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  • A Pastor’s Ponderings: On Eagle’s Wings

    A Pastor’s Ponderings: On Eagle’s Wings

    Rev. Pete Hyde serves as chaplain with the South Walton Fire District

    Chaplain Pete Headshot Crop2018

    The morning was still and serene.  The sun had been up an hour or so and the air was thick with gulf humidity.  The bay stretched out before us like a sheet of mirrored glass pushing its way into infinity as we backed the trailer into the water to launch the jet skis.  We put on our life vests and headed out for a few hours on the water.

    Other than the passing of an occasional car the morning was quiet.  The silence as broken by the whistle of an osprey circling gently, yet intently about a hundred yards out into the bay.  The morning hunt was on.  Almost in the same location the surface of the water suddenly churned.  Dorsal fins pierced the surface and circled with knife-like precision.  A pod of dolphins had rounded up a school of fish and were enjoying their breakfast.

    The osprey, seizing the opportunity, whistled, tucked her wings to her side and began a quick dive.  About halfway to the water she pulled up.  An answer to her whistle was heard.  Above her circled two smaller ospreys. This morning’s hunt was not just about breakfast.  School had started. It was time for the kids to learn how to hunt and begin to fend for themselves.  Another whistle came from atop a mast of an old sailboat listing to one side and full of the brown brackish water of the bay.  Dad was supervising.  (That’s what dads do you know.  They leave the hard work to Mom and stand off at a distance to make sure the job is being done right.)

    The dolphins ate their fill of breakfast and the water returned to a mirror-like shine.  The three ospreys circled and whistled to one another.  Mom would tuck her wings and begin a dive.  The children would watch and learn.  Each time she would pull up.  They needed to watch and learn and do it on their own.  She couldn’t do it for them anymore.  It was time.

    Finally, one of the young birds tucked its wings and streaked downward piercing the calm surface, shattering the mirror of the surface with a big splash.  It came up empty handed.  A whistle of encouragement came from atop the sailboat mast.  Mom called back to him and Dad became silent.  The other young osprey made a circle, tucked its wings and headed toward the water. Just at the surface of the water, it pulled up just slicing the top of the water with its talons.  Mom whistled.  It whistled back.

    The scene played out for a few minutes.  Circle, tuck, dive.  Circle, tuck, dive.  Each time with no results.  Mom let out a series of whistles.  Was she impatient or had she noticed that her children had enough disappointment today?  Who knows.

    She came in low across the water at high speed and effortlessly climbed into a graceful circle.  In moment her wings were tucked as she rocketed downward, broke the surface of the water with a huge splash and came up with a fish almost as long as she was.  With her wet wings struggling hard against the weight of the water and the fish, she whistled, turned the fish in the direction of her flight to decrease the drag and headed toward an unseen nest.  The young ones followed at a distance.  Dad left his perch and followed behind.

    I was reminded of one of my favorite scriptures.  “Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.  They will mount up on wings as eagles.”  God, through his Spirit, circles above us and around us watching as any loving parent watches their children.  He lets us stumble, fail and fall.  But God is always near and will whistle encouragement to us, swoop down when we have had enough, catch us on his wings and bring back into his arms when we have strayed too far or struggled too much.

    Whatever your struggle today, know that: God will raise you up on eagle’s wings, bear you on the breath of God and hold you in the palm of his hand.”  Amen.

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  • Emerald Coast Parkinson’s Educational Event

    Emerald Coast Parkinson’s Educational Event

    Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive, neurological disease that is the fastest-growing and second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States. Parkinson’s diminishes the body’s ability to make Dopamine, a neurotransmitter critical for making smooth, coordinated motion. Currently, there is no known cause or cure but we are on the cusp of finding various biomarkers to help the medical community properly diagnose the disease.

    One million of the world’s ten million people with Parkinson’s live in the United States and over 66,000 Floridians currently are diagnosed with Parkinson’s.  Every six minutes someone new is diagnosed with Parkinson’s, a uniquely human disease, which often has not only motor symptoms (Tremor, Rigidity, & Slowness of Motion) but also non-motor symptoms (Apathy/ Depression, Drooling, & Orthostatic Hypotension), as well.

    The Emerald Coast, more specifically, Bay and Walton Counties, together have approximately three thousand people with Parkinson’s. Unfortunately, this region is in the middle of a Movement Disorder Specialist “desert”, with the two closest Movement Disorder Specialists located in Pensacola and Tallahassee.

    Panama City Beach at least has a Parkinson’s Support Group, started in 2021, called 3085Thrive, with the name derived from the Longitude and Latitude of Panama City Beach (30/85) and the word THRIVE, which we intend to do, despite having Parkinson’s (www.3085Thrive.com).

    3085Thrive will be hosting the first-ever Emerald Coast Parkinson’s Educational Event on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at Woodlawn Church (219 Alf Coleman) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The symposium will feature over 15 Vendors who offer products or services that assist people living with Parkinson’s. There will also be three nationally known speakers present to discuss topics such as understanding the grief associated with the disease, Care Partner Burn Out and to provide a summary of the latest Parkinson’s research initiatives from Movement Disorder Specialists. The event will also be offered in a virtual webinar format with a Q&A format.

    Please contact Greg Ritscher, 3085Thrive support group leader, at gregritscher@gmail.com or (303) 875-8117 for more information.

    Views: 6

  • Jessie’s Epiphany

    Jessie’s Epiphany

    By Victoria Ostrosky

    Victoria Ostrosky

    Jessie was never sure whose fault it was.  The self-help book said to look at the common denominator.  That wasn’t encouraging. She was by all appearances comfortable and successful, but inside, not so much.

    Her entire life was spent berating herself for not being better. A better friend or mother or daughter.  She could go for days or weeks without thinking about calling or texting.  She did stellar work, accomplishing the bulk of her to-do list within the first couple of hours because of her laser focus.

    Jessie aways said – if I can find a pattern and understand the assignment, I can plow through a list rapidly.  But for some reason, her co-workers never seemed to want to spend time with her.  She had this way of speaking her mind, which apparently made others uncomfortable.  She couldn’t figure that out.  Weren’t they having a discussion?  Why isn’t it ok to express an opinion?

    One day, while scrolling through Instagram, clips about autism kept popping up and as she watched the short videos, a light bulb went off.  Her entire childhood replayed itself in her mind’s eye. So that’s why she was the way she was!  It all made sense now.

    The extreme introverted personality coupled with high empathy.  The overstimulation and subsequent meltdowns in situations where lights and noise and activity overwhelmed her.  The love of being alone, avoiding group settings, living in a quiet home with everything in its place.  Walking the other way to avoid speaking with a neighbor.  Unreasonable pushback against change she didn’t initiate. Rewatching or rereading the same movie series or book repeatedly for months, then obsessing about something else until she had wrung every last bit of knowledge and interest out of it.

    Jessie suddenly realized she wasn’t supposed to beat herself up about not being like other people.  God made her brain neuro-divergent for a reason.  She always said – my brain works in a straight line, so I can reach a conclusion and solve a problem quickly.

    But that has some societal drawbacks.  Like pretending (masking) to act like everyone around her in order to fit in, which doesn’t work well in the long run.  It’s exhausting pretending to be interested in subjects that actually bore you to death, knowing that no one is interested in truly finding and implementing a solution.

    She recalled all the various groups she’d joined over the years and lost interest in after a few months.  She wanted to discuss topics.  She wanted to find solutions.  She wanted to know what others were thinking.  And for some reason, the majority seemed to be put off by that.

    Which has caused Jessie no small amount of sorrow over the years.  Her fixed desire has been to serve God and use her spiritual gifts.  However, there are high hurdles to overcome when you’re autistic.  Just “joining a group” isn’t so easy. Where will they meet?  Will there be food?  How long will it last? Can I leave when I want? It’s so difficult to initiate conversation.  Autistic people don’t tend to have large groups of friends, so finding your niche can be difficult.

    But God didn’t say it would be easy.  He expects us to actively search for opportunities to exercise our spiritual gifts.  So, Jessie continues to lean in – intentionally placing herself in uncomfortable situations, learning what she can, and serving where she can.

    Being autistic might be a reason that fitting in is difficult, but it can’t be an excuse for not putting in the effort.  Our Heavenly Father has good works for each of His children to perform, that build up the Body of Christ. Our human eyes can only see the next step, but that’s ok, because God sees the whole picture and is thrilled with our participation in His plan, even when we feel it’s more struggle than success.  Sometimes our personal growth is as important as the task itself.

    Jessie no longer worries over her “lack” but embraces the personality and brain her Heavenly Father chose for her.  The more she understands autism, the more grace she gives herself. She knows without a doubt she is cherished and dearly loved and unique.  And believing that has made all the difference.

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  • Ecco Water: Bringing Clean, Safe Drinking Water to Santa Rosa Beach

    Ecco Water: Bringing Clean, Safe Drinking Water to Santa Rosa Beach

    Ecologoblack

    Thirsty for a cold glass of water that can rival leading bottled brands for taste? Lee and Mona Skidmore have been providing delicious, clean and safe water to the Santa Rosa Beach community for over 30 years. Lee is the owner of Ecowater of Santa Rosa Beach, and, with the help of his specialists, he’s been bringing clean water to homes and commercial establishments using reverse osmosis, lawn systems, as well as filters for city and well water for three decades. Home water filtration systems can provide easy access to secure, clean drinking water, and Ecowater can make the installation process a breeze.

    Home water filtration systems are designed to eliminate various contaminants present in tap water. Contaminated water can harbor bacteria and parasites that lead to waterborne diseases. It can also include chlorine, lead, and other impurities that may pose health risks. A good filtration system removes these harmful substances, resulting in cleaner and safer drinking water. This protection is particularly essential for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. These systems also enhance the taste of water making it more appealing and encouraging increased water consumption.

    Additionally, by installing a home water filtration system, individuals can reduce their reliance on bottled water, leading to a decrease in plastic usage. It’s a sustainable choice that benefits both personal health and the planet.

    Family Drinking Water

    While the initial investment in a home water filtration system may seem significant, it proves to be cost-effective in the long run. Compared to continually purchasing bottled water or relying on other costly water purification methods, a filtration system offers a more economical solution for maintaining a safe and clean water supply. There’s no need to rely on store-bought water or wait for deliveries. This accessibility encourages individuals to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

    Knowing that the water consumed at home is free from contaminants provides peace of mind. It eliminates concerns about the quality of tap water and ensures that every glass of water is a step towards better health and is a proactive measure to secure access to clean and safe drinking water. From health benefits to environmental considerations, the advantages of such systems make them a worthwhile investment for individuals and families seeking a reliable and sustainable water source at home.

    Since 2010, Lee has provided Hanish water systems, a best-seller, with 10-year installation-service-and maintenance agreements.  For information on this and other popular models like the Crest-10 Ecowater of Santa Rosa Beach, contact the Ecowater office located at 76 Lynn Drive in Santa Rosa Beach. For more information email ecowaterSRB@Mediacombb.net or call (850) 267-0500 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

    Views: 0

  • October Medicare Opportunities

    October Medicare Opportunities

    By Christian Regalado

    Christian Regalado

    October is a special month for those with Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans. Brokers are allowed to start discussing 2025 plans with clients beginning October 1, and you can apply for next year’s plans beginning October 15.  This year, you’ll want to have enrollment season on your radar.

    The Inflation Protection Act changed how Medicare prescription drug plans are covered by insurance companies. It reduces the out-of-pocket maximum Medicare beneficiaries can spend for prescription drugs from $8000 in 2024 to $2000 in 2025, and payments can be made in installments over the year. This is a great benefit for those who need expensive drugs. The downside is insurance companies will look to recoup their revenue losses by increasing premiums and copays on the larger pool of consumers.

    By now, if you are on an Advantage Plan or Prescription Drug Plan (PDP), you should have received your Annual Notice of Change, outlining the areas where your current plan will see changes next year.  It has been reported that up to 80% of Advantage and PDP clients (instead of the typical 25%) will shop for a new plan this season because of all the changes happening for 2025.  Brokers expect to be very busy, so call to schedule your appointment early if you can.

    Some Advantage Plans that you may wish to consider include Part B Rebate plans which reduce your Part B premium, in some cases, by over $160 per month.   It is a limited benefits plan, but for those who don’t tend to use their benefits, this is a way to save money.  If you are one of over 50% who qualifies for a Chronic Needs plan, you may be attracted to a plan offering those targeted benefits.

    If you are on a Medicare Supplement and a PDP plan for prescriptions, your Supplement plan’s benefits remain unchanged, but your PDP plan’s premium will probably go up, and there may be formulary changes, which is the list of drugs covered. There could also be changes to drug tier levels and which drug tiers include a deductible.  I’m told that many, but not all, plans will continue to have tiers 1 & 2 (generic drugs) exempt from the drug deductible.

    In short, be careful when renewing your Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans this year. If you’re taking prescription drugs, it’s important to compare coverage. There are new tools that compare the cost of specific prescriptions across available plans.  And we would be happy to help you.

    My expectations are that from October until the end of AEP, which is December 7, brokers and insurance companies will be very busy. If you are working with a broker (and remember their services are free to you), it’s important to schedule a time to go over your plan options and your prescription drug information.

    November begins open enrollment for individuals, so now is a great opportunity for seniors to get ahead of the game for 2025.

    Should you need help, give us a call. Our services are free and as independent brokers, our job is to help you find the plan that works best for you.  I am certified with many different insurance carriers, and I am happy to answer your questions and assist any way I can.

    Email me at christian@evergreenhealthins.com or call (850) 687-7606.

    Views: 0

  • 850 Midlife and Hydrate 30A to Host Screening of The M Factor

    850 Midlife and Hydrate 30A to Host Screening of The M Factor

    Mfactor

    850 Midlife and Hydrate 30A will be hosting a watch party in The Chapel of 30A on October 17 at 6 p.m. featuring the PBS documentary, “The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause”. This film explores the hidden impact of menopause on women’s lives. Menopause has ramifications beyond just an individual woman’s well-being. The far-ranging results of women enduring untreated menopause include billions of dollars in lost wages, upended careers, family disruptions, and emotional chaos.

    With evidence-based information, the film empowers women to make informed health decisions and aims to remove the stigma surrounding menopause and aging.

    This feature-length documentary film, centers on the lived experiences of women across the U.S. Cameras follow women into their doctors’ offices, at work, and in their homes to expose the challenges they face—including racial biases, gender-ignorant care, inequitable structures and systems, and barriers due to the lack of basic midlife healthcare research. The women featured here open up about their experiences and share their stories of enduring debilitating symptoms while being ignored, ridiculed and/or shamed—and left untreated.

    Now there’s a movement to fix the broken system, change the culture and transform our future. “The (M) Factor” turns the spotlight on the progress being made. With input from emboldened physicians, healthcare advocates and leaders in the menopause movement, the film focuses on what is being done to address this public health crisis and offers solutions that can be replicated in medical communities and workplaces across the country.

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  • SEASIDE Institute™ Presents an Evening of Inspiration with Ray Gindroz

    SEASIDE Institute™ Presents an Evening of Inspiration with Ray Gindroz

    by Kimberly Stanley, Seaside Institute

    SEASIDE Institute™ recently held their Speaker Series, an event where distinguished speakers and authors engage in discussions with the public. The series opened with Ray Gindroz, a renowned architect celebrated for his passionate advocacy of new urbanism. Gindroz’s presentation offered an in-depth look at his latest project, a compilation of sketches featured in his recent book, Taking a Pen For a Walk.

    The book serves as both a visual diary and a thoughtful exploration of urban environments, providing a unique perspective on familiar places through the eyes of an artist. For Gindroz, the publication marks the realization of a long-held dream to gather his sketches from around the globe into a single volume, allowing readers to experience his journey through unique spaces and places. During the presentation, Gindroz stated that he believes the town of Seaside is a città delle idee or “city of ideas” as it has evolved over the decades due to a compilation of ideas and best practices recommended by experts from around the globe. The foreword of his book was written by SEASIDE® cofounder, Robert Davis.

    In an era where routine can lead to complacency, discovering new places through an artistic lens offers a refreshing perspective. Taking a Pen For a Walk celebrates the art of drawing and Gindroz encourages readers to “take their pens for a walk” through cities and communities, exploring intricacies and uncovering their hidden narratives, one line at a time. He views sketching not only as a form of artistic expression but also as a way to engage with and understand the complexities of urban spaces.

    Gindroz’s sketches capture the essence of urban environments, from the detailed architecture of historic cathedrals to the subtle charm of everyday buildings. Each sketch invites readers to reflect on the relationship between structures, streets, and their inhabitants, shedding light on the elements that define good design and the interactions people have with their surroundings.

    Through themes such as “conversation” and “connection”, Gindroz examines various facets of urban life, including the statements made by buildings and the historical layers embedded in cityscapes. His approach encourages readers to ponder the deeper meanings of the spaces we inhabit and their impact on our experiences. Gindroz believes hand-drawing these scenes is an essential skill that nurtures creativity, understanding, and a profound connection to the built environment—skills that are increasingly overshadowed by the digital age.

    Looking ahead, Gindroz’s forthcoming book, tentatively titled City Building for People, promises to explore the social and perceptual dimensions of urban design in even greater depth. Through this work, he aims to inspire architects and urban planners to create spaces that prioritize the needs and experiences of their inhabitants.

    After Gindroz’s talk, attendees had the opportunity to chat with the author while having their books signed at Sundog Books before they took part in a cocktail reception at 87 Central. The reception was sponsored in part by VIE® Magazine.

    SEASIDE Institute™ remains committed to fostering connections among individuals and organizations who share a passion for community and environmental stewardship. Through initiatives like the Speaker Series, the nonprofit continues to inspire sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant communities, nurturing a world where every corner reflects a story of connection. For more information or to become a member, visit seasideinstitute.org.

    Ray Gindroz And Seaside Cofounder, Robert Davis. Photo Credit Christy Milliken
    Ray Gindroz and Seaside Cofounder, Robert Davis. Photo Credit: Christy Milliken

    Views: 0

  • Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County Announces Installation of 10 Murals In U.S. Highway 98 Pedestrian Underpass

    Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County Announces Installation of 10 Murals In U.S. Highway 98 Pedestrian Underpass

    Art Matters

    The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) is proud to announce that original murals commissioned and created by 10 local artists were recently installed on the walls of Walton County’s first pedestrian underpass at U.S. Highway 98 in Inlet Beach, which opened to the public over Labor Day weekend. The 136-foot-long underpass frames the east end of Walton County at the high-traffic corner of Hwy. 98 and County Hwy. 30A, both designated scenic corridors.

    The installation includes artworks by Francisco Adaro, Katherine Boggs, Heather Clements, Bradley Copeland, Olga Guy, Wes Hinds, Sarah Page, Andy Saczynski, Andrea Scurto and Lindsay Tobias. Artists were selected from the CAA’s pre-vetted Public Artist Directory and each created a mural measuring 20 ft wide x 8 ft high.

    The public art component is part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s greater $5.6 million Underpass project and was created in collaboration with Scenic Walton, Walton County Board of County Commissioners, and Walton County Tourism Department. Additional support was provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, St. Joe Community Foundation, Rosemary Beach Realty, Market 30A, 30A.com, Morning Star Foundation, 30Avenue, Howard Group, and John and Nina Freer.

    Mural By Local Artist Sarah Page Mural Photo Courtesy Of Spring Run Media

    “After years of planning and collaboration, we are excited to unveil these works of art in an underpass that will provide safe passage to so many Walton County residents and visitors,” said CAA President & CEO Jennifer Steele. “ The murals wonderfully express the theme of connectivity and relationship among humans, nature, and our built environment, and the CAA is grateful to be a part of this important project that provides connection for our community.”

    The installation will grow to include Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) replica sculptures, including Common Chord from Vince Tatum sponsored by St. Joe Community Foundation, Let’s Not Blow This from Kevin Reilly sponsored by Rosemary Beach Realty, and The Grayt Pineapple from Rachel Herring McCord, that will be installed on the north and south entrances of the underpass in late fall 2024. Produced in partnership with the South Walton Artificial Reef Association, the UMA was the first Art in Public Spaces project for the CAA.

    The CAA’s Art in Public Spaces Program is designed to foster collaboration, celebrate community, encourage tourism and exploration, stimulate the economy, and enhance the physical environment as well as the unique culture and beauty of Walton County. For more information, visit CulturalArtsAlliance.com.

    Mural photo courtesy of Spring Run Media

    Views: 0

  • Breaking Out the Big Guns at the 3rd Annual Westonwood Ranch Sporting Clay Tournament presented by Specialty Roofers

    Breaking Out the Big Guns at the 3rd Annual Westonwood Ranch Sporting Clay Tournament presented by Specialty Roofers

    Westonwood Ranch

    Westonwood Ranch will be holding its third annual Sporting Clay Tournament Fundraiser on Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Bay County Shooting Range with the support of Specialty Roofers.

    “We are excited to have great teams representing so many of our local businesses and corporations rallying around our mission to support individuals with developmental differences” said Lindy Wood, Founder and President of Westonwood Ranch. “At the end of the day, it is all about the kids that we serve but there will be one team that will walk away with a modest trophy and bragging rights” says Wood.

    Often described as “golf with a shotgun”, sporting clay shooting is one of the fastest-growing shotgun sports in the United States. Unlike trap and skeet shooting, which are games of repeatable target presentations, sporting clays simulate the unpredictability of field shooting.

    Bay County Shooting Ranch features a fully automated 18-station sporting clay course, including tower-level presentations mimicking high-flying geese or ducks with ground-level stations flushing partridge, pheasants, rabbits, and other ground targets.

    This year’s sporting clay event is expected to feature over 140 sports shooters. This is a unique charity event in our area and a fantastic opportunity for sponsors to incentivize employees, entertain business prospects, or just be a part of an important mission. This year’s event aims to raise much-needed funds for therapeutic program scholarships for teens and young adults affected with Autism, Down Syndrome and other related developmental disabilities in Walton, Okaloosa and Bay Counties.

    “We are looking forward to getting back to the Bay County Range once again to share valuable time with supporters, sponsors and stakeholders in a non-traditional way. We are grateful to Specialty Roofers, along with our other generous community sponsors for helping to make this event possible”, said Wood.

    Sporting Days

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  • Walton Recycle Drop-Off Station to be relocated

    Walton Recycle Drop-Off Station to be relocated

    According to Walton County Environmental  Services Director Billy McKee, a Recycle Drop-Off Station located at Moll Drive and U.S. 98 is no longer under county ownership and is permanently closed.  No recyclable material, debris, or trash of any kind should be left there.

    “We need the public’s cooperation in keeping this area clean and free of illegal dumping,” said McKee.  The Moll Drive property was swapped with a private landowner in exchange for a parcel adjacent to Helen McCall Park to provide additional public parking.

    Walton Recycle

    The recycling containers that were at the Moll Drive site have been relocated to the  Blue Mountain Beach (Public Works Dist. 5) storage and stockpile yard at 970  South County Highway 83 in Santa Rosa Beach. This location is adjacent to the  TDC Beach Operations Facility and is just inside the gate on the right.

    Please note that only recyclable materials should be brought to the recycle  locations and all materials (cardboard, aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and paper)  must be put inside the appropriate containers and not left on the ground.  This site does not accept any household garbage, food waste, junk, or any  construction debris.

    Other locations that can be used to drop-off recyclable materials in South Walton  include:

    • Blue Mountain Pit – 970 S Co. Hwy 83, Santa Rosa Beach (SRB)
    • Sandestin Resort – Administration Dr., Miramar Beach
    • Topsail Preserve State Park – 7525 W Co. Hwy. 30A, SRB
    • South Walton Courthouse Annex – 31 Coastal Centre Blvd., SRB
    • South Walton Sports Complex – 240 M.C. Davis Blvd., SRB

    For more information, contact Walton County Environmental Services, 1118  Institution Road, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32433 or call (850) 892-8180.

    Views: 49

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