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January 2024 Newsletter
Patricia Lee
A Note From The Publisher
Happy New Year to you all! Personally speaking, I am hoping that 2024 will have a little less drama associated with it than did 2023. We had some significant life changing events in our family this past year. Some good; some not so good. 1. My father went into the VA nursing home, memory care unit, as he has Dementia/Alzheirmer's. Helping my mother take care of him for the past year was scary and challenging but I thank God I was able to move in the house with them and help. God is my absolute ROCK! 2. My mother, who was already depressed over my daddy, got the Shingles a month ago and is not doing very well. It is all we can do to keep her spirits up, so prayers would be appreciated. 3. My 35 year old daughter, Alex, fell at work December 15th and ended up having 3 surgeries on her ankle and leg within a three week timeframe. She will not be able to put weight on that foot for at least 3 months and has a long painful recovery ahead. Both Alex and my mother are living with me so that I can help take care of them. And, somewhere in all my spare time, I visit with my daddy and try to get some work done. Oh, and #4, did I mention that I was diagnosed with Diabetes type 2? Awe yes, that wonderful thing we call LIFE ...... are we having fun yet?!? Have you ever read the Book of Job, in the Bible? He is my new hero. If I had a picture of him, I would pin it up on the wall where my David Casidey poster used to be. (ha!) Funny how our heros and priorities change as we get older. Honestly though, I just feel so blessed that I am able to help take care of my family, in their time of need and I am honored to do so. They are good people and I love them to the moon and back!
On the bright side, my son, Rob Avram, full time Nashville musician, is going to become a father in March which will make me a Gigi for the first time. AND, he is planning a move back to Birmingham, so the "Little" can grow up with family. It's a girl and they are naming her Daisy Elizabeth. Rob will have a lot of traveling back and forth to Nashville for his career but that's another story and another prayer vigil. Lord knows prayers for my children are never ending! I am excited beyond description and especially over becoming a grandmother! It makes everything else that has happened this past year seem so small. Just the thought of little Daisy brings so much joy to my heart. No matter what life hands you, there is always a silver lining somewhere and she will certainly be that for us when she gets here. Help me pray for her safe arrival!
I want to thank all of you for subscribing to this newsletter. I hope 2024 will bring you nothing but happiness, good health and wealth!
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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 9,200+ 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. 2015 Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Original Newsletter created: December 2021
Happy New Year to you all! Personally speaking, I am hoping that 2024 will have a little less drama associated with it than did 2023. We had some significant life changing events in our family this past year. Some good; some not so good. 1. My father went into the VA nursing home, memory care unit, as he has Dementia/Alzheirmer's. Helping my mother take care of him for the past year was scary and challenging but I thank God I was able to move in the house with them and help. God is my absolute ROCK! 2. My mother, who was already depressed over my daddy, got the Shingles a month ago and is not doing very well. It is all we can do to keep her spirits up, so prayers would be appreciated. 3. My 35 year old daughter, Alex, fell at work December 15th and ended up having 3 surgeries on her ankle and leg within a three week timeframe. She will not be able to put weight on that foot for at least 3 months and has a long painful recovery ahead. Both Alex and my mother are living with me so that I can help take care of them. And, somewhere in all my spare time, I visit with my daddy and try to get some work done. Oh, and #4, did I mention that I was diagnosed with Diabetes type 2? Awe yes, that wonderful thing we call LIFE ...... are we having fun yet?!? Have you ever read the Book of Job, in the Bible? He is my new hero. If I had a picture of him, I would pin it up on the wall where my David Casidey poster used to be. (ha!) Funny how our heros and priorities change as we get older. Honestly though, I just feel so blessed that I am able to help take care of my family, in their time of need and I am honored to do so. They are good people and I love them to the moon and back!
On the bright side, my son, Rob Avram, full time Nashville musician, is going to become a father in March which will make me a Gigi for the first time. AND, he is planning a move back to Birmingham, so the "Little" can grow up with family. It's a girl and they are naming her Daisy Elizabeth. Rob will have a lot of traveling back and forth to Nashville for his career but that's another story and another prayer vigil. Lord knows prayers for my children are never ending! I am excited beyond description and especially over becoming a grandmother! It makes everything else that has happened this past year seem so small. Just the thought of little Daisy brings so much joy to my heart. No matter what life hands you, there is always a silver lining somewhere and she will certainly be that for us when she gets here. Help me pray for her safe arrival!
I want to thank all of you for subscribing to this newsletter. I hope 2024 will bring you nothing but happiness, good health and wealth!
-----------------------
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 9,200+ 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. 2015 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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Lori Leath Smith
Begin the New Year with Stories in Song!:
by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Top Performances from the Largest Gathering of Nationally Recognized Songwriters on The
Florida Coast Perform Jan. 12-15
What makes your favorite song your favorite? I’ve always said it’s likely the story it tells.
And that’s what is so special about the 30A Songwriters Festival. On Jan. 12-15, 2024, South
Walton will be transformed into a story-in-song paradise and the “hottest” mid-January mecca
for music fans. And the best part? It’s right in our back yard!
For the past 15 years, fans locally and from throughout the world converge at the 30A
Songwriters Festival, which attracts thousands of dedicated live music fans to hear original
songwriters spanning multiple genres perform their songs—the largest gathering of nationally
recognized songwriters performing right here locally!
Scenic Highway 30A is home to 30 venues presenting more than 180 songwriters and 280+ solo,
band and in-the-round performances throughout the weekend. These featured songwriters
come from varied careers including local performers, aspiring Nashville artists and ones who’ve
performed at sold-out arenas.
This year, the Festival turns 15 with performances on the main stage at presenting partner
Grand Boulevard’s Town Center with headline performances by renowned artists Jeff Tweedy,
Elvis Costello and The Imposters, Grace Potter, Rosanne Cash and KT Tunstall. Twenty-one
newly confirmed artists to add to the 2024 line up include John Driskell Hopkins (Zac Brown
Band), John Paul White, Kevn Kinney, Chris Stills, Wyatt Durrette, Ethan Hulse, Duncan Phillips,
Boukou Groove, Donnie Sundal, Katie Martin, Larry Mitchell, Ken Johnson, Andi Zack-Johnson,
Alex Rogers, The Rough; Tumble, Amanda Donald, The Krickets, The Late Night Losers, Gileah
Taylor, Kyle Lamonica and The Mosleys.
Local amphitheaters, town halls, restaurants, theaters, bars and covered patios will be
converted into unique music venues with state-of-the-art sound systems and capacities ranging
from 100 to 1000 seats indoors and 6,000 outdoors.
Co-produced by Russell Carter Artist Management and the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of
Walton, the festival’s net proceeds support the CAA mission to advance the Arts in our area.;
We are thrilled to host Elvis Costello in January 2024 comments Russell Carter, President of
Russell Carter Artist Management and Festival Co-Producer.; Most Artists who break
commercially do so after many years of hard development work. Elvis Costello flat out burst on
the international scene with his debut album My Aim is True. Seemingly out of nowhere he
appeared on Saturday Night Live with a name borrowed from Presley and looks apprehended
from Buddy Holly. He proceeded to rage like the British punk and pub rocker that he was. His
debut record demonstrated a melodic sense on par with Lennon, McCartney and a lyrical and
poetic prowess comparable to Dylan. Over several decades of album releases, Elvis has
recorded amazing songs encompassing country, jazz, baroque pop, Tin Pan Alley and
classical music. It is with tremendous pride that we introduce Elvis Costello, one of my very
favorite artists and one of our generation greatest songwriters, to the 30A Songwriters
Festival.
As we approach the 15th anniversary of the 30A Songwriters Festival, we want to acknowledge
how fortunate we are to have hosted so many world class musicians in our small beach
community,; says Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County Executive Director and Co-Producer
Jennifer Steele. “We gambled in 2010 that touring musicians would enjoy spending an extended
weekend performing along the uniquely beautiful coast on the Gulf of Mexico, and fortunately
Jackson Browne, Emmylou Harris, Jason Isbell, Mavis Staples, John Prine, Indigo Girls, Brian
Wilson, Brandi Carlile, Grace Potter and hundreds more have proved us right. Our Festival is a
partnership with venues, resort communities, rental agencies and hotels along Hwy. 30A and
beyond, along with important regional and national business sponsors who all benefit from the
exposure to the many thousands of music lovers the Festival attracts. Most importantly, our
local community benefits as 100% of the Festival net proceeds are further invested in our
mission to foster creativity and our vision of a thriving Walton County where everyone
experiences the power of the Arts.
Adds Carter,; There is a direct correlation between the success of the 30A Songwriters Festival
and the richness of cultural arts experiences in our communities, including an Art in Public
Spaces program (murals and sculptures), The Foster Gallery that supports local artists,
professional theatre, the Underwater Museum of Art, Flutterby Children's Arts Festival and the
ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival.
Festival Weekend Passes are currently available at www.30asongwritersfestival.com. VIP tickets
that include premium seating and complementary gourmet food and drinks in the VIP tent on
Saturday and Sunday afternoons are also available. For a full description of each ticket package
including VIP mainstage and full weekend transportation packages for groups of 2 up to 12,
visitwww.30asongwritersfestival.com.
The 30A Songwriters Festival is presented by Grand Boulevard with additional support from
Visit South Walton, the Florida Department of State Division of Arts Culture, WaterColor Inn
and Resort and ASCAP.
by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Top Performances from the Largest Gathering of Nationally Recognized Songwriters on The
Florida Coast Perform Jan. 12-15
What makes your favorite song your favorite? I’ve always said it’s likely the story it tells.
And that’s what is so special about the 30A Songwriters Festival. On Jan. 12-15, 2024, South
Walton will be transformed into a story-in-song paradise and the “hottest” mid-January mecca
for music fans. And the best part? It’s right in our back yard!
For the past 15 years, fans locally and from throughout the world converge at the 30A
Songwriters Festival, which attracts thousands of dedicated live music fans to hear original
songwriters spanning multiple genres perform their songs—the largest gathering of nationally
recognized songwriters performing right here locally!
Scenic Highway 30A is home to 30 venues presenting more than 180 songwriters and 280+ solo,
band and in-the-round performances throughout the weekend. These featured songwriters
come from varied careers including local performers, aspiring Nashville artists and ones who’ve
performed at sold-out arenas.
This year, the Festival turns 15 with performances on the main stage at presenting partner
Grand Boulevard’s Town Center with headline performances by renowned artists Jeff Tweedy,
Elvis Costello and The Imposters, Grace Potter, Rosanne Cash and KT Tunstall. Twenty-one
newly confirmed artists to add to the 2024 line up include John Driskell Hopkins (Zac Brown
Band), John Paul White, Kevn Kinney, Chris Stills, Wyatt Durrette, Ethan Hulse, Duncan Phillips,
Boukou Groove, Donnie Sundal, Katie Martin, Larry Mitchell, Ken Johnson, Andi Zack-Johnson,
Alex Rogers, The Rough; Tumble, Amanda Donald, The Krickets, The Late Night Losers, Gileah
Taylor, Kyle Lamonica and The Mosleys.
Local amphitheaters, town halls, restaurants, theaters, bars and covered patios will be
converted into unique music venues with state-of-the-art sound systems and capacities ranging
from 100 to 1000 seats indoors and 6,000 outdoors.
Co-produced by Russell Carter Artist Management and the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of
Walton, the festival’s net proceeds support the CAA mission to advance the Arts in our area.;
We are thrilled to host Elvis Costello in January 2024 comments Russell Carter, President of
Russell Carter Artist Management and Festival Co-Producer.; Most Artists who break
commercially do so after many years of hard development work. Elvis Costello flat out burst on
the international scene with his debut album My Aim is True. Seemingly out of nowhere he
appeared on Saturday Night Live with a name borrowed from Presley and looks apprehended
from Buddy Holly. He proceeded to rage like the British punk and pub rocker that he was. His
debut record demonstrated a melodic sense on par with Lennon, McCartney and a lyrical and
poetic prowess comparable to Dylan. Over several decades of album releases, Elvis has
recorded amazing songs encompassing country, jazz, baroque pop, Tin Pan Alley and
classical music. It is with tremendous pride that we introduce Elvis Costello, one of my very
favorite artists and one of our generation greatest songwriters, to the 30A Songwriters
Festival.
As we approach the 15th anniversary of the 30A Songwriters Festival, we want to acknowledge
how fortunate we are to have hosted so many world class musicians in our small beach
community,; says Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County Executive Director and Co-Producer
Jennifer Steele. “We gambled in 2010 that touring musicians would enjoy spending an extended
weekend performing along the uniquely beautiful coast on the Gulf of Mexico, and fortunately
Jackson Browne, Emmylou Harris, Jason Isbell, Mavis Staples, John Prine, Indigo Girls, Brian
Wilson, Brandi Carlile, Grace Potter and hundreds more have proved us right. Our Festival is a
partnership with venues, resort communities, rental agencies and hotels along Hwy. 30A and
beyond, along with important regional and national business sponsors who all benefit from the
exposure to the many thousands of music lovers the Festival attracts. Most importantly, our
local community benefits as 100% of the Festival net proceeds are further invested in our
mission to foster creativity and our vision of a thriving Walton County where everyone
experiences the power of the Arts.
Adds Carter,; There is a direct correlation between the success of the 30A Songwriters Festival
and the richness of cultural arts experiences in our communities, including an Art in Public
Spaces program (murals and sculptures), The Foster Gallery that supports local artists,
professional theatre, the Underwater Museum of Art, Flutterby Children's Arts Festival and the
ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival.
Festival Weekend Passes are currently available at www.30asongwritersfestival.com. VIP tickets
that include premium seating and complementary gourmet food and drinks in the VIP tent on
Saturday and Sunday afternoons are also available. For a full description of each ticket package
including VIP mainstage and full weekend transportation packages for groups of 2 up to 12,
visitwww.30asongwritersfestival.com.
The 30A Songwriters Festival is presented by Grand Boulevard with additional support from
Visit South Walton, the Florida Department of State Division of Arts Culture, WaterColor Inn
and Resort and ASCAP.
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Andrea & Paul McArthur
5 Tips for a Winter-Ready North Florida Home:
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
It’s after the holidays and another a couple of months until spring arrives. But you don’t have to wait to see your shadow to start your spring projects.
Chase those late-winter blues away with some January home maintenance. Get inspired with these home improvement and safety tips.
1. Clean the kitchen
Check a couple of these items off your winter home safety maintenance checklist to improve conditions in your kitchen.
Deep clean the garbage disposal: Nobody likes a stinky sink, so take a little time this Jana to clear the air in your kitchen. A clogged garbage disposal isn’t just gross—it can create expensive plumbing problems. Here’s how to clean your garbage disposal.
• Turn off the power.
• Wipe the grinding chamber and drain.
• Deodorize with ice and vinegar.
Keep your garbage disposal clean for the rest of the year by grinding orange and lemon peels once a week.
Clean out the oven: Did you know that 8% of home cooking fires are caused by dirty ovens or ranges?1 Grime and food built up over the year can render your oven a grimy fire hazard if you don’t clean it regularly.
The good news is cleaning the oven is as easy as following the instructions on your favorite brand of oven cleaner.
2. Be fire smart
It’s easy to take your hallways for granted when it comes to routine checks and maintenance. These quick tasks take only a few minutes and can keep your home safe all year.
Check fire extinguishers: Kitchen fires are serious business. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries and the second leading cause behind home fire deaths.
You can keep an accident from becoming a tragedy by investing in a fire extinguisher and training your family on how to use it. If you already have one, check the gauge to make sure it's in the green.
If not, get it recharged.
Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors: Dead batteries caused 25% of smoke alarm failures from 2012 to 2016.3 Simple routine maintenance can keep your home much safer.
This January, check all the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re functional. If it’s been over 10 years since you last replaced these units, invest a little cash, and replace your existing detectors.
3. Odds-and-ends upkeep
Make your home feel a little cozier with these bedrooms and living area improvements.
Change your HVAC filter: Air quality is important inside and outside your home. Breathe a little easier going into spring by changing your HVAC air filter in the hallways, ceilings, or wherever your vent is located. While vents can vary from home to home, the process takes about as long as changing a lightbulb.
Clean linens, carpets, and curtains: Dust, mites, and dander can all cause allergies long before spring pollen strikes. Deep clean your bedsheets, duvets, and comforters in each bedroom to keep the creepy crawlies away. The carpets and curtains in your living areas will also need some love after a year of use.
Change Wi-Fi and personal passwords: Internet-connected smart devices like security systems and cameras need a little maintenance too. Regularly changing your home Wi-Fi password and passwords to accounts like email, bank, and social media accounts can keep prying eyes at bay.
Use unique, complex passwords for each of your accounts for extra security. You should do this more than once a year, but it’s never too late to start! Try using a password manager this month to keep all your data safe.
Upgrade indoor lights: Brighten things up with an upgrade to your living room and bedroom lights. You can control smart lights and anything plugged into a smart plug directly from your phone.
These devices let you turn on the lights or start your morning coffee without getting out of bed. You can also find smartbulbs that add mood lighting for that big date with your valentine.
4. Inspect bathrooms
Here are a few home safety maintenance tasks to make your throne room fit for a king.
Clean out your medicine cabinet: After years of medications piling up, it’s time to clean out your medicine cabinet. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends tossing unused or expired medications.
Proper disposal depends on the type of medication you’re throwing away. There are some medications you can flush and others you can’t.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office participates in the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take-Back Program. The Drug Take-Back Program provides citizens a way of disposing of their unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal. Environmental problems such as water and soil contamination result when people flush their medications down the toilet. Studies have shown that 80 percent of the U.S. streams contain small amounts of human medicines. Sewage systems simply can’t remove these medicines from water which them makes its way into lakes, rivers, or oceans.
Recaulk the tub and toilet: Prevent leaks and water damage in your home by checking the sealing and caulking in your bathroom. It only takes a few minutes to patch up any problem areas. You can find caulk online or at your local hardware store.
Deep clean to prevent mold: Bathrooms are a paradise for molds, mildew, and fungus. This January, clean out your vents, fix any water leaks, and scrub the walls and ceilings to prevent black mold and other household mildews.
5. Upgrade outside
While January can be chilly, for those in warmer climates, spring is just around the corner. Here are a few ways you can keep the outside of your home safer until the warm weather comes.
Clean out your gutters: Clean out your gutters this January to prepare for the spring showers. Clogged gutters can cause expensive issues with your roof even if snow and ice aren’t part of the equation.
Upgrade locks: Boost security and convenience with new smart locks this year. Smart locks make it easier for you to get in and out of your house without letting intruders in. They’re especially handy for anyone who tends to lose their keys or needs to let visitors in.
Get ahead on spring cleaning: It can be easy to get cabin fever this time of year, so make your home feel a little safer, cleaner, and happier this January by checking some items off this home maintenance list.
And, as always, there is no shame in asking for help! Check out the Destinites Directory to get the help you need.
In the end, your home us where your heart is :) If you take care of your home, it will take care of you!!
From the team at Agape Home Pros… Have a blessed and happy January!!
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
It’s after the holidays and another a couple of months until spring arrives. But you don’t have to wait to see your shadow to start your spring projects.
Chase those late-winter blues away with some January home maintenance. Get inspired with these home improvement and safety tips.
1. Clean the kitchen
Check a couple of these items off your winter home safety maintenance checklist to improve conditions in your kitchen.
Deep clean the garbage disposal: Nobody likes a stinky sink, so take a little time this Jana to clear the air in your kitchen. A clogged garbage disposal isn’t just gross—it can create expensive plumbing problems. Here’s how to clean your garbage disposal.
• Turn off the power.
• Wipe the grinding chamber and drain.
• Deodorize with ice and vinegar.
Keep your garbage disposal clean for the rest of the year by grinding orange and lemon peels once a week.
Clean out the oven: Did you know that 8% of home cooking fires are caused by dirty ovens or ranges?1 Grime and food built up over the year can render your oven a grimy fire hazard if you don’t clean it regularly.
The good news is cleaning the oven is as easy as following the instructions on your favorite brand of oven cleaner.
2. Be fire smart
It’s easy to take your hallways for granted when it comes to routine checks and maintenance. These quick tasks take only a few minutes and can keep your home safe all year.
Check fire extinguishers: Kitchen fires are serious business. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries and the second leading cause behind home fire deaths.
You can keep an accident from becoming a tragedy by investing in a fire extinguisher and training your family on how to use it. If you already have one, check the gauge to make sure it's in the green.
If not, get it recharged.
Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors: Dead batteries caused 25% of smoke alarm failures from 2012 to 2016.3 Simple routine maintenance can keep your home much safer.
This January, check all the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re functional. If it’s been over 10 years since you last replaced these units, invest a little cash, and replace your existing detectors.
3. Odds-and-ends upkeep
Make your home feel a little cozier with these bedrooms and living area improvements.
Change your HVAC filter: Air quality is important inside and outside your home. Breathe a little easier going into spring by changing your HVAC air filter in the hallways, ceilings, or wherever your vent is located. While vents can vary from home to home, the process takes about as long as changing a lightbulb.
Clean linens, carpets, and curtains: Dust, mites, and dander can all cause allergies long before spring pollen strikes. Deep clean your bedsheets, duvets, and comforters in each bedroom to keep the creepy crawlies away. The carpets and curtains in your living areas will also need some love after a year of use.
Change Wi-Fi and personal passwords: Internet-connected smart devices like security systems and cameras need a little maintenance too. Regularly changing your home Wi-Fi password and passwords to accounts like email, bank, and social media accounts can keep prying eyes at bay.
Use unique, complex passwords for each of your accounts for extra security. You should do this more than once a year, but it’s never too late to start! Try using a password manager this month to keep all your data safe.
Upgrade indoor lights: Brighten things up with an upgrade to your living room and bedroom lights. You can control smart lights and anything plugged into a smart plug directly from your phone.
These devices let you turn on the lights or start your morning coffee without getting out of bed. You can also find smartbulbs that add mood lighting for that big date with your valentine.
4. Inspect bathrooms
Here are a few home safety maintenance tasks to make your throne room fit for a king.
Clean out your medicine cabinet: After years of medications piling up, it’s time to clean out your medicine cabinet. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends tossing unused or expired medications.
Proper disposal depends on the type of medication you’re throwing away. There are some medications you can flush and others you can’t.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office participates in the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take-Back Program. The Drug Take-Back Program provides citizens a way of disposing of their unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal. Environmental problems such as water and soil contamination result when people flush their medications down the toilet. Studies have shown that 80 percent of the U.S. streams contain small amounts of human medicines. Sewage systems simply can’t remove these medicines from water which them makes its way into lakes, rivers, or oceans.
Recaulk the tub and toilet: Prevent leaks and water damage in your home by checking the sealing and caulking in your bathroom. It only takes a few minutes to patch up any problem areas. You can find caulk online or at your local hardware store.
Deep clean to prevent mold: Bathrooms are a paradise for molds, mildew, and fungus. This January, clean out your vents, fix any water leaks, and scrub the walls and ceilings to prevent black mold and other household mildews.
5. Upgrade outside
While January can be chilly, for those in warmer climates, spring is just around the corner. Here are a few ways you can keep the outside of your home safer until the warm weather comes.
Clean out your gutters: Clean out your gutters this January to prepare for the spring showers. Clogged gutters can cause expensive issues with your roof even if snow and ice aren’t part of the equation.
Upgrade locks: Boost security and convenience with new smart locks this year. Smart locks make it easier for you to get in and out of your house without letting intruders in. They’re especially handy for anyone who tends to lose their keys or needs to let visitors in.
Get ahead on spring cleaning: It can be easy to get cabin fever this time of year, so make your home feel a little safer, cleaner, and happier this January by checking some items off this home maintenance list.
And, as always, there is no shame in asking for help! Check out the Destinites Directory to get the help you need.
In the end, your home us where your heart is :) If you take care of your home, it will take care of you!!
From the team at Agape Home Pros… Have a blessed and happy January!!
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Daniel Jones
New Year! New You! New Business?:
provided by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
Why now could be the best time to start your own business.
Why Now is the Best Time to Own a Small Business in Florida.
Destin is world renowned for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and friendly small businesses. Our little beach town has a thriving entrepreneurial spirit that is partially due to Florida’s business-friendly tax code and legislation. If you are thinking of starting or expanding a small business, here are some reasons why now could be the best time to do so.
· New Lower workers' compensation rates: Florida employers will see another decreased average of 15.1% percent decrease in workers' compensation insurance rates starting in 2024. The is the lowest rate businesses has in seen twenty years and the eighth consecutive year of rate reductions. Lower workers' compensation rates can help small businesses save on operating costs and improve their profitability. Sectors seeing the biggest decreases to workers comp rates are contactors and roofers.
· Low personal income tax: Florida is one of the nine states that does not impose a state income tax on individuals. This means that you get to keep more of your hard-earned money and invest it back into your business or personal needs. According to NerdWallet, Florida's state and local tax burden is 24 percent below the national average.
· Low corporate taxes: Florida also has a competitive corporate tax rate of 5.5 percent, which is the fifth lowest in the country. However, many corporations can benefit from various exemptions and incentives that can lower their effective tax rate significantly. Additionally, Florida does not tax business inventories, capital stock, or franchise taxes.
· Rich Location and Demographics for Entrepreneurs: Destin not only has the typical small businesses like property management, restaurants, and contractors but also the new creative ventures that include helicopter tours, drone photography, services to make vacations a dream! These new ventures are possible due to the large revenue the tourists bring. Our area also has a high per capita income making the off-season sustainable and luxury goods and services more attainable to the local population. Not even the sky is the limit with the kinds of business ventures that can be started here in Destin.
With a favorable tax climate, supportive legislation, and lower insurance costs, Florida is a great place to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams. If you’re thinking of starting or growing your business in the next year, give us a call for a quote on your insurance. Knowing your expenses is a great place to start and plan for success.
provided by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
Why now could be the best time to start your own business.
Why Now is the Best Time to Own a Small Business in Florida.
Destin is world renowned for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and friendly small businesses. Our little beach town has a thriving entrepreneurial spirit that is partially due to Florida’s business-friendly tax code and legislation. If you are thinking of starting or expanding a small business, here are some reasons why now could be the best time to do so.
· New Lower workers' compensation rates: Florida employers will see another decreased average of 15.1% percent decrease in workers' compensation insurance rates starting in 2024. The is the lowest rate businesses has in seen twenty years and the eighth consecutive year of rate reductions. Lower workers' compensation rates can help small businesses save on operating costs and improve their profitability. Sectors seeing the biggest decreases to workers comp rates are contactors and roofers.
· Low personal income tax: Florida is one of the nine states that does not impose a state income tax on individuals. This means that you get to keep more of your hard-earned money and invest it back into your business or personal needs. According to NerdWallet, Florida's state and local tax burden is 24 percent below the national average.
· Low corporate taxes: Florida also has a competitive corporate tax rate of 5.5 percent, which is the fifth lowest in the country. However, many corporations can benefit from various exemptions and incentives that can lower their effective tax rate significantly. Additionally, Florida does not tax business inventories, capital stock, or franchise taxes.
· Rich Location and Demographics for Entrepreneurs: Destin not only has the typical small businesses like property management, restaurants, and contractors but also the new creative ventures that include helicopter tours, drone photography, services to make vacations a dream! These new ventures are possible due to the large revenue the tourists bring. Our area also has a high per capita income making the off-season sustainable and luxury goods and services more attainable to the local population. Not even the sky is the limit with the kinds of business ventures that can be started here in Destin.
With a favorable tax climate, supportive legislation, and lower insurance costs, Florida is a great place to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams. If you’re thinking of starting or growing your business in the next year, give us a call for a quote on your insurance. Knowing your expenses is a great place to start and plan for success.
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Kim Schneider
2024 Interior Design Trends:
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Happy New Year! I hope you and yours had an awesome holiday season.
Now that the holidays are over and life is returning to normal we can focus
on refreshing our home for the new year. Below are a few trends you’ll
start seeing more of this year.
Lampshades – cone-shaped lampshades (narrow at the top and a
wide bottom) in a (fun) fabric or paper are making a big comeback.
Shiplap is everywhere but the latest trend is installing it vertically
(think 1970’s paneling) and painting it.
Performance Fabrics and Rugs are becoming more popular. They’re
worth the investment and can withstand the kids and furbabies.
Warm Blue and Mossy Green are colors we will see a lot of more of
this year. They will be the pop of color that’s used on walls, fabrics and cabinetry,
especially painted kitchen islands.
Unique Shaped Mirrors are a hot ticket item! Mirrors with irregular shapes or oversized
dimensions make a bold statement in any room. They add depth and can make your
space feel more inviting.
Trends come and go, but I am a firm believer in keeping what you like and
refreshing around it.
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Happy New Year! I hope you and yours had an awesome holiday season.
Now that the holidays are over and life is returning to normal we can focus
on refreshing our home for the new year. Below are a few trends you’ll
start seeing more of this year.
Lampshades – cone-shaped lampshades (narrow at the top and a
wide bottom) in a (fun) fabric or paper are making a big comeback.
Shiplap is everywhere but the latest trend is installing it vertically
(think 1970’s paneling) and painting it.
Performance Fabrics and Rugs are becoming more popular. They’re
worth the investment and can withstand the kids and furbabies.
Warm Blue and Mossy Green are colors we will see a lot of more of
this year. They will be the pop of color that’s used on walls, fabrics and cabinetry,
especially painted kitchen islands.
Unique Shaped Mirrors are a hot ticket item! Mirrors with irregular shapes or oversized
dimensions make a bold statement in any room. They add depth and can make your
space feel more inviting.
Trends come and go, but I am a firm believer in keeping what you like and
refreshing around it.
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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
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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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)
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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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January 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
Patience Is A Virtue!
Romans 5:3-5 New Century Version (NCV)
"We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts."
If you read my Publishers Note at the top of this newsletter, you will understand why I choose to talk about patience, in the Christian Corner this month. My family and I have been through a lot this year and everything that happened had a lesson of patience tagged along with it. Having patience does get easier as we get older. With age and experience you learn to wait upon the Lord. You learn that His timing is perfect and it brings you comfort to know He is in total control and is looking out for you. It is not so easy to have that kind of faith when you are young. Sometimes you have to get a little life experience under your belt to really understand. I have watched God in action for 64 years and He is nothing less than magnificent, miraculous, merciful, ........... He is perfect and so are His plans. I am so blessed to have Father God in my life and what a comfort it is to be able to trust Him always with everything. I never have to doubt Him and can always sleep well knowing He is guiding and providing. He will always bring something good from that which is bad. Pray for it.... look for it.... expect it!
Patience Is A Virtue!
Romans 5:3-5 New Century Version (NCV)
"We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts."
If you read my Publishers Note at the top of this newsletter, you will understand why I choose to talk about patience, in the Christian Corner this month. My family and I have been through a lot this year and everything that happened had a lesson of patience tagged along with it. Having patience does get easier as we get older. With age and experience you learn to wait upon the Lord. You learn that His timing is perfect and it brings you comfort to know He is in total control and is looking out for you. It is not so easy to have that kind of faith when you are young. Sometimes you have to get a little life experience under your belt to really understand. I have watched God in action for 64 years and He is nothing less than magnificent, miraculous, merciful, ........... He is perfect and so are His plans. I am so blessed to have Father God in my life and what a comfort it is to be able to trust Him always with everything. I never have to doubt Him and can always sleep well knowing He is guiding and providing. He will always bring something good from that which is bad. Pray for it.... look for it.... expect it!
No part of this website or newsletter may copied or reproduced in any way without expressed written consent of the owner. Destinites is a legally registered name with logo copyright and TM. All rights reserved 2024.
Website Est. 2018
Newsletter Est. Dec. 2021