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Author: Amanda Richardson

SECO Energy Board of Trustees Elects 2018 Officers

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees elected its 2018 officers during the regularly scheduled Trustees’ Meeting on Monday, April 23. The Board voted District 9 Trustee Jerry Hatfield as President; District 4 Trustee Richard Dennison as Vice President; and District 8 Trustee Bill James as Secretary-Treasurer.

 

SECO Energy Board of Trustees Elects 2018 Officers

 

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO Energy is operated for and owned by the members it serves. SECO members elect their fellow members to SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees. Collectively, the Board represents the SECO membership, meeting monthly to monitor the financial status of the cooperative while providing fiduciary oversight and participating in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the members at large.

 

Board Elected Officers 2018

 

Newly elected President Hatfield is a long-time Lake County resident, and became a SECO member in 1971. Hatfield has represented District 9 members on SECO’s Board of Trustees since first being elected in 2000. Mr. Hatfield was re-elected as District 9 Trustee in February 2018, and most recently served as Vice President.

 

District 4 Trustee Dennison elected as Vice President has been a member since 1999, and was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 2015 when a former Trustee stepped down. Dennison was re-elected as District 4 Trustee in February 2017.

 

A SECO member since 2002, Secretary-Treasurer James resides in Leesburg, and was first elected as the District 8 Trustee serving on SECO Energy’s Board in 2010. James was re-elected District 8 Trustee in February this year.

 

Hatfield stated, “I would like to thank my fellow Board members on my election as President. Serving SECO members as a Board of Trustee is a distinct honor, and I appreciate the trust my fellow members have placed in me and my peers to govern our Cooperative. I eagerly assume the duties of President and look forward to continuing my Board service.”

 

Visit our Board of Trustees page for photos and brief bios of the Trustees along with an interactive District map. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Energy Donates Bucket Truck to Lake-Sumter State College

SECO Energy is a Central Florida not-for-profit cooperative that is one of the top ten employers in Sumter County, offering competitive wages, generous benefits, a defined-benefit pension and a robust paid-time-off program. As a co-op, SECO Energy is also focused on community involvement and partnerships.

 

“Over a decade ago, SECO Energy recognized a private/public partnership potential with Lake-Sumter State College to train an important part of our workforce. SECO helped finance the inception of the college’s electric utility lineworker program, from which a number of our employees graduated,” said Jim Duncan, CEO.

 

The donation effort was led by SECO’s Manager of Safety & Risk Management Steve Balius. As the Chairman for Lake-Sumter State College’s (LSSC) Engineering Technology Advisory Committee and committee member for the Electrical Distribution Technology program, Balius knew the college’s aging bucket truck wouldn’t continue to prepare students for the world-of-work much longer. When he learned SECO was retiring a bucket truck from its fleet, he went to work connecting the dots. Balius is excited for the donation opportunity and stated, “I am thankful for the generosity of SECO’s Board of Trustees in approving the donation.”

 

Duncan stated, “Today, it is our pleasure to contribute again to the Lake-Sumter State College’s program by donating this bucket truck. It will provide hands-on, real-life experience to students earning their Associates of Science in Electrical Distribution Technology. This program helps SECO too. Line techs who have been with the company for 30 plus years are starting to retire. We want to replace them with local students who want to stay in the area, work for a competitive growing company and raise their families here. For that reason, we felt that breathing new life into our partnership with Lake-Sumter State College with the truck donation was a sound investment.”

 

“We are excited to receive this bucket truck donation from SECO,” said LSSC President Dr. Stan Sidor. “SECO is a strong local partner and this partnership allows us to enhance our EDT program’s ability to train and prepare our students and ultimately support the workforce and our community.”

 

Learn more about SECO Energy and its Concern for Community on our Community page. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Serves As Starting Leg of Special Olympics Run

On Wednesday morning, SECO Energy’s employees eagerly cheered for the participants of the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. Sumter County’s leg of the Torch Run started at SECO Energy’s headquarters located at SR 470 and Highway 301 for the third consecutive year.

 

For decades, more than 300 different Florida law enforcement agencies carried the “Flame of Hope” torch on a 1,500-mile relay through all 67 counties in Florida. The state’s “Final Leg” of the Torch Run opens the State of Florida’s Special Olympics Summer Games to over 44,400 athletes on Friday, May 18 at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista.

 

Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Coordinator, Beth Hunt stated, “The Sheriff’s Office has participated in the Sumter County leg of the Special Olympics for over twenty years including Tip A Cops and Torch Runs. The support from the Sheriff’s Office and the community helps provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This gives them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness and demonstrate courage. I would like to thank SECO for helping us make The Torch Run a success.”

 

Various branches of law enforcement officers throughout the county jumped on bicycles to trek 11 miles from SECO to SCARC Inc., a group home in Bushnell for the disabled.

 

SECO’s Vice President of Corporate Services & Human Resources Gregg Morrell stated, “Hosting the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics this year is an honor for SECO Energy, its Board of Trustees and our employees. The Torch Run is a unique opportunity to support two organizations; our local Sumter County Sheriff’s Office and Special Olympics. Now more than ever before, communities must band together to bolster the men and women in uniform who keep us safe.”

 

Morrell added, “Special Olympics is a unique organization that offers people with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to compete in Olympic-type sporting events regardless of their personal limitations. Special Olympics brings its special athletes and their communities together through sports activities.”

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Visit SECO’s Community page to learn more about its community outreach programs. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Buys FFA and 4-H Pigs at Lake County Fair

On Saturday, April 17, Jerry Hatfield, District 9 Board of Trustee and Kathy Judkins, Deputy Director for Civic, Charitable & Government Affairs, purchased four pigs on behalf of the not-for-profit electric cooperative at the Lake County Fair.

 

Hundreds of Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H students throughout Lake County enthusiastically participate in the fair’s animal shows. The students’ journey to raising an animal for these shows requires budgeting decisions, dietary needs, pre-show preparation and a host of other management skills. The day of the shows, students must dress professionally and demonstrate they can manage their animal during the showing process for potential buyers. The skills earned through this tedious but rewarding process prepares these students for successful careers as adults.

 

As buyers representing SECO, Hatfield and Judkins purchased a pig from G.R.I.T.S. 4-H Club weighing in at 278-pounds. SECO also purchased from Morgan Allen who showed a 282-pound pig for the Okahumpka 4-H Club. A third pig was purchased from Makenzie Dunn of Lake County Explorers 4-H Club. Her pig weighed in at 273 pounds. Makenzie is a sixth grader at The Villages Charter Schools. The fourth pig purchase of the evening was from the Altoona Eagles 4-H Club and shown by Shelby Modisette, a fifth grader at Altoona Eagle Elementary School. This is Modisette’s first year showing a pig. Her pig, named Little Man, weighed in at 260 pounds.

 

Hatfield stated, “Attending the fair on Saturday brought back fond memories of when I was a principal with Lake County Schools. I’m so proud I can continue to support these fine students as a Trustee on the SECO Energy Board. I know first-hand the positive difference FFA and 4-H organizations make on students’ personal development, management and leadership skills. The showing event is just a glimpse of the work these students really put into the success of their animal project.”

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “SECO continues to be a proud supporter of the youth 4-H and FFA educational programs in the counties we serve. Remaining attentive to one of our seven cooperative principles – Concern for Community – we will continue to seek opportunities to support educational projects that prepare students to join the workforce. In addition to this year’s livestock program support, in May SECO will award twelve $3,000 scholarships to high school seniors enrolling in a Florida institute of higher learning. Academic achievement, financial need and other factors are considered by the judges, but participation in 4-H or FFA gives students added points. Although the deadline to apply for 2018 was March 30, I encourage students to visit our website and look for next year’s opportunity to apply.”

 

Visit our Community page online to learn more about SECO’s community outreach programs. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Buys Citrus County Student’s Steer

Last night, Ben Brickhouse, SECO Energy’s VP of Engineering, purchased a steer on behalf of the not-for-profit electric cooperative at the Citrus County Association’s Youth Fair at the Citrus County Fairground.

 

Each year, hundreds of FFA and 4-H students are issued a comprehensive record book that involves logging the process and growth development of their animal. The record books are judged on a complete financial summary, the animal’s health record, writing prompts, letters to bidders/buyers, as well as neatness, accuracy and evidence of their work with the animal. Citrus County Ag Educational Chairman Kandi McPherson stated in a recent publication, “The Citrus County Fair believes in the value of youth exhibitor participation in all educational opportunities offered through their animal project.” By the end of the process, the students should have an understanding of the animal industry, marketing and communication skills.

 

Brickhouse stated, “I enjoy attending the youth fair because I know the preparation and sense of accomplishment builds character, develops integrity and forms work ethic which prepares students for our future workforce.” As a buyer representing SECO, Brickhouse purchased a steer from Anna Grace Budd, who showed a steer for Ease’s Rough Rider 4-H Club. The steer weighed in at 1,175 pounds.

 

Anna, an Inverness Middle School sixth grader, stated that raising her steer was more work than she ever imagined. She also said that going into the show ring for the first time made her more nervous than anything she’s ever done, but the experience was one of the most exciting she’s ever had. Anna’s father reported that this was her first year showing a steer. 

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “SECO continues to be a proud supporter of the youth 4-H and FFA educational programs in the counties we serve. Remaining attentive to one of our seven cooperative principles – Concern for Community – we will continue to seek opportunities to support educational projects that prepare students to join the workforce. In addition to this year’s livestock program support, in May SECO will award twelve $3,000 scholarships to high school seniors enrolling in a Florida institute of higher learning. Academic achievement, financial need and other factors are considered by the judges, but participation in 4-H or FFA gives students added points. Although the deadline to apply for 2018 was March 30, I encourage students to visit our website and look for next year’s opportunity to apply.”

 

Learn more about SECO’s community outreach programs online. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Sunshine State Stats, March 2018

March 2018 was slightly cooler on average than March 2017. The average temperature was 65°, while March of 2017 had an average temperature of 67°. Rainfall for March of 2018 was 2.03 inches compared to last March at 0.80 inches.

 

Sunshine State Stats March 2018 detail

 

There were 84 cooling degree days and 67 heating degree days for March 2018, while last year there were 135 cooling degree days with 61 heating degree days. The Degree Days are based on how much warmer or cooler the average temperature at a particular location is than 65°F. In other words, if the average temperature is 60° degrees outside on a particular day, there are 5 Heating Degree Days for that day in that location.

 

April 2018 is forecast to be somewhat the same as last year with average temperatures in the 80s and 90s. Rainfall is forecast to be heavier than normal compared to 2017. The hot and humid summers are around the corner, so keep in mind that every degree above 78 degrees will save you 6%-8% on your cooling costs.  Per ENERGY STAR, you can save up to $180 annually by using a programmable thermostat.

 

If you want to check historical usage, log into SmartHub to view past bills and 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. If you want a member of our Energy Services team to come to your home to perform a free energy audit, contact us today to book an appointment.

Energy Insider – 1st Quarter

SECO Insider Derby Gold First Quarter 2018

 

Premium Flakes

 

SECO member Derby Gold Pine Shavings, located in rural Williston, is Florida’s longest operating shavings and packing facility. Founded by the Hodge brothers Eddie, Johnny and Billy, Derby Gold was established in 1999 and opened their Central Florida mill in 2000. Derby Gold manufactures and ships the finest equine bedding in the industry. The family has more than 30 years of experience in the timber and forest industries in Florida.

 

Derby Gold shavings and pellets are all 100% pure premium pine harvested from plantations in Florida, managed by Williston Timber Company; another Hodge family business to assure the best in quality pine. The timber is shaved into soft curls and goes into a triple-pass kiln dryer which removes the moisture to 12%. This process eliminates harmful bacteria while maintaining a soft and absorbent bedding material.

 

The next phase in the multi-screen manufacturing process sorts the flakes by size for the three blends of flakes and pellets. This process renders the product almost dust free. All dust and excess material is sent back to fire the kiln assuring no product is wasted. The loose flakes are compressed from 11 cubic feet into a 2.8 cubic feet UVI-treated poly 100% recyclable bag. The bagged product weighs about 20 pounds and when opened expands to approximately 80 cubic feet.

 

Derby Gold produces Derby Gold Premium Flakes, Derby Gold Blended Bedding and Derby Gold Fine Bedding. All are 100% biodegradable, ultra-absorbent, hygienic with low dust. Derby Gold offers the best equine bedding on the market today with the strictest quality control methods available. This is why Derby Gold bedding is used by the University Of Florida College Of Veterinary Medicine.

 

Derby owner Eddie Hodge believes “that if you’re not growing you’re dying.” His goal is to maintain a complete product inventory at the mill, available for rapid delivery, in bulk and by the bag, to points in Central Florida and around the globe. Learn more at Derby Gold Shavings or 1-877-528-9044 (toll-free).

 

 

Robbins SECO Insider First Quarter 2018

 

Member Spotlight: Robbins Manufacturing

 

Robbins Manufacturing was formed in 1938 by Bruce Robbins, Sr. in Tampa. The company began operations initially as a lumber sawmill for export and use around the Tampa Bay area.

 

“Interestingly, Florida Southern Pine wood was at the time known for ‘groaning’ before it broke. This made the wood extremely popular with the diamond mining industry in Africa,” states Jay Robbins, grandson of the founder. “This feature opened up a new export market overseas for the company, allowing us to grow as a supplier of lumber for the mining and industrial sectors.” The “groaning” wood provided a much-needed warning system for those working in the mines.

 

Besides the mining and industrial market, back in the early days, Robbins Manufacturing supplied lumber to three US Military Bases in the Tampa Bay area during World War II. In the 1950s, Robbins began pressure-treating lumber for use in the Central Florida building industry suppling pressure-treated dimensional lumber and other building products for construction. The company expanded to many locations throughout the Southeast during this period.

 

The current consolidated company, served by SECO Energy, is now located in Tarrytown, Florida. This Sumter County sawmill opened in 1964. Past production at this location included dimensional building lumber and picket boards for privacy fences. Posts and poles were also produced and shipped to Tampa for treatment.

 

In 2012, Robbins Manufacturing commissioned a new chromated copper arsenate (CCA) treatment process at the Tarrytown plant. CCA is an impregnation treatment meant to protect the wood from biological deterioration from insects, fungus, soil and/or water. This new process was more economical than shipping lumber to Tampa for treatment.

 

Currently Robbins’ focus is marine, agriculture and industrial applications. They produce posts, pilings and utility poles. Robbins’ sell and distribute marine-treated piling and pressure-treated dimensional lumber, pressure-treated fence posts for the ag industry and poles for the electric utility industry. Their products are available throughout Florida, along the East Coast into Virginia and Ohio. Learn more online.

 

 

SECO Insider Time-of-Use First Quarter 2018

 

SECO Energy’s Time-of-Use and Interruptible Rate options

 

Have you given thought to peak shaving/demand management?

 

Are you in need of backup power for production when utility power is not available?

 

If you answered yes to either of these questions you may want to consider distributed generation (DG) at your facility.
Distributed generation is any electricity generating technology, such as generator, installed to power your facilities. DG gives commercial and industrial members the advantage of flexibility, the power of security and for some, it can equate to savings.

 

With most utilities, commercial and industrial (C & I) members are billed kilowatt-hour usage and kW demand each month. The demand component of the bill is based on the single-highest amount of electricity used in a 15-minute interval during the billing period. This is known as peak demand. One advantage of having distributed generation installed at your facility is being able to operate it for shaving load during peak demand periods. This flexibility can provide an opportunity to lower costs without impacting productivity. Savings achieved varies depending on the amount of peak shaving, your utility’s rate tariff and the cost to engage your distributed generation.

 

Although utility grids are very reliable, occasionally there are disruptions and instability because of bad weather or other factors beyond your utility’s control. Due to distances involved in conventional power grids, an issue in one area can completely shut down operations in another. Having distributed generation at your location provides the power of security allowing continued operations when there are problems elsewhere and despite world or weather related occurrences.

 

So if you’re in the market for 100% reliability at your facility and possible savings, distributed generation may be an option to consider. To learn how your business can benefit, contact your account representative. To view SECO Energy’s time-of-use or interruptible rate options, take a look at our Index of Rate Schedules.

 

 

 

BARBIE SHAW

Manager of Key Accounts & Energy Services
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

J.D. Simmons, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

J.D. SIMMONS

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

 

 

SECO Energy Hosts Record-breaking Crowd at 80th Annual Meeting

SECO Energy welcomed a record-breaking crowd to its 80th Annual Meeting of the Membership on Saturday, March 24. Attendance reached into the thousands as members, employees and VIP guests were treated to breakfast, live entertainment, gifts and more. Members voted overwhelmingly in favor of SECO’s Board-recommended Bylaws revision.

 

Over 6,700 registered members, guests, vendors, first responders, employees and VIPs attended, an increase of almost 1,000 guests from last year. Parking nearly reached capacity at just under 3,000 vehicles. A new exit plan and the addition of overflow parking with motor coach service to/from SECO’s headquarters parking area allowed SECO members and guests to exit the event in just 48 minutes.

 

Daryl Lanker, president of Dixie Lime & Stone and Bedrock Resources, which are two of SECO’s large-load accounts, arrived via helicopter after flying over the Annual Meeting space and graciously taking aerial photos of the crowd. Attendees were served an abundance of food and drinks including 8,250 breakfast biscuits served by Mojo Grill & Catering out of Ocala. Members and guests snacked on 22,000 oatmeal raisin and chocolate chip cookies and 15,600 Krispy Kreme doughnuts. During the chilly morning, attendees sipped down 5,300 cups of coffee. As temps warmed, 4,344 cans of soda and 6,294 bottles of water were consumed.

 

All registered members received a copy of SECO’s 2017 Annual Report, a thermal zip-up picnic blanket and an LED provided by SECO’s wholesale power provider Seminole Electric Cooperative. Three grand prizes included $1,500 in cash, a 2009 Chevy Colorado and a 2015 Club Car Precedent electric golf cart provided by Ocala Golf Cart at a significant discount. Additional door prizes included iPads, Nest thermostats, gift cards, Apple TV devices, various upscale electronics, two $500 cash prizes and a $1,000 cash prize.

 

Grand prize winner Darrell Clark of Leesburg won the 2009 Chevy Colorado; The Villages’ Laura Pfafman won the electric golf cart and Richard McHie took home the $1,500 cash prize. Bushnell’s Marcia Sanborn won the $1,000 cash prize. Marlene Garner from Leesburg and Ramindarjit Walia from The Villages both won $500. Steven Underwood from Ocala won the drawing for the $300 bill credit for posting a photo on SECO’s Facebook page during the Annual Meeting. Umatilla’s Barbara Nichols won the $300 bill credit drawing for her online RSVP and attendance. Cindy DesVoignes from Webster was the winner of the patriotic picnic set drawing from hundreds who pledged support of COPA (Co-op Owners for Political Action).

 

President & District 5 Trustee Ray Vick called the business meeting to order before delivering his annual President’s Report. Vick detailed 2017’s Board-approved Capital Credits retirement of $5.4 million and asked members to consider rounding-up their bills to donate the extra change to SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program. Vick stated, “Imagine how much good we could do for our members in need if each and every one of our 201,000 members joined Pennies from Heaven.” The average round up is about $6 annually, but collectively the pennies donated make a difference in the lives of many SECO members.

 

CEO Jim Duncan took the stage to provide a Cooperative update. Duncan shared SECO’s 2017 successes including a third J.D. Power award for highest in customer satisfaction among cooperatives, an American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) score of 88, a “Best of the Best” award from the Ocala Star Banner’s Readers’ Choice Awards, a Marion County United Way Outstanding Partner and the 2017 Large Business of the Year in Sumter County.

 

Duncan addressed the crowd stating, “We are proud of these awards and aren’t shy showing them off because the rankings come from you – our members. Since 1938, SECO’s roots have been firmly planted in Central Florida. Those roots, along with our employees’ dedication to member satisfaction and hard work, are the cooperative difference.”

 

Before inviting corporate attorney Lewis Stone to the podium to facilitate the Bylaws revision vote, Duncan summarized the revision reasons. Stone lead the vote and answered members’ questions. Members passed the Bylaws revision with little to no opposition.

 

Members unable to attend Saturday’s Annual Meeting can view video from the event on SECOEnergy.com, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube next week. Members who want to join the Pennies from Heaven program can enroll online.

 

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

SECO News, April 2018

Duncan’s Digest

2017 Annual Report

Dear SECO Energy Members,

In this edition of Duncan’s Digest, I want to bring your attention to our newly released 2017 Annual Report which details the cooperative’s strong fiscal performance. Members who attended our March 24 Annual Meeting received a hard copy. It’s also available at SECOEnergy.com>Newsroom>Annual Report. Read it and then click over to Facebook to play Annual Report Trivia for a chance to win a $300 bill credit.

 

Duncan's Digest 2017 Annual Report

 

Find the answers to the trivia questions in the pages of the Annual Report related to our cooperative’s history, ASCI score, J.D. Power awards, the Board of Trustees and our robust financial performance. The trivia contest runs from March 26 through May 6.

 

Annual Report 2017 Trivia QuestionsTo give you a head start, the excerpt below also appears on page 1 of the Annual Report. The first clue appears in the first paragraph. Answers to the other questions appear in other Annual Report pages.   

 

SECO Energy’s beginning was humble.  Prior to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1935 Rural Electric Act, also known as the REA, a home powered by electricity in rural Central Florida was only a dream. With low-interest loans from the REA, local farmers and ranchers formed Sumter Electric Cooperative, Inc. in 1938. A small group of original SECO employees started the utility from scratch, installing poles and stringing miles of electric line. On November 12, 1938, SECO turned on the lights to 400 rural homesteads in our service area. Before the close of 1938, additional homes in nearby areas were electrified. For these rural Floridians, quality of life changed dramatically.

 

Over the last 80 years, SECO has grown alongside the communities it serves. We’ve morphed from a small, rural utility to one of the fastest-growing cooperatives in the nation. SECO achieved a significant milestone in late 2017 when the cooperative energized its 200,000th meter. Today, SECO Energy is “200,000 Strong – 80 Years in the Making.”

 

Members without internet access can request a copy of the Annual Report and trivia questions mailed to you. Return the answers to SECO by May 6 for entry in the $300 bill credit drawing.

 

It is our privilege to serve as your energy provider. Thank you for your membership.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

HVAC Tune-up TimeHVAC Tune-up Time

 

HVAC EFFICIENCY INCREASES with a clean filter and annual service by a qualified technician. Your unit will operate more effectively and thus reduce your electric usage.   If your technician suggests you need a new unit, you are welcome to contact SECO for a free second opinion before committing to the purchase.

 

One of our certified Energy Services Specialists will visit your home to inspect your unit and provide a written assessment. Schedule an appointment today by visiting SECOEnergy.com>Contact Us. Select “Request Energy Audit” and submit your contact information. We’ll be in touch within just a few days.

 

 

Size Matters - Selecting a Generator

Safety Corner

Size Matters—Selecting a Generator

 

Thinking about installing a generator before Hurricane Season? Follow these important safety warnings:

 

  1. A qualified electrical contractor must perform the installation of an emergency generator, disconnect
    and transfer switchgear. This is not a DIY job.
  2. Only an electrician is qualified to connect a generator to an electrical panel. You could be electrocuted and also endanger our field employees.
  3. Always follow local, state and national fire and electric codes. Permits are required.
  4. Once installed, always disconnect from your metered electric utility service before starting your backup generator. 951701
  5. Never run an electric generator inside a building – even in a garage. It is a hazard and violates safety codes.
  6. Store gasoline and diesel in approved containers out of the reach of children. Never fuel the generator while it is running.
  7. Extinguish all flames and cigarettes when handling fuel.
  8. Ensure proper ventilation and airflow around the generator.
  9. Stage a fully charged, approved fire extinguisher near the generator.
  10. Use extension cords free of exposed wires and frayed shielding.
  11. Never remove or tamper with a generator’s safety devices.
  12. Do not attempt to repair a generator. A qualified technician should perform repairs and service as needed.
  13. Generator engine parts are very hot during operation. Severe burns may result. Keep children away at all times.
  14. Generators are sold by power output measured in watts. Before purchasing, discuss your home’s size/watt needs with a knowledgeable retailer.

 

Hurricane Season begins on June 1. Get ready today!

 

Read the full April SECO News online.

Nature’s Reflections – Florida’s Burrowing Owl

A pint-sized owl that’s active both day and night

 

The burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia floridana) is one of our smallest owls, standing just nine inches tall with a wingspan of 21 inches. Unlike other owls, this owl is a ground dweller, preferring open fields and prairie-type areas well away from trees. It spends most of its time on the ground foraging or guarding its burrow which is where it gets its name. Camouflaged brown plumage helps it blend into its surroundings. It has bright yellow eyes, but no ear tufts and longer legs. This raptor needs open fields and short, herbaceous ground cover, like pastures, golf courses, or agricultural fields. It can be spotted during the daytime standing erect and on guard at the mouth of its burrow or perched on a fence post. Once disturbed, the owl clucks or chatters its displeasure and bobs its head in agitation. Burrowing owls often fly in a wavy, up and down fashion as if negotiating an invisible obstacle course. It can also hover in mid-air – an effective technique used for capturing prey. Florida’s warm climate provides this owl with plenty of its favorite foods: grasshoppers, beetles, mole crickets, small rodents, earthworms, lizards, frogs, toads, snakes, etc.

 

Florida Burrowing Owl imageIn Florida, burrows are used year-round. While the owls sometimes use gopher tortoise or armadillo burrows, most pairs excavate their own, which may extend four to eight feet underground. Burrows are lined with grass clippings, animal feces and decorative pieces of shell, feathers or trash.

 

Nesting begins in the fall and peaks in the spring. Four to ten unmarked white eggs are laid over a one-week period. Three to four weeks later, hatchlings are born covered with grayish-white down and eyes closed. Chicks emerge from the burrow after two weeks. Although proficient fliers at six weeks, chicks typically do not leave their parents until about 12 weeks old.

 

Both the eggs and young are at risk to predators, snakes, opossums, raccoons and skunks. Nests may be lost or
destroyed by construction activities, malicious destruction by people, or by flooding during heavy rains. This owl is classified as “Threatened” by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission primarily due to the loss of native habitat. Burrowing owls and their eggs are protected from harassment and/or disturbance by state law and protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

 

Column & photos by Sandi Staton – sandi.staton@gmail.com

 

Read the full Nature’s Reflections article in the April 2018 SECO News online.