FWB Life | Fort Walton Beach News, Events and Community Information

Author: FWB Life Staff

Record Fundraising at Annual All-Sports Banquet

By Doug Stauffer

The recent 55th Annual All Sports Banquet on the picturesque Okaloosa Island celebrated athletic combined with academic excellence and demonstrated the power of philanthropy as the community joined together to give. The Emerald Coast Convention Center was alive with the spirit of competition, not just on the fields and courts, but in the bidding war that saw donations soar to a record-breaking $126,200 from the evening auction. By the night’s end, nearly $400,000 had been raised, surpassing the 2022-2023 total and setting a new benchmark for support towards area athletics.

The award winners of the evening ranged from high school sensations to professional athletes, all of whom share a commitment to academic excellence and philanthropy with a spiritual emphasis. The banquet, known for recognizing the who’s-who of local talent, did not disappoint, spotlighting individuals from prep to college and the amateur ranks to the professional stage.

The evening’s emotional pinnacle arrived when the Thomas brothers, Azareye’h and Juanyeh, took the stage. Azareye’h Thomas, an FSU defensive back lauded for helping to lead the Seminoles to an unbeaten regular season record, won the Male Collegiate Award. Meanwhile, his brother, Juanyeh Thomas, a defensive back for the Dallas Cowboys, who helped lead his team to a 12-5 season and the NFC East title, clinched the Professional Award.

Their success on and off the field was recognized by their tribute to their mother, whom they invited on stage to a standing ovation. The brothers, both Niceville High School graduates, honored her for the sacrifices that paved their paths to personal and professional achievements. One phase by Momma Thomas encapsulated the depth of her influence, “Every lesson is a blessing.”

The banquet also highlighted the stars of tomorrow, with Lauren Bage and Titus Thornell winning the Female and Male Scholastic awards, respectively. Bage, a multi-sport star from Choctaw, broke barriers as the first female in town to play tackle football. She is No. 5 in her graduating class and told the crowd, “With God and hard work, all things are possible.”

Thornell, a three-sport letterman, also excelled at Choctaw in football, wrestling and weightlifting. He earned a 4.36 GPA and volunteers in mentoring youth at his local church.

Their stories of determination and faith echoed the sentiment that hard work and divine guidance overcome all obstacles.

Further accolades were bestowed upon Liliana Fernandez, the Female Collegiate award winner from Tulsa, and Garrison Lemire, the Taylor Haugen winner, embodying perseverance and dedication ideals.

Lemire, a Niceville senior originally from Abilene, has set his sights on Texas A&M, studying Psychology and exercise physiology. “We look up to Coach Lou and Coach Dussault, both retired marines who believe in tough love.”

Other award winners include Blake Orr, an FIU javelin thrower aiming for the Junior Olympics, and Shane Patty, a Special Olympics multi-sport star and the voice of NWF State Raiders baseball and softball.

The banquet concluded on a high note, with FSU and NFL legend Warrick Dunn delivering a keynote speech resonating with his journey of overcoming adversity through faith, hard work and community support.

The 55th Annual All Sports Banquet not only celebrated the achievements of these remarkable athletes, but also underscored the importance of giving back, setting a precedent for future generations to aspire to greatness both on and off the field.

March 31, 2024
The Florida Aquifer is the Fountain of Life

By Carolyn Newcomer Ketchel, Okaloosa County Commissioner, District 2

Nothing is more essential to life than water. Most of us can only live three days without water. We are blessed to live at a time and place in history where water comes from a faucet and is clean. However, even a century ago, water had to be brought from rivers or natural springs. Water-borne diseases were part of 19th century life. A significant development was the construction of sewers to collect wastewater, which has its origins in ancient Rome. The tremendous growth of overcrowded cities in Europe and North America forced municipal sanitation to be addressed in the 19th century and early 20th century with outbreaks of typhoid and cholera. The information that follows might answer many questions and concerns.

The primary legislation governing drinking water quality is the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) passed by Congress in 1974 and amended in 1986 and further strengthened in 1996. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), after consulting with the National Academy of Science, sets a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for each regulated substance. Periodically, these standards are reviewed and refined based on scientific and technological advancements.

Contaminants that can cause acute health effects are monitored daily. Others are monitored weekly and monthly. Testing and monitoring results are reported regularly to the state health department and are available to the public. Strict adherence to monitoring and testing are the best guarantees for safe drinking water. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and EPA ensure all requirements are followed.

In addition to the Standards of the Safe Drinking Water Act SDWA, there are other federal laws that safeguard the quality of drinking water by regulating surface and groundwater pollution, management of hazardous substances and use of chemical pesticides. Public water utilities test and monitor drinking water to meet two types of standards. The primary standards, called Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), are set to protect human health and the secondary standards address aesthetic considerations such as taste, odor and appearance. Health and aesthetic aspects are the driving force behind drinking water regulations.

It would seem that “safe” drinking water would be obvious and easy to define. However, in the drinking water world this is not the case. In fact, the Safe Drinking Water Act does not clearly define what is “safe” drinking water. For Okaloosa Water and Sewer (OCWS), we categorize our drinking water as safe, because we know that we have followed strict guidelines for the treatment and delivery of drinking water. We know the water has been monitored and tested to ensure compliance with the SDWA.

The Florida Aquifer: OCWS drinking water is groundwater that is pumped out of the Florida Aquifer. This Aquifer is a limestone aquifer, so the water contains calcium, magnesium, and other minerals dissolved from the limestone. These minerals cause the water to have a slight to moderate hardness classification of water quality, the Florida Aquifer with its thick confinement layer is far superior to the water quality within the Sand and Gravel Aquifer. Fluoride is not added to our water, because we have naturally occurring fluoride in the Florida Aquifer.

Chlorine Added: The OCWS treats all drinking water at each well with chlorine disinfection which reduces hydrogen sulfide odor. Chlorine disinfection not only reduces odor but also kills pathogenic and harmful microbial activity that could be harmful in drinking water. Disinfection is one of the most vital components of delivering safe water in addition to the filtration work of the Florida Aquifer. Additionally, public utilities are required by FDEP to maintain a chlorine residual throughout the system. The chlorine residual can provide some disinfection capacity but is mainly required to ensure the water is free from microbial activity. If microbial activity comes in contact with chlorine, it is destroyed but the chlorine is consumed. If a small chlorine residual is present, it indicates the absence of any microbial activity that would ultimately consume the chlorine in the disinfection process.

PFAS Chemicals: The Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) list includes 30 contaminants and 29 of the contaminants are PFAS compounds. PFAS is the acronym given to “forever chemicals”, in other words, chemicals that do not break down. Scientific studies have shown that exposure to some PFAS in the environment may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals. There are thousands of PFAS chemicals, and they are found in many different consumer, commercial, and industrial products. This makes it challenging to study and assess the potential human health and environmental risks.
PFAS compounds are not being regulated by the EPA. Currently under the SDWA, EPA does not require testing by public water systems for PFAS. The EPA is working toward developing regulation for PFAS compounds but will likely not have those regulations before 2025.
PFAS are widely used, long lasting chemicals, which break down very slowly over time. Because of their widespread use and their persistence in the environment, many PFAS are found in the blood of people and animals all over the world and are present at low levels in a variety of food products and in the environment.

Pharmaceuticals: Pharmaceuticals are not regulated by the EPA yet, but are on the Emerging Contaminants of Concern listing. The UCMR6 list of 30 contaminants has not yet been determined, but many suspect UCMR6 (2028-2030) will focus on pharmaceuticals in much the same way UCMR5 has focused on PFAS compounds. The bad news is that the number of pharmaceutical compounds in existence are extremely vast. So, regulation by EPA will be slow. In addition, many pharmaceutical compounds are very small and it is uncertain if even reverse osmosis can fully remove these compounds. The fortunate news is that pharmaceuticals in a given water supply are, at least, from FDA approved drugs (meaning they are not toxic in and of themselves). Most pharmaceuticals are very dose dependent and are relatively ineffectual at low concentrations. Extremely low concentration is exactly what one would expect if pharmaceuticals have found their way into the Florida Aquifer given the enormous volume (limited data is available on this subject). It is also logical to assume that if PFAS compounds have not been detected in the OCWS system in part due to the Confinement Layer as well as the dilution factor, it may be logical to assume that the same would be true for pharmaceuticals.

The safe way to dispose of Pharmaceuticals is to return unused medicine to the pharmacy or to place the medicine in used coffee grounds and dispose in the garbage. DO NOT FLUSH!

We are fortunate to have a great team at OCWS that makes sure we have the best water in the Southeast. In fact, we have such healthy water, it is sought after by other states. Thanks for reading; I know you now have a better understanding of the Okaloosa Water.

Carolyn Ketchel is Okaloosa County Commissioner, District 2, CKetchel@myokaloosa.com or 850-651-7105.

March 31, 2024
Love and Legacy: NWFMOA’s 2nd Annual Valentines for Veterans

By Doug Stauffer

In a touching tribute to community and service, the Northwest Florida Military Officers Association (NWFMOA) celebrated its 2nd Annual Valentines for Veterans event, a gesture of love and respect to the veterans residing at the Bob Hope Village, part of the Air Force Enlisted Village. This special event, founded in 2023 on the initiative of General Ron Folgeman, former Air Force Chief of Staff, is becoming a tradition, embodying the spirit of Valentine’s Day through community outreach and intergenerational connections. Retired Brigadier General Fran Hendricks resurrected Valentines for Veterans for NWFMOA last year following the community outreach initiative he did while he was the 96th Wing Commander at Eglin (2002-2004).

Under the guidance of their teachers and Principal Lisa Tucker, Longwood Elementary School students made the heartwarming journey to Bob Hope Village, delivering over 300 handmade Valentines to the eagerly waiting residents. The children’s efforts ensured that no one was left out of this celebration of love and appreciation, marking the event with smiles, laughter, and an abundance of hugs, solidifying it as a resounding success for the second year.

The musical contributions of the Emerald Coast Chorus further enhanced the celebration by adding a layer of festive joy to the atmosphere. Yet, it was not just the performances and Valentines that made the day memorable. The presence and words of Dr. Lamar White, an Okaloosa County School Board member, lent a deep resonance to the occasion. His connections to the military are awe-inspiring. “I love the military, but also have deep military connections in my family,” said Dr. White. “I am the son of a U.S. Army Korean War Veteran and married to Connie, whose father was a retired U.S. Air Force pilot. Connie’s dad flew the P-47 against the Nazis when he was nineteen at the beginning of his career and ended his career in Vietnam, flying the F-105. I was blessed to see these school children providing the valentines and the association’s participation with the Bob Hope Village residents.”

Key members of the NWFMOA, including Tom Azar, Ray Alexander, Dick Solt, Dave Parisot, Fred Westfall, Rod Gerdes, Mel Claxton, Bob Allen, Kim Wintner and Fran Hendricks, were in attendance. Their support underscored the collective effort behind the association’s endeavors. The unveiling of the new NWFMOA Chapter Banner, led by Jim Shoff, was a proud moment, symbolizing the association’s growth and ongoing commitment to its mission.

The NWFMOA, a non-profit organization comprising over 200 active, retired and separated officers from the Uniformed Services, along with surviving spouses, invites individuals to join its ranks and partake in a broad spectrum of social, cultural, professional and service activities. With a history of excellence and service, the association remains dedicated to advocating for military rights and benefits and supporting legislative actions in favor of all veterans through its affiliation with the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA).
For those inspired by service, community and legacy values, the NWFMOA offers a welcoming platform for engagement and support. Additional information about the association and its activities can be found at www.nwfmoa.org, inviting all interested parties to explore how they can contribute to and benefit from this distinguished community.

March 31, 2024
Protect Your Real Estate Funds

By Melissa Forte-Litscher, NextHome

Let’s face it, buying a home can be stressful. We know that dealing with the finances, the house hunting, the contract negotiations and, finally, the packing and moving can be a lot of pressure. Imagine how devastated you would be if you did all of that and then your funds were stolen. Then, you are not only out the money, but the house too!

The recent 2024 State of Wire Fraud Report by CertifID found approximately 1 in 20 Americans who bought or sold a home within the past three years has been victimized by some sort of real estate fraud and half of those were wire fraud issues. The importance of protecting your financial assets during the home buying process is essential. One significant threat that we all must be vigilant about is wire fraud. Let’s look at how it works and what steps you can take to avoid it.

Wire fraud in real estate transactions occurs when cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in our communication channels to deceive buyers into wiring funds to fraudulent accounts. Typically, these scammers strike during the final stages of a transaction when large sums of money are being transferred electronically. They often gain access to email accounts or intercept communication between parties, impersonating legitimate individuals involved in the transaction.

To protect yourself from falling victim to wire fraud, there are several precautions you can take. First, establish secure communication channels. We can use encrypted email systems or secure messaging platforms to exchange sensitive information. Additionally, it’s essential to verify the identity of all parties involved before initiating any wire transfers. This can be done through direct phone calls or face-to-face meetings to confirm transaction details and wiring instructions.

Also, be cautious with your online activity. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments in emails, and regularly update your passwords to strengthen the security of your email accounts. Implementing multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to work with reputable professionals throughout the transaction process. From real estate agents to title companies and financial institutions, choose partners who have robust protocols in place to detect and prevent wire fraud. Together, we can ensure that your assets are safeguarded against potential threats.

Take the time to carefully review all documentation related to the transaction, including purchase agreements and closing statements. Any discrepancies or inconsistencies should be addressed immediately to prevent fraudulent activity. Consider alternative payment methods, such as cashier’s checks or electronic funds transfers directly from your bank account, to minimize the risk of funds being diverted to fraudulent accounts.

By taking these proactive measures and staying informed about potential threats, you can protect yourself against wire fraud and enjoy a smooth and secure home buying experience. As your realtor, my priority is to ensure a smooth and secure transaction process for you. Let’s work together to make your dream home a reality while safeguarding your financial assets. As always, I’m at your service.

850.496.7444
Melissa@NextHomeCornerstone.com
destin-fwbrealty.com

March 31, 2024
Off the Hook: Spring Fishing in Fort Walton Beach!

By Cali Hlavac, To Do In Destin

As the vibrant colors of spring emerge, fishermen and families flock to our piece of paradise, Fort Walton Beach and the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” for a spring fishing adventure. With the warming temperatures and inviting waters, springtime in Fort Walton Beach offers anglers an unparalleled experience filled with a variety of species and thrilling catches.

One of the most appealing aspects of spring fishing in our area is the weather. During this time of the year, temperatures range from the comfortable mid-60s to the mid-80s, creating an ideal environment for both fish and anglers alike.

Spring brings the arrival of various species to the waters off our coast, presenting anglers with a plethora of opportunities. Among the prized catches during this season are Cobia, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Sheepshead and Mahi-Mahi. These species thrive in the Gulf of Mexico’s nutrient-rich waters, making them abundant targets for eager fishermen.

To reel in these coveted catches, anglers employ a variety of tried-and-tested techniques tailored to each species. For red snapper, bottom fishing near natural reefs, wrecks and ledges proves highly effective. Using live bait such as cigar minnows, pinfish or squid can entice these elusive creatures to bite.

King mackerel and Spanish mackerel, known for their speed and agility, are commonly targeted using trolling techniques. Anglers troll various lures and baits behind boats at different depths, mimicking the movement of baitfish to attract these predatory species.
Mahi-mahi, with their vibrant colors and acrobatic displays, are often encountered near floating debris, weed lines, and temperature breaks. Anglers cast live bait or brightly colored lures to entice these majestic fish, which are known for their willingness to strike aggressively.

Spring fishing offers an unforgettable experience for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of battling a trophy fish or simply enjoying a day on the water amidst stunning natural surroundings, Fort Walton Beach’s Emerald Coast waters never disappoint.

In conclusion, as spring breathes new life into the world, it also kicks off the beginning of an exciting fishing season in our area. With its beautiful weather, abundant species, and versatile techniques, Fort Walton Beach remains a premier destination for anglers seeking adventure and unforgettable fishing experiences. So, grab your gear, chart your course, and embark on a memorable spring fishing excursion in the jewel of Florida’s Emerald Coast.

March 31, 2024
Exercise With Your Child

By Lisa Leath Turpin, Health and Wellness Coach

Good health should be a family affair. Children learn and develop from what they see their parents do. When parents practice a healthy lifestyle, the children are more likely to follow.

The key to developing lifelong healthy fitness habits is to start young. Your children can also get a head start on sports and Physical Education if they already understand and have good exercise habits. Being active is important for proper bone growth, muscle development and brain function. Exercise strengthens the heart, keeps arteries and veins clear, strengthens the lungs, reduces blood sugar levels, controls weight, and helps give a better outlook on life. Exercising together is the ultimate bonding activity for families especially in a world where electronics and technology cause disconnect and isolation.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and prevention, about one-third of American children ages 10-17 are overweight or obese, and fewer than 25% of children get the recommended 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day recommended by the American Medical Association.

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) beautifully names the top 10 reasons why children should exercise (acefitness.org/education-and-resources). I have combined into five reasons:

• Children who are active 60 minutes per day demonstrate lower rates of obesity.
• Greater rates of activity in children have been associated with higher test scores in reading and math. Frequent physical activity is also associated with improved behavior in the classroom and beyond.
• Physical (body) and cognitive (brain) development go hand-in-hand. While this continues for life, this relationship is most critical at a young age. When kids are active, their brains develop, allowing for new types of activity. Aerobic activity is shown to increase the size of essential brain structures and number of neural connections.
• Frequent activities requiring a high degree of balance and coordination have been associated with improved emotional response.
• Frequent exercise decreases symptoms of depression and anxiety in children. Regular exercise with children promotes self-efficacy with regard to health and self-image.
• A family that exercises together stays together! This spring, put down the iPad and iPhone, hop on a bike or put on your hiking boots and get going. If your kid is old enough, go to the gym together. Here in our area, join beach boot camps or utilize our pristine Bay and Gulf to go paddle-boarding or surfing. The benefits are priceless!

Be Active 850! Have a fitness question for Lisa? Email BeActive850@gmail.com.

Lisa Leath Turpin is a degreed and certified health and fitness lifestyle coach and consultant who has devoted her life to motivating and strengthening the body and mind of others. With almost 30 years’ experience, Lisa has a B.S. degree in Sports & Fitness Management from the University of Alabama, developed and managed the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Health & Wellness Facility and programs in Huntsville, Ala., is board certified by the National Board of Fitness Examiners and possesses certifications from AFAA, Polestar/Balanced Body, Reebok U, SCW Fitness and American Heart Association. She is currently a group exercise leader at Destin Health & Fitness and an independent personal trainer in the Destin area, diversely and extensively trained in classical and modern Pilates, lifestyle management, personal training, group exercise and post-rehabilitation.

March 31, 2024
Sean of the South: Resurrection Sunday

By Sean Dietrich

Easter Sunday. An Episcopal church in Birmingham. Vaulted ceilings. Ornate masonry. A pipe organ. A choir dressed in lacework cottas. Individual stained-glass windows that cost more than tactical government helicopters. The whole works.

My wife and I arrived late. The place was loaded with parishioners in pastel colors. There were no available seats in the back.

“We have room on the front row,” said the usher.

“The front row?” I said. “Isn’t there anywhere else? Somewhere less… Frontal?”

He shook his head. “Full house today, sir.”

I am not a front pew guy. I come from mild, soft-spoken fundamentalist people who hug each other sideways; we prefer to fill up the sanctuary from the back to the front.

He guided us to the front pew so that we were practically sitting in the priest’s lap. The whole church was looking at us.

Service began. The organ bellowed. People stood.

Before we sang the first song, a kid in the pew behind me started making flatulent sounds with his mouth. I could not concentrate.

As a former little boy, I am qualified to tell you that these were not just your run-of-the-mill mouth-based sound effects. These were long, juicy, squirty sounds that, if I hadn’t known better, sounded like minor digestive issues.

And he never quit. During the communal singing, the kid made this noise. During the call to worship: The Noise. During the Lord’s Prayer: nuclear blasts.

Spittle was flying onto the back of my neck as the boy’s sustained raspberry sounds reverberated off the stone walls. I was certain someone would tell the boy to knock it off, but it never happened.

So I turned around to give the child a stern look.

He might have been 3 years old. The kid was blond, plump, dressed festively in a seersucker jumpsuit adorned with lace.

His mother smiled. I grinned back, hoping she’d get my drift and put an end to her son’s newfound talent. But she didn’t.

So I tried to deal with it. Throughout the service, the kid made even louder sounds and I made greater attempts to ignore him. But it was difficult, inasmuch as I could feel the windspeeds from his mouth-trombone moving the hair on the back of my head.

Occasionally, I would look around at other parishioners to gauge their reactions, but nobody was paying attention to the kid. It was incredible. Even though this boy’s sphincter-like tones were rattling the windows, I was the only one in the Western Hemisphere who noticed this child.

When the choir stood for the offertory song, I tried to tune the kid out completely. I focused on the music. I closed my eyes. I listened to the a capella choral arrangement, bowing my head, reflecting on spiritual matters, when all of a sudden… Somebody ripped one.

At least that’s what it sounded like. The kid had upped the ante this time. He wasn’t just making basic mouth sounds anymore. He was raspberrying the national anthem. The back of my neck was painted in a fine spray of toddler saliva.

I leaned over to my wife. “I can’t concentrate,” I said.

“Hmmm?” she said.

“That kid. He’s making noise.”

“What kid?”

“What kid? Junior the Incredible Tooting Toddler. Don’t you hear him?”

“Just don’t pay attention to him.”

“He’s spitting on me.”

Someone across the aisle shushed me.

Finally, it was time for communion. Several hundred of us filed toward the altar, and who do you think was standing behind me? That’s right. Toot-Zilla.

The kid was making his lip noises while standing in line, bouncing on his mother’s hip.

I’d had enough. I was just about to say something to the kid’s mother when she spoke first. She told me she didn’t have a free hand for receiving communion. So she asked if I would watch her son for a moment while she approached the altar and took the Sacrament.

I said sure.

So she left him with me for a moment. He stood beside my leg and looked up at me with tap-water blue eyes. And I have to admit, this child was cute.

“You shouldn’t be making those sounds in church,” I told him.

“Raah baah baah waah,” he said.

“That’s no excuse.”

“Aaaggghhh.”

“People are trying to be reverent here.”

“Waaah daah haah baah faaah.”

“You’re not even sorry, are you?”

He drooled on himself.

When his mother finished receiving the Eucharist, she came back to us and lifted her son into her arms. I wished her a happy Easter. She returned the favor. Then I wished the kid a happy Easter and his little face erupted in a smile.

“Haaappah eeeee-saaaah!” he shouted.

My heart officially melted. I pinched his nose, and the kid responded by making that familiar loud sound again.

Only this time his lips didn’t move.

I hope you had a happy Easter. I know he did.

March 31, 2024
Emotionally Charged Conversations
By Stephenie Craig

Are you ever moving through life and find yourself feeling very angry or hurt by someone? Maybe you are experiencing anger or hurt at a level 10 intensity and you are noticing the situation intensity level seems to be much lower than your feeling. You might then realize you’re making up a story in your head about the negative, insensitive intentions of the other person. As a result, you may find yourself withdrawing, putting up walls, or being confrontational in ways that compromise connection.

Emotionally charged conversations are complex to navigate and often result in people not showing up as their best version of self. Intense feelings can fuel reactivity, shutting down, harsh words, judgment, unkindness, shame, and condescending tone. While you know it feels bad to experience someone’s emotional reaction, you may still find yourself reacting at times. Intense emotions are inevitable but, with practice, you can create a healthy pattern of working through your own and others’ reactions.

10 Ways to Approach Emotionally Charged Conversations
1. Notice when you are triggered. Pay attention to your feelings and your body. Notice changes in body temperature, stomach, chest, feeling shaky, clenching fists, grinding teeth, tears, and changes in heart rate. Name feelings if you are able. “I feel embarrassed, ashamed, humiliated, angry, hurt, sad, unsafe.”
2. Calm your nervous system. Take 10-20 deep breaths, step away from the situation, journal, take a walk, nurture your pet. Engage in healthy calming skills to help your body move out of fight, flight or freeze so you can think more clearly.
3. Notice the negative intention story you are making up in your head. She didn’t text me back because I’m not important. He didn’t make eye contact so he must not care. My child is selfish, disrespectful and trying to irritate me. Challenge the story in your head. Is it possible their behavior has another meaning than intent to hurt you?
4. Sort past and present feelings. Intense feelings are often a sign that the present situation has triggered past wounds. Reflect on whether you are bringing memories from past interactions into the current situation. Acknowledge and allow past feelings to exist in a space separate from the current situation/relationship.
5. Remember the humanity of and your history with the person. Try remembering you do not have negative intentions toward others when you emotionally react. You also do not intentionally emotionally react. Perhaps the other person had a difficult emotional moment and did not have negative intentions toward you. Remember the ongoing character of your relationship with this person. Are their intentions and behavior toward you typically positive?
6. Approach with compassionate curiosity instead of shame. Instead of, “You don’t get to talk to me that way and you are being so rude and out of line,” try, “You seem really overwhelmed. What’s happening for you right now?” People often feel bad inside about reacting poorly. What helps them move forward is compassionate understanding rather than judgmental correction. When people feel understood with compassion, they will often apologize and move toward change.
7. Validate and support. Communicate understanding of the other’s emotional state. Ask what support might be helpful on your end.
8. Own your part. Humbly seek to understand whether you contributed an unhelpful part in the relationship dynamic. Take responsibility by naming and apologizing for your part.
9. Address boundaries with vulnerability. Communicate kindly and directly how you were hurt and what would work better for you in the future. “When you snapped at me, that hurt my feelings and felt like you were blaming me. Now that we’ve talked, I understand that you were snapping because you were overwhelmed and it was not about me. I get overwhelmed too. When you are getting overwhelmed, it would help me if you would let me know what you need rather than snapping at me. I will be able to support you better and that will help us stay connected.”
10. Listen and repeat. Listen with an open mind to the other person’s experience and repeat this process regularly when you feel triggered in relationships.
Emotionally charged conversations are difficult and can also be some of our most connecting and trust-building moments when navigated with intention. Try practicing these tools and connect with us along your journey for counseling and coaching at Journeybravely.com.
March 31, 2024
There’s A New Chef In Town!

Juan Bochenski is the new executive chef at Hotel Effie. Bochenski helms the kitchen at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Ovide, and oversees all aspects of food and beverage operations across the hotel’s four restaurant outlets and in-room dining. An elegant, culinary adventure, Ovide brings together classic Gulf Coast flavors and southern culinary traditions fueled by a passion for sustainability and seasonality that gives each bite incredible flavor. To do that, Bochenski works closely with local farmers and vendors to serve farm-fresh and sustainable ingredients whenever possible.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Bochenski has worked at luxury resorts across the globe, including Arcis Golf in Dallas; Baker’s Bay Golf & Ocean Club on Great Guana Cay, Abaco, Bahamas; Resorts & Residences by Cuisinart on Anguilla; Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet resorts on St. Lucia; and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ Inn of the Anasazi in Santa Fe, New Mexico; among others.

Ovide’s new dinner menu is available Friday through Saturday, from 5 – 10 p.m., and Sunday through Thursday, from 5- 9 p.m. including choices from the raw oyster bar and delicious desserts.

March 31, 2024
Meet Local Pros Trevor and Tina Kasten of Beachside Sliding Glass Door Maintenance

By Michelle Ruschman

If you are struggling with a sliding glass door, then you need Beachside Sliding Glass Door Maintenance, LLC. Starting in October 2023, it’s owned and operated by long-time Destin residents and high school sweethearts, Trevor and Tina Kasten. “We have learned to work very well together in handling all business responsibilities and balance each other out. Our daughter, Samantha, even helps with the creative and social media aspects of the business and we have a great crew that helps us with the larger projects.”

Having been in the automotive restoration business for more than 30 years, Trevor has become an expert in metal repair. Wanting to retire from the fumes and chemicals, however, opened new opportunities. “I decided after all these years, it was the perfect time to make a change. My childhood friend owns and operates a very successful business similar to ours in central Florida. We immediately saw the need for this service in our area. I went down and trained with him, learned the business and the rest is history.”

So, what is it about our area that makes this business so valuable? “Most people don’t realize that sliding glass doors require routine maintenance, especially in our coastal area. Sand, salt water, salty air and chlorine cause excessive corrosion to the wheel system underneath the door. The doors have to be lifted off and the bottom panels removed to see this damage.

Sliding doors are very heavy doors. They sit on a roller system that consists of a set of wheels that sit on a track. This system is designed to balance the weight of the doors and make them glide smoothly and easily. When this system starts to fail, the doors start to feel heavy.

Over time the wheels and bearings go bad and need to be changed. Once this occurs, almost everyone assumes they need new doors. The doors just keep getting heavier and harder to open with time. This progression eventually breaks handles and damages the track the rollers sit on. There are different levels of track damage, but the longer you let it go the more extensive and expensive the repairs can get.

We get stuck, noisy, difficult-to-open sliding glass doors rolling open like new again. This includes roller replacement, track repair, door handles, security locks, alignment, and lubrication of the door.”

During a time when everything has gone up in price, including brand-new sliding glass doors, repairs are a much more cost-effective alternative.

Trevor and Tina have lived in the same neighborhood in Destin for over 25 years and have seen a lot of changes. They know and love our coastal beach towns and feel privileged to serve a community that gives so much. “Our neighbors look out for each other, and we love to be a part of that through our business as well. We’ve partnered with some fantastic property managers who immediately saw the value and skill in the work we provide.”

Since opening, what has been the best part of starting their business? “We love the surprise homeowners experience once they see the functionality of their doors. You will be amazed by the peace you feel just by being able to stop fighting with your door daily.”

Beachside Sliding Glass Door Maintenance currently offers services from Panama City to Pensacola. You can schedule a free estimate at www.beachsideslide.com or call 850-987-5433.

March 26, 2024