Author: FWB Life Staff

  • The Urgent Need for Cybersecurity in Small to Medium Businesses

    The Urgent Need for Cybersecurity in Small to Medium Businesses

    Protecting Your Assets in an Evolving Threat Landscape

    In today’s digital age, the significance of cybersecurity cannot be emphasized enough. The alarming surge in cyber insurance costs, coupled with the prevalence of ransomware attacks targeting small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), underscores the critical need for prioritizing cybersecurity measures.

    Consider the latest insights from The 13th edition of the NetDiligence® Cyber Claims Study, which revealed that the cost of cyber insurance in the U.S. spiked by a staggering 79% in the second quarter of 2022 alone. Shockingly, ransomware attacks accounted for a whopping 88% of cyber insurance claims among SMBs during the period of 2022-2033. Moreover, the average financial toll of a cyber incident borne by an insurance carrier stood at a staggering $865,000 for SMBs, highlighting the substantial financial risks at stake.

    Despite these alarming statistics, only a mere 14% of SMBs are adequately prepared to confront such cyber threats. While larger corporations typically allocate significant resources to cybersecurity, SMBs often lag behind in implementing robust cybersecurity measures. Many SMBs have yet to develop comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to safeguard their operations, particularly in regions with stringent data privacy laws and regulations governing the collection and storage of personal identifiable information (PII).

    Big financial data theft concept. An anonymous hacker is hacking highly-protected financial data through computers.Several factors contribute to SMBs neglecting cybersecurity:

    Lack of Awareness: Many SMB owners and managers underestimate the importance of cybersecurity or the potential risks they face, erroneously assuming that cybercriminals target only larger enterprises. However, studies reveal that 63% of SMBs have experienced cyberattacks in the past two years, with data breaches costing an average of $3.31 million per incident.

    Overreliance on Managed Service Providers (MSPs): While MSPs play a crucial role in supporting software and applications, they often lack the expertise required to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity response and insurance coverage. Additionally, they may overlook the diverse legal and regulatory frameworks governing cybersecurity across different states and industries.

    Dependence on Third-Party Applications: SMBs frequently rely on third-party cloud applications, assuming that these vendors bear sole responsibility for cybersecurity. However, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, necessitating proactive measures from both the business and its vendors.

    Cost Concerns: SMBs often view investing in cybersecurity solutions as financially burdensome. However, the costs associated with recovering from a cyberattack far outweigh the initial investment in preventive measures.
    Perceived Complexity: The intricacies of cybersecurity can appear daunting to SMBs, who may lack the necessary expertise to implement comprehensive cybersecurity solutions effectively.

    Misconceptions about Cyber Insurance Coverage: SMBs may erroneously believe that their cyber insurance policy provides blanket coverage, failing to grasp the nuances of regulatory compliance and the importance of tailored policies and procedures.

    Addressing these challenges requires proactive measures:

    Education and Awareness: SMBs must prioritize cybersecurity education and awareness programs to understand the evolving threat landscape and their vulnerabilities.
    Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with a company that has expertise in cybersecurity solutions and insurers can help SMBs develop tailored solutions that align with their budget and requirements.

    Compliance and Risk Management: SMBs must stay abreast of regulatory requirements and implement robust policies and procedures to mitigate risks effectively.

    Integration of Cybersecurity and Insurance: Integrating cybersecurity solutions with insurance expertise can provide SMBs with comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.

    In conclusion, the imperative for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to prioritize cybersecurity measures has never been clearer. With cyber insurance costs surging and ransomware attacks on the rise, SMBs face significant financial risks and operational disruptions. Despite the alarming statistics revealing the prevalence of cyber threats, many SMBs remain ill-prepared due to factors such as lack of awareness, reliance on third-party providers, cost concerns, and misconceptions about insurance coverage.

    However, by taking proactive steps to educate themselves, forge strategic partnerships, adhere to compliance requirements and integrate cybersecurity with insurance solutions, SMBs can effectively mitigate risks and safeguard their assets in an ever-evolving threat landscape. It is imperative for SMBs to recognize the importance of cybersecurity as a fundamental aspect of their business operations and take decisive action to protect themselves against cyber threats.

    At Abora Insurance Group, we specialize in bridging the gap between cybersecurity solutions and insurance policies, offering affordable comprehensive solutions tailored to SMBs’ needs. By fostering transparent communication and leveraging our network of insurers and cybersecurity solution providers, we empower SMBs to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and secure their digital assets effectively. Protect your business today to safeguard against the growing threats of tomorrow.

  • Emerald Coast Theatre Company Hosts Inaugural Event “La Vie En Rouge”

    Emerald Coast Theatre Company Hosts Inaugural Event “La Vie En Rouge”

    Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) hosts its inaugural signature event, titled “La Vie En Rouge,” Thursday, March 28 from 6-9 p.m.

    The non-profit theater company, located at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin®, is transformed into a 19th-century Parisian cabaret, courtesy of décor sponsor, Clay 30A and features exhilarating live performances, dazzling costumes and a vibrant atmosphere inspired by the hit musical, Moulin Rouge!

    Emerald Coast Theatre Company Hosts “La Vie En Rouge”Guests are greeted upon arrival with a glass of champagne, courtesy of Vin’tij Food and Wine, before entering the elegant event space for cocktail hour, featuring cuisine by Tommy Bahama’s and The Ruby Slipper Café. Guests are whisked into the Cabaret Lounge where they sip on additional craft cocktails made with Distillery 98 and Campesino Rum, cold brews by Grayton Beer Company and Odd Pelican Beer Company, seltzer from 30A, and wine by Thompson 31Fifty, each poured into a commemorative glass, courtesy of Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals and Real Estate. Patrons can also indulge in gourmet bites prepared by local chefs of Aja 30A, Back Beach Barbecue, Cabana Café, Harry T’s, Marrow Private Chefs, and Swiftly Catered.

    From entry to exit, guests will be delighted with surprise pop-up performances from ECTC’s talented actors and staff, presented by Grand Boulevard at Sandestin® and Cabana by The Seaside Style. There is an extensive silent auction, live music, dancing and a special finale dessert performance prepared by Fleetwood Covington of Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood. Guests end the evening with Amavida Coffee paired with a special sweet treat from Butter Babe, courtesy of TPK Staffing Consultants.

    All funds raised through ticket sales, donations and silent auction purchases go directly to ECTC and its continued mission to enrich and entertain the Emerald Coast community through professional and educational theatre. Founded by Nathanael and Anna Fisher in 2012, ECTC was created as a place to inspire, educate, and empower the community and artists of all ages. Its goal is to achieve the highest level of cultural excellence through collaboration, productions, and educational programs that promote lifelong learning and provide excellent, professional theatre in the Emerald Coast Community.

    Emerald Coast Theatre Company would like to thank the local businesses and individuals for sponsoring the anniversary event including DestinFlorida.com, Emerald Coast Magazine, Life Media Family of Local Newspapers, Own at the Beach, Poate/ Bonjeau Financial Group of Wells Fargo, Rose and Co., Scarlett Magazine, SoWal.com, VIP 30A Magazine and VIP Destin Magazine.

    Tickets are $150 per person at https://www.emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

  • A Pastor’s Ponderings: The Power of Decision Courage, Conviction and Consequences

    A Pastor’s Ponderings: The Power of Decision Courage, Conviction and Consequences

    Doug Stauffer Head Shot 2023By Pastor Doug Stauffer

    Life’s journey is guided by the decisions we make, shaping our path and defining our future. The Bible offers invaluable advice on making wise choices. James 1:5-8 stresses the importance of seeking God’s wisdom before making a decision. The book of James also says that God promises to give wisdom generously to those who ask. In the same context, James 4:2 says, “Ye have not, because ye ask not.” We have all the tools at our immediate disposal.

    The book of James also warns against the peril of wavering indecision, likening it to a ship tossed upon the stormy seas. Double-minded people are unstable in all their ways, highlighting the importance of making decisions with faith and conviction. We need to learn to be decisive and avoid being wishy-washy.

    Every decision we make has consequences. The story of Christ’s crucifixion illustrates the weight of choices. Pilate, swayed by the clamoring crowd, opted to release Barabbas, a guilty man, instead of Jesus, the innocent Son of God. This decision, driven by fear of others, led to the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus Christ. Herod’s choice had profound consequences. Our decisions impact us and those around us. We must heed the warnings of scripture and choose wisely, mindful of the unexpected consequences.

    Anne Frank’s decision to document her experiences while hiding from the Nazis during the Holocaust has provided a powerful testament to the human spirit and resilience in the face of adversity. Her diary has become one of the most widely read books in the world, inspiring generations to stand against injustices. Because of her wise decision, Anne Frank continues to speak through the written page.

    Proverbs provides crucial insights into decision-making, stressing the significance of knowledge, wisdom, and correction. Knowledge lights our path, wisdom guides our steps, and correction fosters our growth. These elements serve as pillars supporting us through both successes and setbacks from every decision we make.

    Despite facing opposition from his family, Moses remained steadfast in his commitment to God. Similarly, we may encounter difficult choices that test our allegiance to the Almighty. Like Moses, we must trust in God’s guidance, even when doing so requires us to stand alone.

    Ruth’s journey, marked by unwavering trust and obedience, bears witness to the boundless blessings awaiting those who walk in righteousness. Ruth followed Naomi and embraced her God. Her faithfulness was rewarded with blessings beyond measure as she became part of the lineage of Christ. We must emulate Ruth’s unwavering faith, trusting that God will always lead us on the path of righteousness.

    The political landscape, too, offers glimpses of decisive leadership that leave indelible marks upon society. Margaret Thatcher, the “Iron Lady,” reshaped the fabric of Britain with her unwavering commitment to conservative principles, leaving a legacy in the annals of history. Her conservative policies, including privatization, deregulation and free-market reforms, reshaped the British economy and society during her tenure from 1979 to 1990.

    As we journey through life, let’s seek God’s wisdom and trust in His guidance. Let our decisions be anchored in faith, knowing God will grant us the necessary wisdom if we only ask. May we draw lessons from scripture and the lives of faithful individuals, making wise choices and walking in the light of God’s truth. I pray we will all consider Him as we make our decisions.

    Dr. Doug Stauffer is pastor of Faith Independent Baptist Church. He was saved July 6, 1980, in Niceville, while stationed at the 33rd Tactical Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base and has now been in the ministry for over 35 years.

  • J&B Medical Offers Accuracy and Ease

    J&B Medical Offers Accuracy and Ease

    By Kelly Stalnaker

    Are you a Type 1 or Type 2 diabetic patient that is tired of constant finger sticks? Then it might be time to consider a continuous glucose monitor. A continuous glucose monitor (or CGM, for short) is a device that automatically tracks your blood sugar level 24/7, with fewer finger sticks. Instead of lancets, a tiny sensor is inserted under the skin with a sticky patch to help keep it in place. There might be some discomfort during insertion, but once in place, the testing is completely painless. And the monitor delivers readings instantly.

    J&B Medical Offers Accuracy and EaseWith this wearable sensor, you’ll have quick and convenient access to real time blood sugar data to help you make better food, activity and medication decisions in the moment. You can also review how your blood sugar level changes over a few hours or days, or after certain meals, to spot trends. And many sensors now offer the ability to sound an alarm when levels are dangerously high or low. Constant and accurate monitoring can help you keep your blood sugar level in target range to reduce the chances of developing other health problems caused by diabetes. CGM’s are so easy to use that they’re perfect for patients of all ages. A quick glance at your smartphone or CGM receiver will provide accurate blood sugar readings day or night. Also, the sensor is waterproof and will hold up to swimming, sweating and all of your active lifestyle demands.

    J&B Medical is proud to announce that we now provide CGM’s to qualifying Medicare and Tricare patients! There are many benefits to having a local supplier; you have direct access to a customer care representative in person or over the phone five days a week. But, more importantly, we are a family owned business in your neighborhood that cares about the community and all of our neighbors! Call us at 850-729-2559 or stop by 540 E. John Sims Pkwy. in Niceville to find out how to get started!

  • 2024 Emerald Ball April 6!

    2024 Emerald Ball April 6!

    Emerald Ball 2022 20220430 106Tickets are now on sale for the Sacred Heart Foundation’s 2024 Emerald Ball benefiting Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, April 6 at 6 p.m. at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Resort Golf and Spa. Presented by Howard Group, Grand Boulevard and Silver Sands Premium Outlets, proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Sacred Heart Emerald Coast. With more than 1,200 babies born prematurely in Walton and Okaloosa counties in the past three years, Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast is adding five new neonatal specialists to provide 24/7 coverage for sick and well newborns. Guests will enjoy live musical entertainment and are encouraged to wear emerald shades. Tickets are $150 which includes reserved seating, a curated dinner and two drink tickets. For more information, tickets or sponsorship, contact Lisa Wainwright at lisa.wainwright@ascension.org or call (850) 278-3702. Visit sacredheartemeraldball.com.

     

  • Golf Series: What Golfers Deserve Close to Home In Crestview

    Golf Series: What Golfers Deserve Close to Home In Crestview

    Blackwater Golf ClubBy Barbara Palmgren

    Okaloosa County is a diverse place, indeed. I have taught a class for several years for seniors at the Center for Life Long Learning called “The Museum Trail.” We explore each of the nine museums beginning with the Destin Fishing Museum and ending with one farthest north, the Baker Block Museum. I’m amazed that folks living near the coast have never stopped to visit shops and venues in the Crestview and Baker area. When they do, they learn, for the first time, that cotton is grown and agricultural products are part of a sustainable industry for this area.

    As I began writing my golf series for our local paper, I followed the same format. I started with the golf courses along the Emerald Coast and now move to a special place at the north end of the county, Blackwater Golf Club.

    A short history lesson first. In 1915 the Florida House of Representatives approved the creation of a new county from the existing counties of Santa Rosa and Walton. The county was named after a steamboat called “The Okaloosa,” a Choctaw word meaning black water. The diverse ecosystem of darker river waters in the north end of the county contrast with the emerald green waters and sugar white sands of Destin and Fort Walton Beach. It reminds me of the song, “Black Water” by the Dobbie Brothers. I’ll change a few of the lyrics:

    Well, if it rains, I don’t care
    Don’t make no difference to me.
    Just take my old 9 iron out
    Par the hole and get on down.
    Gonna make everything all right
    Gonna make everything all right
    Old black water, keep on rollin’
    Crestview moon, won’t you keep on shinin’ on me?
    Keep on shinin’ on me.

    I interviewed an old friend, Mykal Bailey, a former assistant pro at Shalimar Pointe Golf Course. Now, assistant general manager and head golf professional at Blackwater Golf Club, Mykal graciously shared information about the course that’s been renovated to become the family friendly destination in the Crestview area. Mykal has local roots, playing baseball at Choctawhatchee High School and then at LBW college in Andalusia. Always a fan of golf, a physical injury ended hope of pursuing baseball after college, but led him to another sport and work in the golf industry.

    Always impressed with Mykal at Shalimar Pointe, I can attest that Blackwater Golf Club, formerly Foxwood Country Club, is in good hands. Again, back to a little history. Foxwood Country Club in Crestview was built in 1961 with a golf course, pool and tennis courts. Whatever economic circumstances led to it being closed in 2017, the City of Crestview purchased the property in 2019 and began renovating with plans to reopen in 2021.

    Working with Kansas-based Mammoth Sports Construction, repairs included replacing irrigation lines, improving drainage and reshaping and re-sodding the course’s greens. Having visited and played the course when it was Foxwood, I was delighted to view the changes that were made, not only to the course, but also to the clubhouse area as well.
    Now partnering with Great Life Golf, a management company, Blackwater Golf Club is a new and exciting venue. If you are not a golfer, there are other opportunities for enjoying sports. A tennis and pickleball court are located next to a large outdoor eating space with welcoming fireplace and a full bar. Inside, the Eagle’s Nest restaurant advertises itself as a “gastro pub like no other.” This warm embrace of the local community is felt by members as well as the public who visit, especially at Sunday Brunch. How do you choose between a classic breakfast and shrimp & grits? Or do I just enjoy delicious eggs benedict?

    Focusing on the golf course itself, Blackwater is a Par 72, 18-hole course, with tee box markers denoting the most challenging distances as well as user friendly markers for high handicap players. Ideal for every skill level, public play is welcome along as reasonable membership fees for those who support the game of golf. Mykal’s favorite hole is number 3. A Par 5, with a creek that surrounds it. The club is doing well again, in part due to its unique offering—the “sports bragging rights” of the virtual golf experience, the Blackwater Driving Range.

    The Blackwater Driving Range combines golf with a video-game experience that’s fun for all ages. With 14 individual hitting bay stalls with Top Tracer technology, get ready to experience golf in an exciting way. Imagine teeing up, hitting your drive and tracking the golf shot as it travels down the third fairway at Pebble Beach. Yes, your shot is correlated with a famous course you are playing, like Pebble Beach. It’s fantasy golf, of course, but who doesn’t like a little fantasy in their life?

    A virtual golf experience like no other for every member of the family, sounds like a great family outing, doesn’t it? And after achieving par on Pebble Beach, one can always be awarded with a signature libation at the clubhouse.

    Life is good at the north end of the county.

  • Baldwin Turf Expands Services and Opens The Shop at Baldwin Turf

    Baldwin Turf Expands Services and Opens The Shop at Baldwin Turf

    By Michelle Ruschman

    Baldwin Turf GroupAfter eight years of working in the Manhattan fashion industry, Jenny Herndon, one of the co-owners of Baldwin Turf’s Lawn and Landscaping, is excited to be back home where she can enjoy the sunshine and beaches year-round again. “My brother and sister, Matthew, and Leigh Anna, have managed the landscaping side of our business for several years. With the opening of our retail store in November, it was the perfect time for me to join the family and use my merchandising background to help open the new store.”

    Baldwin Turf was originally acquired by their father, Tim Herndon, and his partners in 2002 to service Niceville, Ft. Walton Beach and Destin. When the company first opened, the primary business was selling sod and offering minimal landscaping services. Now, 22 years later, Tim and Wynn’s three kids manage Baldwin Turf. They purchased Grass Roots Lawn & Landscape in 2020 and as a result, they’ve been able to expand their service area into Walton County. Their goal is to be a one-stop destination for all of our area’s outdoor needs. “When Baldwin Turf started, we were mainly providing materials to other landscaping companies. Now that we’ve grown, our focus is on full-service lawn care. We continue to offer sod, but now we also provide lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation installation and repairs, landscaping installations, lawn and shrub care, and turf and landscape materials. Specialty fertilizers can also be purchased.”

    Baldwin Turf’s client base is predominantly residential, but they do have a team that can handle commercial projects as well. “Leigh Anna manages the crew, the timing of all our jobs, and takes care of schedules. Matthew meets potential customers, assesses the work needed, and oversees the projects. We have a full-time head landscaper, truck driver, and customer specialist who helps with sales and operations. In the spring and summer, we also participate in the H-2B program which provides a great crew that does incredible work.”

    Baldwin Turf Shop TablesThe newest addition to their business, The Shop at Baldwin Turf, offers botanical gifts, unique gardening supplies, ambient lighting and outdoor entertainment. The inventory of furniture has also been thoughtfully selected so that it’s durable and long-lasting, even with the bright sun and salty air, which can make outdoor furniture hard to maintain. The Herndon family grew up loving the outdoors and truly wants our community to enjoy it as much as they do. “We live in such an amazing place and want to help bring that to homes and businesses throughout our community. We want to help elevate your outdoor space and provide those final touches.”

    As Jenny settles into her new role as the manager of Baldwin Turf’s retail division, she reflects on what makes this area so special to her and her family. “What I love most about coming back to Niceville is our sense of community. Being able to provide great customer service is my favorite part of the job. I’m getting to meet people and talk about their new homes and projects, and we get to be part of that. The Shop has only been open a few months and I can already see how special it is that people want to support local businesses and local businesses want to be there for people in this area. I’ve become involved with the Chamber of Commerce as well as The Young Professionals group. We enjoy sponsoring local youth activities and helping with charitable donations. Our community encourages all of us to step up.”

    Baldwin Turf’s Lawn and Landscaping office is located at 1440 Live Oak Street. Call 850-897-9060 to schedule a free estimate or ask about their services. The Shop at Baldwin Turf is located at 739 John Sims Parkway.

  • What to Check Before the End of Open Enrollment for Medicare

    What to Check Before the End of Open Enrollment for Medicare

    Greg DuretteBy Greg Durette, Florida Health Connector

    The end is near! Hopefully, not in the mortal sense, but rather the end of the Open Enrollment Period for predominantly Medicare Advantage plan members in 2024. We will leave the mortality prognostications to the crazy guy wearing a sandwich board roaming various city streets around the country.

    Keep in mind, if you are “aging-in” this year, you have a whole different set of deadlines and circumstances. (See last month’s article.)

    This article will cover what you should be checking up on before the March 31st deadline rolls around and locks you in until the next Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7).

    So, what should you do to make sure this year’s coverage selection treats you well and is something you will be happy with until next year?

    First, you will have hopefully had some time to try out your new coverage. Whether that is a visit to the doctor of your choice or a trip to the pharmacy, you likely have had a chance to use your current coverage. If you are one of those folks that needs neither, bully for you! However, you should still take this time to conduct further research into whether the doctors, hospitals and pharmacies you favor are included in your network at a reasonable cost.

    If you find some changes would be required of your intended selections, you have until March 31st to do something about that.

    Note: If you have already made a change during this Open Enrollment Period, you have used your last bite at the apple for the year. Changes made during this Period are final and cannot be changed unless there is a government declared Special Enrollment Period. (This would take another whole article to get your head around!) If you have yet to use this last chance opportunity, then you still have that one chance available.

    Second, have you reviewed the functionality of your plan? What I mean is, are you able to easily use your new insurance card and have the providers accept it without a hassle? Do you find it difficult to know why your neighbor with a PPO has a much easier time finding an in-network doctor or facility (especially when travelling) than you have with an HMO? Has your doctor or medical group suddenly stopped accepting your coverage with little to no explanation?

    If so, it is time for you to get busy with the business of taking care of you. If you have read my articles for any length of time, you know I am no fan of the grand promises made by the sports figures and celebrities on television about “potentially available” benefits. They love to use the kicker statement, “You MAY be eligible to receive these benefits.” Talk about slick!

    The fact of the matter is, the proof is in the pudding. Nobody but you can get you what you need. Do the work. Do the research. Call local, knowledgeable people and get the details that matter to you and ignore those with opinions that might be in their best interests and not your own.

    Once you make that final call for the Open Enrollment Period, you can sit back and relax in the comfort of knowing you did the very best for you. Happy 2024!

    Greg Durette is an agent with Florida Health Connector based in Niceville providing Medicare throughout the state. He has been licensed in the insurance industry for more than 40 years and can be reached at his office at 850-842-2400, mobile at 978-509-2941 or dedicated and recorded Medicare Line at 850-462-7807.

  • The Magic Ingredients of The Boys & Girls Club

    The Magic Ingredients of The Boys & Girls Club

    By Lisa Woodrum

    The atmosphere was electric as I entered the gymnasium: confetti falling from above, balloons floating around, popping, the smell of pizza, rousing music resounding above the din of laughter and chatter of young and old! Youth were running about, others playing foosball, hoops and presenters at their stations ready to enthusiastically share their Club theme and expertise on their subjects.

    It certainly was a great reason for this celebratory atmosphere at the Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast (BGCEC). The ribbon was just cut at the front door of the Jacobe Turner Teen Center (hosted by the Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce). This act initiated a new season of serving the community’s youth with their Grand Re-opening—a new beginning with a name that honors a youth from the recent past. Jacobe Turner’s life modeled and exemplified the values espoused at BGCEC. He was a longtime member who was their 2019 Organizational Youth of the Year. He tragically lost his life in a car accident in 2020. His life and legacy are appropriately commemorated through this organization.
    While I spoke with the youth, they each referred to the center’s prior rundown condition, but then gleamed as they expressed pride in the facility’s upgrade and new face.

    The mission of the BGCEC is: “To enable all young people, especially those that need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.” It is evident that the staff and volunteers of this organization have successfully taught this as I spoke to the youth.

    Shervin Rassa, the Chief Executive Officer shared, “I am a firm believer that our magic ingredient in our Boys and Girls Club mission is the amazing, informal mentorship young people get from dynamic and caring adults.”

    Here are samples of a few Clubs they offer:

    Passport to Manhood Club: Jonathan Hamilton and Dwayne Dixon shared they learn maturity, responsibility, respect for elders and all individuals. Smart Girls: Taylor Davis and Danica Fears spoke of learning self-esteem, healthy relationships and nutrition. They said they now felt more confident about their futures.

    Robotics: Sebastian McDonald and Layna McBride explained the cooperation of two groups to successfully have fully functional robots, of which they take to competitions! Good Luck!

    Career Fields: Layna McBride recounted her experience with Old Navy guest instructors teaching interviewing skills, cashiering, etc. They also learn of (in part) budgeting, public speaking, etiquette and networking.

    Some outstanding qualities I noted in the youth as I spoke with them were articulate, knowledgeable, leaders, mature, authentic, enthusiastic, confident and exemplary, to name a few descriptive words. I am confident each has a bright future!

    The BGCEC is positioning itself in this new chapter to once again serve many more teenagers. They can’t do it alone. BGCEC welcomes new volunteers, mentors and potential staff candidates to apply online. If it is in your heart to partner with them, visit the website at https://emeraldcoastbgc.org/ to inquire as well as learn the history and details of the organization.

    The new face lift could not have happened without Florida Power & Light and the ALL Sports Association, Inc. Thank you for your generosity!

    As one would expect, to continue with their mission, funds continue to be needed and welcome. There are upcoming fundraisers you can enjoy attending while contributing to a very worthy cause, such as the Bowling Tournament, Saturday, April 13. Tickets are $160 per four-person team; FWB Bowling Center, 745 Beal Parkway. View all the events and purchase tickets at https://www.facebook.com/BGCEC/.

  • More Than Medals: Beyond the Finish Line with the Special Olympics

    More Than Medals: Beyond the Finish Line with the Special Olympics

    By Heather Bennett Eye

    As our regional athletes of Special Olympics Florida gear up for the Summer Games, I want to share with you how the organization is more than just a place for those with intellectual disabilities to train and compete in Olympic-style sports. It’s also an organization that fosters leadership growth and provides access to free health care. I’ll also share ways you can get involved.

    More Than Medals: Beyond the Finish Line with the Special OlympicsOur Northwest Region consists of Area 1 (Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, Washington, and Jackson counties) and Area 2 (Gadsden, Leon, Wakulla, Taylor and Hamilton counties). They’ll each have their own Area competitions (Area 2 on March 2nd and Area 1 on March 16) before competing against each other at the Northwest Region Summer Games on April 6 in Defuniak Springs. Prior to that, two athletes from our region, Sara Dunbar and Ashley Harrell, are preparing for a very special trip to Washington, D.C. On February 5-7, athletes, program leaders, unified partners and family members will gather on Capitol Hill to address members of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

    This is an annual, national event known as Capitol Hill Day. Athletes will advocate the importance of continued funding for the program, and ending health care disparities and discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities.

    Athlete Stacy Barns of Pensacola attended Capitol Hill Day in 2015 and 2016 and recently assisted in prepping the national athletes who will make their way to Washington, D.C. this month. Along with the Chief Health Officer of the Special Olympics, she co-presented via Zoom the health initiatives in Florida and across the globe. “It’s something that’s really inspiring, not just about Stacey, but many athletes, where they gain these leadership roles and they assume these positions within Special Olympics and their communities and they use it to leverage their voice to become advocates,” stated Damien McNeil, Regional Director of the Northwest. “That’s one of my favorite things to witness.”

    Advocacy is important for various reasons. Not only does the Special Olympics provide opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to demonstrate their skills and talents through sports and leadership, but it’s also internationally the number one provider for free health screenings for people with intellectual disabilities. “People are going without things that they need. They need those resources,” said Damien. This also rings true for those who live along the Emerald Coast. The disparity that affects those with intellectual disabilities happens right there as well.

    The Special Olympics provides free optometry, audiology, dental, podiatry and mental health screenings, along with referrals for those who need medical care. They also provide free hearing aides. “It gives life to the mission at work,” stated Damien. The free screenings take place at events like the Summer Games, in which Doctors volunteer their time and resources for these screenings. Screenings are available to athletes and non-athletes with intellectual disabilities. At this year’s Northwest Region Summer Games, around 600 athletes are expected. With as many athletes, and additional non-athletes, that will be in attendance, healthcare workers are encouraged to reach out if they are interested in volunteering to assist with screenings.

    How can you help the Special Olympics? Day-of or long-term volunteers are always needed. You can also sign up to coach or play. Those without intellectual disabilities who have a passion for sports can participate as a Unified Partner. This offers the opportunity to contribute and foster connections between communities. “We want to make sure we are advocates for people with disabilities in any way that might look like,” said Damien. Volunteering is a great opportunity to demonstrate that.

    If you are a physician or health organization looking to volunteer for health screenings, you can contact Blair Mackie, Health Manager for Areas 1 and 2 at blairmackie@sofl.org or (850) 778-7573. For anything else, please reach out to Damien McNeil at damienmcneil@sofl.org or (407) 402-8604. To learn more about volunteering opportunities, please visit www.specialolympicsflorida.org/northwest and click on Get Involved. If you are interested in attending an event to cheer on our athletes, the summer games are free and open to the public.

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