Business

Have an idea for a business, but not sure where to start? Take the first step with the Florida SBDC’s “Starting a Business” workshop on September 13 from 1 – 4 p.m. In this workshop, we will discuss the fundamentals of launching your new venture, including how to determine...

This panel discussion is a must-attend for small business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the funding options available to drive business growth. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with industry experts, ask questions, and gain the knowledge needed to secure the financial support your...

By Julie A. Martin, Licensed Agent FL It’s the middle of summer, and you just heard on the radio that a Category 4 storm is about to hit in your area. What should you do to prepare? Stocking up on non-perishable food and bottled water is a given and also batteries. Those...

Scenic Walton recently announced Sunbright Inn as the winner of its Design Excellence Award for the renovation of the oldest house in Walton County.  The organization presented the award to owners, Patrick and Heather O’Neill, among their family and friends, including dignitaries involved with the project in DeFuniak Springs...

By Julie A Martin, Licensed Agent at Abora Insurance Group LLC Dear readers, storm season is again upon us, and with the first breath of stormy winds comes confusion when it comes to our insurance options. Why are the rates so high? Why are my premiums higher than my neighbor’s when...

By Maurice Stouse, Financial Advisor and Branch Manager We are into an election year, the markets have made some extraordinary moves and we thought it was a good time to catch our breath and reflect on a few things. Davis Parrish, one of our advisors (in the Atlanta area) compiled some...

By Chris Balzer When planning your next beach day, take some extra time and enjoy the beach ECES style (Emerald Coast Energy Solutions).  Of course, we like the traditional beach things; sitting by the water, watching the waves curl ever so slightly, looking for that pod of dolphin fins, listening...

June 1st marked the beginning of the 2024 hurricane season, which could be one of the most active on record. C​olorado State University’s tropical meteorology project team is forecasting 23 storms, 11 of which will become hurricanes and five of which will reach Category 3 status or stronger, in...

By Maurice Stouse, Financial Advisor and Branch Manager America and Americans are the most generous on earth. Up until a few years ago, gifts to charities (churches, medical organizations, schools) could be deducted from income at tax filing time. The tax laws changed and many of the tax deductions went...

By Julie A. Martin When you have a property insurance claim in a single-family home, the claims process can be both frustrating and intimidating, and can be a long involved process. In a condo, it can be even more challenging, because the association is responsible for the exterior walls and...