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By Maurice Stouse

On a recent visit to Raymond James’ headquarters in St Petersburg, Fla., the Asset Management Services team pointed out its approach to the planning they offer to Financial Advisors and their clients. We found that to be somewhat thought-provoking, particularly if you look at certain stocks or sectors in the recent past.

Some of the most common questions we hear from investors are anything from, is the market overvalued at the top? When is the best time to invest?

We have noted before that timing the market is next to impossible. It is time in the market vs. timing the market that tends to lead to consistently good performance to occasionally great performance.

What about asset selection? Why not just invest in an index fund and not worry about individual security selection or fund selection? An S&P 500 index fund will represent 80% of the value of the U.S. stock market. Many would find it hard to argue with utilizing this approach. What about the risk of the S&P 500 index today vs. years past?

To put that into perspective, we did a little research and found some interesting contrasts for the market today vs. say 30 years ago. The top 5 stocks in 1994 were GE, Exxon, Coca Cola, Merck and IBM. Today, the top five are Apple, Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon and Meta (Facebook).

The top 5 stocks 30 years ago accounted for about 10% of the value of the market (based upon the S&P 500). Today, the top five account for about 30% of the market.

Thirty years ago, the top sectors were industrials, energy and consumer staples. Today the top three are technology, health care and financials.

So, the way we see it, the market today is much more heavily weighted with fewer stocks and the top sector (technology) accounts for about a third of the market’s value. Thirty years ago, the top sector was 8-10%.

So, what is a growth-oriented investor to do? We think that once someone has confirmed the big three: Investment objective, risk tolerance and time frame, asset selection should not be heavily weighted toward any one stock or sector, and to take a more value-oriented approach. By that, we mean to look at a variety of the metrics that are available (through your own research or with the help of a financial advisor) to determine if a stock is undervalued, valued fairly or overly valued.

While there is always the risk of being overly weighted, such as today’s market, there is also the risk of being too spread out, in other words, overly diversified.

Is there a “right” number of stocks in a portfolio? That is difficult to answer; but, one rule of thumb would be approximately 20 or fewer. The alternative approach would be to invest in to mutual funds and we conclude, from observation, that that number is five or fewer.

The focus, to get to consistently good vs. occasionally great, takes consistency, time and patience. It also means to ensure that your portfolio does not grow out of the intended balance over time. To that end, periodic review, in line with the big three might help you experience the results you want and desire.

Maurice Stouse is a Financial Advisor and the branch manager of The First Wealth Management/ Raymond James.  Main office located at The First Bank, 2000 98 Palms Blvd., Destin, 32451. Phone 850.654.8124. Raymond James advisors do not offer tax advice. Please see your tax professionals. Email: Maurice.stouse@raymondjames.com.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC, and are not insured by bank insurance, the FDIC, or any other government agency, are not deposits or obligations of the bank, are not guaranteed by the bank, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. The First Wealth Management and The First Bank are not registered broker/dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

Views expressed are the current opinion of the author and are subject to change without notice. The information provided is general in nature and is not a complete statement of all information necessary for making an investment decision and is not a recommendation or a solicitation to buy or sell any security. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Raymond James advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Please see a tax professional for advice specific to your own situation.

There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, invest yields will fluctuate with market conditions. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or a loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered to be representative of the U.S. stock market. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns.

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Members of Watersound Fountains, a local senior living community, recently embarked on a three-day getaway to Biloxi, Mississippi where they dined, gambled and explored the coastal town. The group of five women were accompanied by Community Life Director Michelle Graves, who helped execute their vision for the extraordinary outing.

The seniors, who have formed a close-knit group within the community, planned the trip themselves, from selecting activities to choosing restaurants. Graves served as their travel agent, booking accommodations and even driving them more than 200 miles each way to visit Biloxi.

“This trip was their brainchild, and I was thrilled to be along for the ride and see them experience the joy of it becoming a reality,” said Graves. “It’s been a privilege walking alongside our members as they experience new things and live out their dreams in retirement. This outing was the first of many for our members at Watersound Fountains.”

The group’s itinerary included visits to local landmarks like the Biloxi Lighthouse and Ocean Springs, a charming town known for its art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. They also spent time at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, enjoying the thrill of gambling and the complimentary drinks.

A highlight of the trip was a stop at Buccee’s, a popular gas station and convenience store in Foley, Alabama. Many of the seniors experienced their first-ever gas station lunch, savoring the famous pulled pork sandwiches.

Eda Ruth, one of the attendees, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity. “I know this is my final chapter,” she said. “I’m so glad I got to do this.”

The seniors’ trip to Biloxi was a testament to their spirit of adventure and their ability to create meaningful experiences. As they continue to plan future outings, including a trip to New Orleans to visit The National WWII Museum, it’s clear that their bond will only grow stronger.

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In the heart of Santa Rosa Beach, at 38 Thompson Road #1, a dream sits waiting to bloom. Heirloom Donuts, the brainchild of proprietor Mallory Fields, promised to bring a fresh concept to South Walton County: build-your-own donuts, artisanal donut bouquets, and a warm community gathering space. But what should have been a July celebration of sweet beginnings has turned bitter in the face of bureaucratic resistance.

The latest hurdle? A clash between creativity and regulation that strikes at the very soul of local entrepreneurship. The South Walton County Building and Planning Department has deemed Heirloom’s wall art—a stunning mural that captures the spirit of our community—as mere “graffiti.” They claim this piece of artistic expression would somehow tarnish the scenic beauty of the 30A corridor, making its removal a condition for opening permits.

We ask: Since when did beauty become a blemish? How can authentic artistic expression, created to enhance a local business and reflect our community’s vibrant culture, be dismissed as something that would “sully” our beloved coastline?

This isn’t just about donuts. It’s about a gathering place designed for all of us—a space where 75 seats await, offering the comfort of booth and diner-style seating, cozy couches, and a dedicated children’s area where young ones can play while parents unwind. It’s about family trivia nights and karaoke sessions that would bring our community together.

Now is the time for the people of South Walton County to make their voices heard. Throughout November, we invite you to share your opinions with the Planning and Building Department by emailing paul@lifemediagrp.com Your support matters, and Heirloom Donuts is sweetening the deal:

• First Prize: A dozen donuts monthly for a full year
• Second Prize: A half-dozen donuts monthly for a full year

The people of South Walton County have always stood for creativity, community, and local enterprise. Today, we must rise up once again. Let’s show our support for businesses that dare to be different, that seek to make our community not just more delicious, but more beautiful too.

We the people of South Walton County believe in preserving not just our scenic corridors, but also the creative spirit that makes our community unique. Stand with Heirloom Donuts. Stand for artistic expression. Stand for community.

Rise up, South Walton. The future of our local business culture depends on it.

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By Randy Locklier, President of Gulf Financial

Don’t we all love smore’s? I do! On a recent mountain trip, we enjoyed them by the firepit. Melting chocolate and marshmallow oozing over a warm graham cracker is so delicious. Could you resist?

In 1972, an experiment was conducted at Stanford University.  Children were brought into a room one at a time and sat down at a table. On the table was a marshmallow. The researcher told the children that he was leaving the room for 15 minutes and that if they did not eat the marshmallow, they would get a second one upon his return. A simple choice: one treat now or two later. Only 1 in 3 could wait. The really interesting part came later. Stanford researchers studied these children for 40  years (That’s right!) and made an amazing discovery. Over and over again, by any measure, the children who waited succeeded in life at a much higher rate than those who didn’t wait. Higher SAT Scores, graduation rates, income, job performance, net worth as well as overall life and relationship satisfaction were the norm in this group. Is there a message here for us?

True happiness, said Aristotle (c. 300 BC) is about developing daily spiritual habits and surrounding yourself with people who grow your soul. At the center of the spiritual life is the concept of delayed gratification. Delayed gratification is an essential element of self-control. When you disavow immediate pleasure to seek a long-term higher value goal, you are practicing delayed gratification. It is here that we will move toward our greatest potential in this life. Studies have shown, like the  Marshmallow Experiment, that deferred gratification is one of the most effective personal traits of highly successful, happy people. People who learn to manage their need to be satisfied in the moment thrive more in their careers, relationships, and finances than people who give in to it.

This seems to be proof of a path to an abundant and fulfilling life in this earthly realm. What of the spiritual realm? One must have faith. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen. It is this Faith, this hope for the future that gives us the strength to deny ourselves, pick up the cross daily and walk in the will of our Maker. A life aligned with the will of God creates real joy that keeps our happiness meter on high!

Just think for a moment about some of the things in life that bring us immediate pleasure but can impose upon our physical,  spiritual, and mental health. Food, drugs, gambling, alcohol

(ever had a hangover?), sex, screaming in anger, or overusing our credit cards. These things don’t necessarily bring out the best in us, they just ease our discomfort or satisfy our desires

for a moment. Our modern society is one in which instant gratification is glorified and obtainable, becoming a barrier to many seeking the spiritual life. To some, these temptations open the door to turmoil, addiction, and death.

Jesus teaches us not to store up treasures on earth, but to store up our treasures in heaven. For where our treasure is there will our hearts be also. A person will never be successful on a spiritual walk without knowing how to say no to temptation and the pleasures of this world. Delay a little gratification and you will draw close to God. Say no to sin and temptation and they will flee from us. Believe that the promises of Christ are true and the promises will come to pass in our own lives and the next.

That’s Good News for us all!

Great to be with you again. Until next time be happy, be safe,  and be blessed.

Visit gulffinancialgroup.com or call (833) 403-4041

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By Kathleen Edge, Publicity Chair

“Where Every Day is a Celebration” was the theme of the fourth annual Green Thumb Garden Club Holiday Bazaar that showcased unique seasonal décor and other items made by members and other local artists.  Special thanks to Cantina Laredo for allowing the Club to have the event, held on November 2, at their Grand Boulevard location

The Bazaar’s net proceeds will fund the 2025 Mercer Scholarship. This is awarded to deserving Walton County horticulture college students every year as well as youths participating in Timpoochee 4H Youth Camp and E.O. Wilson Biophilia Naturalists Outdoor Program.  Westonwood Ranch has been added as a GTGC scholarship recipient for 2025.

Caring & Sharing of South Walton is receiving monetary and food donations prior to the Thanksgiving holiday.  Walton County Sherriff’s Santa Patrol will receive donated gifts and gift cards for young children and teenagers at the GTGC Holiday Party on December 12, 2024, at The Venue at the Royal Palm Grille.

The Club chose a well-deserving Walton County family, a mom and four children, as their 2024 Habitat for Humanity holiday family.  The family will receive monetary donations and gifts to help ensure a great holiday season for everyone.  The gifts will be delivered to the family in mid-December.

Fundraisers and distribution of donations will continue in 2025.  Please visit the Green Thumb Garden Club website to learn about our charitable mission, how to join and details on meetings, activities, and events. The website address is greenthumbgardenclubinc.org or send an email to greenthumbgardenclubinc@gmail.com.

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We are proud to announce that the Walton County School District has again been designated an Academically High-Performing School District for the sixth consecutive year by the Florida Department of  Education. This prestigious recognition for the 2023-2024 school year is based on school and district grades, class size compliance, and strong financial stewardship.

The Walton County School District is committed to fostering a culture of EPIC learning, where Excellence,  Professionalism, Innovation, and Collaboration remain the cornerstones of student achievement. This recognition would not have been possible without the collaboration and commitment of our students,  teachers, support staff, school board, and community. Their ongoing dedication and unwavering commitment to an EPIC learning environment have been vital in achieving this success.

As part of this recognition, several of our schools have also been designated as Schools of Excellence, per the Florida Department of Education’s Schools of Excellence Program. This program rewards schools that consistently perform in the top 80th percentile of their grade groupings. The Schools of Excellence designation offers a range of administrative flexibilities designed to empower both instructional personnel and administrative staff to focus on student learning.

Superintendent A. Russell Hughes expressed his excitement for this achievement:

”I am elated to once again highlight the EPIC work of our students, teachers, staff, school board, and  community. These accolades showcase the dedication and tenacity of our students and the passion and  persistence of our teachers. Congratulations to all on this prestigious accomplishment.” 

About Walton County School District: 

The Walton County School District is committed to providing a world-class education that prepares the whole child for a life of success. Under the leadership of Superintendent A. Russell Hughes, the District has risen from 35th in the state to third regarding academic testing and graduation rate. WCSD continues to pursue excellence in all areas of education while embracing innovation and collaboration to meet the unique needs of our students and community.

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Chair Yoga Classes at the Blake in Miramar Beach – Tuesdays, November 5, 19 and December 3 at 9:45 a.m. at the Blake, 90 Ponce De Leon St. in Miramar Beach.  RSVP at (850) 650-5000 to register.

Monthly Meeting – Coastal Seniors Membership Appreciation Event takes place at Watersound Fountains, 65 Origins Parkway on Friday, November 15th from 4-6 p.m. R.S.V.P. by calling (850) 280-5342 or email: coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com.

Exercise Classes – Angela Gibson will lead classes on Tuesdays, November 5, 19 and December 3 at 10:00 a.m. and on Thursdays, November 7, 14, 21, and December 5 at 10:00 a.m., at 70 Logan Lane in Grayton Beach.  Cost is $5 per session. Reservations suggested.  Call (850) 280-5342 or email:  coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com.

Christmas Decorating – Eden Gardens State Park Wesley House room decorating on Tuesday, November 12 from 9-noon. Call (850) 280-5342 or email: coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com for more information.

Pickleball – Beginner Pickleball 101 at Walton Sports Complex courts on Wednesday, November 20 at 6:00 p.m.  Registration required.  Register at www.waltonrec.com. Open to Walton County residents only. Email Sandy Gulak at sowalpickleball@gmail.com for more info and with questions.  Also join us at the Boys and Girls Club on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm. Cost is $5 per day and an initial $35 waiver fee.  Please join the SoWal 30A Pickleball Association on Facebook for more information and weekly updates and check the CSSW calendar at www.coastalseniorsofsouthwalton.org.

Art Classes – Watercolor Painting Class – Karen Peterson will have classes on Friday, November 1, 8, 22 and December 6 from 8:45 a.m. – Noon. Classes held at 70 Logan Lane in Grayton Beach.  Cost is $15 for CSSW members and $30 for non-members. Space is limited so call 850-280-5342 to reserve your spot, or email: coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com.  All supplies are included.

Seniors 50 years of age and up residing in or visiting Walton County are invited to join CSSW. Membership is $30 for individuals, $40 for family, and $75 for businesses (your business will be listed on our home webpage and our Facebook page). You can become a member via email at coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com, or on the website at www.coastalseniorsofsouthwalton.org. Also, follow us on Facebook at Coastal Seniors of South Walton.  Coastal Seniors of South Walton, Inc. is a non-profit 501© (3) organization for active adults and we are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic persons to join our Board of Directors. Media Contact:  Jim Wilson, Director, Coastal Seniors of South Walton, Inc.   T: 404-432-6037   Email: jim_wilson@bellsouth.net

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By Jennifer Steele, CAA President & CEO 

In the past, the Florida Division of Arts & Culture (DAC) grants received regular funding through state budget approvals. For the FY25 budget, the state legislature recommended $32 million for two of the DAC’s four grant programs. However, the governor vetoed this funding, leaving hundreds of arts and cultural organizations like ours that provide education, enrichment, and economic impact in our communities without state support for the year—a first in state history.

For FY26, arts advocates are closely watching the budget process. The Department of State submitted a legislative budget recommending zero funding for DAC grants, although this isn’t yet the governor’s final decision. This is all especially disappointing because the state’s investment has shown a 9:1 return year after year.

Importantly, this isn’t the governor’s official budget recommendation, and the governor’s budget has not been published yet. But this is a recommendation for the governor to consider.

In Walton County, the arts & culture sector generated $57.3 million in economic activity during 2022—$8.6 million in spending by arts and culture organizations and an additional $48.6 million in event-related expenditures by their audiences. That economic activity supported 652 jobs, provided $23.9 million in personal income to residents, and generated $8.1 million in tax revenue to local, state, and federal governments. To learn more about these important findings, visit our website.

We are at the beginning of the budgeting process, where advocacy can make a big difference. For now, I ask that you write our state representative and senator. Make them aware of this situation and ask them to reinstate the arts & culture recommendation to include funding for the FY26 Division of Arts & Culture grants (DAC). A letter template from the Florida Cultural Alliance is here, ready for you to insert your programming and share your impact. For individuals, please remove any section which may not be applicable.

Contacts for Walton County legislators are below.

Representative Shane Abbott: Shane.Abbott@myfloridahouse.gov

Samantha Sullivan, Aide: Samantha.Sullivan@myfloridahouse.gov

Senator Jay Trumball: Trumbull.Jay@flsenate.gov

Andrea Gainey, Aide: Gainey.Andrea@flsenate.gov

We remain in close communication with The Florida Cultural Alliance and other Local Arts Agencies throughout the state working towards and hoping for a positive outcome. The legislative session in March 2025 offers time for advocates to meet with lawmakers and highlight the arts’ value in the state and we plan to attend once again.

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