February 2025 Newsletter
Patricia Lee
A Note From The Publisher
This is a message nobody wants to have to share. I have been going through a lot since this past November. Bottom line is that I have stage 3 lung cancer and will be starting treatment February 10th with both chemo and radiation. It has not spread and is localized to my chest. Six weeks of radiation five days a week for ten to twenty minutes each session. Four chemo treatments every three weeks. If I respond to that treatment, I will start immunotherapy for a year. The cancer is adenocarcinoma (non small cell) which is the better of the two possibilities. It is highly possible for it to respond to treatment.
This is my 4th different cancer battle.
#1. Neuroblastoma in my bone marrow and all around my left kidney. Kidney was removed. I was 18 months old.
#2. Uterine cancerous tumor 1997. No treatment needed, as it was completely contained. However, the lab told my GYN that it looked like it was disintegrating on its own, which was something they had never before seen. Said they couldn't explain it.
#3. Stage 3c breast cancer 2005. This turned out to be a special miracle that turned my life around. I also received the Life Inspiration Award from the American Cancer Society that year (state of Alabama). Fourteen lymph nodes were positive and the cancer had already broken through the cells and was running through my bloodstream.
#4. Stage 3 Lung cancer 2025. Current.
Each case was serious with a prognosis of no chance for a cure with the possible exception of #2. I received some very destinted miracles along the way whereby even the doctors had to admit only the hand of God could have been involved. I well remember the night I got my miracle from breast cancer. I felt it and knew what was happening even though I had not asked for it. It just happened. It's quite a story and one I will never forget. My relationship with God had somewhat fallen by the wayside but that night turned me right back around.
I don't know that I will receive yet another miracle from Father God. I have always said that all of those miracles didn't mean that cancer would never come back or one day actually take me. It simply meant that God was not ready for me to leave this earth yet. He had His reasons. I don't know why me; why do I keep being saved, but I have stopped asking that question. God has His reasons and it's none of my business. Besides, there is never just one reason anyway. There is a domino effect that you cannot even begin to imagine or understand. Father God is infinite in His wisdom. It is only my job to have faith and be humbled and honored that God wants to use me. I have a grown daughter and son, a 10th month old granddaughter, family and friends I want to be here for but my job first and foremost is to be God's warrior; to bring glory to His name and I am willing and happy to do that no matter what that means. It's time like this when you find out the real meaning of faith and trust and if you really have it or not. I do have Faith that God knows what He's doing and I trust Him.
If you don't know God or have a close relationship with Him, I invite you to do so. It will change your life like nothing you have ever experienced. Take that first step and give Him a chance. Talk with a minister or teacher. Read your bible; there are some pretty terrific, life learning stories in there. First step when making a change is always the hardest but just do it. Reach out! God loves you and is waiting.
NOTE: No matter what happens to me, the Destinites group, newsletter, and directory will continue. You will be in good hands!
_______________________________________________________________________
Personal Message From Patricia:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with 11,300+ members.
If you live in Destin proper, you receive a freely distributed Destin Life newspaper. Please look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Palms 144: 1 & 2: From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Bless The Lord who is my immovable Rock. He gives me strength and skill in battle. He is always kind and loving to me; He is my fortress, my tower of strength and safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield. "
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Est. 2018 Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Original Newsletter created: December 2021
This is a message nobody wants to have to share. I have been going through a lot since this past November. Bottom line is that I have stage 3 lung cancer and will be starting treatment February 10th with both chemo and radiation. It has not spread and is localized to my chest. Six weeks of radiation five days a week for ten to twenty minutes each session. Four chemo treatments every three weeks. If I respond to that treatment, I will start immunotherapy for a year. The cancer is adenocarcinoma (non small cell) which is the better of the two possibilities. It is highly possible for it to respond to treatment.
This is my 4th different cancer battle.
#1. Neuroblastoma in my bone marrow and all around my left kidney. Kidney was removed. I was 18 months old.
#2. Uterine cancerous tumor 1997. No treatment needed, as it was completely contained. However, the lab told my GYN that it looked like it was disintegrating on its own, which was something they had never before seen. Said they couldn't explain it.
#3. Stage 3c breast cancer 2005. This turned out to be a special miracle that turned my life around. I also received the Life Inspiration Award from the American Cancer Society that year (state of Alabama). Fourteen lymph nodes were positive and the cancer had already broken through the cells and was running through my bloodstream.
#4. Stage 3 Lung cancer 2025. Current.
Each case was serious with a prognosis of no chance for a cure with the possible exception of #2. I received some very destinted miracles along the way whereby even the doctors had to admit only the hand of God could have been involved. I well remember the night I got my miracle from breast cancer. I felt it and knew what was happening even though I had not asked for it. It just happened. It's quite a story and one I will never forget. My relationship with God had somewhat fallen by the wayside but that night turned me right back around.
I don't know that I will receive yet another miracle from Father God. I have always said that all of those miracles didn't mean that cancer would never come back or one day actually take me. It simply meant that God was not ready for me to leave this earth yet. He had His reasons. I don't know why me; why do I keep being saved, but I have stopped asking that question. God has His reasons and it's none of my business. Besides, there is never just one reason anyway. There is a domino effect that you cannot even begin to imagine or understand. Father God is infinite in His wisdom. It is only my job to have faith and be humbled and honored that God wants to use me. I have a grown daughter and son, a 10th month old granddaughter, family and friends I want to be here for but my job first and foremost is to be God's warrior; to bring glory to His name and I am willing and happy to do that no matter what that means. It's time like this when you find out the real meaning of faith and trust and if you really have it or not. I do have Faith that God knows what He's doing and I trust Him.
If you don't know God or have a close relationship with Him, I invite you to do so. It will change your life like nothing you have ever experienced. Take that first step and give Him a chance. Talk with a minister or teacher. Read your bible; there are some pretty terrific, life learning stories in there. First step when making a change is always the hardest but just do it. Reach out! God loves you and is waiting.
NOTE: No matter what happens to me, the Destinites group, newsletter, and directory will continue. You will be in good hands!
_______________________________________________________________________
Personal Message From Patricia:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with 11,300+ members.
If you live in Destin proper, you receive a freely distributed Destin Life newspaper. Please look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Palms 144: 1 & 2: From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Bless The Lord who is my immovable Rock. He gives me strength and skill in battle. He is always kind and loving to me; He is my fortress, my tower of strength and safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield. "
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Est. 2018 Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Original Newsletter created: December 2021
If you are interested in being a sponsor or article contributor, contact Patricia: [email protected]
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Travel & Day Trips Around Florida
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
Lori Leath Smith
Snowbirds Are Back:
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Written By: Christopher Manson
Coming together is a beginning.
Staying together is progress.
Working together is success.
~ The Destin Snowbirds Club Motto
Once again, the city of Destin welcomes winter guests and residents for a season of camaraderie, charitable efforts, and goodwill within the community. New connections are fostered, and old friends from all over reunite for social activities.
The Destin Snowbirds have events and meetings lined up for the next few months. The organization’s “big” registration event happened earlier this month at the Destin Community Center. Anyone that missed out can register online at thedestinsnowbirds.com. Registration is $13 and can be paid via PayPal.
“This season promises to be an exciting one,” 2024-25 Destin Snowbirds President Jerry Reckman writes. Weekly meetings and “Thank Goodness It’s Friday” events feature live entertainment by returning favorites like Flash Flood. Additional activities include golf, bus trips, craft shows and a Valentine Dinner Dance.
Last month, the Destin Snowbirds participated in the city’s Christmas Parade, sharing candy and spreading holiday joy. Before that, a ribbon cutting ceremony took place at the Destin Community Center, host to the group’s weekly gatherings.
You can learn more by visiting thedestinsnowbirds.com, and their Facebook page, The Destin Snowbirds, where more than 8,000 members share photos, recommendations and upcoming events. Reckman calls it “a great source of information about the surrounding area.”
Upcoming Events:Jan. 14 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 101 Stahlman Avenue, Destin, 10 a.m.
Musician Rich McDuff, a favorite from his frequent appearances at the Destin and Pensacola locations of McGuire’s Irish Pub, provides the entertainment.
Jan. 21 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 10 a.m.
Todd Herendeen performs.
Jan. 21 Thank Goodness It’s Tuesday
LuLu’s, 4807 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin, 3-6 p.m.
Admission is $5 per person at the door. Dance to the music of Todd Herendeen and enjoy special drink pricing.
Jan. 27 Harbor Cruise
Contact: Steve Ericson, 612-360-7584, [email protected]
Jan. 28 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 10 a.m.
The 16-piece Hashtag Swing Band – a group that includes professional musicians, music educators and jazz lovers – plays favorites from the Big Band/Swing era.
Jan. 30 Free Jazz Concert
Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, 20001 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, 7 p.m.
The Hashtag Swing Band wraps up a busy week. Doors open at 6 p.m., and cash bar, entrée, appetizer and dessert options will be available during the performance.
Feb. 4 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 10 a.m.
Enjoy the soulful vocals of local favorite Michael Bethea.
Feb. 4 Thank Goodness It’s Tuesday
LuLu’s, 4807 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin, 3-6 p.m.
Admission is $5 per person at the door. Enjoy the formidable vocal talents of Michael Bethea, dance the afternoon away, and enjoy special drink pricing.
Feb. 8 2025 Pink Run Benefiting Fore Her
The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach, 8:30 a.m.
Snowbirds are encouraged to wear pink and join the community in a walk or run benefiting breast cancer patients in financial need. Enjoy a photo booth, prizes, food samples, and a DJ-fueled after party. Register at PinkRunBenefitingForeHer.itsyourrace.com.
Learn more about the 501(c)(3) organization hosting the big event at foreher.org.
Feb. 11 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 10 a.m.
The Voices of Northwest Florida State College perform.
Feb. 14 Valentine Dinner Dance
Austons on 98, Miramar Beach, 5-9 p.m.
Cost is $40 per ticket ($40 plus $2 processing fee online). 30 tickets available online (must have a badge #).
Purchase tickets online at thedestinsnowbirds.com/valentine-dinner.
Feb. 24 Harbor Cruise
Contact: Steve Ericson, 612-360-7584, [email protected]
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Written By: Christopher Manson
Coming together is a beginning.
Staying together is progress.
Working together is success.
~ The Destin Snowbirds Club Motto
Once again, the city of Destin welcomes winter guests and residents for a season of camaraderie, charitable efforts, and goodwill within the community. New connections are fostered, and old friends from all over reunite for social activities.
The Destin Snowbirds have events and meetings lined up for the next few months. The organization’s “big” registration event happened earlier this month at the Destin Community Center. Anyone that missed out can register online at thedestinsnowbirds.com. Registration is $13 and can be paid via PayPal.
“This season promises to be an exciting one,” 2024-25 Destin Snowbirds President Jerry Reckman writes. Weekly meetings and “Thank Goodness It’s Friday” events feature live entertainment by returning favorites like Flash Flood. Additional activities include golf, bus trips, craft shows and a Valentine Dinner Dance.
Last month, the Destin Snowbirds participated in the city’s Christmas Parade, sharing candy and spreading holiday joy. Before that, a ribbon cutting ceremony took place at the Destin Community Center, host to the group’s weekly gatherings.
You can learn more by visiting thedestinsnowbirds.com, and their Facebook page, The Destin Snowbirds, where more than 8,000 members share photos, recommendations and upcoming events. Reckman calls it “a great source of information about the surrounding area.”
Upcoming Events:Jan. 14 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 101 Stahlman Avenue, Destin, 10 a.m.
Musician Rich McDuff, a favorite from his frequent appearances at the Destin and Pensacola locations of McGuire’s Irish Pub, provides the entertainment.
Jan. 21 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 10 a.m.
Todd Herendeen performs.
Jan. 21 Thank Goodness It’s Tuesday
LuLu’s, 4807 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin, 3-6 p.m.
Admission is $5 per person at the door. Dance to the music of Todd Herendeen and enjoy special drink pricing.
Jan. 27 Harbor Cruise
Contact: Steve Ericson, 612-360-7584, [email protected]
Jan. 28 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 10 a.m.
The 16-piece Hashtag Swing Band – a group that includes professional musicians, music educators and jazz lovers – plays favorites from the Big Band/Swing era.
Jan. 30 Free Jazz Concert
Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, 20001 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, 7 p.m.
The Hashtag Swing Band wraps up a busy week. Doors open at 6 p.m., and cash bar, entrée, appetizer and dessert options will be available during the performance.
Feb. 4 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 10 a.m.
Enjoy the soulful vocals of local favorite Michael Bethea.
Feb. 4 Thank Goodness It’s Tuesday
LuLu’s, 4807 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin, 3-6 p.m.
Admission is $5 per person at the door. Enjoy the formidable vocal talents of Michael Bethea, dance the afternoon away, and enjoy special drink pricing.
Feb. 8 2025 Pink Run Benefiting Fore Her
The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach, 8:30 a.m.
Snowbirds are encouraged to wear pink and join the community in a walk or run benefiting breast cancer patients in financial need. Enjoy a photo booth, prizes, food samples, and a DJ-fueled after party. Register at PinkRunBenefitingForeHer.itsyourrace.com.
Learn more about the 501(c)(3) organization hosting the big event at foreher.org.
Feb. 11 Snowbird Meeting
Destin Community Center, 10 a.m.
The Voices of Northwest Florida State College perform.
Feb. 14 Valentine Dinner Dance
Austons on 98, Miramar Beach, 5-9 p.m.
Cost is $40 per ticket ($40 plus $2 processing fee online). 30 tickets available online (must have a badge #).
Purchase tickets online at thedestinsnowbirds.com/valentine-dinner.
Feb. 24 Harbor Cruise
Contact: Steve Ericson, 612-360-7584, [email protected]
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Andrea & Paul McArthur
Safety First!! Grab Bars!:
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
Did you know that, according to the CDC, millions of older people—those 65 and older—fall. In fact, more than one out of four older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. AND… Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.
Falls account for most accidents in people aged 65 and older. These falls can lead to serious injuries and even accidental deaths. Even seniors who appear to be physically strong and healthy can still have a fall. This threat of falling can affect your independence as you may be forced to live with a caregiver. Look up the stats! They are scary!
However, falling in the bathroom is not just a matter of slipping in the bathtub or shower. Simple actions like sitting down, using, or rising from the toilet comprise the third most likely cause of bathroom injuries among seniors. This is followed by getting out of the bathtub or shower.
PROTECT YOURSELF WITH JUST A FEW SIMPLE TIPS AND AFFORDABLE CHANGES TO YOUR HOME!
MOST IMPORTANTLY, INSTALL GRAB BARS OR RAILS!
The installation of grab bars in bathtubs is a crucial consideration for enhancing safety and accessibility, particularly for disabled and elderly individuals.
The bathroom can pose a high risk for falls and injuries, especially for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Grab bars provide essential support and stability, reducing the risk of slips and falls in bathtubs and showers. The installation of grab bars is not just about safety; it’s about empowering individuals with reduced mobility to maintain their independence and dignity.
Slippery surfaces, combined with the physical challenges of entering and exiting a bathtub, increase the risk of falls. Grab bars offer a sturdy support point, allowing individuals to safely navigate these challenges. Properly installed grab bars are a simple yet effective solution to enhance safety and prevent accidents in the bathroom.
But… the effectiveness of grab bars depends on proper installation. This includes choosing the right type of bar, the correct placement, and ensuring that they are securely anchored. Professional installation is key to ensuring that grab bars provide the necessary support and withstand the weight and force applied to them.
If this hits home, please do yourself a favor and call your local handyman or contractor to get some help. Grab bars, at a minimum, could save you from serious injury! And they are not expensive – certainly not compared to an ER visit or hospital stay! Stay safe. Keep your home healthy and safe. and be well!
As always, there is no shame in asking for help!! And, frankly, depending on your age, you shouldn’t be on a ladder!! There all sorts of quality business in the Destinites Directory who would love to help!
Happy Valentines Destin!
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
Did you know that, according to the CDC, millions of older people—those 65 and older—fall. In fact, more than one out of four older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. AND… Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.
Falls account for most accidents in people aged 65 and older. These falls can lead to serious injuries and even accidental deaths. Even seniors who appear to be physically strong and healthy can still have a fall. This threat of falling can affect your independence as you may be forced to live with a caregiver. Look up the stats! They are scary!
However, falling in the bathroom is not just a matter of slipping in the bathtub or shower. Simple actions like sitting down, using, or rising from the toilet comprise the third most likely cause of bathroom injuries among seniors. This is followed by getting out of the bathtub or shower.
PROTECT YOURSELF WITH JUST A FEW SIMPLE TIPS AND AFFORDABLE CHANGES TO YOUR HOME!
- Get rid of your throw rugs! They are trip magnets.
- Put in some non-slip strips in your tub or shower to give yourself the extra grip you need to prevent falls.
- Make sure to keep your tub or shower is clean to counteract slippery soap residue or mold.
- Keep your bathroom floor dry.
- Make sure your bathroom is well lit.
- Consider purchasing a toilet seat extender or a toilet with a higher seat.
- Get a bath or shower seat.
- Install a handheld shower head which will help you minimize movements in the shower.
- Never rush. Life is short. Take your time and enjoy your shower.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, INSTALL GRAB BARS OR RAILS!
The installation of grab bars in bathtubs is a crucial consideration for enhancing safety and accessibility, particularly for disabled and elderly individuals.
The bathroom can pose a high risk for falls and injuries, especially for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Grab bars provide essential support and stability, reducing the risk of slips and falls in bathtubs and showers. The installation of grab bars is not just about safety; it’s about empowering individuals with reduced mobility to maintain their independence and dignity.
Slippery surfaces, combined with the physical challenges of entering and exiting a bathtub, increase the risk of falls. Grab bars offer a sturdy support point, allowing individuals to safely navigate these challenges. Properly installed grab bars are a simple yet effective solution to enhance safety and prevent accidents in the bathroom.
But… the effectiveness of grab bars depends on proper installation. This includes choosing the right type of bar, the correct placement, and ensuring that they are securely anchored. Professional installation is key to ensuring that grab bars provide the necessary support and withstand the weight and force applied to them.
If this hits home, please do yourself a favor and call your local handyman or contractor to get some help. Grab bars, at a minimum, could save you from serious injury! And they are not expensive – certainly not compared to an ER visit or hospital stay! Stay safe. Keep your home healthy and safe. and be well!
As always, there is no shame in asking for help!! And, frankly, depending on your age, you shouldn’t be on a ladder!! There all sorts of quality business in the Destinites Directory who would love to help!
Happy Valentines Destin!
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Melissa Jones, Agent
Business Growth and Insurance:
By: Melissa Jones, Agent - Norton Insurance Company
Planning on growing your business in 2025? See how insurance factors into this growth
New Year! New Potential! New Growth!
Like many business owners right now, I’m sure your sights are high anticipating the potential growth your business could have this year. You’re exploring different revenue streams and avenues to acquire more customers while expanding your operations to new areas or sectors. We love to watch our small business owners reach new levels of growth and prosperity, and see their potential fulfilled. That luster in their eyes quickly disappears when we tell them their insurance premium has gone up because of their successful year. It rarely crosses our customers’ minds that insurance rates correlate with business growth and scope.
Calculating premium for business insurance is from two main sources: payroll/revenue and scope of work.
Having either of these two things inaccurate can make your insurance premium swing wildly.
There is always some numerical factor (sometimes called the “basis”) that the insurance premium is based on which will allow you to anticipate the premium during the policy term. That rate (a multiple or % of the basis which results in the premium) won’t change during the period but the basis can. The basis can be the number of units (like apartments), revenue (gross revenue usually), costs (like subcontractor cost), payroll (1099 & W2), or area (square footage). If you know your basis and the current term’s rate, you can usually anticipate the premium. The rate is usually correlated with your line of work and the risk levels associated with your work.
Insurance for New Business Owners
When we talk to someone who is starting a new business, one of the challenges is projecting future revenue and expenses such as payroll and subcontractor costs for the coming year. It can also be challenging for new businesses to anticipate all the services they may offer. Many have a good grasp of this, but some have the good misfortune of wildly underestimating these figures. Please know that if you have more success than you anticipated, your insurance premium will need to account for this.
Insurance for Established Business Owners
Once a business has had a year under its belt, they can better anticipate how much payroll they’ll have along with what type of work they’ll be doing. If you add people to your crew or add different services than what you previously told the insurance company, they will most likely hit you with an audit bill. Some business owners pivot to different products or services when they find these have a better margin or there’s more demand. If you stay in your industry, this usually won’t be a big deal but be sure to ask your insurance agent if you’re making big changes. A landscaping company that is now venturing into tree trimming and hardscaping will be classified differently with an insurance company and so the price will be different. If you don’t update your policy with these new services, you’ll either be hit with an audit bill, your policy will need to be rewritten or cancelled, or in a worst-case potential, claims will be denied.
When a Business Need Additional Types of Coverage
Most companies start off with basic insurance coverage like Liability and Workers’ Comp. These policies cover your customers, products/services, and your employees. Once your business expands, so should your coverages. If we took a furniture store as an example, they would most likely start with general liability and workers’ comp; but
If you start delivering that furniture, you will need new coverages not covered by your GL or Property, such as:
Some policies can breathe and flex to accommodate changes, others can’t, and a new insurance company found. It’s important to work with your insurance agent to know how to manage each policy and the overall risk of your small business. Luckly, we have some of the most experienced commercial insurance agents in the Destin and Fort Walton Area. They can let you know what coverage you need now and ten years down the road. Give us a call at 850-244-1574 or visit our website to find out more www.norton-insurance.com.
By: Melissa Jones, Agent - Norton Insurance Company
Planning on growing your business in 2025? See how insurance factors into this growth
New Year! New Potential! New Growth!
Like many business owners right now, I’m sure your sights are high anticipating the potential growth your business could have this year. You’re exploring different revenue streams and avenues to acquire more customers while expanding your operations to new areas or sectors. We love to watch our small business owners reach new levels of growth and prosperity, and see their potential fulfilled. That luster in their eyes quickly disappears when we tell them their insurance premium has gone up because of their successful year. It rarely crosses our customers’ minds that insurance rates correlate with business growth and scope.
Calculating premium for business insurance is from two main sources: payroll/revenue and scope of work.
Having either of these two things inaccurate can make your insurance premium swing wildly.
There is always some numerical factor (sometimes called the “basis”) that the insurance premium is based on which will allow you to anticipate the premium during the policy term. That rate (a multiple or % of the basis which results in the premium) won’t change during the period but the basis can. The basis can be the number of units (like apartments), revenue (gross revenue usually), costs (like subcontractor cost), payroll (1099 & W2), or area (square footage). If you know your basis and the current term’s rate, you can usually anticipate the premium. The rate is usually correlated with your line of work and the risk levels associated with your work.
Insurance for New Business Owners
When we talk to someone who is starting a new business, one of the challenges is projecting future revenue and expenses such as payroll and subcontractor costs for the coming year. It can also be challenging for new businesses to anticipate all the services they may offer. Many have a good grasp of this, but some have the good misfortune of wildly underestimating these figures. Please know that if you have more success than you anticipated, your insurance premium will need to account for this.
Insurance for Established Business Owners
Once a business has had a year under its belt, they can better anticipate how much payroll they’ll have along with what type of work they’ll be doing. If you add people to your crew or add different services than what you previously told the insurance company, they will most likely hit you with an audit bill. Some business owners pivot to different products or services when they find these have a better margin or there’s more demand. If you stay in your industry, this usually won’t be a big deal but be sure to ask your insurance agent if you’re making big changes. A landscaping company that is now venturing into tree trimming and hardscaping will be classified differently with an insurance company and so the price will be different. If you don’t update your policy with these new services, you’ll either be hit with an audit bill, your policy will need to be rewritten or cancelled, or in a worst-case potential, claims will be denied.
When a Business Need Additional Types of Coverage
Most companies start off with basic insurance coverage like Liability and Workers’ Comp. These policies cover your customers, products/services, and your employees. Once your business expands, so should your coverages. If we took a furniture store as an example, they would most likely start with general liability and workers’ comp; but
If you start delivering that furniture, you will need new coverages not covered by your GL or Property, such as:
- Commercial Auto – damage to your vehicles, employees’ vehicles, liability for car accidents, etc
- Cargo – damage during transport to inventory you don’t own, such as on consignment
- Inland Marine – damage to your inventory during transport or away from the business location
- Professional Liability – for design flaws
- Workers Comp – likely must be rewritten or change to basis
- Umbrella – damage allegedly caused by you, your staff, or your furniture to higher-value or higher-frequency locations
- Professional Liability – for financial harm because of your advice
- general liability – likely must be completely rewritten to allow for subcontractors and basis change
- Life Insurance – to buy out your ownership stake in the business and ensure operations continue
- Builders Risk – physical damage to the new structure while under construction or remodel
Some policies can breathe and flex to accommodate changes, others can’t, and a new insurance company found. It’s important to work with your insurance agent to know how to manage each policy and the overall risk of your small business. Luckly, we have some of the most experienced commercial insurance agents in the Destin and Fort Walton Area. They can let you know what coverage you need now and ten years down the road. Give us a call at 850-244-1574 or visit our website to find out more www.norton-insurance.com.
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Kim Schneider
2025 Interior Design Trends:
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Number of Pillows
Sofa: 2-6 pillows
Sectional: 6-11 pillows
LoveSeat: 2-3 pillows
Layering
Three layers of pillows allow you to mix colors, patterns, and textures
Use the largest pillow to anchor the ends of the sofa
Layer smaller pillows in front (varying sizes)
Mixing and Matching
Choose three different patterns, with each pattern containing at least one color
from your chosen color story
Start with a lead pattern that's the largest and contains all three colors
Select secondary patterns (prints, stripes, etc.) that contain one or two of the
colors
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Number of Pillows
Sofa: 2-6 pillows
Sectional: 6-11 pillows
LoveSeat: 2-3 pillows
Layering
Three layers of pillows allow you to mix colors, patterns, and textures
Use the largest pillow to anchor the ends of the sofa
Layer smaller pillows in front (varying sizes)
Mixing and Matching
Choose three different patterns, with each pattern containing at least one color
from your chosen color story
Start with a lead pattern that's the largest and contains all three colors
Select secondary patterns (prints, stripes, etc.) that contain one or two of the
colors
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Destin City www.cityofdestin.com
Volunteer Opportunites: Posted from the Destin City website at Volunteer Opportunities | Destin, FL - Official Website (cityofdestin.com)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
Events Calendar
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AREA EVENTS! <-- Please click the picture to view some of our local events for the Destin area. Monthly Calendar. |
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Okaloosa County Master Gardeners: Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OCMGA
If you want to know what to plant and when, check out this Planting calendar on the OCMGA website. https://www.ocmga.org |
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February at the Destin Library: Click on the picture to be taken to the Library's calendar of events for the month of May. They have some exciting, fun things taking place! I think you just may be surprised at what all goes on there. There is a lot more than just books at that place. Check it out! |
Christian Corner: by Patricia Lee
God goes before me in battle, in all battles. He gives me strength and courage and goes before me as a shield in daily tasks or battles that fight for my very life. He wants us to call on His help for everything. He wants us to include Him in our everyday lives. If you will do this, you will become closer and closer to Him and come to better understand Him. Having courage in the tough times will become easier once you know Him. God doesn't just give me strength; He also gives me skill in battle. The more you learn about God and HIs ways, the more you listen as He guides you through life, the more skillful you will become in your battles and against your enemies. Get to know Him!
- 1 Chronicles 28:20
God goes before me in battle, in all battles. He gives me strength and courage and goes before me as a shield in daily tasks or battles that fight for my very life. He wants us to call on His help for everything. He wants us to include Him in our everyday lives. If you will do this, you will become closer and closer to Him and come to better understand Him. Having courage in the tough times will become easier once you know Him. God doesn't just give me strength; He also gives me skill in battle. The more you learn about God and HIs ways, the more you listen as He guides you through life, the more skillful you will become in your battles and against your enemies. Get to know Him!
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Website Est. 2018
Newsletter Est. Dec. 2021