June 2024 Newsletter
A Note From The Publisher
Welcome to the month of June. A month where many will celebrate Father's Day. However, for the first time in my 65 years of being alive, I will have no father to buy a gift for, cook for, dote over, etc.. My father, or rather daddy, as I called him, passed away February 29th of this year. His was not a typical passing, though, and I will share with you the short version of the story.
Daddy had Dementia/Alzeheimer's and went to live in the Memory Care unit of a VA facility. He was a big wanderer, so they insisted he have a 24/7 sitter. They had a particular company they always used to hire sitters, so they took care of everything. One evening, the sitter business had nobody to send to take over for the sitter who was to leave hat 7pm. The sitter told the nurse she could stay until 10pm, if that would help them any (2 nurses were on staff for that unit that evening) but the nurse she spoke to told her she could go on home that they (she and the other nurse) could handle it. Daddy was left sitting in the lobby of their secured unit. About 30 minutes after the sitter left, daddy wandered into the room of another patient. The room was right next door to daddy's. We assume he was simply trying to go back to his own room and got confused. The patient (man) in that room knocked daddy down to the ground. The nurse heard the commotion and of course, daddy was taken to the ER.
Daddy had a knot on his head from being knocked down but the worse part was that his hip was fractured. He had to have a partial hip replacement. Prior to this accident, daddy was communicating and was able to walk with his walker. However, the surgery was too much for his body and he drastically went down hill from there. He was in the hospital for 2 weeks and by the end of that time, he had to go on hospice. He went back to the VA where he lived about a week and then, died. Some of his regular sitters came to visit him those last few days because they knew the end was near and because they loved him so much. They were so emotional with many saying he was their favorite patient and how they loved to hear his stories. They, and other staff at the VA, all talked about the drastic difference in him prior to and post surgery. We never saw the nurses who were there with him the night of the accident. I guess they purposely stayed away. The one who called my mother to give her the news said she was distributing meds to the other patients when the accident happened. Mother asked her where the other nurse was but she said she didn't know. That means she didn't even bother to go get the other nurse to inform her she was making her med rounds and ask her to watch daddy while she did so. She did not take the situation seriously and just left him alone sitting in the lobby.
There is so much more I could say here but I won't; for now. Suffice it to say that it is difficult enough to lose a parent much less to lose them by the neglect of someone else. Grieving is magnified. It's just an entirely different level that I cannot even describe. My daddy was a wonderful man full of life and highly respected by all. I was always proud of him and proud to be his daughter. To say he is missed is a major understatement! His first great grandchild (my first grandchild) was born the next month after he died but he never got to see her. The whole situation is incredibly sad and tragic. The depth of the pain in our hearts is just beyond description. Please keep my family in your prayers. Pray for our strength as we navigate this overwhelming heartbreak. Thank you.
-----------------------
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 10,100+ 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
Welcome to the month of June. A month where many will celebrate Father's Day. However, for the first time in my 65 years of being alive, I will have no father to buy a gift for, cook for, dote over, etc.. My father, or rather daddy, as I called him, passed away February 29th of this year. His was not a typical passing, though, and I will share with you the short version of the story.
Daddy had Dementia/Alzeheimer's and went to live in the Memory Care unit of a VA facility. He was a big wanderer, so they insisted he have a 24/7 sitter. They had a particular company they always used to hire sitters, so they took care of everything. One evening, the sitter business had nobody to send to take over for the sitter who was to leave hat 7pm. The sitter told the nurse she could stay until 10pm, if that would help them any (2 nurses were on staff for that unit that evening) but the nurse she spoke to told her she could go on home that they (she and the other nurse) could handle it. Daddy was left sitting in the lobby of their secured unit. About 30 minutes after the sitter left, daddy wandered into the room of another patient. The room was right next door to daddy's. We assume he was simply trying to go back to his own room and got confused. The patient (man) in that room knocked daddy down to the ground. The nurse heard the commotion and of course, daddy was taken to the ER.
Daddy had a knot on his head from being knocked down but the worse part was that his hip was fractured. He had to have a partial hip replacement. Prior to this accident, daddy was communicating and was able to walk with his walker. However, the surgery was too much for his body and he drastically went down hill from there. He was in the hospital for 2 weeks and by the end of that time, he had to go on hospice. He went back to the VA where he lived about a week and then, died. Some of his regular sitters came to visit him those last few days because they knew the end was near and because they loved him so much. They were so emotional with many saying he was their favorite patient and how they loved to hear his stories. They, and other staff at the VA, all talked about the drastic difference in him prior to and post surgery. We never saw the nurses who were there with him the night of the accident. I guess they purposely stayed away. The one who called my mother to give her the news said she was distributing meds to the other patients when the accident happened. Mother asked her where the other nurse was but she said she didn't know. That means she didn't even bother to go get the other nurse to inform her she was making her med rounds and ask her to watch daddy while she did so. She did not take the situation seriously and just left him alone sitting in the lobby.
There is so much more I could say here but I won't; for now. Suffice it to say that it is difficult enough to lose a parent much less to lose them by the neglect of someone else. Grieving is magnified. It's just an entirely different level that I cannot even describe. My daddy was a wonderful man full of life and highly respected by all. I was always proud of him and proud to be his daughter. To say he is missed is a major understatement! His first great grandchild (my first grandchild) was born the next month after he died but he never got to see her. The whole situation is incredibly sad and tragic. The depth of the pain in our hearts is just beyond description. Please keep my family in your prayers. Pray for our strength as we navigate this overwhelming heartbreak. Thank you.
-----------------------
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 10,100+ 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]
Hope Medical Clinic Fills The Health Care Gap:
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Written By: Michelle Ruschman- Destin Life Staff
There’s no doubt that most people would see our area as abundant, and it is. We live where other people work all year to get to and snowbirds spend entire seasons with us. We have a thriving military community as well as many successful small business owners and developers. At a glance, Okaloosa and Walton counties are doing well.
There are locals, however, who are struggling with necessities such as basic healthcare, from the homeless to entrepreneurs. This is the gap that Tim Roberts, the Founder and Executive Director of the Hope Medical Centers in Destin and Freeport, has been trying to fill since the Destin clinic opened in 2009. Both clinics are designated free and charitable clinics, in Destin and Freeport. “I moved here from Oregon and was introduced to the need that people who were working jobs ‘behind the scenes’ – restaurant workers, cleaning staff, etc. – weren’t able to afford healthcare, including the insurance that was offered by their jobs. It was just too expensive, especially now as food and housing costs are increasing.
People shouldn’t have to choose healthcare OR basic needs. As I was considering what I could do to help, Brad Bynum, who was the minister at the Destin Church of Christ at the time, felt like there was a possibility that they had space that could be used, and they had connections to medical personnel. Once I understood the needs of the community, which are similar to much of our nation, just exacerbated. The two counties we serve, Okaloosa and Walton, are classified as medically underserved areas. What makes our area work are the individuals who do foundational work. They’re working in construction, they’re working on the docks, they’re cleaning, they’re cooking, they’re doing all these things That make our tourist economy work, and a lot of those jobs do not provide health benefits. And so that’s where the Hope Medical Centers in Destin and Freeport can offer some relief to the residents of Okaloosa and Walton counties. When we stay healthy as a community, everyone benefits.”
The Destin clinic is based in the Destin Church of Christ while Destiny Worship Center hosts the Freeport clinic. The generosity of these church communities in donating space and resources has provided the opportunity for Hope Medical Center to use their donations and grants directly toward patient care, offering massive relief from rent and utilities, as the number of patients continues to grow.
The staff at both clinics are made up of Nurse Practitioners, Case Managers, Medical Assistants, Front Office Managers, Social Workers and Counselors. Together, with a team of medical volunteers and students, HMC can provide a more holistic model of healthcare. Patients are not only given a physical assessment through consultations, exams, and lab work but there is also an opportunity to assess the mental health of the patient as well. “We all want to be known and for many of our patients, Hope isn’t just where they get their physical needs met, it’s a place to be supported in many other areas too. We understand that for a person to build emotional resilience and move toward healing, we not only need to take care of the body, but we also need to look at how they’re responding to what’s going on in their lives. Not everyone wants or needs that kind of support but we do want to make that available.”
Hope Medical Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit primary care facility that serves those who don’t have any type of medical insurance, and also meets the salary cap which is based on how many adults and children make up the household. The clinics are primarily funded by private donations, support from local churches and grants. There is no cost to the patient when they are seen at either clinic but donations are gratefully accepted to help with the longevity of their healthcare, no matter how modest. If the patient has to be directed toward specialty care, in most cases, there are available community partners that offer discounted rates, and every effort is made to build a team for the patients who are part of the practice. This includes partnering with other agencies and hospitals, offering discounts on medication, and talking with a social worker to see what other resources are available.
Many of the patients who come to Hope Medical Center are referred by local hospitals or word-of-mouth and Tim appreciates that the growth has been steady throughout the years, with the Freeport clinic opening in 2016. “If we’re going to give free healthcare, why wouldn’t we do it the best we can and make it what we would want for ourselves and our families? Our staff and volunteers work together to make our care the highest level it can be. Cost shouldn’t be the difference between critically declining health and taking care of treatable diseases, like hypertension and diabetes.”
So, how can you partner with Hope Medical Center to ensure that our local community continues to stay as healthy as possible? There are several ways. “We’re always needing more volunteers, especially medically trained volunteers, especially if you are a specialist. The great thing about volunteering with us is we’re grateful for any time you can provide and can schedule patients accordingly. No matter how much time you can offer, it will make an impact.
The other thing we need is advocates in our community. We need people who see the value in what we do and want to support us in whatever capacity their resources or connections can offer. Partnerships in health services and funding are what help our everyday operations. Even a donation of $125 helps us to see one patient for an entire year.”
If you would like to learn more or would like to support these efforts, go to hopemedclinic.org, or send a check made payable to Hope Medical Center to
Hope Medical Center
150 Beach Dr.
Destin, FL 32541
Interested in volunteering or want to become a new patient? Email Cora Sternberg the LPN Nurse Operations Director at [email protected], or call 850-270-7130. You’ll need to provide your first and last name, an email and a phone number.
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Written By: Michelle Ruschman- Destin Life Staff
There’s no doubt that most people would see our area as abundant, and it is. We live where other people work all year to get to and snowbirds spend entire seasons with us. We have a thriving military community as well as many successful small business owners and developers. At a glance, Okaloosa and Walton counties are doing well.
There are locals, however, who are struggling with necessities such as basic healthcare, from the homeless to entrepreneurs. This is the gap that Tim Roberts, the Founder and Executive Director of the Hope Medical Centers in Destin and Freeport, has been trying to fill since the Destin clinic opened in 2009. Both clinics are designated free and charitable clinics, in Destin and Freeport. “I moved here from Oregon and was introduced to the need that people who were working jobs ‘behind the scenes’ – restaurant workers, cleaning staff, etc. – weren’t able to afford healthcare, including the insurance that was offered by their jobs. It was just too expensive, especially now as food and housing costs are increasing.
People shouldn’t have to choose healthcare OR basic needs. As I was considering what I could do to help, Brad Bynum, who was the minister at the Destin Church of Christ at the time, felt like there was a possibility that they had space that could be used, and they had connections to medical personnel. Once I understood the needs of the community, which are similar to much of our nation, just exacerbated. The two counties we serve, Okaloosa and Walton, are classified as medically underserved areas. What makes our area work are the individuals who do foundational work. They’re working in construction, they’re working on the docks, they’re cleaning, they’re cooking, they’re doing all these things That make our tourist economy work, and a lot of those jobs do not provide health benefits. And so that’s where the Hope Medical Centers in Destin and Freeport can offer some relief to the residents of Okaloosa and Walton counties. When we stay healthy as a community, everyone benefits.”
The Destin clinic is based in the Destin Church of Christ while Destiny Worship Center hosts the Freeport clinic. The generosity of these church communities in donating space and resources has provided the opportunity for Hope Medical Center to use their donations and grants directly toward patient care, offering massive relief from rent and utilities, as the number of patients continues to grow.
The staff at both clinics are made up of Nurse Practitioners, Case Managers, Medical Assistants, Front Office Managers, Social Workers and Counselors. Together, with a team of medical volunteers and students, HMC can provide a more holistic model of healthcare. Patients are not only given a physical assessment through consultations, exams, and lab work but there is also an opportunity to assess the mental health of the patient as well. “We all want to be known and for many of our patients, Hope isn’t just where they get their physical needs met, it’s a place to be supported in many other areas too. We understand that for a person to build emotional resilience and move toward healing, we not only need to take care of the body, but we also need to look at how they’re responding to what’s going on in their lives. Not everyone wants or needs that kind of support but we do want to make that available.”
Hope Medical Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit primary care facility that serves those who don’t have any type of medical insurance, and also meets the salary cap which is based on how many adults and children make up the household. The clinics are primarily funded by private donations, support from local churches and grants. There is no cost to the patient when they are seen at either clinic but donations are gratefully accepted to help with the longevity of their healthcare, no matter how modest. If the patient has to be directed toward specialty care, in most cases, there are available community partners that offer discounted rates, and every effort is made to build a team for the patients who are part of the practice. This includes partnering with other agencies and hospitals, offering discounts on medication, and talking with a social worker to see what other resources are available.
Many of the patients who come to Hope Medical Center are referred by local hospitals or word-of-mouth and Tim appreciates that the growth has been steady throughout the years, with the Freeport clinic opening in 2016. “If we’re going to give free healthcare, why wouldn’t we do it the best we can and make it what we would want for ourselves and our families? Our staff and volunteers work together to make our care the highest level it can be. Cost shouldn’t be the difference between critically declining health and taking care of treatable diseases, like hypertension and diabetes.”
So, how can you partner with Hope Medical Center to ensure that our local community continues to stay as healthy as possible? There are several ways. “We’re always needing more volunteers, especially medically trained volunteers, especially if you are a specialist. The great thing about volunteering with us is we’re grateful for any time you can provide and can schedule patients accordingly. No matter how much time you can offer, it will make an impact.
The other thing we need is advocates in our community. We need people who see the value in what we do and want to support us in whatever capacity their resources or connections can offer. Partnerships in health services and funding are what help our everyday operations. Even a donation of $125 helps us to see one patient for an entire year.”
If you would like to learn more or would like to support these efforts, go to hopemedclinic.org, or send a check made payable to Hope Medical Center to
Hope Medical Center
150 Beach Dr.
Destin, FL 32541
Interested in volunteering or want to become a new patient? Email Cora Sternberg the LPN Nurse Operations Director at [email protected], or call 850-270-7130. You’ll need to provide your first and last name, an email and a phone number.
Who Becomes 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]
When I first thought of starting a true crime sleuth club in Destin, I wondered what type of people would be attracted to the idea of becoming a true crime sleuth. After all, I wanted to appeal to people who were willing to go beyond being “observers.” It’s one thing to watch streaming shows depicting true crime or to read non-fiction books on true crime, it’s another thing to become an active participant. I made the obvious assumptions: the club would attract people who were curious. They may watch true crime shows and are interested in cold case
training from a former FBI criminal profiler. Or perhaps the club will draw people quick to guess the end of a puzzling story and are right most of the time. Their intuitive skills are important in unraveling clues.
However, as I have learned more about the members of the club, I have found there is so much more they offer in experience than I could ever imagine. We have a member who has participated in over 1,000 autopsies in her professional career as a forensic investigator. She also has a personal connection to a nationally renowned serial killer. She was a student when a serial
killer was operating in her area. She lived with the fear of being a victim as did many other young women who lived in the area. Although she is a fanatic true crime podcast listener, she has left that life behind and owns her own retail business. We have a member who was a member of a church congregation where the Pastor murdered one of his congregants. For many years, she put her faith and trust in the Pastor and his passionate interpretation of the Bible. Until it was found out that he and his wife were involved in a polygamous relationship with a down-on-her-luck member of the church. We have a member whose aunt was the victim of a local serial killer. We have another member who is researching the same serial killer to write her first true crime book on his killings.
We have a member who likes to research genealogy sites to understand her family’s historical background. She also conducts financial research for her work. Along the way, she has developed very fine Internet research skills that she employs as we unravel the puzzle of solving true crimes in our club. We have a member who is a puzzle solver and a problem solver. She enjoys interactive
mystery games. She is a good leader who likes to engage others in the pursuit of justice. Her quick-wittedness is a good foil to engage other members to look beyond the obvious and to dig further for clues.
This is only a handful of examples. Even I have a story. Maybe you have your own personal story. I have found the following to be more true than false: Homicide creates a ripple effect of victims in its path. It is far more than the victim that was killed. And these victims who survive horrific and violent crimes become survivors. They remember what happened to them but are not controlled by that memory. Survivors become heroes. They shaped their lives to become protectors of those that need help. Their initial inner, weaker selves become stronger, smarter, more adaptable, and more capable to fight against evil doers. They become the protectors of our society. They are heroes. Maybe that’s a reason why you are a potential true crime sleuth? Or maybe you want to be around survivors and heroes.
If this describes you, come join us! The club meets at the Destin Library, usually on the third Thursday of the month, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. We share updates on the unsolved homicide case we are working on, get to know each other and share our love of true crime. The monthly Homicide Investigations Training for Civilian Sleuths also meets at the Destin Library, usually on the first Thursday of the month, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. This is a training series to learn about homicide investigation concepts and the training is geared toward civilians with no prior training. You can contact the Destin Library for upcoming dates. The Destin Library sponsors the club. You can also join us on FaceBook at Destin True Crime Club. We use the FaceBook site to discuss REAL unsolved cases and it is where we add our collective knowledge of those cases.
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]
When I first thought of starting a true crime sleuth club in Destin, I wondered what type of people would be attracted to the idea of becoming a true crime sleuth. After all, I wanted to appeal to people who were willing to go beyond being “observers.” It’s one thing to watch streaming shows depicting true crime or to read non-fiction books on true crime, it’s another thing to become an active participant. I made the obvious assumptions: the club would attract people who were curious. They may watch true crime shows and are interested in cold case
training from a former FBI criminal profiler. Or perhaps the club will draw people quick to guess the end of a puzzling story and are right most of the time. Their intuitive skills are important in unraveling clues.
However, as I have learned more about the members of the club, I have found there is so much more they offer in experience than I could ever imagine. We have a member who has participated in over 1,000 autopsies in her professional career as a forensic investigator. She also has a personal connection to a nationally renowned serial killer. She was a student when a serial
killer was operating in her area. She lived with the fear of being a victim as did many other young women who lived in the area. Although she is a fanatic true crime podcast listener, she has left that life behind and owns her own retail business. We have a member who was a member of a church congregation where the Pastor murdered one of his congregants. For many years, she put her faith and trust in the Pastor and his passionate interpretation of the Bible. Until it was found out that he and his wife were involved in a polygamous relationship with a down-on-her-luck member of the church. We have a member whose aunt was the victim of a local serial killer. We have another member who is researching the same serial killer to write her first true crime book on his killings.
We have a member who likes to research genealogy sites to understand her family’s historical background. She also conducts financial research for her work. Along the way, she has developed very fine Internet research skills that she employs as we unravel the puzzle of solving true crimes in our club. We have a member who is a puzzle solver and a problem solver. She enjoys interactive
mystery games. She is a good leader who likes to engage others in the pursuit of justice. Her quick-wittedness is a good foil to engage other members to look beyond the obvious and to dig further for clues.
This is only a handful of examples. Even I have a story. Maybe you have your own personal story. I have found the following to be more true than false: Homicide creates a ripple effect of victims in its path. It is far more than the victim that was killed. And these victims who survive horrific and violent crimes become survivors. They remember what happened to them but are not controlled by that memory. Survivors become heroes. They shaped their lives to become protectors of those that need help. Their initial inner, weaker selves become stronger, smarter, more adaptable, and more capable to fight against evil doers. They become the protectors of our society. They are heroes. Maybe that’s a reason why you are a potential true crime sleuth? Or maybe you want to be around survivors and heroes.
If this describes you, come join us! The club meets at the Destin Library, usually on the third Thursday of the month, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. We share updates on the unsolved homicide case we are working on, get to know each other and share our love of true crime. The monthly Homicide Investigations Training for Civilian Sleuths also meets at the Destin Library, usually on the first Thursday of the month, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. This is a training series to learn about homicide investigation concepts and the training is geared toward civilians with no prior training. You can contact the Destin Library for upcoming dates. The Destin Library sponsors the club. You can also join us on FaceBook at Destin True Crime Club. We use the FaceBook site to discuss REAL unsolved cases and it is where we add our collective knowledge of those cases.
Seven Summer Home Maintenance Tips Homeowners Often Overlook:
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
That means it’s time to share our top home maintenance tips for homeowners to tackle this season. Here in the Emerald Coast, we largely spend our summers indoors to beat the heat. That makes it even more important to complete this summer checklist! If these home maintenance tasks go overlooked, it can lead to serious problems down the road.
#1 – Clean out your air ducts. Servicing your HVAC or home air-conditioning system should be near the top of every Floridian’s summer home maintenance tips checklist. Trust us…you do NOT want to spend a single summer day without A/C here in North Florida! As part of your system’s service, it is a good idea to get your air ducts cleaned once a year. This will improve your A/C’s efficiency as well as your home’s air quality, helping diminish the effects of the allergens caused by plants and flowers that bloom this time of year. Oh, and don’t forget to change your air filter!
#2 – Check your window and door seals. Another important home maintenance tip is to check the seals of all exterior windows and doors. Re-caulk or reseal any problem areas to avoid losing that precious cool air and overtaxing your air-conditioner. This will also help keep out household pests who like to find ways to sneak in to escape the heat!
#3 – Prep your pool. We Floridians LOVE spending time at the pool, especially during the summer. If you’re a homeowner who has a pool, one of your top priorities this season should be getting your pool ready for use. Give it a thorough cleaning, treat it with the proper chemicals and have the water tested, and check the filtration system. You should also inspect the pool deck for loose boards or pavers that need repairing, and pressure wash away any mold or mildew that could lead to slippery surfaces.
#4 – Clean your gutters and downspouts. North Florida gets regular rain showers during the summer, which means it’s time to clean out those gutters and downspouts! Backup in gutters caused by debris can lead to costly water damage, plus it creates an environment that appeals to critters and pests. While you’re at it, check your gutters for holes, rust, or anything else that might reduce their efficiency.
#5 – Repair or replace torn or broken screens. We might not spend a lot of time outside during the summer here, but when we do, we want to be surrounded by screens that keep the mosquitoes and other insects away. Pool owners also love that their screened porches keep the debris out of the water! Now is the time to check for any holes or tears in your window, door, and porch screens so you can get them patched or replaced.
#6 – Get a roof inspection. Those daily rain showers we mentioned bring to mind another of our top home maintenance tips. Heavy rains can produce serious gusts of wind, especially if they’re part of a tropical storm or hurricane, which can lead to loose shingles or roof damage caused by flying debris. Now is the time to inspect your roof so you’re not surprised by any leaks in the wet summer months to come.
#7 – Prep your home for hurricanes or summer storms. This is another home maintenance tip that’s especially important for our homeowners! While most people think of hurricane preparedness as stocking up on batteries, fresh water, first aid items, and non-perishable food items, there’s more to it than that. Here are some other important tasks you should have on your summer checklist specific to your home itself:
Also, some preparedness-related investments you might want to make as a Florida home buyer or owner might include an all-home surge protector, a generator, a sump pump, reinforced doors for your home and garage, and impact-resistant shutters for your windows.
Some of these are BIG TASKS and out of the norm for the average DYI-er. As always, there is no shame in asking for help!! There all sorts of quality business in the Destinites Directory who would love to help!
Happy Summer!!
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
That means it’s time to share our top home maintenance tips for homeowners to tackle this season. Here in the Emerald Coast, we largely spend our summers indoors to beat the heat. That makes it even more important to complete this summer checklist! If these home maintenance tasks go overlooked, it can lead to serious problems down the road.
#1 – Clean out your air ducts. Servicing your HVAC or home air-conditioning system should be near the top of every Floridian’s summer home maintenance tips checklist. Trust us…you do NOT want to spend a single summer day without A/C here in North Florida! As part of your system’s service, it is a good idea to get your air ducts cleaned once a year. This will improve your A/C’s efficiency as well as your home’s air quality, helping diminish the effects of the allergens caused by plants and flowers that bloom this time of year. Oh, and don’t forget to change your air filter!
#2 – Check your window and door seals. Another important home maintenance tip is to check the seals of all exterior windows and doors. Re-caulk or reseal any problem areas to avoid losing that precious cool air and overtaxing your air-conditioner. This will also help keep out household pests who like to find ways to sneak in to escape the heat!
#3 – Prep your pool. We Floridians LOVE spending time at the pool, especially during the summer. If you’re a homeowner who has a pool, one of your top priorities this season should be getting your pool ready for use. Give it a thorough cleaning, treat it with the proper chemicals and have the water tested, and check the filtration system. You should also inspect the pool deck for loose boards or pavers that need repairing, and pressure wash away any mold or mildew that could lead to slippery surfaces.
#4 – Clean your gutters and downspouts. North Florida gets regular rain showers during the summer, which means it’s time to clean out those gutters and downspouts! Backup in gutters caused by debris can lead to costly water damage, plus it creates an environment that appeals to critters and pests. While you’re at it, check your gutters for holes, rust, or anything else that might reduce their efficiency.
#5 – Repair or replace torn or broken screens. We might not spend a lot of time outside during the summer here, but when we do, we want to be surrounded by screens that keep the mosquitoes and other insects away. Pool owners also love that their screened porches keep the debris out of the water! Now is the time to check for any holes or tears in your window, door, and porch screens so you can get them patched or replaced.
#6 – Get a roof inspection. Those daily rain showers we mentioned bring to mind another of our top home maintenance tips. Heavy rains can produce serious gusts of wind, especially if they’re part of a tropical storm or hurricane, which can lead to loose shingles or roof damage caused by flying debris. Now is the time to inspect your roof so you’re not surprised by any leaks in the wet summer months to come.
#7 – Prep your home for hurricanes or summer storms. This is another home maintenance tip that’s especially important for our homeowners! While most people think of hurricane preparedness as stocking up on batteries, fresh water, first aid items, and non-perishable food items, there’s more to it than that. Here are some other important tasks you should have on your summer checklist specific to your home itself:
- Trim trees and shrubbery within ten feet of your house.
- Clear out a safe space in your home to “hunker down” if needed.
- Check the locks on your doors and windows and consider upgrading to heavy duty locks if you don’t have them to help withstand hurricane-force winds.
- Place valuables in water-safe bags and/or containers.
- Store your hurricane preparedness items somewhere easily accessible in the event of a power failure.
Also, some preparedness-related investments you might want to make as a Florida home buyer or owner might include an all-home surge protector, a generator, a sump pump, reinforced doors for your home and garage, and impact-resistant shutters for your windows.
Some of these are BIG TASKS and out of the norm for the average DYI-er. As always, there is no shame in asking for help!! There all sorts of quality business in the Destinites Directory who would love to help!
Happy Summer!!
What If...:
provided by Melissa Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
We love the small businesses of the Emerald Coast! We work with so many creative and ambitious entrepreneurs that want to improve our area. We live in a unique place that has 1,000 different kinds of business crammed into a very small geographic location, and it keeps our daily conversations very interesting. The possibilities of what could happen with a business are ten times more complicated and varied than most home and personal insurance. It can be a challenge finding the right coverage for such varied types of businesses, but it’s a challenge that we welcome, because it keeps the job interesting! When looking for coverage for your small business, make sure you find an agent that has a complete understanding of your industry and the potential risks it has. Having an inexperienced agent could mean getting the wrong coverage and could ultimately bankrupt your business.
Continuing our article from last week about common and weird “what if” situations, we now address Auto and Business Insurance questions that we frequently get. Every policy is different and of course each situation brings unique circumstances that could alter the outcome of a claim, so these examples are meant as only possibilities and not advise or guarantee of coverage.
What If…
Someone without insurance hits me? From an insurance perspective two coverages will come into play, the PIP coverage and Uninsured Motorist. PIP is Personal Injury Protection usually with a $10,000 per person limit and can sometimes have a deductible. This will likely be used for medical expenses while the uninsured motorist coverage may be used for physical damage to your vehicle. Your insurance company may subrogate against the at-fault party and if your coverage amounts are insufficient may opt to do the same.
I crash a company car on personal errand?
It depends on the situation, the company structure, and the company’s commercial auto policy (if they have one), and if the company had the correct forms on that commercial auto policy. If it’s a sole proprietorship then PIP gets complicated but may be available. In short, if personal use wasn’t properly disclosed ahead of time, it could be denied, but you may have some coverage under your personal auto policy; if it’s a personal vehicle used for company tasks the same thing may happen if it wasn’t properly disclosed.
You damage someone else’s property not related to the work you’re doing?
For example, a landscaper hit a water line or puts a rock through a window damage to someone else’s property (not the client’s property). This would likely fall under the general liability policy, which may or may not have a deductible. Someone slips and falls in my store?
General liability is typically the coverage that response to a slip and fall. The tenant’s policy usually responds first but the landlord could get looped in. If it happened in “common space” such as the parking lot, it would likely go straight to the landlord policy. It depends on how the lease is written with what area the tenant is responsible for.
Steals from the store?
Theft usually falls under the property insurance coverage, specifically the contents coverage (unless it’s copper pipes or something permanently attached that was stolen). There is likely a deductible in the $1000-$10,000 range for this so petty theft is usually not enough to claim. Theft coverage may come with stipulations such as a monitored alarm system, not just closed circuit cameras.
Employee cuts hand with knife?
Workers comp is very straight forward and usually works in the employees favor, regardless of fault. Workplace injuries are almost always covered to some degree and can be broad enough to include lost time, wages, medical, and more.
Employees get into a fight?
The medical expenses could be under workers comp but the liability could get complicated. Personal liability may fall under the individual’s home insurance policy which can include a liability portion but the circumstances of this event could bring it in a lot of different directions.
Rent a car while traveling on business and get into an accident?
Some commercial auto insurance policies have an optional coverage for hired or non-owned auto. If you have this coverage, renting a vehicle for work should give that auto and driver comparable coverage as if it were listed on your policy. The physical damage coverage for a rented vehicle is another optional coverage often called “hired auto physical damage”.
Rent a box truck for the day and get into an accident?
Renting a box truck for the day: same situation, if they had the correct forms it could be covered but those are optional coverages not included on the base policy. Pay cousin to work for the day and they either get hurt or cause damage to the
property?
Day labor could be anyone, either well known like a cousin or a total stranger. There are a few things to consider here: some coverages are name-specific, such as workers comp through the JUA or through a PEO/leasing company; the person would need to be named on these policies to be covered for workers comp. Other workers comp policies are tied to the company with no specific names listed, the person would likely be automatically covered under this policy, but it should be disclosed to the insurance company if the use of day labor is expected.
provided by Melissa Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
We love the small businesses of the Emerald Coast! We work with so many creative and ambitious entrepreneurs that want to improve our area. We live in a unique place that has 1,000 different kinds of business crammed into a very small geographic location, and it keeps our daily conversations very interesting. The possibilities of what could happen with a business are ten times more complicated and varied than most home and personal insurance. It can be a challenge finding the right coverage for such varied types of businesses, but it’s a challenge that we welcome, because it keeps the job interesting! When looking for coverage for your small business, make sure you find an agent that has a complete understanding of your industry and the potential risks it has. Having an inexperienced agent could mean getting the wrong coverage and could ultimately bankrupt your business.
Continuing our article from last week about common and weird “what if” situations, we now address Auto and Business Insurance questions that we frequently get. Every policy is different and of course each situation brings unique circumstances that could alter the outcome of a claim, so these examples are meant as only possibilities and not advise or guarantee of coverage.
What If…
Someone without insurance hits me? From an insurance perspective two coverages will come into play, the PIP coverage and Uninsured Motorist. PIP is Personal Injury Protection usually with a $10,000 per person limit and can sometimes have a deductible. This will likely be used for medical expenses while the uninsured motorist coverage may be used for physical damage to your vehicle. Your insurance company may subrogate against the at-fault party and if your coverage amounts are insufficient may opt to do the same.
I crash a company car on personal errand?
It depends on the situation, the company structure, and the company’s commercial auto policy (if they have one), and if the company had the correct forms on that commercial auto policy. If it’s a sole proprietorship then PIP gets complicated but may be available. In short, if personal use wasn’t properly disclosed ahead of time, it could be denied, but you may have some coverage under your personal auto policy; if it’s a personal vehicle used for company tasks the same thing may happen if it wasn’t properly disclosed.
You damage someone else’s property not related to the work you’re doing?
For example, a landscaper hit a water line or puts a rock through a window damage to someone else’s property (not the client’s property). This would likely fall under the general liability policy, which may or may not have a deductible. Someone slips and falls in my store?
General liability is typically the coverage that response to a slip and fall. The tenant’s policy usually responds first but the landlord could get looped in. If it happened in “common space” such as the parking lot, it would likely go straight to the landlord policy. It depends on how the lease is written with what area the tenant is responsible for.
Steals from the store?
Theft usually falls under the property insurance coverage, specifically the contents coverage (unless it’s copper pipes or something permanently attached that was stolen). There is likely a deductible in the $1000-$10,000 range for this so petty theft is usually not enough to claim. Theft coverage may come with stipulations such as a monitored alarm system, not just closed circuit cameras.
Employee cuts hand with knife?
Workers comp is very straight forward and usually works in the employees favor, regardless of fault. Workplace injuries are almost always covered to some degree and can be broad enough to include lost time, wages, medical, and more.
Employees get into a fight?
The medical expenses could be under workers comp but the liability could get complicated. Personal liability may fall under the individual’s home insurance policy which can include a liability portion but the circumstances of this event could bring it in a lot of different directions.
Rent a car while traveling on business and get into an accident?
Some commercial auto insurance policies have an optional coverage for hired or non-owned auto. If you have this coverage, renting a vehicle for work should give that auto and driver comparable coverage as if it were listed on your policy. The physical damage coverage for a rented vehicle is another optional coverage often called “hired auto physical damage”.
Rent a box truck for the day and get into an accident?
Renting a box truck for the day: same situation, if they had the correct forms it could be covered but those are optional coverages not included on the base policy. Pay cousin to work for the day and they either get hurt or cause damage to the
property?
Day labor could be anyone, either well known like a cousin or a total stranger. There are a few things to consider here: some coverages are name-specific, such as workers comp through the JUA or through a PEO/leasing company; the person would need to be named on these policies to be covered for workers comp. Other workers comp policies are tied to the company with no specific names listed, the person would likely be automatically covered under this policy, but it should be disclosed to the insurance company if the use of day labor is expected.
Kitchen Islands 101:
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
While we’ve heard “kitchens are the heart of the home”, I believe the “kitchen island is the hub of the home”. Some of us use our islands for meal prepping, casual dining, additional storage, beverage centers, appliance storage and more. The function of an island depends on how you plan to utilize it. Here are things to consider when planning your kitchen island:
* Depth, Dimension & Sizing
* Countertop Selection and Finish Edge
* Seating
* Lighting
* Appliances
* Appliance Garage
* Cabinets
* Dishwasher
* Fridge or Beverage Cooler
* Ice Maker
* Sink
* Stove & Hood Vent
* Trash & Recycle Bins
Sometimes the best island ideas can lead to a mistake if they aren’t planned out properly. Some of
the most common mistakes are:
* Forgetting about Plumbing
* Lack of proper electrical outlets in Island
* Inadequate Space for Appliances
* Inappropriate Island Size for Kitchen
* Poor Lighting
* Overcrowding Seats
* Kitchen triangle may be disrupted
Regardless of the design details and whether you have a small or spacious kitchen, your kitchen island
is sure to invite all who enter to “linger”. Often times the island is the focal point of the kitchen and
can add value to your home when it’s done correctly. Hiring a professional interior designer will help
ensure you get years of use and enjoyment out of your kitchen island.
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
While we’ve heard “kitchens are the heart of the home”, I believe the “kitchen island is the hub of the home”. Some of us use our islands for meal prepping, casual dining, additional storage, beverage centers, appliance storage and more. The function of an island depends on how you plan to utilize it. Here are things to consider when planning your kitchen island:
* Depth, Dimension & Sizing
* Countertop Selection and Finish Edge
* Seating
* Lighting
* Appliances
* Appliance Garage
* Cabinets
* Dishwasher
* Fridge or Beverage Cooler
* Ice Maker
* Sink
* Stove & Hood Vent
* Trash & Recycle Bins
Sometimes the best island ideas can lead to a mistake if they aren’t planned out properly. Some of
the most common mistakes are:
* Forgetting about Plumbing
* Lack of proper electrical outlets in Island
* Inadequate Space for Appliances
* Inappropriate Island Size for Kitchen
* Poor Lighting
* Overcrowding Seats
* Kitchen triangle may be disrupted
Regardless of the design details and whether you have a small or spacious kitchen, your kitchen island
is sure to invite all who enter to “linger”. Often times the island is the focal point of the kitchen and
can add value to your home when it’s done correctly. Hiring a professional interior designer will help
ensure you get years of use and enjoyment out of your kitchen island.
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
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)
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 |
Christian Corner: by Patricia Lee
Prov. 19:5, cf. 19:9
"A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will not escape."
"As a man known for wisdom and discernment, Solomon was accustomed to trying court cases. Part of that process included deciding whether a witness was truthful or lying. In the legal sense, Solomon's warning is very literal. In modern terminology, lying to an official court is called "perjury," and it is treated as a crime in and of itself. However, the principle applies generally to anyone who slanders another and tells lies: sooner or later, consequences will come. As a later proverb notes, those results can be dire (Proverbs 19:9)." Reference: BibleRef.com
Remember: The truth always has a way of revealing itself. Liars never go unpunished. Father God sees and hears all and justice finds it's way to light.
Prov. 19:5, cf. 19:9
"A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will not escape."
"As a man known for wisdom and discernment, Solomon was accustomed to trying court cases. Part of that process included deciding whether a witness was truthful or lying. In the legal sense, Solomon's warning is very literal. In modern terminology, lying to an official court is called "perjury," and it is treated as a crime in and of itself. However, the principle applies generally to anyone who slanders another and tells lies: sooner or later, consequences will come. As a later proverb notes, those results can be dire (Proverbs 19:9)." Reference: BibleRef.com
Remember: The truth always has a way of revealing itself. Liars never go unpunished. Father God sees and hears all and justice finds it's way to light.
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Website Est. 2018
Newsletter Est. Dec. 2021