WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., April 25, 2013 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to welcome Betty J. Moore to its Board of Trustees. Moore was elected at the Cooperative’s 65th Annual Members’ Meeting, held earlier this month, to serve as the District I, Group 1 Trustee. She represents GCEC members in Jackson and Washington counties and is the first female board member in the Cooperative’s 71-year history.

Moore is a graduate of Bay High School and attended Gulf Coast State College. She has more than 30 years of banking experience, primarily in lending operations, and has worked in Bay, Franklin, Gulf, Jackson and Okaloosa Counties.

“I look forward to the opportunity to learn more about my local co-op and to serve its members and employees,” Moore said. “This opportunity will enhance my knowledge of the operations of our co-op and give me a chance to use my professional experience to benefit the Cooperative.”

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Feb. 8, 2013 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is pleased to welcome Tomica Lowery back to its staff. Tomica previously worked in the Wewahitchka headquarter office and is currently working in the Panama City office as a cashier/receptionist.

In addition to working full-time at Gulf Coast Electric, Tomica is also a student at Gulf Coast State College, seeking an associate in science degree in early childhood education.




 

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Jan. 14, 2013 – GCEC Compliance Officer Lacy Pettis recently completed the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s 30-hour Outreach Training Program in Construction.

The OSHA Outreach Training Program for the Construction Industry provides training on the recognition, avoidance, abatement and prevention of safety and health hazards in workplaces. This training helps to ensure that workers are more knowledgeable about workplace hazards and their rights and contributes to increased productivity.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to members large and small.  Approximately 75 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.

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Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative conducted a Member Satisfaction and Attitude Survey during the first quarter of 2012 to measure its members’ experiences with its services.

By tracking trends in member satisfaction, the Cooperative is able to measure its performance and gain insight on areas that need improvement. The score of the survey is based on a series of questions that rate member expectations, perceived quality, perceived value, member complaints, member loyalty and overall member satisfaction.

Gulf Coast Electric’s members gave GCEC an American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) score of 89 out of a possible 100. The national co-op average is 83. The national average for investor-owned utilities is 74, and the national average for municipal utilities is 73.

Among the 13 specific areas of performance measured by the survey, members were most pleased with the service from GCEC employees, with 97 percent of members surveyed saying Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s employees were courteous and 95 percent saying that the employees had a professional business manner and were knowledgeable.

“We are very pleased with the results of this year’s survey,” GCEC CEO/General Manager Michael White said. “If you were one of the members contacted by telephone in March, we greatly appreciate you taking the time to provide this valuable feedback.”
Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to members large and small. Approximately 75 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., July 16, 2012 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Lacy Pettis to its staff.

Pettis will serve as the Compliance Officer for the Cooperative. She holds an Associate in Arts degree from Gulf Coast State College and a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Florida State University.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to members large and small. Approximately 75 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.

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WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., June 29, 2012 – Alexa Allison and Blake Brannon recently

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative was recently represented in Washington at the Rural Electric Youth Tour by Alexa Allison, left, and Blake Brannon, right. The students enjoyed meeting Representative Steve Southerland at the Capitol.

Blake Brannon and Alexa Allison, who represented Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative at the Rural Electric Youth Tour in Washington, take a minute to pose for a picture outside of the White House.

traveled to Washington, D. C. as the winners of Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s Youth Tour competition. GCEC’s local competition is part of the national Rural Electric Youth Tour program that rural electric cooperatives across the nation participate in.

Each year, the Cooperative sponsors the Youth Tour contest for eleventh-graders whose parents are members of GCEC. Contestants are interviewed by a panel of three judges from the electric cooperative industry, and two winners are chosen to travel on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D. C. in June.

While in Washington, the students toured the numerous museums; Arlington National Cemetery; the Iwo Jima Monument; the U. S. Capitol area; the Korean, Lincoln, Vietnam, FDR, Jefferson and World War II Memorials; Mt. Vernon; and the National Cathedral. They also enjoyed the U. S. Marine Corps Sunset Parade; a boat cruise and dance on the Potomac River; and ended their trip by seeing the musical Memphis at the Kennedy Center.

A highlight of the trip was the National Youth Day rally, where they joined other eleventh graders from across the nation.

“We were proud to have Alexa and Blake represent Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative in Washington,” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said.

The Washington, D. C. Youth Tour Program has been in existence since 1958 when 34 students from Iowa and a handful of chaperones visited Washington for a weeklong study tour. By 1964, the program was catching on, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association began to coordinate the efforts of the co-ops. Since then, thousands of young people have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit our nation’s capitol and learn about our government.

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New officers are as follows: Kinneth Daniels, President; Gary Cox, Vice-President; Eddie Jones, Secretary; and Robert Byrd, Treasurer.

Also, Waylon Graham will serve on the PowerSouth Energy Cooperative Board of Trustees, with Jones acting as the alternate. Gus Wise and Doug Birmingham will serve on the Florida Electric Cooperatives Association Board of Trustees with Byrd acting as the alternate.

Doug Birmingham	Eddie Jones	Gary Cox
Gus Wise	Kinneth Daniels	Robert Byrd
Waylon Graham

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Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Ron Baxa to its staff.

Baxa will serve as the Manager of Accounting and Finance for the Cooperative. He is responsible for managing the overall operation of the Accounting department, which includes developing and maintaining accounting principles, practices and procedures that ensure accurate and timely financial reporting and accountability; business planning; budgeting; forecasting; general ledger preparation; payroll; plant accounting; accounts payable; and external reporting of data.

Baxa holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration and Accounting. He is a CPA with 19 years of prior accounting management experience in the electric cooperative industry.

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Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative held its 64th Annual Members’ Meeting Saturday, April 14 at its headquarter office in Wewahitchka. The purpose of the meeting is to communicate information about the Cooperative, including the financial reports and overall business status, as well as serve as a social event for the entire membership. There were 1,140 attendees at this year’s event.

For entertainment, Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative provided a bounce house for the children. Music was provided by the Back Forty band. Informative booths were open for the duration of the meeting, offering information about the programs that GCEC has to offer.

Each registered member received a $10 electric bill credit and coupons to redeem at food booths run by local civic organizations as fundraisers. In addition, registered members were entered in drawings to win door prizes, including the grand prizes, which were $100 electric bill credits.

“The 64th Annual Meeting was a success. The members who attended participated in the business portion of the meeting, enjoyed great food and entertainment and won some terrific door prizes,” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to customers large and small. More than 70 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.


Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative gave away $100 electric bill credits at its 64th Annual Members’ Meeting. Credit winners included Dexter Hunter of Wewahitchka; Betty Holloway of Wewahitchka; Robbie Sasser of Fountain; Mildred Barry of Wewahitchka; Lenora Tyre of Clarksville; Howard Grimsley of Wewahitchka; Rose Surber of Overstreet; Jacqueline Grant of Blountstown; Karen Palmer of Wewahitchka and Bobby Respress of Wewahitchka

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Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Peyton Gleaton to its staff.

Gleaton will serve as the Manager of Engineering for the Cooperative. He is responsible for designing and planning the electric utility system of the Cooperative to assure efficient and reliable electric service at the lowest reasonable cost consistent with good engineering and business practices.

Gleaton holds a Bachelor of Engineering and Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. He has 15 years of experience with electric cooperatives and has served in the following positions: Vice President of Engineering at Pataula EMC; Manager of Project Planning Services and subsequent Manager of Area Planning at Georgia Transmission Corporation; Sr. Vice President of Engineering and Operations at Mitchell EMC; and International Consulting Specialist with NRECA International Programs. Prior to his cooperative experience, Gleaton worked for two years with Facilities Resource Management as Supervisor of Engineering and Technical Services.

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Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative will hold its 64th Annual Members’ Meeting Saturday, April 14 at its headquarter office, located at 722 West Highway 22 in Wewahitchka. The purpose of the meeting is to communicate information about the Cooperative, including the financial reports and overall business status, as well as serve as a social event for the entire membership.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. CST with each registered member receiving a $10 credit on his or her electric bill. Members will be given the opportunity to win prizes throughout the day, including the grand prizes, which are 10 $100 credits to an electric bill. There will also be plenty of refreshments provided by GCEC and booths offering valuable information for the duration of the meeting.

Beginning at 9:15 a.m., entertainment will be provided by The Back Forty band. There will also be a bounce house for the children. The business portion of the Annual Meeting will begin at 11 a.m.

“I invite all of our members to come and take part in our Annual Meeting, not only to be present for the business portion of the meeting, but also to enjoy food, prizes and entertainment,” Gulf Coast Electric CEO/General Manager Michael White said.

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Danny Little

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce that Danny Little has been promoted to the title of Supervisor of Purchasing and Warehouse for the Cooperative.

Little will be responsible for all day-to-day activities that involve the Cooperative’s warehouses, including overseeing the purchase of material, making sure that guidelines are followed at each Cooperative office for issuing material and supervising warehouse personnel.

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Francis Hinson

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Francis Hinson and Ralph Jamerson to its staff.

Hinson will serve as the Manager of Operations for the Cooperative. Hinson previously worked for PowerSouth Energy Cooperative for 26 years. He was most recently responsible for the oversight and management of the Chipley district office, including daily operations, work scheduling, right-of-way, resource allocation, substations and transmission lines.

Ralph Jamerson

Jamerson will serve as the Supervisor of Military Affairs for the Cooperative and will be responsible for supervising day-to-day operations on Tyndall Air Force Base. Jamerson previously worked for a base contractor and has an extensive background in plumbing, as well as repair and maintenance of the water distribution system.

Justin Barnes

Also, Justin Barnes has been promoted to the title of Manager of Office Services. Barnes holds an associate in arts degree from Gulf Coast Community College and a bachelor of science degree in accounting from Florida State University. He has previous experience working in the accounting field and has also held the titles of Corporate Services Specialist and Supervisor of Office Services for the Cooperative before being promoted to his current position.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., March 12, 2012 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Matt Salvo to its staff. Salvo will serve as the AMI Specialist for the Cooperative and will be responsible for managing and operating the TWACS automated metering system. Salvo holds a degree in electronics engineering technology from the ITT Technical Institute and has eight years of experience installing automated meters, as well as training employees and making repairs at various electric companies throughout the country.

Also, Jim Vickers has been promoted to the title of Manager of Military Affairs. Vickers holds a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from Florida State University, as well as a general contractors license.

Matt Salvo	Jim Vickers

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WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., Feb. 17, 2012 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently held its annual Washington, D. C. Youth Tour Contest at the Honeyville Community Center in Wewahitchka.

Each year, the Cooperative sponsors the contest for high school juniors whose parents or guardians are members of Gulf Coast Electric. Contestants are interviewed by a panel of three judges from the electric cooperative industry and two winners are chosen to travel on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D. C. in June, where they join other eleventh-grade students from all over the United States to tour our nation’s capitol.

Local civic organizations and high schools play an important role in the contest, as they nominate the students who vie for the trip. This year’s contestants were: Alexa Allison, representing Wewahitchka High School; Blake Brannon, representing Deane Bozeman School; Deven Conner, representing the Sand Hills Volunteer Fire Department;; Anthony Gratz, representing the Mossy Pond Volunteer Fire Department; Alana Hearn, representing Vernon High School; Madelynn Lytle, representing Altha Public School; Sarah Catherine Perry, representing A. Crawford Mosley High School; Shannon Pitts, representing the Kinard Volunteer Fire Department; Sean Rice, representing the Wewahitchka Woman’s Club; Jessica Smith, representing the Wewahitchka Volunteer Fire Department; and Shelby Wood, representing the Wetappo Creek Volunteer Fire Department.
This year’s winners are Alexa Allison and Blake Brannon. Alternate is Sarah Catherine Perry.

In addition to the Washington, D. C. trip, Gulf Coast Electric takes all of the students nominated to compete in the contest on a two-day trip to Tallahassee. There they tour various sites in Tallahassee with other eleventh-grade participants representing electric cooperatives across the state. While in Tallahassee, the students participated in a meet and greet before visiting the Challenger Learning Center, where they observed an electromagnetic demonstration and watched an IMAX 3D movie, Hubble. They also observed an actual Supreme Court hearing and participated in a mock session in the Senate Chambers. The students also enjoyed dining at various restaurants and a visit to Fun Station.

“The Youth Tour Contest is a great opportunity for us to reward local students for being outstanding leaders in their communities,” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said.

The Washington, D. C. Youth Tour Program has been in existence since 1957 when co-ops sent students to Washington, D. C. to work during the summer. By 1964, the program was catching on, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association began to coordinate the efforts of the co-ops. Since then, thousands of young people have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit our nation’s capitol and learn about our government.

All of the students nominated to compete in Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s Washington, D. C. Youth Tour contest were invited to travel to Tallahassee for a two-day tour. Pictured at the Senate chambers, from left, are: Shelby Wood, Shannon Pitts, Alexa Allison, Blake Brannon, Sean Rice, Deven Conner, Anthony Gratz, Sarah Catherine Perry, Jessica Smith, Madelynn Lytle and Alana Hearn.	Students competing in Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s Washington, D. C. Youth Tour contest included (from left): Blake Brannon (winner), Shannon Pitts, Sarah Catherine Perry (alternate), Alexa Allison (winner), Madelynn Lytle, Jessica Smith, Deven Conner and Sean Rice.
Winners of Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s Washington, D. C. Youth Tour contest included (from left): Blake Brannon (winner), Sarah Catherine Perry (alternate) and Alexa Allison (winner).

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Feb. 10, 2012 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently boosted its Project Helping Hand fund by more than $8,325.

The Cooperative’s Project Helping Hand program was started in 2004 as a way to assist its members who were unable to pay their utility bills. GCEC members have the option of adding $1, $3 or $5 to their bill each month. These funds are then deposited into an account for the benefit of members who show a temporary need of assistance in paying their electric bill.
In 2011, GCEC members contributed $16,652.12 to the program. While the majority of those funds were raised through monthly contributions on electric bills, some of the contributions were raised through special fundraisers organized by GCEC employees throughout the year, including the sale of paper hearts for Valentine’s Day, a booth at the Annual Meeting in April, a spaghetti dinner in the fall and through the sale of paper “light bulbs” between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

To show its appreciation to the members, the Cooperative decided to match half of what the members gave last year and contribute this amount to the fund. In January, GCEC presented a check in the amount of $8,326.06 to the Family Service Agency, who is in partnership with the Cooperative on the Project Helping Hand program and makes determinations about which members will receive assistance.

“We are proud to be in partnership with the Family Service Agency on our Project Helping Hand program,” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said. “Family Service Agency ensures that the funds raised for this program go directly to benefit our members who are truly in need.”

To learn how you can donate to the Project Helping Hand program, call 265-3631, 481-1188 or 639-2216.
To inquire about receiving assistance from the fund, call 785-1721.

Family Service Agency is a non-profit agency that receives funding from the United Way, private contributions and fundraising projects, as well as in-kind donations. It was founded in 1945 under the Bay County Community Chest, which later became the United Way. Its mission is to socially and economically assist and direct disadvantaged families in resolving immediate problems by providing assistance with food, rent, utilities, medication, clothing and referral to other agencies. All services and goods are distributed without cost to the community.

GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans (right) presents a check to Family Service Agency Executive Director Diane Wise for the benefit of the Project Helping Hand program.

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Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently distributed Capital Credit checks. Those who were members of the Cooperative in the years 1982 and 2010 received checks totaling $200,000.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is a member-owned, non-profit organization. Therefore, at the end of each year and after all operating expenses have been paid, a prorated percentage of its margins, referred to as Capital Credits, are allocated to GCEC members based on the amount they paid for electricity during the year. The decision to make a refund and how much to refund is made by the Board of Trustees and is based on the financial health of the cooperative.

The refunding of Capital Credits is spread over a period of time because the cooperative uses the capital to finance plant and equipment purchases instead of borrowing funds and paying interest for those purposes. Capital Credits represent most of the cooperative’s equity, which has reached a level that enables the cooperative to borrow at the most attractive rates. Therefore, Capital Credits are used wisely to keep the cost of electricity as low as possible during the time period before they are refunded.

Should you have any questions regarding Capital Credits, contact the Panama City office at 481-1188, the Southport office at 265-3631 or the Wewahitchka office at 639-2216.
GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans (left) presents a Capital Credit check to Sid Taylor of Lewis Bear.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Feb. 10, 2012 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently contributed $2,000 to local scholarship funds.
The Cooperative contributed $500 to the Bay Education Foundation’s Take Stock in Children program and the Gulf County Scholarship Program. The Cooperative has also agreed to provide a $250 scholarship to a graduating senior from Altha Public School, Blountstown High School, Chipley High School and Vernon High School.

“We are proud to assist local students with the expense of furthering their education” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said.

GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans (right) presents $500 to Karen Turner of the Gulf County Scholarship Program.

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PANAMA CITY, Fla., Dec. 20, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently presented its 2012 corporate gift to the United Way. The United Way of Northwest Florida received $2,400 as its annual contribution from the Cooperative.

“One of the four core values of Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives is ‘Commitment to Community,’” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said. “As a Touchstone Energy® Cooperative, Gulf Coast Electric strives to uphold this value and support our local community.”

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to customers large and small. Approximately 70 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.

GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans (center) presents the Cooperative’s annual corporate gift to the United Way of Northwest Florida. Receiving the gift of behalf of the United Way are Ron Sharpe (left) and Bryan Taylor (right).

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Dec. 19, 2011 – Donna Brock recently retired from Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative after 25 years of service. Of these 25 years, Brock worked as a cashier in the Southport office for 10 years; as payroll clerk for two years; and as the secretary in the Southport district office for 13 years. Throughout her employment with the Cooperative, Brock attended computer, benefits and human resources training sessions. She is also a graduate of Rutherford High School and attended Gulf Coast State College.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Dec. 9, 2011 – Several GCEC employees and trustees were recently recognized for celebrating service anniversaries. The 13 Board members and employees have a combined total of 167 years of service to the Cooperative.

Justin Barnes and Gary Cox received one-year service pins; Pam Burns, Shannon Hill, Lorie Jackson-Lewis, Teressa Jones, and Nathan Riley received five-year service pins; Gary Whitfield received a 10-year service pin; Debbie Bush received a 15-year service pin; Donna Brock and Charles Nunery received 25-year service pins; Eudon Baxley received a 30-year service pin; and Sid Dykes received a 35-year service pin.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to customers large and small. Approximately 70 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.

Several GCEC employees and trustees were recently recognized for celebrating service anniversaries. Pictured, from left, are: Sid Dykes, Gary Cox, Donna Brock, Charles Nunery, Shannon Hill, Teressa Jones, Lorie Jackson-Lewis, Debbie Bush and Justin

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Dec. 9, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently presented toys donated by its employees to the Children’s Home Society.

The toys donated by GCEC will be distributed to underprivileged children in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson and Washington counties.

“We are happy to be able to donate to this very worthy cause,” Gulf Coast Electric Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said. “These toys will provide Christmas presents to children who might not have otherwise received any.”
Established in 1902, Children’s Home Society of Florida is one of Florida’s oldest private not-for-profit organizations providing services to children and families.

CHS delivers a unique spectrum of social services designed to protect children at risk of abuse, neglect or abandonment; to strengthen and stabilize families; to help young people break the cycle of abuse and neglect; and to find safe, loving homes for children. Every year, CHS helps to improve the lives of about 100,000 children and family members.

Nationally accredited since 1982 by the Council on Accreditation, CHS is headquartered in Winter Park, Fla. Its 14 divisions blanket the state, with nearly 2,000 dedicated, trained staff members delivering child-focused, family-centered care.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to customers large and small. Approximately 70 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.


Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans (center) presents toys donated by GCEC employees to Andrea Ziglar (left) and Kelly Honea (right) of the Children’s Home Society.

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GCEC Trustee Gary Cox recently earned his Credentialed Cooperative Director certification.

SOUTHPORT, Fla., Nov. 15, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative Trustee Gary Cox, representing District I, Group 2, recently attained the Credentialed Cooperative Director certification.

Today’s electric utility environment imposes new demands on electric cooperative directors, particularly increased knowledge of changes in the electric utility business, new governance skills and a working knowledge of the cooperative principles. Electric co-ops in Florida have a commitment to work through NRECA to sharpen this body of knowledge for the benefit of their electric cooperative consumer-owners.

The NRECA Credentialed Cooperative Director program requires attendance and demonstrated understanding of the basic competencies contained in five core courses. Cox completed the following classes: Director Utilities and Liabilities; Understanding the Electric Business; Board Roles and Relationships; Business Planning; and Understanding Financial Planning.

“We are proud to have Mr. Cox serving on our Board of Trustees,” GCEC CEO/General Manager Michael White said. “Completing this certification certainly makes him even more of an asset to the Cooperative.”

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GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans (right) presents a check in the amount of $4,500 to Stephanie Bird of the American Cancer Society. The Cooperative will sponsor three local Relay For Life in 2012.

SOUTHPORT, Fla., November 15, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently presented a contribution to the American Cancer Society.

The American Cancer Society received $4,500 for Gulf Coast Electric’s sponsorship of local Relay For Life events in 2012. The Cooperative contributed $1,500 each to the Relay For Life of Gulf County, the Relay For Life of Panama City and the Relay For Life of Washington County.

“One of the four core values of Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives is ‘Commitment to Community,’” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said. “It’s also one of the seven cooperative principles. As a cooperative, Gulf Coast Electric strives to uphold this value and support our local community.”

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., July 29, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Bob Logan to its staff.

Logan is the new GIS Specialist for the Cooperative.

Logan holds a bachelor of science degree in applied technologies and has 12 years of experience in providing locate services, as well as 20 years of experience in nuclear power radiation safety programs.

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On Tuesday, July 12, Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative will complete substation work that will affect the areas of south Bayou George, Sandy Creek, Allanton, Cooks Bayou, Wewahitchka, Dead Lakes and southern Calhoun County. In order to complete this job, it will be necessary to have a planned power outage.

The outage will last approximately five minutes, beginning at 4 a.m.

We apologize for the inconvenience, but the outage is necessary. We greatly appreciate the patience and understanding of our members.

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WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., July 1, 2011 – Homeowners interested in ways to make a difference in energy costs have a tool at their disposal. Known as H2O Plus, the program is an innovative service from Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative.

When a member enrolls in the program, Gulf Coast Electric sends a certified electrician to their home (at no cost to the member) to install a cycling device on their water heater. The cooperative’s power supplier can then send a signal that instructs the device to cycle the water heater during times of peak energy demand, usually between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m.
When the water heater cycles, the elements will power down for a short period of time – usually between two and four hours – and restart in time to maintain plenty of hot water in the tank. The cycling process reduces the amount of power needed for the overall system’s peak demand.

The program is designed to encourage wiser energy use during peak demand times, increasing the efficiency and reliability of GCEC’s power system.

“There are two things our members need to understand about the H2O Plus program,” GCEC CEO/General Manager Michael White said. “First, members should not notice a difference in the amount of hot water available to do normal household tasks. And second, participation in this program can help us all become wiser energy users and reduce the amount of demand on our system. In appreciation to those members who choose to enroll in the program, we will issue a one-time bill credit of $25.”

The cycling process will go virtually unnoticed by participants. There will be plenty of hot water in their tank for showers, chores and other household tasks.

Members who enroll in the H2O Plus program should not expect to see a reduction in their monthly power bills. The true benefit comes when you consider the impact of thousands of homeowners joining forces to better manage the region’s energy demands by reducing the amount of power needed during the hours of peak use.

To learn more or to enroll in H2O Plus, visit GCEC’s Web site at www.gcec.com, or phone 265-3631, 639-2216 or 481-1188.

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Seth Scheuermann and Savannah Harper at the White House.

WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., July 5, 2011 – Savannah Harper and Seth Scheuermann recently traveled to Washington, D. C. as the winners of Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s Youth Tour competition. GCEC’s local competition is part of the national Rural Electric Youth Tour program that rural electric cooperatives across the nation participate in.

Each year, the Cooperative sponsors the Youth Tour contest for eleventh-graders whose parents are members of GCEC. Contestants are interviewed by a panel of three judges from the electric cooperative industry, and two winners are chosen to travel on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D. C. in June.

While in Washington, the students toured the Holocaust, Newseum and Smithsonian Museums; Arlington National Cemetery; the Iwo Jima Monument; the U. S. Capitol area; the mall area; the Korean, Lincoln, Vietnam, FDR, Jefferson and World War II Memorials; Mt. Vernon; and the National Cathedral. They also enjoyed the U. S. Marine Corps Sunset Parade; a boat cruise and dance on the Potomac River; and ended their trip by seeing the musical Wicked at the Kennedy Center.

A highlight of the trip was the National Youth Day rally, where they joined other eleventh graders from across the nation.
“We were proud to have Savannah and Seth represent Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative in Washington,” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Evans said.

The Washington, D. C. Youth Tour Program has been in existence since 1958 when 34 students from Iowa and a handful of chaperones visited Washington for a weeklong study tour. By 1964, the program was catching on, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association began to coordinate the efforts of the co-ops. Since then, thousands of young people have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit our nation’s capitol and learn about our government.

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WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., June 14, 2011 – Several Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative employees recently received promotions.

Will Coatney, Dale Marshall, David Syfrett and Byron Whitten have all been promoted to the position of Foreman.

Justin Barnes was promoted to Supervisor of Corporate and Office Services.

Carl Elmore was promoted to Supervisor of GIS/IT.

Bryan Newton was promoted to Fourth Year Line Technician Trainee.

Michael Slack was promoted to Second Year Line Technician Trainee.

Hal Walden was promoted to Water Technician I.

Ben Wilson was promoted to Assistant Manager of Engineering and Operations.

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Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce that its third full-service center, located at 6243 East Highway 98 in Panama City, is now open.

A decision was made to open a third office in September of 2010, when the United States Air Force signed an agreement with Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative as part of the privatization process for Tyndall Air Force Base. When a military base is privatized, a public utility takes over ownership and operation of the base’s electric, water, wastewater or natural gas systems for a specified length of time.

GCEC was awarded a contract to own and maintain the base’s electric and water distribution systems. The contract value is estimated to be approximately $140 million and is a 50-year contract. GCEC will commence serving the facilities on June 1.

“This is an exciting day for Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative and its members,” GCEC CEO/General Manager Michael White said. “Our new center is open to all GCEC members, including our newest member, Tyndall Air Force Base. All of the services available at our Southport and Wewahitchka locations are also available at the new Panama City office, including bill pay, requests for new service, security lights and surge protection.”

The office is open from 7 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. The office telephone number is (850) 481-1188.

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Linda Skipper recently retired from Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative after more than 40 years of service. Over the years, Skipper started out as a cashier/receptionist and then transferred to the billing department, where she held the titles of billing coordinator, supervisor of office services and manager of office services.

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Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative gave away $100 electric bill credits at its 63rd Annual Members’ Meeting. Credit winners included William J. Guilford of Port St. Joe, Tammy M. Raffield of Vernon, Debbie Diann Larkins of Blountstown, Nellie Stephens of Wewahitchka, Thelma Greene of Wewahitchka, Flabelle Davis of Wewahitchka, Earl Buckmaster of Youngstown, Donald J. Fowler of Panama City and Austin Taylor of Panama City. Not pictured: Lewis W. Street of Wewahitchka.

WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., April 12, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative held its 63rd Annual Members’ Meeting Saturday, April 9 at its headquarter office in Wewahitchka. The purpose of the meeting is to communicate information about the Cooperative, including the financial reports and overall business status, as well as serve as a social event for the entire membership. There were nearly 900 attendees at this year’s event.

For entertainment, Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative provided a bounce house for the children and Wild Rose Ranch and Rescue’s petting zoo. Music was provided by Cricket Lee. Informative booths were open for the duration of the meeting, offering information about the programs that GCEC has to offer.

Each registered member received a $10 electric bill credit and coupons to redeem at food booths run by local civic organizations as fundraisers. In addition, registered members were entered in drawings to win door prizes, including the grand prizes, which were $100 electric bill credits and vacation packages.

“The 63rd Annual Meeting was a success. The members who attended participated in the business portion of the

Three of the grand prizes at Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s 63rd Annual Members’ Meeting were vacation packages, courtesy of Florida Media. Pictured are winners Reno Plenge of Youngstown, Deborah Gerber of Wewahitchka and Bernice Fortner of Wewahitchka.

meeting, enjoyed great food and entertainment and won some terrific door prizes,” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas said.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to customers large and small. Approximately 75 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.

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WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., April 4, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative will hold its 63rd Annual Members’ Meeting Saturday, April 9 at its headquarter office, located at 722 West Highway 22 in Wewahitchka. The purpose of the meeting is to communicate information about the Cooperative, including the financial reports and overall business status, as well as serve as a social event for the entire membership.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. CST with each registered member receiving a $10 credit on his or her electric bill. Members will be given the opportunity to win prizes throughout the day, including the grand prizes, which are three vacation packages and 10 $100 credits to an electric bill. There will also be plenty of refreshments provided by GCEC and booths offering valuable information for the duration of the meeting.

Beginning at 9:15 a.m., entertainment will be provided by Cricket Lee. There will also be a petting zoo and a bounce house for the children. The business portion of the Annual Meeting will begin at 11 a.m.

“I invite all of our members to come and take part in our Annual Meeting, not only to be present for the business portion of the meeting, but also to enjoy food, prizes and entertainment,” Gulf Coast Electric CEO/General Manager Michael White said.

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GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas (left) presents a check in the amount of $6,000 to Lisa Johnson of the American Cancer Society. The Cooperative sponsored four local Relay For Life events this year.

GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas (center) presents the Cooperative’s annual corporate gift to the United Way of Northwest Florida. Receiving the gift of behalf of the United Way are Ron Sharpe (left) and Bryan Taylor (right).

SOUTHPORT, Fla., March 8, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently presented contributions to local agencies.

The American Cancer Society received $6,000 for sponsorships of local Relay For Life events. The Cooperative contributed $1,500 each to the Relay For Life of Calhoun/Liberty Counties, the Relay For Life of Gulf County, the Relay For Life of Panama City and the Relay For Life of Washington County.

The United Way of Northwest Florida received $2,400 as an annual corporate gift from the Cooperative.

“One of the four core values of Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives is ‘Commitment to Community,’” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas said. “As a Touchstone Energy® Cooperative, Gulf Coast Electric strives to uphold this value and support our local community.”

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., March 7, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Gary Gibbons to its staff. Gibbons is a water technician and will be helping to serve the water system needs of Tyndall Air Force Base.

Gibbons is a graduate of Andalusia High School in Andalusia, Ala. and also took business courses at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College, also in Andalusia.

He is also DEP certified as a water and wastewater plant treatment operator and took all of the engineering courses for water programs through The Office of Water Programs at the California State University, Sacramento, College of Engineering and Computer Science.

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WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., Feb. 24, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently held its annual Washington, D. C. Youth Tour Contest at the Honeyville Community Center in Wewahitchka.

Students competing in Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s Washington, D. C. Youth Tour contest included (from left): Patrick Pitts, Savannah Harper, Hunter McDaniel, Kaitlyn Gaskin, Jeremy Morrill, Megan Setterich, Bryce Gerber, Seth Scheuermann, Donia Lanier and Doug Ream.

Alternate Doug Ream, winner Savannah Harper and winner Seth Scheuermann.

Each year, the Cooperative sponsors the contest for high school juniors whose parents or guardians are members of Gulf Coast Electric. Contestants are interviewed by a panel of three judges from the electric cooperative industry and two winners are chosen to travel on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D. C. in June, where they join other eleventh-grade students from all over the United States to tour our nation’s capitol.

Local civic organizations and high schools play an important role in the contest, as they nominate the students who vie for the trip. This year’s contestants were: Kaitlyn Gaskin, representing the Wewahitchka Woman’s Club; Bryce Gerber, representing Wewahitchka High School; Savannah Harper, representing the Sand Hills Volunteer Fire Department; Donia Lanier, representing the Wewahitchka Ambulance Service; Hunter McDaniel, representing the Wewahitchka Volunteer Fire Department; Jeremy Morrill, representing Wewahitchka Search and Rescue; Patrick Pitts, representing Blountstown High School; Doug Ream, representing Deane Bozeman School; Seth Scheuermann, representing the Scotts Ferry Volunteer Fire Department; and Megan Setterich, representing the Wetappo Creek Volunteer Fire Department.
This year’s winners are Savannah Harper and Seth Scheuermann. Alternate is Doug Ream.

In addition to the Washington, D. C. trip, Gulf Coast Electric takes all of the students nominated to compete in the contest on a two-day trip to Tallahassee. There they tour various sites in Tallahassee with other eleventh-grade participants representing electric cooperatives across the state.

“The Youth Tour Contest is a great opportunity for us to reward local students for being outstanding leaders in their communities,” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas said.

The Washington, D. C. Youth Tour Program has been in existence since 1957  when co-ops sent students to Washington, D. C. to work during the summer. By 1964, the program was catching on, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association began to coordinate the efforts of the co-ops. Since then, thousands of young people have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit our nation’s capitol and learn about our government.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Feb. 28, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce that Ben Wilson, an employee in the Cooperative’s engineering department, recently fulfilled all requirements to become a licensed Professional Engineer. Wilson received a certificate of licensure from the Florida Board of Professional Engineers to practice Professional Engineering within the State of Florida.

In addition to passing a two-part, written examination, Wilson also had to gain four years of practical experience.

Wilson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Auburn University.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Feb. 17, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Lindsay Peak to its staff. Peak is the new Member Relations Specialist for the Cooperative.

Peak holds an associate in arts degree from Gulf Coast Community College and also a bachelor of science degree in professional communication from Florida State University.

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GCEC recently sponsored a trip to Tallahassee for local high school juniors. Pictured on the steps of the Supreme Courthouse before observing an actual hearing are: (front row, from left) Savannah Harper, Megan Setterich and Kaitlyn Gaskin. Middle row, from left: Seth Scheuermann, Donia Lanier and Doug Ream. Back row, from left: Jeremy Morrill, Bryce Gerber, Hunter McDaniel and Patrick Pitts.

SOUTHPORT, Fla., Feb. 14, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently sponsored a trip to Tallahassee for local high school juniors. The trip was part of the Rural Electric Youth Tour Program that rural electric cooperatives across the nation participate in.

Each year, the Cooperative sponsors the program for eleventh-graders whose parents or guardians are members of GCEC. A panel of three judges from the electric cooperative industry interviews participants, and two winners are chosen to travel on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D. C. in June, where they join other eleventh-grade students from all over the United States to tour our nation’s capital. The annual Youth Tour competition will be held Feb. 22.

However, every student nominated by a local civic organization or high school to participate in the program is invited to travel on an all-expenses-paid trip to Tallahassee, where they join more than 100 other high school juniors representing electric cooperatives all over Florida.

Students representing the Cooperative in Tallahassee included: Kaitlyn Gaskin, representing the Wewahitchka Woman’s Club; Bryce Gerber, representing Wewahitchka High School; Savannah Harper, representing the Sand Hills Volunteer Fire Department; Donia Lanier, representing the Wewahitchka Ambulance Service; Hunter McDaniel, representing the Wewahitchka Volunteer Fire Department; Jeremy Morrill, representing Wewahitchka Search and Rescue; Patrick Pitts, representing Blountstown High School; Doug Ream, representing Deane Bozeman School; Seth Scheuermann, representing the Scotts Ferry Volunteer Fire Department; and Megan Setterich, representing the Wetappo Creek Volunteer Fire Department. Gulf Coast Electric employees Kristin Douglas, Becky Kent and Tony Morrell served as chaperones for the trip.
While in Tallahassee, the students participated in a meet and greet before visiting the Challenger Learning Center, where they observed an electromagnetic demonstration and watched an Imax 3D movie, Hubble. They also observed an actual Supreme Court hearing and participated in a mock session in the Senate Chambers. The students also enjoyed dining at various restaurants and a visit to Fun Station.

“The Youth Tour program is a great opportunity for us to reward local students for being outstanding leaders in their communities,” Douglas said.

The Rural Electric Youth Tour Program has been in existence since 1957 when co-ops sent students to Washington, D. C. to work during the summer. By 1964, the program was catching on, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association began to coordinate the efforts of the co-ops. Since then, thousands of young people have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit our nation’s capital and learn about our government.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to customers large and small. Approximately 75 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Feb. 3, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently contributed $2,500 to local scholarship funds.

The Cooperative contributed $500 to each of the following organizations: the African-American Collegiate Scholarship Fund; the Bay Education Foundation’s Take Stock in Children program; and the Gulf County Scholarship Program. The Cooperative has also agreed to provide a $250 scholarship to a graduating senior from Altha Public School, Blountstown High School, Chipley High School and Vernon High School.
“We are proud to assist local students with the expense of furthering their education” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas said.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is part of the Touchstone Energy® national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service to customers large and small. Approximately 75 employees serve more than 20,000 meters and 2,500 miles of line in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Jackson, Walton and Washington counties and in the municipalities of Wewahitchka, Ebro, Lynn Haven, White City, Fountain and Southport.

GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas (left) presents $500 to African-American Collegiate Scholarship Fund President Ben Ranie.	GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas (left) presents $500 to Janet Kessler of the Bay Education Foundation.
GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas (left) presents $500 to Debbie Baxley and Debbie Cole of the Gulf County Scholarship Program.

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GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas (right) presents a check to Family Service Agency Executive Director Diane Wise for the benefit of the Project Helping Hand program.

SOUTHPORT, Fla., Jan. 25, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative recently boosted its Project Helping Hand fund by more than $5,700.

The Cooperative’s Project Helping Hand program was started in 2004 as a way to assist its members who were unable to pay their utility bills. GCEC members have the option of adding $1, $3 or $5 to their bill each month. These funds are then deposited into an account for the benefit of members who show a temporary need of assistance in paying their electric bill.

In 2010, GCEC members contributed $11,411.66 to the program. While the majority of those funds were raised through monthly contributions on electric bills, $1,688 was raised between Thanksgiving and Christmas, when paper “light bulbs” were sold in both GCEC offices. Members had the option of purchasing the light bulbs, inscribing them with a name and displaying them in the Cooperative office lobbies.

To show its appreciation to the members, the Cooperative decided to match half of what the members gave last year and contribute this amount to the fund. Earlier this week, GCEC presented a check in the amount of $5,705.83 to the Family Service Agency, who is in partnership with the Cooperative on the Project Helping Hand program and makes determinations about which members will receive assistance.

“We are proud to be in partnership with the Family Service Agency on our Project Helping Hand program,” GCEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services Kristin Douglas said. “Family Service Agency ensures that the funds raised for this program go directly to benefit our members who are truly in need.”

To learn how you can donate to the Project Helping Hand program, call 265-3631 or 639-2216.

To inquire about receiving assistance from the fund, call 785-1721.

Family Service Agency is a non-profit agency that receives funding from the United Way, private contributions and fundraising projects, as well as in-kind donations. It was founded in 1945 under the Bay County Community Chest, which later became the United Way. Its mission is to socially and economically assist and direct disadvantaged families in resolving immediate problems by providing assistance with food, rent, utilities, medication, clothing and referral to other agencies. All services and goods are distributed without cost to the community.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Jan. 24, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Josh Pitts to its staff. Pitts is working as a Line Technician Trainee in the Cooperative’s operations department after working as a temporary employee in the Cooperative’s right-of-way department for the last several months.

Pitts is a graduate of A. Crawford Mosley High School and attended Tallahassee Community College, Alabama Southern Community College and Troy University. He holds an Associate in Arts degree.

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WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., Jan. 18, 2011 – Charles Borders recently retired from Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative after 28 years of service. Of these 28 years, Borders worked as a mechanic for 10 years; an equipment operator for 10 years; and then worked in the service department from 2003 until the time of his retirement. Throughout his employment with the Cooperative, Borders attended safety courses and flagging schools.

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SOUTHPORT, Fla., Jan. 18, 2011 – Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the addition of Jim Vickers to its staff. Vickers will serve as the Military Affairs Liaison for the Cooperative. In September, it was announced that Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative was awarded a contract to operate and maintain the electric and water distribution systems of Tyndall Air Force Base for a period of 50 years. The Cooperative will commence serving the facilities on April 1.

Vickers holds a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from Florida State University, as well as a general contractors license.

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WEWAHITCHKA, Fla., Jan. 18, 2011 – On Dec. 24, the Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative employees lost a co-worker and friend, Tony “T-Bone” Turner. Services for Turner were held Dec. 29 in Wewahitchka, Fla. GCEC employees were asked to serve as honorary pallbearers.

Turner was a lifelong resident of Wewahitchka. He worked for the Cooperative since Sept. 3, 1985. He came on board as a custodian and received several promotions during his time of employment, holding the titles of Right-Of-Way Helper, Lineman/Equipment Operator, Line Technician Trainee, Line Technician, First-Class Line Technician, Lead Line Technician and Service Technician.

Turner was a member of the Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church in Wewahitchka. He was well-known as an avid hunter and fisherman, and he loved to take children hunting and fishing. He had many friends.

“At the Cooperative, we are truly a family,” GCEC CEO/General Manager Michael White said. “It isn’t hard to see that each of our employees really care for one another. I think this is what sets us apart from any other organization.”
“T-Bone was a hard worker and an unselfish person who gave the Cooperative members and employees more than his time. He gave us his friendship, respect and dedication. I ask that you remember his family in your prayers during this time of grief.”

Turner has been, and will continue to be, sorely missed by all.