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Energy Insider – 1st Quarter

Autonomous Taxis Coming Soon to a Village Near You

 

Autonomous Taxis – Coming Soon to a Village Near You!

 

The future is now! Autonomous taxi company Voyage Auto has launched a pilot program in The Villages, Florida, specifically the Village of Virginia Trace. The self-driving taxi program, unveiled earlier this year, is as an added benefit for the residents in The Villages. This is simply a taxi service for folks who need to get to or from somewhere but do not have their own transportation or perhaps don’t feel comfortable driving. Ryan McCabe, Operations Manager with The Villages, states; “We believe in what Voyage Auto is trying to do. We couldn’t be happier with the idea.”

 

The thing that makes this different from other transportation services is that there isn’t a person in the driver’s seat! This vehicle is fully autonomous and a ride can be arranged using the Voyage mobile app. In the near future, Voyage will be expanding their presence in The Villages on a neighborhood-by-neighborhood basis. Virginia Trace was chosen for the pilot because of its close proximity to Lake Sumter Landing. It is likely the same criteria will be used in choosing which neighborhood is next. Mr. McCabe stated, “With golf carts and Voyage, the residents might not need a car to live here.”

 

For those concerned with this “out-of-the-box” idea, Tom Hauburger, Director of Product for Voyage, states, “The technology investment we make is centered on safety and comfort.” The Voyage team understands the highest level of safety is expected and consumer comfort is a close second.

 

Keep an eye out for upcoming “try-ride” events at a location near you. Customers will have the opportunity to experience a ride into the future. Try-ride event dates will be announced once all of the details are finalized and locations are chosen.

 

Visit Voyage for more information about this revolutionary idea!

 

 

SECO Earns Tree Line USA Distinction

 

SECO Earns Tree Line USA Distinction

 

The wind is blowing, the rain is coming down sideways and ZAP, your power is out. Power is of the utmost importance to your business. Power drives the machines, lights and most likely everything essential to your operation. The last thing you need is a power outage. However, this is Florida where storms develop quickly and in some cases are severe enough to threaten your reliability.

 

When storms happen, trees pose the greatest hazards to the electric lines serving your facility. For this reason, SECO Energy has a services agreement with tree trimming contractors and also arranges for a very large contingent of tree trimming contractors to aid with restoration activities prior to a major storm or hurricane. Our vegetation management efforts are ongoing and a very important function to ensure reliability of your electric service. As a matter of fact, for twelve consecutive years, SECO Energy has been awarded the Tree Line USA Utility distinction from the Arbor Day Foundation. We are very proud of this achievement.

 

SECO Energy’s award-winning Vegetation Management team is comprised of five professionals who manage the program. According to April Hurst, Supervisor of Vegetation Management, “SECO’s goal is to prevent tree-related outages. We plan, direct and execute activities to clear the right-of-ways for any vegetative hazard posed to the electric lines from the substation all the way to the transformer that serves member facilities.” Doing this requires a massive amount of planning, supervision and the actual execution of the plan.

 

On average SECO Energy spends about $10,000,000 per year to execute the vegetation management plan. Our program is very aggressive and our proactive approach has greatly reduced the number of tree-related outages. “Although what we do is not always esthetically pleasing or pretty, it is necessary for the health of the tree and for line clearances – healthy trees planted in the right place do not cause outages,” advises Mrs. Hurst.

 

To ensure correct methods for trimming trees, SECO Energy hires certified arborists. Crews that specialize in tree trimming perform the actual work. The correct trimming methods maintain the health of the tree and minimize the threat to the electric system. Follow up inspections are performed by SECO professionals to ensure work has been performed correctly.

 

How can you help? Take notice of trees/tree limbs in close proximity of electric distribution lines serving your facility. Even if your service is underground, at some point it feeds into an overhead line. When adding landscape, be sure and plant the right tree in the right place – where there is little likelihood the tree will ever impact electric facilities. Talk to your Key Account consultant regarding any concerns you have.

 

For more information on our vegetation management program or for clarification of what SECO will trim versus your trimming responsibilities, visit our tree trimming page. Want to meet SECO vegetation management team in person? Join us on Saturday, April 27, 2019 for Earthfest at Arbor Day event in Tuscawilla Park in Ocala!

 

 

12 Annual Earth Day Celebration Sponsored by CEMEX

 

12th Annual Earth Day Celebration

 

If you are looking for a fun family event in Sumter County this April, look no further than the 12th Annual Earth Day Celebration in Center Hill, Florida. So what is this you may ask? The event is a partnership between the Sumter County School Board and CEMEX. This FREE event features a tour of the CEMEX mine and provides insight on the importance of mining and how it’s done while protecting and conserving our natural resources.

 

The Earth Day celebration includes many local environmental agencies who share useful information on a number of topics from water conservation to preventing pollution. Represented this year will be the UF/IFAS Extension Service, National Resources Conservation Service, Phosphate Research Institute, Florida Native Plant Society, Sumter County Master Gardeners and the Florida Forestry Service. SECO Energy will also be onsite to educate attendees on electrical safety and energy conservation.

 

Food and entertainment are part of the celebration. Enjoy a Grumpy’s famous ice cream and hot dogs cooked by Ring Power Corporation. Meet the animal ambassadors from the Florida International Teaching Zoo and learn all about bats. You can even hold a baby alligator and learn how to sculpt sand. The ever-popular Kids Fossil Dig will be open for children ages three to third grade along with the opportunity to plant a tree. The Same in Lame Jazz Ambassadors and the South Sumter High School Naval National Defense Cadet Corps will open the event with the Pledge of Allegiance and the Star Spangled Banner. Chorus and band groups from South Sumter Middle School, Wildwood Middle School and Wildwood Elementary School will perform their favorite songs.

 

The 12th Annual Earth Day Event is scheduled for April 13, 2019 at the CEMEX mine located at 530 W. King Highway in Center Hill. The fun begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m.

 

 

 

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

Jeff Light, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

JEFF LIGHT

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

 

 

Energy Insider – 4th Quarter

SECO Energy 4th Quarter 2018 Insider Small Steps with Big Impact

 

Small Steps With Big Impact

 

Business challenges at your workplace include work-related injuries, chronic disease, absenteeism and sick employees who return to work before getting well. According to the Centers for Disease Control, an aging workforce also presents unique challenges such as stress, fatigue, depression – all which all contribute to declining productivity. The fact is that small changes at work can add up to big changes in productivity and for employees personally.

 

A healthy workplace starts with leadership taking the time to remind employees to take care of themselves. Starting small by implementing weekly or even daily safety huddles in a break room or on the tailgate can reap big rewards. Just 5 – 10 minutes spent talking about workplace healthy lifestyles can change attitudes. An example might be to encourage adding a few more steps during the day like walking during breaks or lunch and even taking the stairs instead of the elevator. If space permits, a designated walking path at your location could be a source of encouragement.

 

Besides coffee and conversation, give thought to implementing a morning stretch routine. Allow employees the time to perform a few basic exercises to limber up prior to beginning their work shift. Just a few minutes of stretching improves performance of physical activities and reduces the risk of injuries. Add a little music which has been shown to reduce stress and promote overall better health.

 

If your budget allows, consider hosting “Lunch and Learns” at your location by inviting area experts to share with your employees on health-related topics of interest. Your program plan could be as simple as having someone from a local health facility share tips on how to stay well during cold and flu season. Just a reminder to disinfect your phone, wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer and practice good hygiene habits can go a long way.

 

Something else you can do for your employees is to promote good food choices by providing healthy snacks such as fruit, nuts and vegetables in break room vending machines or through the addition of a micro-market.

 

For more information to help you get started visit the CDC’s Healthy Workforce Infographic.

 

 

SECO Energy Insider 4th Quarter 2018 Member Spotlight Camp Boggy Creek

 

Camp Boggy Creek

 

In the heart of SECO Energy’s service area is a unique one-of-a-kind camp beautifully spread across 232 acres east of Eustis. Camp Boggy Creek serves children ages 7-16 who have been diagnosed with chronic or life threatening illnesses. The camp provides a full-time doctor and nurse to help children and parents keep up with the medical needs of each individual camper or family.

 

Family retreat weekends for spring and winter and summer camp schedules are posted on the website and applications are now available. If you know someone who can benefit, make them aware. Camp Boggy Creek never charges the campers to attend and does not ask for them to contribute anything other than a positive attitude. Aside from all of the different fun activities that the camp provides (including horseback riding, fishing, rope climbs and drama), Camp Boggy Creek gives the opportunity for children and parents for fellowship with others whose circumstances are similar to their own. This serves as a reminder that they are not alone. They are able to form a support network with people who truly do understand their needs.

 

Founded in 1996 by Paul Newman and General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, Camp Boggy Creek began with the premise that every child, no matter their illness, could experience the transforming spirit and friendships that go hand in hand with a great camp experience.

 

To learn more about this amazing camp, visit Camp Boggy Creek online. Download applications, gain information about the camp, learn about the medical group, volunteer and donate to the programs.

 

 

4th Quarter SECO Insider Your 2019 Expansion Plan

 

Your 2019 Expansion Plan

 

Whether you’re applying for a new electrical service, service modification, upgrade or have plans for a new subdivision, contact your SECO Energy account representative as soon as possible. With Central Florida growing by leaps and bounds, this is necessary to ensure all the right people are involved in your project early on and you receive a timely response to meet your expectations for service.

 

If you’re planning to add a meter, an application for service is required and should be made well in advance of the date the service is needed. Depending on the type of service requested, any or all of the following information may be necessary:

 

  • Exact location of the property where service is needed (site plan, recorded plat, street address, lot, block number and legal description)
  • Service size (main) and voltage
  • Size of air conditioning, heating, water heating, refrigeration, and cooking when applicable
  • Type and voltage of motor loads, number of phases, horsepower
  • Street/area lighting – type and size (if lighting is to be installed behind the meter)
  • Mechanical and electrical plans (in the case of service upgrades, these must include existing and new load along with a riser diagram)
  • Utility (water, sewer, gas) plans including elevations
  • Plans for paving and drainage

 

In addition to the above, there may be other considerations such as easements and permits. A new meter set will also require a deposit equal to two times the projected average bill. Deposits are accepted in the form of cash, surety bond or irrevocable letter of credit. Depending on the size load you’re adding, a written power purchase agreement may also be necessary.

 

Contact your account representative early in the design stage so that engineering, material procurement and construction can be scheduled to meet your timeline.

 

 

 

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

Jeff Light, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

JEFF LIGHT

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

 

 

Energy Insider – 3rd Quarter

What are Capital Credits SECO Insider 3rd Quarter 2018

 

What Are Capital Credits?

 

As the last quarter of the year approaches, we in the cooperative world begin to address Capital Credits. Most members, both residential and businesses, will ask “what are capital credits?” As a not-for-profit electric utility and like most businesses, SECO Energy sets an annual budget to pay operating costs, make payments on loans and ensure a reserve for emergencies. At the end of the year, expenses are subtracted from collected revenue and the remaining balance is referred to as margins. Based on the financial strength of the cooperative and member equity, SECO’s Board of Trustees annually makes a determination to refund a portion of these margins also known as Capital Credits. These Capital Credits represent the member’s share of ownership or “member equity” in SECO Energy.

 

Through 2017, SECO Energy has returned $57.8 million in Capital Credits to our membership. These distributions, returned to the members, are expressed as general retirements and are typically paid out each November. Current members receive a credit on their electric bill and former members receive a check if the amount exceeds $10.00. Capital Credits are issued to businesses in the same manner as individuals. Therefore, it is important to notify SECO Energy if your account status changes. Having updated contact information on file, especially a valid mailing address, will ensure Capital Credits accumulated in your name continue to make their way to you in the future. Don’t be like others who have moved away and didn’t update their information resulting in unclaimed Capital Credits on our books. For a complete list of unclaimed Capital Credits accounts, both residential and commercial, visit our Unclaimed Capital Credits page.

 

 

Team Building at Blackjack Sporting Clays SECO Insider 3rd Quarter 2018

 

Team Building At Blackjack Sporting Clays

 

Team building exercises boost morale, improve communication, motivate employees to be more productive and to get to know each other better. If you think team building activities must meet strict criteria to produce benefits, then think again. Sometimes, just an offsite activity that allows your employees to interact away from the workplace is all you need. Maybe, a visit to Blackjack Sporting Clays in Sumterville is in order.

 

Blackjack Sporting Clays is a beautiful facility nestled among thousands of acres of pristine Florida landscape. Dale Walker, owner/operator, describes his venue as a “country club” for folks that want to shoot with some of the finest equipment in the business. He offers something for everyone at all levels of the shooting sport spectrum. A beautifully decorated clubhouse with TVs and a billiard table are available for non-shooters or those waiting to shoot.

 

Each course at Blackjack Sporting Clays is laid out along a paved path that meanders through “old Florida” type landscape. There are two separate 16 station courses, and an additional six station Sub-Gauge Course. Along with these courses, there is also a standard five stand range as well. The shooting stations are fully covered with drinking water and restroom facilities throughout each course. Golf cart and gun rentals are available. There is even a large pavilion with seating for 300+ available for public and private use.

 

To find out more about this “country club for folks that want to shoot,” visit Blackjack Sporting Clays online or stop by and check out their beautiful facility at 3372 County Road 526 in Sumterville, Florida.

 

 
SECO Insider NuRF 3rd Quarter 2018
 

Lake County Water Authority’s NuRF Facility

 

The Lake County Water Authority (LCWA) is committed to conserving and protecting freshwater resources. In 2007, they invested in a state-of-the-art facility designed to remove 67% of pollutants from water, specifically from the Harris Chain of Lakes. “The facility, known as the Lake County Nutrient Reduction Facility (NuRF), is the largest of its design in the world and is very unique in operation” according to Ron Hart, Chief Scientist with LCWA. The results of the facility are clear and so is the positive impact it is having on our environment.

 

Served by SECO Energy, NuRF is located at the headend of the Chain of Lakes, west of Astatula, on County Road 48. The plant takes in water from Lake Apopka, the “single largest controllable source of water pollution in Lake County,” according to LCWA. The water is cleaned by a process of injecting liquid alum which binds with the pollutants to create snowflake-like particles. The particles, referred to as floc, fall like snowflakes from the water to the bottom of two 9-acre holding ponds. Once the floc or pollutants have settled on the bottom of the pond they are dredged and pumped to a centrifuge. Like a washer, wringing water from clothes, the centrifuge separates the water from the floc – a process known as dewatering. The clean water is then pumped back into the canal feeding the Harris Chain of Lakes. The floc is allowed to dry and used in several beneficial applications such as landfill cover.

 

Lakes Beauclair, Dora, Eustis and Griffin are the biggest benefactors of the Nutrient Reduction Facility. The process of removing the targeted algae-feeding nutrients results in increased water clarity allowing for beneficial plant growth and better fish habitat.

 

In a day and age where water quality is becoming more and more of a hot topic, our hats are off to LCWA for pro-actively taking steps to enhance water quality in Central Florida. Visit the LWCA website to learn more about the NuRF Facility.

 

 

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

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 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 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.

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 Awarded Outstanding Large Business

The Sumter County Chamber of Commerce awarded SECO Energy the 2017 Outstanding Large Business of the Year at its Celebrate Sumter Annual Dinner and Awards Gala on January 19, 2018, at the Savannah Center in The Villages.

 

The Annual Awards Gala celebrates businesses, large and small, in Sumter County. Members of Sumter County’s business community stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, and received a greeting from County Commissioner Doug Gilpin. The Honorable Judge Militello took the stage to swear in the Chamber’s 2018 Board Members including SECO’s Hank Bolduc, Key Accounts Consultant. Before dinner began, Sumter County Sheriff, William Farmer, delivered the night’s invocation. The group enjoyed dinner and live entertainment, followed by live and silent auctions.

 

During the awards presentation, SECO Energy’s Vice President of Corporate Communications and Energy Services Kathryn Gloria accepted the award naming SECO as Sumter County’s Outstanding Large Business of the Year. Gloria stated, “On behalf of SECO Energy’s CEO Jim Duncan and the Board of Trustees, I am honored to accept the award for Outstanding Large Business. Since our founding in 1938, SECO’s roots have been firmly planted in Sumter County which is home to our headquarters and many SECO employees as well. These employees are local residents who come running to restore power and answer the phones during storms. They are often your friends, neighbors and sometimes even your family members. I am delighted to share this honor with the employees of SECO Energy.”

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “It is an honor to be recognized as Sumter County’s Outstanding Large Business of the Year. This accolade is a credit to SECO’s Board of Trustees’ governance, the executive team’s leadership and our employees’ dedication and hard work. Thank you, Sumter County Chamber of Commerce, for this award and for your long-time support of local business and communities.”

 

The 2017 awardees recognized by the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce include: Dawn Hodges – Outstanding Chamber Volunteer; House of Hope – Outstanding Non-Profit; La Hacienda Catering – Outstanding Small Business; SECO Energy – Outstanding Large Business; Connie Mahan – Business Woman of the Year; and Matt Hatcher – Business Man of the Year.

 

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

Members Re-elect District 9 Trustee Jerry Hatfield

On Thursday, February 8, members who attended the District Meeting voted to re-elect Jerry Hatfield to represent District 9 on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. Hatfield, a SECO member since 1971, was first elected to the Board in 2000 and currently serves in an Officer position as Vice President.

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. 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.

 

Members in District 9 gathered at Spring Creek Elementary in Paisley to elect a District 9 Trustee for a three-year term. In January, Hatfield and Mount Dora resident Dennis Armstrong expressed a willingness to represent the members of District 9, each submitting their letter of intent to run.

 

Hatfield stated, “Thank you District 9 members for again electing me to serve on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. I am grateful to be able to serve my community and fellow SECO members through my continued Board service. As a long-time Lake County resident, I am humbled by the confidence and trust bestowed upon me by SECO’s District 9 members.”

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “I congratulate Mr. Hatfield on his re-election and continued service to SECO members.  Mr. Hatfield is a valuable member of SECO’s Board and a trusted member of his community. It is a pleasure to work with a Board that is member-focused and committed to the Cooperative’s success. I also extend my gratitude to our District 9 members who attended the meeting and participated in SECO’s democratic process.”

 

Duncan added, “I hope to see all of you at SECO’s Annual Meeting of the Membership in March. Enjoy breakfast and snacks, browse energy efficiency displays at the Energy Showcase and stay through the business meeting for the door prize drawing. This year, door prizes include a refurbished 2009 Chevy Colorado, an electric golf cart, cash and more.”

 

SECO members are invited to the 80th Annual Meeting of the Membership on Saturday, March 24.  Registration opens at 8:00 a.m., and the business meeting begins at 10:30 a.m. The meeting is located across the street from the corporate headquarters at 293 S. Highway 301 in Sumterville. Members who RSVP online and attend the meeting will be entered in a drawing for a $300 electric bill credit.

 

View 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.