increase in their energy usage for February 2021. Daily temperature fluctuations mean members used their HVACs to cool their homes during the day and for heat after the sun went down. The highest daily temperature fluctuation was 30 degrees.

March forecast:

The March 2021 forecast boasts beautiful Florida spring weather with high temperatures in the upper 70s to mid 80s and low temperatures in the upper 50s to mid 60s. Expect mostly sunny days with the best chance for rain early in the month.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts the average temperature for March will be 69 degrees, which is 2 degrees above average. Rainfall is expected to be slightly below average.

To check historical usage, log into SmartHub to view past bills and consumption charts. If your usage is high, SECO offers several energy-efficiency tools to help you identify energy wasters. Take the Home Energy Assessment to receive a detailed email tailored to your home’s features and lifestyle. The energy-saving advice will provide low-cost ways to decrease your usage – and your electric bill.

To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator.

SECO Energy Celebrates 14 Years of Tree Line USA Recognition

SECO Energy is celebrating 14 years of being recognized as a Tree Line USA utility by the Arbor Day Foundation. Tree Line USA recognizes public and private utilities who take part in activities that protect and enhance America’s urban forests.

The Arbor Day Foundation inspires people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. There are five program standards that SECO Energy achieved to be recognized as a Tree Line USA utility. Utilities must follow industry standards for quality tree care; provide annual worker training in best tree care practices; sponsor a tree planting and education program; maintain a tree-based energy conservation program; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration.

Dan Lambe president of the Arbor Day Foundation congratulated SECO Energy on its achievement. Lambe stated, “Trees are a critical part of urban landscapes all across the United States. They provide important benefits to residents, including clean air, clean water and a tolerable climate. Service providers like SECO Energy demonstrate that it’s possible for trees and utilities to co-exist for the benefit of communities and citizens.”

Jim Duncan CEO stated, “Earning the Tree Line USA designation for 14 years is a one-of-a-kind achievement for SECO Energy. Trees play a significant role in our members’ focus on energy efficiency. Planting the right tree in the right place can help SECO members reduce their yearly energy costs. Our participation in the Tree Line USA program helps us raise awareness with members and be good environmental stewards as well.”

SECO Energy Vice President of Reliability and Operations John LaSelva is pleased by the Tree Line USA recognition. LaSelva stated, “I am honored and humbled that SECO Energy continues to achieve the Tree Line USA designation. Our Vegetation Management team works to increase service reliability by overseeing tree care near our power lines. Trees that pose a danger to power lines are removed while healthy trees are allowed to flourish in urban landscapes. Congratulations to the Vegetation Management team for their hard work in earning this recognition for the 14th straight year.”

To learn more about how trees can reduce yearly energy costs, visit our Right Tree, Right Place page. The not-for-profit cooperative has also developed online energy efficiency tools to help members reduce energy use and costs. The Home Energy Assessment is an online energy audit tailored to the member’s home and lifestyle. Members input their home’s details and submit their email address to receive no-cost and low-cost tips to increase energy efficiency. The Energy Estimator calculates the cost of common household electronics found in most homes. Members who submit their data receive energy-efficiency suggestions and more ways to save.

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates. Visit our About SECO page to learn more about the Central Florida not-for-profit electric cooperative.

Florida Fauna & Flora – Cane Toad

Cane toads are native species from South America to southern Texas. The toads were introduced to Florida and have flourished as an invasive species. Also called a bufo, giant or marine toad, its body is reddish brown, dark brown, or gray. Some are uniform in color or could have darker markings.

Cane toads do not have ridges across their heads as seen on native southern toads. Cane toads are also much larger than native southern toads. They grow as large as nine inches, while southern toads grow to four inches.

Toads and frogs are often praised for their effective pest control abilities, but cane toads can be toxic or deadly to pets. They have enlarged glands behind their eyes which secrete bufotoxin as a form of defense against predators. Cane toad tadpoles are also poisonous if ingested.

Do not handle these toads without gloves and eye protection. Call ASPCA Pet Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has come in contact with a cane toad or tadpole.

Fun Fauna Fact: Cane toads were brought to Florida to control pests in sugar can crops in the 1930s and 40s. Escaped toads and the pet trade in the 50s and 60s are likely responsible for today’s large population.

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Read the full March 2021 SECO News online.

SECO News, March 2021

Duncan’s Digest – Retirement Announcement and 2021 “Just Business” Annual Meeting

Dear Members,

After 42 years at SECO Energy, I have formally announced my plan to retire as CEO in January 2022. I began my career with SECO in 1979 as the Director of Accounting and Finance. At that time, the cooperative was known as Sumter Electric Cooperative, and the meter count was just 37,000.

Growth in Central Florida took off, and when I was promoted to CEO in 1990, the meter count had almost doubled to 66,000 homes and businesses. We reached the 100,000-meter count milestone in 1999 and the 200,000-meter count milestone in 2017.

Without question, much has changed over my three decades as CEO. We have dramatically improved members’ service reliability through increased investments in our electric infrastructure and a strengthened vegetation management program. At the end of 2020, our meter count reached 216,477. Our total investment in our electric facilities is approaching the $1 billion mark at $955.6 million.

We’ve celebrated customer satisfaction wins in recent years, too. Some of my proudest moments as CEO came when SECO Energy won coveted J.D. Power awards in 2015, 2016 and 2017 when our satisfaction scores topped all utilities in the nation. In 2020, we upheld our position as an American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) frontrunner in Florida and nationally with a score of 91.

Most important, I am honored to work with the best employees in the energy industry. SECO employees are world-class representatives of the cooperative purpose who provide exceptional customer service to our members. When I retire, it’s the great employees of this company I will miss the most.

My wife Connie and I have been married for 53 years. We are looking forward to spending more time traveling, scuba diving and relaxing on the water. We’re excited to spend more of our free time with our two sons and three grandchildren as well. Though the timing of my retirement was an emotional and difficult decision, I know it is the right time to take the next steps to focus on fun and family.

I hope you will tune in to watch our 83rd Annual Meeting’s live virtual webcast on Thursday, March 25, at 4:30 p.m. This will be my final address to the membership. The Meeting this year is a no-frills, virtual Annual Business Meeting that is themed “Just Business.” In our continued COVID-cautious environment, we encourage you to watch our virtual webcast from the comfort and safety of your home. The link to the live webcast will be posted on our homepage, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Though we are not hosting the big onsite party, we have 100 Annual Meeting prizes up for grabs. Members who vote on Annual Meeting business (a Bylaws Revision and last year’s minutes) are eligible to win a prize. The grand prizes are a 2011 refurbished GMC Canyon 4×4 extended cab truck, a golf cart and four $1,000 cash prizes. Other prizes include air fryers, tool sets, Ring doorbells, NEST thermostats, SECO bill credits and more. All members who vote on the Bylaws Revision and the 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes are eligible to win. Learn more about Annual Meeting voting and review the list of prizes on pages four and five.

I know the next ten months will fly by quickly, and I want to emphasize how thankful I am for the privilege of working for this great organization for 42 years.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Ripe, refreshing summer fruits and vegetables are planted in spring gardens. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, Florida falls in Area 1 based on the potential frost and cold period. There is still plenty of time to get seeds in the ground. Plant beans, sweet corn, muskmelons, squashes and watermelons beginning March 15. Be sure to plant cucumbers, eggplant, leeks and sweet potatoes by mid-April. If you like okra, wait until April 15 to plant. Above-ground crops should be planted March 21 – 23 or April 18 – 19. The best days for planting below-ground crops are March 3 – 4 and 30 – 31 and April 8 – 9.

Florida Special Needs Registry

The Florida Division of Emergency Management has developed the Florida Special Needs Registry. Before Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, if you or a family member has a special need, add your name to the registry.

The Florida Special Needs Registry allows residents with special needs to subscribe to their county’s emergency management agency to receive assistance and alerts during a disaster. The statewide registry provides first responders with valuable information to prepare for disasters or other emergencies.

The Special Needs Registry may help save your life. Visit the Florida Disaster website or snr.FLhealthresponse.com to locate your county and register.

If someone in your home depends on life-sustaining medical equipment that operates on electricity, make arrangements in advance for an emergency alternative power source. If you are considering installing a generator, go to our Safety page to view our video on generators.

EV Charger Winner

Fred Zesewitz from Eustis is the February winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

“Just Business” 2020 Virtual Annual Meeting

Tune in virtually for SECO Energy’s 2021 Annual “Just Business” Meeting on Thursday, March 25. The Annual Business Meeting online webcast begins at 4:30 p.m. To access, click on the 2021 Virtual Annual Just Business Meeting banner at SECOEnergy.com. Links to the webcast will also be published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Given the continuing COVID-cautious environment, we do not encourage in-person attendance and are unable to accommodate food service, shuttle service, onsite prize distribution and other activities of previous years. The good news is that members do not have to attend the meeting to vote and be entered in the prize drawing.

Ways to Vote

To vote electronically, visit our homepage and click on the VOTE banner. You can also text “VOTE” to (352) 320-2200 and follow the link provided.

To vote by mail, complete the ballot included in the Official Annual Meeting Notice enclosed in your February or March billing statement. Enclose with your electric bill payment or mail completed ballot to: SECO Energy, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585 by Tuesday, March 23 at 5:00 p.m.

To vote by phone, reach out to Member Services at (352) 793-3801 during regular business hours and an agent will assist you in casting your vote.

To vote in person, visit one of our five Member Service Centers to view a paper copy of the Bylaws Revision and last year’s minutes. We’ll help you cast your vote when you’re ready.

View the full list of 100 Annual Meeting prizes up for grabs. All members who vote on 2021 Annual Meeting business are eligible to win.

Go Green and Win

Go Green in 2021 to be eligible to win a prize. Help SECO reduce billing and paper costs and you could win a $200 bill credit, a NEST thermostat or an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa. We’ll draw three winners each month whose account meets the three account eligibility criteria:

. registered through SmartHub

. opted out of paper billing statements

. enrolled in automatic bank draft

If you have more than one account that meets the three criteria, each account is eligible to be drawn as a winner.

You can enroll in bank draft and select paperless billing through SmartHub. Members who aren’t as tech savvy or do not have a smartphone or tablet can reach out to Member Services by phone for enrollment assistance.

We’ll choose three winners each month through 2021. GOOD LUCK!

Winners’ Circle

JANUARY’S WINNERS ARE:

Alma Cook from Lake Panasoffkee

Ron Lyle from Ocala

Raymond Clark from Deland

Susan Scarano from Floral City

Congratulations to our three February winners in our Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft member incentive.

Linda Lauletta from Mascotte is the winner of a $200 SECO Energy bill credit.

Jerry Johnson from Ocala is the winner of a NEST thermostat.

Nancy Marty from Leesburg is the winner of an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

Read Winners’ Circle next month for more winners. Congratulations, winners!

Scholarship Reminder

Attention high school seniors interested in a career in the energy industry, SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees has approved $36,000 in scholarship funds for 12 awardees to receive $3,000 each. Completed applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 26.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

• reside in a home served by SECO Energy

• interested in a career in the energy industry

• graduating in the current school year (2021)

• enrolled full-time in an accredited Florida college, university, vocational/technical school by the end of 2021

• pursuing a degree or certification in technology, engineering, math or business

An independent panel of educators from SECO’s service area evaluates all applications and selects each year’s winners. Print an application by visiting our Scholarships page or pick one up from a school guidance counselor.

Read the full March 2021 SECO News online.

SECO Energy Trustee Scott Boyatt Maintains Director Gold Credential

SECO Energy congratulates District 1 Trustee Scott Boyatt on maintaining his Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). Mr. Boyatt first earned his DGC in January 2019.

According to the NRECA, the DGC recognizes directors/trustees who desire a tangible credential that demonstrates their ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duty to the best of their ability. The DGC offers a continuing education path for directors/trustees beyond the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC).

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees consists of members who live in SECO’s service area. They are elected to oversee the governance of the cooperative. Each Trustee on the Board is elected by the members who reside in his/her District. Collectively, the Trustees are responsible for establishing, reviewing and revising corporate policies to ensure that SECO continues to preserve reliable, affordable service for all members.

Trustee Boyatt lives in Clermont and has been a SECO member since 2004. Mr. Boyatt was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 2013.

Trustee Boyatt stated, “I am proud to continue my Board education through the NRECA. As the District 1 Trustee, the Board education classes are an essential component of my Board service. I am grateful for the trust District 1 members have placed in me to represent them on SECO’s Board of Trustees. I look forward to SECO Energy’s continued success.”

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Congratulations, Trustee Boyatt, on maintaining your Director Gold Credential and completing the NRECA’s director/trustee continuing education courses. I am thankful for your Board service and willingness to serve as your District’s representative on the SECO Energy Board.”

To view a brief bio of SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees and a District boundaries map, visit our Board of Trustees page. “Like” SECO on Facebook and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Energy Trustee Richard Dennison Maintains Director Gold Credential

SECO Energy congratulates its Board of Trustees President and District 4 Trustee Richard Dennison on maintaining his Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). Mr. Dennison first earned his DGC in May 2018.

Trustee Dennison currently serves in an officer position as President of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Dennison lives in Ocala and has been a SECO member since 1999. Mr. Dennison was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 2015.

Trustee Dennison stated, “I am honored to serve as SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees President and District 4 Trustee. The continuing education program through the NRECA helps me to build upon my experience as a Trustee. SECO Energy is a world-class leader in customer satisfaction, and I am proud to be a part of its success.”

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Congratulations, Trustee Dennison, on maintaining your Director Gold Credential and completing the NRECA’s director/trustee continuing education courses. I am thankful for your Board service and willingness to serve as your District’s representative and President of the SECO Energy Board.”

SECO Energy Contractors Aid Texas Power Restoration

SECO Energy contractors were released on Sunday, February 14, to join the massive power restoration effort in Texas. Over 4 million Texans are without power following deadly ice storms.

SECO Energy released five Pike Electric crews and three Nelson Tree crew modules to assist with the restoration effort. Both contractor crews left SECO on Monday, February 15. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a Winter Storm Warning continues for the majority of Texas. The warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Tuesday, February 16, through 6 a.m. Thursday, February 18. Heavy rains and two to six inches of snow are expected. Ice accumulations of .10 to .25 inches are expected as well.

A federal emergency was declared on Sunday, February 14, for the entire state of Texas. The state is under a Winter Storm Warning that includes snow, ice and extremely low temperatures. Residents are being warned to limit travel during the ice storm.

Jim Duncan CEO stated, “We are happy to release crews from Pike Electric and Nelson Tree modules so they can travel to Texas to aid in power restoration. I wish them a safe journey and a safe and successful power restoration effort as they work through the snow and ice. We appreciate the crews’ willingness to leave their homes and families to assist others.”

“Like” SECO on Facebook and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

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