SECO News, July 2019

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

The dog days of summer have arrived. With warmer temperatures and increased humidity, your home’s HVAC works overtime to keep you cool. Pool pumps run for extended hours to prevent algae growth. These factors add up to increased kilowatt-hour use and higher electric bills.

SECO is your local not-for-profit electric cooperative committed to serving as your energy-efficiency partner. To help members reduce energy use, we’ve created energy-efficiency tools on our Energy Solutions menu.

Visit Energy Solutions today and complete our Home Energy Assessment. SECO designed this tool as an online audit that provides specialized energy-efficiency advice tailored to your home and lifestyle. The Home Energy Assessment is available to members 24/7. No need to wait for an appointment for an in-home audit.

To get started, input the characteristics of your home including age, construction, insulation and roof type. Include details about occupancy, type and number of windows, and exterior doors. The Home Energy Assessment will also query about completed energy-efficiency upgrades such as additional insulation, window tint, weather stripping and caulking.

After entering your home’s details, provide your email address to receive your energy-efficiency report based on your home’s specifics. It will provide low-cost ways to decrease your energy usage and your bill.

Win a prize! 1) Nest Wi-Fi Thermostat 2) Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostat or 3) Ecobee Wi-Fi Thermostat. Members who complete the Home Energy Assessment will be entered in a drawing for the high-tech programmable thermostats listed above. Three winners will be drawn August 15.

ENERGY STAR recommends using your programmable thermostat’s energy-efficiency settings to save as much as $180 per year.

Browse the Energy Solutions tab for other energy-efficiency tools. Our Energy Estimator calculates the amount of energy and cost for electronics and appliances.

It’s pretty handy if you’re thinking of adding a pool, charging a golf cart or installing a refrigerator in the garage or lanai.

SECO is proud to serve as your energy-efficiency partner.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

SECO Energy is a strong corporate citizen. Our cooperative supports programs based on commitment to the key cooperative principle “Concern for Community.” SECO Energy is also a not-for-profit utility. We do not have the deep pockets of investor-owned, for-profit organizations. Thus, we partner with organizations whose culture and programs align with our core values and purpose.

Annually, we ally with United Way chapters to facilitate employee pledging. Over the years, employees have donated $860,000. In addition, SECO provides quarterly allocations from our Pennies from Heaven program to fund local agencies for bill payment assistance for members in need.

Over the holidays, we sponsor a Toys for Tots drive, and our Member Service Centers are designated drop off locations. Our employees are annual, generous supporters of the program, donating hundreds of bikes, trikes and toys over the years.

SECO is also a strong corporate participant in the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life events raising $132,000 over the last decade. Based on our headquarters’ location, we belong to the Sumter County Relay program but we also provide funding to other counties’ Relay programs on a pro-rata basis.

To request that SECO sponsor or donate to your organization, please use our new Contact Us form. Submissions based on these focuses will be considered:

Educational STEM Projects
Environmental Projects
Energy-Related Projects
Veterans Initiatives
Public Safety Programs
Health/Human Services

Please note SECO does not sponsor individual sports teams or booster club initiatives, as there are thousands across our service territory. SECO participates in golf tournaments selectively if we can set up a booth to engage with members. We fund initiatives in our seven-county footprint of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco and Sumter.

Individual bill payment, basic need or job training assistance is offered by Florida 211 and funded by our Pennies from Heaven program. Members can call or text 211 to request assistance.

Take the bite out of damaging power surges and spikes with SECO Energy’s “Made in the USA” Surge MitiGator. Power surges are sudden, powerful increases in voltage which can damage or destroy household appliances and electronic devices. The most obvious cause of surges is lightning, but birds, small animals, trees or vehicles crashing into power poles are culprits as well.

Protect your home’s large appliances by leasing or purchasing SECO’s Surge MitiGator. Enroll online through August 30th and installation (a $25 value) is free. Lease the Surge MitiGator for $5.95 per month or purchase for $349 (standard 200-amp service). For residential services greater than 200 amps, the purchase price is $399 with $75 installation. Studies indicate that more than half of all surges actually originate from inside the home so be sure to also purchase point-of-use devices at your local hardware or big box store to protect your electronics.

Learn more about SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator online. Protect your home’s appliances from surges – lease or purchase the Surge MitiGator today.

DUSTIN MERRITT – SURGE PROGRAM SUPERVISOR

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 15 YEARS

“SECO HELPS MEMBERS.” A Central Florida native raising four children in Webster with his wife Kimberly, Dustin has worked for SECO for 15 years. His SECO career began as a meter reader, and he eventually worked his way into Energy Services. Dustin was promoted to Supervisor of the Surge Protection Program in 2018. He is responsible for oversight of his team and SECO’s surge protection contractor. Dustin enjoys the opportunity to help and educate members. He and his team advocate the Surge MitiGator™ as protection against surges that may enter a home through power lines. Surges may occur due to downed lines, car accidents, animal contact or lightning strikes, and our surge protection ring installed at the meter base provides a layer of protection for large motor driven appliances in the home. Visit with Dustin or one of his team members by emailing Surge.

Congratulations to Norma Jean Bottoms from Paisley who is the winner of the Microsoft Surface Go! Ms. Bottoms registered to join America’s electric cooperatives’ advocacy hub the Cooperative Action Network. You too can become a key voice for electric co-ops to protect affordable, reliable energy in Florida. Visit www.action.coop to learn more.

Hundreds of members played 2018 Annual Report trivia with SECO on our Facebook page. Our three winners are: Jonathan Dove from Clermont won the Apple iPad; the $200 bill credit went to Rosalie Wilke from Ocala; and Carolyn Wheelis from Sorrento won the Honeywell Wi-Fi thermostat. Congratulations, winners!

Read the full July 2019 SECO News online.

SECO News, June 2019

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

Atlantic hurricane season makes its formal appearance on June 1 and ends November 30. In early May, however, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) was already tracking its first tropical disturbance in the Atlantic. NHC, a part of NOAA, at the time this publication went to print, had not released its official forecast.

The Weather Channel 2019 outlook calls for a total of 14 named Atlantic storms, seven hurricanes and three “major” hurricanes. That forecast is slightly above the 30-year average of 12 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes. A major hurricane is a Category 3 or stronger which means winds greater than 111 mph.

Unfortunately, no forecast can accurately predict the future. The lifesaving approach is to expect the unexpected and prepare in advance for the possibility of a power outage. Gather your hurricane supplies now. Water and plywood sell out when storms threaten. It’s essential to stock non-perishable food to sustain each family member for at least three days. If you need guidance, view SECO’s Emergency Preparation Checklist online.

Whether you plan to evacuate or stay put during a major event, enroll in outage notifications through StormCenter. Choose email, voice or text message – or all three. Take a tour of the outage map. Search for and bookmark your address. Create a SECO Energy StormCenter icon on the home screen of your smartphone or tablet.

We’ve added a new StormCenter feature. You can now check the status of a reported power outage. Visit StormCenter, click on “Check Status.” Input your last name and house number, account number or phone number on record.

StormCenter provides updates that include the time the outage began, estimated restoration time, crew status, cause if identified and when the outage was restored.

SECO has developed one of the nation’s most comprehensive Emergency Restoration Plans to respond to major storm damage. Restoring service to the largest number of members in the quickest amount of time is our goal, but with required priorities for shelters, schools, hospitals and government buildings.

If you or a family member have special needs, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org to locate your county and join the statewide Special Needs Registry. Other valuable resources for emergency planning are the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross.

Don’t be caught unprepared for the 2019 Atlantic hurricane season. SECO Energy is StormReady and equipped to respond quickly to outages affecting members. We are here for you. It is our privilege to serve your family’s energy needs.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Meet SECO Champion Jerry Bolduc – an example of our 400+ SECO Champion employees. Jerry is dedicated to providing exceptional service to members, co-workers and communities.

JERRY BOLDUC – LEAD PROJECT ENGINEER

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 14 YEARS

“SECO is amazing.”

SECO Champion Jerry Bolduc is a Lead Project Engineer at our SECO Headquarters. Before working at SECO, Jerry was employed by a large investor-owned utility. As a SECO member and an employee, he appreciates the cooperative difference in service that SECO offers members. During the three back-to-back hurricanes in 2004, Jerry assessed damaged areas and directed contract crews across the service territory. He was amazed by SECO’s storm response and the efficiency and organization shown during major restoration efforts. Originally from Canada, Jerry moved to Central Florida 20 years ago. He has participated in Ironman Triathlon Events including Escape from Alcatraz where he swam with sharks in San Francisco Bay. Jerry enjoys working in the field in sunny Florida (no snow) and is proud to be a SECO member, too.

HVAC TUNE-UP AND FILTER CHANGE

Summer heat is quickly approaching. Weather.com predicts June through August temperatures will be above average in our area. Before your HVAC system begins its summer workout, schedule a tune-up with a reputable HVAC technician.

The technician should thoroughly inspect your HVAC to ensure it’s in good running condition. The system may need to be cleaned or serviced. Preventative maintenance is easier on the wallet than major repairs down the road. A well-tuned HVAC runs more efficiently, uses less energy and saves on cooling and heating costs.

Is it time to change your HVAC filter? A clean HVAC filter also helps your system run efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and change filters as recommended.

POWER LINE SAFETY

Downed power lines are a safety hazard. Car accidents involving power poles, trees taking down a line or poles broken by heavy wind or rain have the potential to bring us too close to electric lines.

Electric energy can burn, shock, injure or kill you. Never assume a power line is safe to touch. Always assume a power line is live and has the ability to harm you. Children are especially curious and may knowingly or unknowingly approach a downed line. Talk with your kids and grandkids about the dangers of downed power lines.

Warn children to never play near or on substation fencing. Do not climb trees near power lines or allow kites, toy planes or balloons to touch power lines. Don’t release helium balloons at a birthday party or other celebration. These can tangle in lines or become deadly for Florida wildlife.

If you see a downed line, stay away and warn others away as well. Call 911 immediately to report the downed line.

RELAY FOR LIFE – 6TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Thank you to all players, sponsors and employees who participated in SECO Energy’s 6th Annual Relay For Life Golf Tournament “Tee-Up for a Cure” at Arlington Ridge Golf Club in Leesburg on Saturday, May 4th. Players enjoyed 18-holes of golf, chance to win door prizes and fellowship.

The Relay For Life Golf Tournament sponsored by SECO raised $16,600 for the American Cancer Society.

SECO and its employees are long-time supporters of the American Cancer Society and its premier annual Relay For Life events. Join SECO and its Commitment to Community by partnering with your not-for-profit cooperative on a virtual SECO Relay For Life team.

Join a SECO Energy team by visiting Relay.ACSevents.org and look for “Find a Participant or Team” and choose “Team.” Enter team name: “SECO Energy” and click “Search.” Choose a local Relay event and virtually join Team SECO and the American Cancer Society in the fight against cancer.

Read the full June 2019 SECO News online.

SECO Energy 81st Annual Meeting Draws Thousands

SECO Energy held its 81st Annual Meeting of the Membership on Saturday, March 23, 2019, drawing a crowd of nearly 5,000 members, guests, VIPs and employees.

The theme of this year’s meeting – “Feeding the Cooperative Spirit” – was also a mission. SECO spread the word that local food pantries are experiencing critical shortages limiting their ability to assist residents. SECO partnered with United Way and food pantries to conduct a food drive at this year’s meeting. Hundreds of members donated non-perishable food items that will be delivered to food banks later this week.

Members and guests were treated to breakfast, snacks, live entertainment by Margo Rochelle & Rodeo Drive Band, energy-efficiency displays, gifts, the chance to win door prizes and more. All registered members received a SECO gift, an LED from SECO’s wholesale provider Seminole Electric, a copy of the cooperative’s 2018 Annual Report and additional giveaways.

SECO Energy’s Board President and District 9 Trustee Jerry Hatfield called the meeting to order at 10:30 a.m. During the President’s Report, Hatfield explained the cooperative business model and benefits of being served by a not-for-profit electric utility. Hatfield also encouraged members to enroll in SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program. Hatfield stated, “Please help us support SECO’s great community outreach program Pennies from Heaven. SECO will round up your bill to the nearest dollar to help members in need of assistance and to support other local, worthy causes.”

CEO Jim Duncan took the stage for the CEO Report. Duncan led the crowd in a rousing military tribute and provided a cooperative business update that highlighted SECO’s continued growth, member satisfaction scores and system improvement projects.

Duncan overviewed current and future issues impacting Florida energy consumers. He spoke about SECO’s wholesale power provider Seminole Electric Cooperative and meeting future power needs. Duncan stated, “As SECO grows, our wholesale power provider Seminole Electric Cooperative must also keep up with our power demand. Seminole is removing one coal-fired unit and replacing it with a state-of-the-art natural gas fired unit that will come online in 2023. Seminole has finalized a deal to add 40 megawatts of solar to its mix and is considering the addition of another 300 megawatts of solar.”

Duncan continued, “These moves are environmentally friendly and provide a stable power supply for years to come.” Duncan explained the Board-recommended Articles of Incorporation amendment and Bylaws revision. Cooperative Attorney Lewis Stone led the voting process for the amendment and revision. Members voted overwhelmingly to accept both measures.

After the member votes, Hatfield concluded the meeting and the grand prize and door prize drawings began. U.S. Congressman Daniel Webster who serves Florida’s 11th District joined SECO on stage to draw the first grand prize winning ticket. Robert Morrill of The Villages won the gas-powered golf cart; Arnold A. Gomke of Tavares took home the 2009 Ford SuperCab 4×4; $1,500 in cash went to Robert James of Ocklawaha; Carolyn Hadley of Bushnell won the $1,000 cash prize and both Nancy Burgess of Summerfield and Phyllis Mullin of Ocala won $500.

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

Members Re-elect District 1 Trustee Scott Boyatt

Congratulations to SECO Energy District 1 Trustee Scott Boyatt on his re-election. District 1 members gathered at Pine Ridge Elementary School in Clermont on Thursday, January 31, to elect a Trustee to represent their District on SECO’s Board. Mr. Boyatt lives in Clermont and has been a SECO member since 2004. Mr. Boyatt was first elected to the Board in 2013.

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. SECO members who reside in the District elect one of their fellow members to serve on 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.

Mr. Boyatt declared his continued willingness to serve the members in District 1 by submitting his letter of intent to run for Trustee. Elected Trustees serve a three-year term. Mr. Boyatt’s candidacy for District 1 Trustee was unopposed.

Trustee Boyatt stated, “I thank the District 1 members for pledging their continued support for me as their Trustee. After recently completing my Director Gold Credentials from the NRECA, I am looking forward to putting my enhanced skill set to work for not only District 1 members but SECO’s membership as a whole.”

President Jerry Hatfield stated, “Congratulations, Mr. Boyatt, on your re-election as District 1 Trustee. Mr. Boyatt is a valued member of SECO’s Board, and I look forward to working with him and my peers on behalf of our fellow SECO members.”

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Thank you, District 1 members, for joining us at your District Meeting and participating in the cooperative governance process. I congratulate Mr. Boyatt on his re-election and thank him for sharing his industry knowledge to support his fellow members. I am grateful for our Board’s fiduciary guidance and oversight, and their collective knowledge of the utility industry.”

Duncan continued, “I hope members plan to attend our Annual Meeting on Saturday, March 23. We will be serving breakfast, coffee, soft drinks and snacks. Members can visit the Energy Showcase for energy-efficiency displays, enjoy live entertainment and enter for the chance to win door prizes. The grand prizes this year are a refurbished 2009 Ford SuperCab 4-wheel drive with less than 60,000 miles, a golf cart, cash and many other prizes.”

Visit SECO’s Board of Trustees page to view a photo and brief bio of SECO’s Trustees along with a District map. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO News, February 2019

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

SECO Energy is an advocate for members who choose to reduce their utility-supplied power by purchasing their own systems. In fact, as of mid-January, 1,050 SECO members have interconnected with SECO’s facilities by installing a member-owned solar array.

SECO members considering a solar investment are often frustrated by the confusion about return on investment, less-than-reputable contractors and dishonest business practices. To help inform and protect our members, SECO has completed an enhancement and redesign of the Solar Power section of our website. Valuable information from a trusted source is now just a click away.

Our new online tools like the Solar Estimator can help you determine the reduction in utility-supplied power for a specific system size/orientation. The 10-step process and timeline to interconnect with SECO’s system is outlined. We provide answers to frequently asked questions, an explanation of net metering, a sample bill and other resources. We’ve published a comprehensive checklist and list of resources for vetting and selecting a contractor.

When visiting the website, carefully read through “Selecting Your System.” This section explains how to determine system size and the math behind member generation. You’ll find advantages and disadvantages of different panel and inverter types keep reading to find insurance requirements (Florida Administrative Code requires insurance for systems over 10kW).

Most important, the interconnection process and agreement is enhanced with an online application. Members and contractors will now establish login credentials and register to begin the process online. Contractors can register and help manage the interconnection process and agreement on behalf of their client.

At every step of the process toward interconnection with SECO’s facilities, members and contractors will be notified via email to provide updates. We’re leaping into 21st Century technology by incorporating electronic signatures and communications into our new system.

But wait! Before you take another step toward solar, contact SECO for a free solar audit. Our Energy Services Specialists will visit your home and use the Solar Pathfinder to determine the amount of sun your home receives. Our expert will assess your roof, note home orientation and measure obstructions that may block solar power production.

Before signing a contract with an installer, do your homework. Let SECO help you research any potential return on investment. The calculation must include the system investment, maintenance and the cost of utility-supplied power used at night, chilly early mornings or cloudy days.

Attend SECO’s 81st Annual Meeting of the Membership on Saturday, March 23 for a live demonstration at our Solar Square. Gates open at 8 a.m. – join us for breakfast, snacks, live entertainment, gifts, the potential to win door prizes and top-notch hospitality of our local employees.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Meet SECO Champion Tony Shaw – an example of our 400+ SECO Champion employees. Tony is dedicated to providing exceptional service to members, co-workers and communities.

TONY SHAW – ENERGY SERVICES SPECIALIST

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 19 YEARS

“I make a difference.”

SECO Champion Tony Shaw is an Energy Services Specialist who is a subject matter expert on member-owned solar systems and energy-efficiency measures. As a Citrus County resident, he is often the SECO contact stationed in the Citrus County Emergency Operations Center during emergencies such as Hurricanes Irma and Matthew. Tony’s family has called Central Florida home for generations. He and his family enjoy fishing and golf, and he loves to spend time with his young grandson. Tony is proud that he helps members save money and reduce energy usage by conducting energy and solar audits. Tony is often out and about in the community offering energy-efficiency tips, providing money-saving ideas and sharing his knowledge of solar generation. Tony states, “People really trust and believe in SECO Energy as a company.”

FLORIDA SPECIAL NEEDS REGISTRY

The Florida Division of Emergency Management has developed the Florida Special Needs Registry to allow residents with special needs to register with their local emergency management agency to receive assistance 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 to locate your county and register.

SECO IS TOPS!

Thank you, SECO Members, for rating your not-for-profit electric cooperative top in customer satisfaction. SECO received an outstanding ACSI score of 89 in 2018! When comparing SECO to average ACSI scores in the energy industry – SECO is a clear Florida and national frontrunner. Nationally, cooperative utilities averaged 77 in 2018. Scores for municipal and investor-owned utilities both averaged slightly lower at 75.

MOVE OVER FOR SAFETY

Did you know that Florida law requires drivers to Move Over a lane – safely – for law enforcement, emergency, sanitation, utility vehicles, tow trucks and wreckers that are stopped on the roadside? Heed the law or pay a hefty fine – $100 to $500 (dependent on the county where cited) – and three points on your driving record.

If you can’t safely move over a lane – Slow Down to a speed that is 20 mph less than the posted speed limit.

In 2017, over 17,000 Move Over citations were issued in Florida– this includes 1,756 logged in SECO’s service area. There were 212 Move Over crashes in the state and 16 Move Over crashes in our area.

The fine will lighten your wallet and the points will damage your driving record. But the law is designed to protect defenseless roadside workers including SECO‘s line technicians. Let’s all Move Over and allow these folks to return home safely to their loved ones after a hard day’s work.

RIGHT TREE – RIGHT PLACE

Spring is just around the corner and many of us are looking forward to planting a new landscape. For energy efficiency and safety, plant the right tree in the right place and always call 811 Sunshine One-call (it’s free!) before you dig. 811 will arrange for the free service of locating and marking underground utilities.

Did you know the right landscape plan can greatly reduce your annual energy costs? Deciduous trees planted to the south, southwest or west side of buildings can provide shade that helps reduce cooling costs. Evergreen trees planted on the north and west sides help to block winter winds and reduce heating costs.

When planning, consider the tree’s height when fully grown. Trees growing too close to lines are a safety hazard to SECO field employees and the public. Trees touching lines can cause sparks, fires, power outages and shock hazards. Never plant tall oak, pine, sycamore or palm trees near power lines.

Planning the right landscape today can avoid problems in the future, especially where power lines are concerned.

Read the full February 2019 SECO News online.

SECO Trustee Scott Boyatt Earns Director Gold Credential

SECO Energy congratulates District 1 Trustee Scott Boyatt for continuing his education and earning the Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

The NRECA offers a Director Certification Program for not-for-profit electric cooperative Trustees to better understand their roles and responsibilities, stay up-to-date on key issues and energy trends while preparing them to meet the challenges facing electric cooperatives now and in the future. To attain the Director Gold Credential, Mr. Boyatt first completed the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Certificate and the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC).

Mr. Boyatt lives in Clermont and became a SECO member in 2004. He was elected by District 1 members to serve as their representative on SECO’s Board of Trustees in 2013. Collectively, SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees represents members as a whole with one Trustee elected from each of SECO’s nine Districts.

Trustee Boyatt stated, “I am very proud to represent my fellow District 1 members as their voice on SECO Energy’s Board. After earning the BLC last year, I was inspired to earn the Director Gold Credential before the District 1 Trustee election on January 31. Upon completing the Director Certification Program, I felt that I was called to run for Trustee again and I am confident in my ability to serve our members.”

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Congratulations to Mr. Boyatt on his recent educational achievement and his willingness to serve as District 1 Trustee. SECO’s Board has continually supported our cooperative’s efforts to offer members improved reliability, safe and affordable power with excellent customer service. I am grateful for the Board’s guidance and their commitment to fellow members.”

Duncan continued, “Make plans to attend our 81st Annual Meeting of the membership on Saturday, March 23. We are serving breakfast and snacks, providing live entertainment and offering members chances to win prizes, including a refurbished 2009 Ford SuperCab, a golf cart, several cash prizes and a large variety of other door prizes.”

Visit our Board of Trustees page to view a photo and brief bio of SECO’s Trustees along with a District map. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

$36,000 in Scholarships Available from SECO Energy

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees has once again approved $36,000 in 2019 scholarships to support local students looking to fulfill their quest for a higher education. SECO has provided over $500,000 in scholarships to area students during the program’s 20-year tenure.

The Cooperative will award up to 12 local high school students a $3,000 scholarship toward their education at an accredited college, university or vocational/technical school located in Florida. To be considered, applicants must live in a home served by SECO and must graduate in the 2019 school year (May/June). Awardees must be enrolled full time by the end of 2019 to receive the scholarship disbursement.

Scholarship awards are based on scholastic achievements, community service and financial need as well as an interest in pursuing a career in the energy field. An independent group of educators from within SECO’s service area evaluates all applicants and determines the winners.

CEO Jim Duncan encourages area high school seniors to apply stating, “We are happy to continue SECO’s scholarship program in 2019. SECO embraces educational initiatives, especially ones that may lead to future energy industry careers. In addition to scholarships, SECO has formed a partnership with Dunnellon High School assisting students in its Power Generation Academy. We talk to students of all ages about careers at SECO when attending career fairs.”

Duncan added, “Our communities are full of bright, talented young men and women who are looking for stable employment close to their hometowns with benefits and competitive compensation. We hope that our scholarship winners will choose to apply for a position at SECO as they begin their career.”

Scholarship applications are available beginning January 2 at SECO’s Member Service Centers or on our Scholarship page. Students can also pick up an application at their local high school guidance counselors’ offices.

Mail completed applications to: SECO Energy Attn: Corporate Communications, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585-0301. SECO must receive the completed application by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 29. Winners will be notified by phone or letter on or before April 26. The awards banquet is scheduled for May 20, 2019.

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

SECO News, December 2018

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

MOVE OVER SANTA CLAUS

SECO Energy employees are here to fill the sleigh with toys collected for the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. As a Marine myself, Toys for Tots is particularly special to me. Our employees have also embraced Toys for Tots because they know the organization is delivering Christmas morning happiness to children in our local communities.

Toys for Tots plays Santa for thousands of less-fortunate children. Toy donation boxes were made available in all Member Service Centers through early December for employees and members alike to donate new, unwrapped toys to this worthy cause.

The collected toys remain right here in our local communities to be distributed to local children. Hundreds of employees and members displayed their Christmas spirit by dropping a toy or two into the Toys for Tots collection box. The number of new bikes donated by our employees this year is definitely a record-setter. For thousands of children, the donated toys are the only gifts waiting for them under the Christmas tree.

I believe Charles Schulz of Peanuts fame said it best, “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” Many of our employees and members do a little extra for others by contributing to Toys for Tots every year. I thank you all for your generosity and willingness to give.

From the SECO family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Meet SECO Champions Kathy and Kurt – two examples of our 400+ SECO Champion employees. Kathy and Kurt are dedicated to providing exceptional service to members, co-workers and communities.

KATHY POSSO – MEMBER SERVICES SUPERVISOR

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 4 YEARS

“We’re here for members.”

Member Services Supervisor Kathy Posso is a SECO Champion who is a friendly face assisting members in our Sumterville Member Service Center. In 2005, Kathy’s family moved to Central Florida, and she joined the SECO team in 2014. In 2017 during Hurricane Irma restoration, Kathy was especially humbled by members’ stories of devastation after the storm. Kathy’s passion is helping members. She recalls a time when a member who recently lost a spouse was grateful when she took extra time to help him read and understand the bill and complete a payment. Kathy and her husband are leaders at their church. Kathy’s family is proud that she works for SECO Energy, a cooperative that believes in putting members first and also appreciates and recognizes its employees.

KURT CAMPBELL – R&D TECHNICIAN

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 14 YEARS

“My family is proud.”

SECO Champion Kurt Campbell is an R&D Technician working throughout Sumter, Lake and Citrus Counties performing meter work to ensure accurate account billing. During Hurricane Irma restoration in 2017, Kurt worked with the warehouse team transporting supplies to crews restoring power in the field. Kurt interacts with members every day and is grateful that he was on-hand during several emergency situations. While waiting for emergency personnel, Kurt comforted a member whose husband suffered a stroke. He has also helped members with vehicle trouble. Kurt was born and raised in Sumter County and lives with his family in Coleman. Kurt says his family is glad to know that he is part of the effort to restore power to SECO members after a hurricane or major storm.

UNITED WAY

SECO Energy employees are truly blessed with a giving spirit. Our 2019 United Way Pledge Drive was an overwhelming success. Employees pledged over $66,000 to United Way – a $13,000 or 25 percent increase from last year.

The pledges will make a big difference in the lives of those in need in our service territory. SECO’s 400+ employees live in or near the counties we serve, and employees are able to choose the county where their donated dollars will benefit.

Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties are the four counties in our service area with the highest member count. The majority of our employees live and work in these four counties as well.

United Way’s mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good. Education, income and health are the United Way’s key focuses. Visit United Way online to find a local branch, register to volunteer or to donate.

Donate your extra pennies to help your fellow SECO Energy members in need or to support worthy causes right here in our service territory. Enroll in Pennies from Heaven to have your monthly bill automatically rounded up to the nearest dollar. The donated pennies provide financial assistance through the Angel Fund.

Angel Funds are used to provide bill payment assistance to members, help those in dire and unique circumstances or support other worthy causes in the counties we serve. Requests for Angel Fund assistance are administered through several local agencies by calling 2-1-1.

LENDING A HAND IN NORTH FLORIDA

On October 10, 2018, Category 4 Hurricane Michael blazed a deadly path through North Florida, Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina. Destructive and deadly, Michael left 400,000 Floridians without power for weeks.

The day after Hurricane Michael, a team of SECO employees voluntarily packed their bags, leaving their families to help our cooperative neighbors’ restoration efforts.

Initially, the module traveled to Tri-County Electric in Madison before trekking to Talquin Electric Cooperative near Tallahassee. Additional line techs and warehouse personnel joined the module, and some returned home while additional employees accompanied the group as it traveled to assist Gulf Coast Electric in Wewahitchka.

SECO is very proud of our employees’ willingness to assist our cooperative neighbors. 53 SECO employees (named below) worked an almost four-week restoration effort assisting three cooperatives restoring power to thousands.

YOU ARE HEROES!

Read the full December 2018 SECO News online.

SECO Energy Employees Gather Donations for Toys for Tots

SECO Energy employees helped to fill Santa’s sleigh with toys collected for the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. SECO’s five Member Service Center locations are available as public drop off locations.

Toys for Tots plays Santa for thousands of less-fortunate children. Toys for Tots is a world-wide organization, but the toys collected locally are distributed to children within the area. Hundreds of local children will benefit from the generosity of SECO employees and members alike when they wake up to toys under the Christmas tree donated through Toys for Tots.

This year, SECO employees donated an unprecedented number of new bikes for local children. SECO members have also added to the donations by dropping off toys at their local SECO Member Service Center. SECO has Toys for Tots donation boxes available in its Eustis, Groveland, Inverness, Ocala and Sumterville locations.

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “The Marine Corps Toys for Tots program is a worthwhile organization in our community. As a Marine myself, Toys for Tots is particularly special to me. SECO employees have also embraced Toys for Tots because they know the organization is delivering Christmas morning happiness to children in our local communities.”

Duncan added, “Stop by a local SECO office and donate a new, unwrapped toy or two to Toys for Tots. The donated toys remain local. This Christmas season, join the SECO family in supporting Toys for Tots.”

Toys for Tots donation boxes are available at SECO Member Service Centers through early December. Find a SECO location in Eustis, Groveland, Inverness, Ocala or Sumterville online.

SECO Energy Employees Gather Donations for Toys for Tots

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

SECO Energy Donates Cell Phones to Troops for the Holidays

SECO Energy and Florida Senator Dennis Baxley worked together to ensure overseas active-duty servicemen and women receive 355 new and gently-used cell phones. This worthy cause will help service members call home from overseas at no charge this holiday season.

In 2004, two teenagers, Robbie and Brittany Bergquist, decided troops should be able to call their families from overseas for free; thus “Cell Phones For Soldiers” was born. Cell Phones For Soldiers is a national nonprofit relying on generous cash contributions and donations of gently used cell phones to provide free communication services for active-duty service members. Since 2004, the Cell Phones For Soldiers organization has received more than 15 million cell phones and has acquired more than 300 million minutes of free talk time through fund donations equating to more than 5 million calling cards donated to servicemen and women.

“From time to time, SECO Energy upgrades its computers, cell phones, and other electronic equipment. Rather than utilizing the traditional recycling process, SECO has elected to donate those items to schools and charitable organizations within its seven-county service territory in the spirit of patriotism and community service,” said Jim Duncan, CEO.

Duncan added, “Today, it is our honor to contribute these new and gently-used cell phones to the troops of this great nation through an organization that is near and dear to Florida State Senator Dennis Baxley’s heart. These phones will enable our servicemen and women to communicate with their families while being so far away from home.”

Senator Baxley stated, “Thank you to SECO, a fantastic community partner, for working with us to redistribute technology to nonprofits and the needy. This is what makes the community work.” Hiers-Baxley Funeral & Cremation Life Event Center located at 3975 Wedgewood Lane in The Villages is just one of more than 4,000 public cell phone collection locations across the nation for Cell Phones For Soldiers. Visit the Cell Phones for Soldiers website to find a donation location in your area.

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

MY ACCOUNT

AMI

MEMBER PERKS

ENERGY SOLUTIONS

SOLAR

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

SAFETY

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

RELIABILITY

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

MEMBER PERKS

YOUR CO-OP

MEMBER PERKS

COMMUNITY

Archive

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

HVAC TUNE-UP AND FILTER CHANGE

POWER LINE SAFETY

RELAY FOR LIFE – 6TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

FLORIDA SPECIAL NEEDS REGISTRY

SECO IS TOPS!

MOVE OVER FOR SAFETY

RIGHT TREE – RIGHT PLACE

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

UNITED WAY

LENDING A HAND IN NORTH FLORIDA

NEED HELP? CALL (352) 793 -3801

Search our website

CONNECT WITH US

NEED HELP? CALL (352) 793 -3801

Search our website

CONNECT WITH US