July 2024 Newsletter
Patricia Lee
A Note From The Publisher
Grieving Mom’s Viral Post Warns Parents of the Silent Killer That Took Her Son’s Life:
If you go out boating, please be aware of open air carbon monoxide. Click the link to read the article, as it could save your life or the life of others. Stay safe! This is something most of us don't think about until it's too late.
https://herviewfromhome.com/open-air-carbon-monoxide-poisoning
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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 10,300+ 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
Grieving Mom’s Viral Post Warns Parents of the Silent Killer That Took Her Son’s Life:
If you go out boating, please be aware of open air carbon monoxide. Click the link to read the article, as it could save your life or the life of others. Stay safe! This is something most of us don't think about until it's too late.
https://herviewfromhome.com/open-air-carbon-monoxide-poisoning
-----------------------
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 10,300+ 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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Lori Leath Smith
Active Father/Active Child:
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Written By: Lisa Leath Turpin, Health & Wellness Coach
Fathers are increasingly involved in various aspects of their children’s lives, including exercise and
physical activities. According to a Pew Research Center report, fathers with children under 18 spend, on
average, 1.02 hours per day providing care and helping their children, which includes activities like
playing and providing physical care. This suggests that a portion of this time might include engaging in
physical activities or exercise together.
A survey by the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital found that about 37% of parents set goals to exercise with their children. Within this group, more mothers (41%) than fathers (30%) reported setting such goals. However, this indicates a significant minority of fathers are actively striving to incorporate physical activities into their parenting routines, aiming to improve both their own and their children’s health. These statistics reflect a broader trend of fathers becoming more engaged in their children’s daily lives
and wellness, highlighting the importance placed on shared physical activities as a means of fostering health and bonding.
There are benefits to exercising with your children. Fathers exercising with their children can provide numerous benefits encompassing physical, emotional and social aspects of health and development.
Here are some key advantages:
1. PHYSICAL HEALTH:
Improved Fitness: Regular physical activity helps improve cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility and overall fitness for both fathers and children. Engaging in exercise together can instill lifelong healthy habits. Reduce Obesity Risk: Active play and exercise can help manage weight and reduce the risk of childhood obesity, which is linked to various health issues later in life.
2. EMOTIONAL & MENTAL HEALTH:
Enhanced Bonding: Exercising together provides quality time that strengthens the emotional bond between fathers and their children. This bonding can lead to better communication and understanding within the family. Stress Reduction: Physical activity is a well-known stress reliever. Participating in exercise together can help reduce stress levels for both fathers and children, promoting better mental health. Boosted Self-Esteem: Children often look up to their fathers as role models. Engaging in physical activities can boost children’s confidence and self-esteem as they see their fathers valuing and participating in healthy behaviors.
3. SOCIAL BENEFITS:
Improved Social Skills: Group activities or team sports can help children develop social skills such as teamwork, leadership and cooperation. Fathers can model positive social interactions during these activities. Stronger Community Ties: Participation in community sports or fitness programs can foster a sense of community and belonging, benefiting both fathers and their children.
4. DEVELOPMENTAL BENEFITS:
Motor Skill Development: Physical activities help children develop fine and gross motor skills, which are crucial for their overall physical development. Fathers can guide and support their children in mastering these skills through shared exercise routines.
Cognitive Development: Exercise has been linked to improved cognitive function and
academic performance. Engaging in physical activities can enhance children’s concentration,
memory and learning abilities.
Destin provides many opportunities to exercise with your children. Hiking at Point Washington, beach volleyball/paddleball, surfing/paddle boarding, City of Destin sports teams, pickleball/tennis, golfing, neighborhood walks—the list is endless! A father exercising with his children offers a multifaceted range of benefits, promoting better health, stronger relationships and enhanced developmental outcomes. The shared activity supports not only physical well-being, but also emotional, social and cognitive growth. Happy Father’s Day to all the “active” Dads out there who make an exceptional difference in the lives of their children! Because, after all, your child is what makes you a DAD in the first place!
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Written By: Lisa Leath Turpin, Health & Wellness Coach
Fathers are increasingly involved in various aspects of their children’s lives, including exercise and
physical activities. According to a Pew Research Center report, fathers with children under 18 spend, on
average, 1.02 hours per day providing care and helping their children, which includes activities like
playing and providing physical care. This suggests that a portion of this time might include engaging in
physical activities or exercise together.
A survey by the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital found that about 37% of parents set goals to exercise with their children. Within this group, more mothers (41%) than fathers (30%) reported setting such goals. However, this indicates a significant minority of fathers are actively striving to incorporate physical activities into their parenting routines, aiming to improve both their own and their children’s health. These statistics reflect a broader trend of fathers becoming more engaged in their children’s daily lives
and wellness, highlighting the importance placed on shared physical activities as a means of fostering health and bonding.
There are benefits to exercising with your children. Fathers exercising with their children can provide numerous benefits encompassing physical, emotional and social aspects of health and development.
Here are some key advantages:
1. PHYSICAL HEALTH:
Improved Fitness: Regular physical activity helps improve cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility and overall fitness for both fathers and children. Engaging in exercise together can instill lifelong healthy habits. Reduce Obesity Risk: Active play and exercise can help manage weight and reduce the risk of childhood obesity, which is linked to various health issues later in life.
2. EMOTIONAL & MENTAL HEALTH:
Enhanced Bonding: Exercising together provides quality time that strengthens the emotional bond between fathers and their children. This bonding can lead to better communication and understanding within the family. Stress Reduction: Physical activity is a well-known stress reliever. Participating in exercise together can help reduce stress levels for both fathers and children, promoting better mental health. Boosted Self-Esteem: Children often look up to their fathers as role models. Engaging in physical activities can boost children’s confidence and self-esteem as they see their fathers valuing and participating in healthy behaviors.
3. SOCIAL BENEFITS:
Improved Social Skills: Group activities or team sports can help children develop social skills such as teamwork, leadership and cooperation. Fathers can model positive social interactions during these activities. Stronger Community Ties: Participation in community sports or fitness programs can foster a sense of community and belonging, benefiting both fathers and their children.
4. DEVELOPMENTAL BENEFITS:
Motor Skill Development: Physical activities help children develop fine and gross motor skills, which are crucial for their overall physical development. Fathers can guide and support their children in mastering these skills through shared exercise routines.
Cognitive Development: Exercise has been linked to improved cognitive function and
academic performance. Engaging in physical activities can enhance children’s concentration,
memory and learning abilities.
Destin provides many opportunities to exercise with your children. Hiking at Point Washington, beach volleyball/paddleball, surfing/paddle boarding, City of Destin sports teams, pickleball/tennis, golfing, neighborhood walks—the list is endless! A father exercising with his children offers a multifaceted range of benefits, promoting better health, stronger relationships and enhanced developmental outcomes. The shared activity supports not only physical well-being, but also emotional, social and cognitive growth. Happy Father’s Day to all the “active” Dads out there who make an exceptional difference in the lives of their children! Because, after all, your child is what makes you a DAD in the first place!
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Michael Yoder
What Are The Qualities Of A True Crime Sleuth:
Retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent and Criminal Profiler Michael Yoder is available
for consultations on cold case homicides and lectures on topics related to homicide
investigations. Special interest groups – both large and small can reach Michael Yoder
at [email protected]
What are the qualities of a good True Crime Sleuth? Based on my experiences with fellow crime solvers and the FBI, the qualifications to consider yourself “qualified” to be involved in investigating crimes are as varied as the individuals involved. Before I begin, let me recap the last Destin True Crime Club meeting. It was very interactive – with equal sharing of ideas and creative thinking. The group included a former forensic investigator with a Medical Examiner’s office, an active Air Force cyber warfare warrior, a genealogist, a former FBI criminal profiler (me), a member with a Master’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice who focused on uncovering fraudulent Medicare/Medicaid healthcare cases, several people who are true crime podcast fanatics, people who are leaders in their profession, individuals who have time to research, and busy people who don’t have the time to research but find the time anyway. As a group they bring an intelligent, problem-solving mindset to a shared goal. This passionate group wants to help police solve the murder of a cold case homicide. What is their common denominator? I think it is the diversity of the group. It is the will to use creative measures to think through obstacles. It is the pursuit of justice. It is a hero’s calling. The characteristics to be a good true crime sleuth include the ability to use deductive reasoning to make sound conclusions from very little or no information in a way that is logical. This includes the ability to see and hear small bits of information in the same manner as everyone else but then to see beyond the obvious to the more important conclusion of what the data represents.
Another quality is viewing true crime as an enjoyable hobby or passion. Only a select few people can put enjoyment and murder together. As a true crime fan myself, I view it this way. The discussion of murder is a necessary requirement to get to the point of solving a murder or seeking justice for those who can longer seek justice themselves. It is speaking for the dead and respectfully representing their lives. It is giving them dignity and not allowing an offender to go unpunished. The study of death is my gift and want to use it for good. Other members want to do the same.
The one advantage a true crime sleuth has over the police is the ability to abundantly give of their time, energy and focus. We are not burdened by the responsibility of daily and urgently needed law enforcement which often puts unsolved crime in the background. We can focus on one crime for as long as we want. We can dig for data in the vast information treasure trove called the Internet. If a homicide investigation is compared to a 1,000 piece puzzle, we can take the time to find most of the pieces to the puzzle and we can focus on putting the pieces together to get a clearer picture of what occurred. Then we can hand it off to the police to take the case to a conclusion. We are necessary.
The final quality, I think, is desire. No matter your background, do you want to be involved and to learn to become a good true crime sleuth? If so, come join us! During the busy and hot summer months of June, July and August, we are meeting at Elite Cabinet Designs (next to Renovation Flooring) in Miramar Beach. This is a company showroom owned by one of our members who has generously donated the use of this space for our meetings. It is located at 11714 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach. It’s on the corner of Hwy 98 and Forest Shore drive (across from Seascape). The club usually meets on the third or fourth Thursday of the
month, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. In addition to the monthly meetings, I also conduct monthly Homicide Investigations Training for Civilian Sleuths, usually on the first or second Thursday of the month, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. The next club meeting is July 25 th . The next Homicide Investigations Training for Civilian Sleuths is July 11 th . Both are at Elite Cabinet Designs. If you are interested in checking us out, you can also join us on FaceBook at Destin True Crime Club. Online, we discuss our current case and collectively gather information and share it with our members. While we try to livestream our club meetings, it’s recommended to show up in
person. You get the added benefit of meeting like-minded souls and to actively discuss ideas face to face. See you there!
Retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent and Criminal Profiler Michael Yoder is available
for consultations on cold case homicides and lectures on topics related to homicide
investigations. Special interest groups – both large and small can reach Michael Yoder
at [email protected]
What are the qualities of a good True Crime Sleuth? Based on my experiences with fellow crime solvers and the FBI, the qualifications to consider yourself “qualified” to be involved in investigating crimes are as varied as the individuals involved. Before I begin, let me recap the last Destin True Crime Club meeting. It was very interactive – with equal sharing of ideas and creative thinking. The group included a former forensic investigator with a Medical Examiner’s office, an active Air Force cyber warfare warrior, a genealogist, a former FBI criminal profiler (me), a member with a Master’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice who focused on uncovering fraudulent Medicare/Medicaid healthcare cases, several people who are true crime podcast fanatics, people who are leaders in their profession, individuals who have time to research, and busy people who don’t have the time to research but find the time anyway. As a group they bring an intelligent, problem-solving mindset to a shared goal. This passionate group wants to help police solve the murder of a cold case homicide. What is their common denominator? I think it is the diversity of the group. It is the will to use creative measures to think through obstacles. It is the pursuit of justice. It is a hero’s calling. The characteristics to be a good true crime sleuth include the ability to use deductive reasoning to make sound conclusions from very little or no information in a way that is logical. This includes the ability to see and hear small bits of information in the same manner as everyone else but then to see beyond the obvious to the more important conclusion of what the data represents.
Another quality is viewing true crime as an enjoyable hobby or passion. Only a select few people can put enjoyment and murder together. As a true crime fan myself, I view it this way. The discussion of murder is a necessary requirement to get to the point of solving a murder or seeking justice for those who can longer seek justice themselves. It is speaking for the dead and respectfully representing their lives. It is giving them dignity and not allowing an offender to go unpunished. The study of death is my gift and want to use it for good. Other members want to do the same.
The one advantage a true crime sleuth has over the police is the ability to abundantly give of their time, energy and focus. We are not burdened by the responsibility of daily and urgently needed law enforcement which often puts unsolved crime in the background. We can focus on one crime for as long as we want. We can dig for data in the vast information treasure trove called the Internet. If a homicide investigation is compared to a 1,000 piece puzzle, we can take the time to find most of the pieces to the puzzle and we can focus on putting the pieces together to get a clearer picture of what occurred. Then we can hand it off to the police to take the case to a conclusion. We are necessary.
The final quality, I think, is desire. No matter your background, do you want to be involved and to learn to become a good true crime sleuth? If so, come join us! During the busy and hot summer months of June, July and August, we are meeting at Elite Cabinet Designs (next to Renovation Flooring) in Miramar Beach. This is a company showroom owned by one of our members who has generously donated the use of this space for our meetings. It is located at 11714 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach. It’s on the corner of Hwy 98 and Forest Shore drive (across from Seascape). The club usually meets on the third or fourth Thursday of the
month, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. In addition to the monthly meetings, I also conduct monthly Homicide Investigations Training for Civilian Sleuths, usually on the first or second Thursday of the month, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. The next club meeting is July 25 th . The next Homicide Investigations Training for Civilian Sleuths is July 11 th . Both are at Elite Cabinet Designs. If you are interested in checking us out, you can also join us on FaceBook at Destin True Crime Club. Online, we discuss our current case and collectively gather information and share it with our members. While we try to livestream our club meetings, it’s recommended to show up in
person. You get the added benefit of meeting like-minded souls and to actively discuss ideas face to face. See you there!
Andrea & Paul McArthur
July Home Maintenance Tips:
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
It’s summertime and the weather is warm and the sun is out! Take some time this month between backyard barbecues and summer vacations to complete some of these July home maintenance tips. This month’s list includes a mix of indoor and outdoor items focused around safety and enjoying the summer.
Update your Home First Aid Kit
We all spend more time outside and being adventurous with the warmer weather. This can often lead to more accidents as well. Be prepared by making sure your first aid kit is updated and ready to go. You might even consider having a small additional kit for outside or to keep in the car for outings and weekend get aways. And, of course, for hurricane season!
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
If you are following our home maintenance lists, then it has been six months since the last check of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure to use the test button on each device and change batteries as needed. You might also want to consider replacing older smoke detectors with the newer 10-Year Worry Free Sealed Battery Smoke Detectors. These newer detectors take away low battery worries and chirps. It is also worth considering interconnected smoke detectors which all go off if one alarm is activated. These are the safest because it is most likely that everyone in the house will hear them.
It is also a good time to check your fire extinguishers and make sure they aren’t expired.
Check Outdoor Lighting
Start with cleaning your porch lights on the front and back of your home. Some fixtures are easily removed and can be brought inside to clean with warm water and gentle soap. For those that must stay in place, turn the power off and carefully wipe the exteriors with a damp microfiber cloth and dry with a soft cloth. When you're finished cleaning, double check and make sure that all of the lightbulbs are working as well.
Think about changing out bulbs in some of your outdoor lights to smart bulbs. This allows you to automate a schedule for your lights and keep the exterior of your home lit up even when you aren’t home. We find in our home that lights that are on a schedule add ambiance and become something we can enjoy even when we weren’t thinking about it.
Clean and Check Windows
Take time to thoroughly check your windows. Remember that poorly insulated or installed windows can take extra energy in your home. First check for any gaps between the windows and casings. You will also want to inspect the screens on windows and doors for any holes to prevent pests, especially mosquitoes, from entering the home. You can use a screen patching kit to repair any damage.
Next work on giving the windows a good cleaning to keep that summer sunshine streaming in. Use a glass cleaner or a vinegar solution, then squeegee them dry or wipe with a clean microfiber cloth. Consider using a window washing hose attachment or telescoping window washer to reach outdoor windows without a ladder.
Before moving onto the next window make sure that the window locks are all in working condition. Make sure to tighten or replace any loose locks. Be sure to pay attention to access points on the ground level of your home. This leads us into our next item on the list.
Home Safety Check
Our summertime thoughts are often filled with BBQ’s, picnics and vacations. But do not overlook your homes safety while you are away. Did you know that burglary rates are higher in the summer compared to any other time of year according to the US Department of Justice. It might be a good time to consider a new security system. Today there are tons of options for home security. Consider the different options and costs to see which best fits your needs.
It is a good time to make sure that all the locks on your doors are in working condition. You might even want to consider replacing older deadbolts with smart locks that can be controlled remotely.
Lastly, take inventory of your home’s safe. Make sure all valuables are in the safe including documents, jewelry, and firearms.
Change Air Filters
The spring months are tough on the air in our homes. Extra pollen comes in through open windows and doors. Spring cleaning can add extra dust to the air. This pollen and dust can get trapped in your HVAC filters. Take time to make sure you change out the old filters and improve the air quality in your home.
Inspect Water Heater
Take time to check your water heater this month to see if it needs any repairs. It is recommended that you drain your water heater once a year to clear out built-up sediment and minerals. Flushing your water heater improves the efficiency and life span of the unit. You should also check the lines, fittings, and valves for any leaks.
Check Outdoor Sitting Areas
Keep the good times going outside by doing a quick clean up in outdoor sitting areas. Take a moment to wash outdoor cushions and furniture with a mixture of warm water and dish detergent. Use a broom, leaf blower, or wet-dry vacuum to remove debris from outdoor areas to help keep it free of pests. Open up the patio umbrella and use a vacuum or broom to remove cobwebs. You can also use warm soapy water to wash the umbrella, then leave open to dry.
Consider adding some shade to your entertaining area to increase comfort and usability. You can do this by adding additional umbrellas, shade sails, using plants or canvas shades. When you have ample shady spots to sit in, you will likely find yourself spending more time outdoors during the hot months of summertime. Creating a ceiling in your outdoor spaces also adds an extra level of intimacy or privacy.
Keeping up with home maintenance regularly, adds to the value of your home and makes preparing for selling your home easier. Whether you are looking to sell in the next few months or living in your home forever, make sure to show your home some love and care.
As always, check out the Destinites Local Directory for folks that are happy to help with your home chores if you aren’t able on your own! You can find it here: https://www.destinites.com/local-directory.html
Have a happy 4th of July. And may God Bless America!!
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
It’s summertime and the weather is warm and the sun is out! Take some time this month between backyard barbecues and summer vacations to complete some of these July home maintenance tips. This month’s list includes a mix of indoor and outdoor items focused around safety and enjoying the summer.
Update your Home First Aid Kit
We all spend more time outside and being adventurous with the warmer weather. This can often lead to more accidents as well. Be prepared by making sure your first aid kit is updated and ready to go. You might even consider having a small additional kit for outside or to keep in the car for outings and weekend get aways. And, of course, for hurricane season!
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
If you are following our home maintenance lists, then it has been six months since the last check of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure to use the test button on each device and change batteries as needed. You might also want to consider replacing older smoke detectors with the newer 10-Year Worry Free Sealed Battery Smoke Detectors. These newer detectors take away low battery worries and chirps. It is also worth considering interconnected smoke detectors which all go off if one alarm is activated. These are the safest because it is most likely that everyone in the house will hear them.
It is also a good time to check your fire extinguishers and make sure they aren’t expired.
Check Outdoor Lighting
Start with cleaning your porch lights on the front and back of your home. Some fixtures are easily removed and can be brought inside to clean with warm water and gentle soap. For those that must stay in place, turn the power off and carefully wipe the exteriors with a damp microfiber cloth and dry with a soft cloth. When you're finished cleaning, double check and make sure that all of the lightbulbs are working as well.
Think about changing out bulbs in some of your outdoor lights to smart bulbs. This allows you to automate a schedule for your lights and keep the exterior of your home lit up even when you aren’t home. We find in our home that lights that are on a schedule add ambiance and become something we can enjoy even when we weren’t thinking about it.
Clean and Check Windows
Take time to thoroughly check your windows. Remember that poorly insulated or installed windows can take extra energy in your home. First check for any gaps between the windows and casings. You will also want to inspect the screens on windows and doors for any holes to prevent pests, especially mosquitoes, from entering the home. You can use a screen patching kit to repair any damage.
Next work on giving the windows a good cleaning to keep that summer sunshine streaming in. Use a glass cleaner or a vinegar solution, then squeegee them dry or wipe with a clean microfiber cloth. Consider using a window washing hose attachment or telescoping window washer to reach outdoor windows without a ladder.
Before moving onto the next window make sure that the window locks are all in working condition. Make sure to tighten or replace any loose locks. Be sure to pay attention to access points on the ground level of your home. This leads us into our next item on the list.
Home Safety Check
Our summertime thoughts are often filled with BBQ’s, picnics and vacations. But do not overlook your homes safety while you are away. Did you know that burglary rates are higher in the summer compared to any other time of year according to the US Department of Justice. It might be a good time to consider a new security system. Today there are tons of options for home security. Consider the different options and costs to see which best fits your needs.
It is a good time to make sure that all the locks on your doors are in working condition. You might even want to consider replacing older deadbolts with smart locks that can be controlled remotely.
Lastly, take inventory of your home’s safe. Make sure all valuables are in the safe including documents, jewelry, and firearms.
Change Air Filters
The spring months are tough on the air in our homes. Extra pollen comes in through open windows and doors. Spring cleaning can add extra dust to the air. This pollen and dust can get trapped in your HVAC filters. Take time to make sure you change out the old filters and improve the air quality in your home.
Inspect Water Heater
Take time to check your water heater this month to see if it needs any repairs. It is recommended that you drain your water heater once a year to clear out built-up sediment and minerals. Flushing your water heater improves the efficiency and life span of the unit. You should also check the lines, fittings, and valves for any leaks.
Check Outdoor Sitting Areas
Keep the good times going outside by doing a quick clean up in outdoor sitting areas. Take a moment to wash outdoor cushions and furniture with a mixture of warm water and dish detergent. Use a broom, leaf blower, or wet-dry vacuum to remove debris from outdoor areas to help keep it free of pests. Open up the patio umbrella and use a vacuum or broom to remove cobwebs. You can also use warm soapy water to wash the umbrella, then leave open to dry.
Consider adding some shade to your entertaining area to increase comfort and usability. You can do this by adding additional umbrellas, shade sails, using plants or canvas shades. When you have ample shady spots to sit in, you will likely find yourself spending more time outdoors during the hot months of summertime. Creating a ceiling in your outdoor spaces also adds an extra level of intimacy or privacy.
Keeping up with home maintenance regularly, adds to the value of your home and makes preparing for selling your home easier. Whether you are looking to sell in the next few months or living in your home forever, make sure to show your home some love and care.
As always, check out the Destinites Local Directory for folks that are happy to help with your home chores if you aren’t able on your own! You can find it here: https://www.destinites.com/local-directory.html
Have a happy 4th of July. And may God Bless America!!
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Daniel Jones
Hurricane Prep:
provided by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
When we moved here a decade ago, we would listen to the hype around hurricane season and get sucked into the doomsday forecasting the weather channels likes to promote. We would then consult wise Grandma Norton that has lived here since the early 80’s for survival tips. She would barely bat an eye as she would tell us “decide for yourself, don’t worry about the news”.
She wasn’t naïve, she was very aware of the threats, having evacuated through Hurricane Opal and Andrew herself. She watched the weather channel religiously between June and October, and was always the first person to fill up our gas tank when the storm path shifted our way.
This year NOAA has yet again expected an above chance of an above average storm season predicting between 4 and 7 major storms.
https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-above-normal-2024-atlantic-hurricane-season
It doesn’t matter how many storms there are in a season, it matters if one hits you. This year’s Hurricane Beryl became the earliest Category 4 on record, an ominous start to the hurricane season that usually hits high gear in September and October. NOAA does an excellent job tracking storms, but the prediction doesn’t project how many will make landfall. Last year for example NOAA predicted 1-4 major hurricanes and 12-17 named storms. The prediction was very accurate with 3 major hurricanes and 20 named storms but most importantly only ONE made landfall. It caused $3 billion in damages, but the season total was well below the $100billion in hurricane damages from the year before which had a similar NOAA pre-season prediction but had 3 landfalls.
HURRICANE PREP
My father-in-law spent years perfecting the storm prepping skills creating manuals and books about what supplies to get, how much you need in emergency funds, and what meals can be made without electricity. And then after watching the aftermath of Hurricane Michael with the roads being blocked and cell towers down for over a week, his strategy completely changed. It changed from detailed plans to just “get out of town”.
We as agents also believe that simplicity is the best strategy for preparedness. We also know that Destin Locals know how to prepare for a storm, so we’ll try not to repeat too much of what everyone has said over the years. In general, remember that some of the biggest consequences of a storm is the scarcity it produces. Movement and supplies will immediately become limited so preparing ahead of time is essential.
Preparing your property before the storm
We’ve seen some interesting renewals coming through this year where the insurance company changes the upcoming renewal’s deductible or coverage amount. Be sure to double check how your home is insured whether with Replacement Cost Value or Actual Cost Value (should be RCV). Also check your separate windstorm deductible percentage and if you have Flood Coverage. Many insurance companies severely limit coverage for pools, fences, and other structures, so review your policy if you’re worried about these structures.
Know evacuation routes and alternate routes
You know the route north so this is more about timing than anything else. Don’t get caught away from home without enough supplies to get where you are going. Early morning or late at night may be the way to go. Storms usually move slower than 20 miles an hour, but those outer bands of the storm can be nasty, especially the easter side of the storm, so plan accordingly.
Items to Keep on hand
provided by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
When we moved here a decade ago, we would listen to the hype around hurricane season and get sucked into the doomsday forecasting the weather channels likes to promote. We would then consult wise Grandma Norton that has lived here since the early 80’s for survival tips. She would barely bat an eye as she would tell us “decide for yourself, don’t worry about the news”.
She wasn’t naïve, she was very aware of the threats, having evacuated through Hurricane Opal and Andrew herself. She watched the weather channel religiously between June and October, and was always the first person to fill up our gas tank when the storm path shifted our way.
This year NOAA has yet again expected an above chance of an above average storm season predicting between 4 and 7 major storms.
https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-above-normal-2024-atlantic-hurricane-season
It doesn’t matter how many storms there are in a season, it matters if one hits you. This year’s Hurricane Beryl became the earliest Category 4 on record, an ominous start to the hurricane season that usually hits high gear in September and October. NOAA does an excellent job tracking storms, but the prediction doesn’t project how many will make landfall. Last year for example NOAA predicted 1-4 major hurricanes and 12-17 named storms. The prediction was very accurate with 3 major hurricanes and 20 named storms but most importantly only ONE made landfall. It caused $3 billion in damages, but the season total was well below the $100billion in hurricane damages from the year before which had a similar NOAA pre-season prediction but had 3 landfalls.
HURRICANE PREP
My father-in-law spent years perfecting the storm prepping skills creating manuals and books about what supplies to get, how much you need in emergency funds, and what meals can be made without electricity. And then after watching the aftermath of Hurricane Michael with the roads being blocked and cell towers down for over a week, his strategy completely changed. It changed from detailed plans to just “get out of town”.
We as agents also believe that simplicity is the best strategy for preparedness. We also know that Destin Locals know how to prepare for a storm, so we’ll try not to repeat too much of what everyone has said over the years. In general, remember that some of the biggest consequences of a storm is the scarcity it produces. Movement and supplies will immediately become limited so preparing ahead of time is essential.
Preparing your property before the storm
- Remove overhanging trees and limbs: Pine trees grow about a foot a year and they come down with winds around 100 mph, which is produced by a typical Cat 2 storm. Locals know that not all trees are bad, here is an interesting article about trees that can withstand hurricanes.
- Install Hurricane Shutters and Generators: These two items are probably the most important things to own to protect your home. But you can’t wait until a storm comes to install them. Go ahead and be aware of how to install your storms shutters, starting on the windward side. Generators sometimes require special electrical or permanent gas connections, make sure you are set up correctly and maybe contact a professional like Ronco.
We’ve seen some interesting renewals coming through this year where the insurance company changes the upcoming renewal’s deductible or coverage amount. Be sure to double check how your home is insured whether with Replacement Cost Value or Actual Cost Value (should be RCV). Also check your separate windstorm deductible percentage and if you have Flood Coverage. Many insurance companies severely limit coverage for pools, fences, and other structures, so review your policy if you’re worried about these structures.
Know evacuation routes and alternate routes
You know the route north so this is more about timing than anything else. Don’t get caught away from home without enough supplies to get where you are going. Early morning or late at night may be the way to go. Storms usually move slower than 20 miles an hour, but those outer bands of the storm can be nasty, especially the easter side of the storm, so plan accordingly.
Items to Keep on hand
- Fuel: Locals know that 48 hours before a storm arrives, fuel starts to get scarce. Keep your vehicle as full as possible because if you need to leave on short notice, you may not find an open gas station for 200 miles in any direction. Unleaded fuel only lasts a few months on the shelf so make sure you recycle it.
- Cash: If power lines go down, cash may be your only option to pay so have a few hundred dollars handy. On a larger note, make sure you have enough in the bank to cover your hurricane deductible, which can often be thousands of dollars. You may not have access to your insurance payment until the deductible gets paid so see how much your deductible is ahead of time.
- Portable Chargers and Lanterns: This can often be found in a single multi-tool now. Battery backups for your phone may be one of the most important things to have, though be prepared for cell service to be sporadic at best for a while. Also consider downloading a few movies to your phone.
- Enough Food and water for a few days: remember to look for things that don’t need cooking, are part of your regular routine, and have protein. Kids especially have trouble eating unusual food so have things they like. A portable camping stove can help with some simple meals. If it gets to be more than a few days without power, relocating might still be the best option.
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Kim Schneider
Rugs*Rugs*Rugs:
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
There are so many reasons why you may want to consider adding an area rug to your
space. Here are a few of the BENEFITS of USING a RUG:
1. Area rugs can hide an annoying stain on your carpet or flooring. Yes, you can put
a rug on top of carpet.
2. They add warmth and coziness by helping to insulate your room. With the
proper rug pad they can compliment and protect your hardwood, tile or stone
floors.
3. Rugs can also define your space, giving you more intimate and organized “zones”
in a multi-purpose room.
Rug size is important and can make or break your design aesthetic. Need help selecting the perfect rug for your space? Contact Coastal Design by Kim at (850) 904-6622. Coastal Design by Kim is a full-service interior design company. Regardless of the size of
your project, our team can help YOU bring beautiful, functional designs to life. www.coastaldesignbykim.com
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
There are so many reasons why you may want to consider adding an area rug to your
space. Here are a few of the BENEFITS of USING a RUG:
1. Area rugs can hide an annoying stain on your carpet or flooring. Yes, you can put
a rug on top of carpet.
2. They add warmth and coziness by helping to insulate your room. With the
proper rug pad they can compliment and protect your hardwood, tile or stone
floors.
3. Rugs can also define your space, giving you more intimate and organized “zones”
in a multi-purpose room.
Rug size is important and can make or break your design aesthetic. Need help selecting the perfect rug for your space? Contact Coastal Design by Kim at (850) 904-6622. Coastal Design by Kim is a full-service interior design company. Regardless of the size of
your project, our team can help YOU bring beautiful, functional designs to life. www.coastaldesignbykim.com
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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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July 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
Now, About Those Liars......
Proverbs 19:9
"A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish."
Psalms 101:7
"No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence."
I mentioned liars in my last Christian Corner note but in view of the upcoming presidential elections and all that's happened as of late, these two verses come to mind. I think they speak pretty loudly and their meaning could not be more clear. Please join me in prayer over our nation.
Now, About Those Liars......
Proverbs 19:9
"A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish."
Psalms 101:7
"No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence."
I mentioned liars in my last Christian Corner note but in view of the upcoming presidential elections and all that's happened as of late, these two verses come to mind. I think they speak pretty loudly and their meaning could not be more clear. Please join me in prayer over our nation.
God Bless America!
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Website Est. 2018
Newsletter Est. Dec. 2021