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Lakeside Songwriters Concerts Feature Renowned Country Songwriters and Performers

Fridays | March 22-May 3 | Old Florida Fish House on 30A

By Lori Leath Smith

Over the past few years, our area has become known as one of the best for songwriters to gather and perform some of their heartfelt lyrics and amazing vocals. Each has a story with a passion to tell it in song to their listeners. How blessed we are to have this most beautiful and unique coastal backdrop, impeccable dining and magnificent musical mecca. As music lovers, we crave it — no experience is better!

That’s why Old Florida Fish House, already known as an acclaimed, exceptional dining and live entertainment venue, is bringing a brand-new concert series to your door—the Lakeside Songwriters Concert Series! Each Friday this spring from March 22 through May 3, this intimate concert series, set against the picturesque backdrop of Eastern Lake and 30A, will showcase creators and performers of some of the best-known music of our time.

“Our new Lakeside Songwriters Concert Series promises to be an extraordinary experience for music enthusiasts, offering them a unique opportunity to engage with acclaimed artists in an intimate setting,” said Old Florida Fish House owner Keith O’Leary. Locals and visitors alike will not only have the chance to enjoy captivating musical performances, but also get to know them by participating in pre-show meet and greets with the artists themselves. “We are thrilled to provide a platform for these incredibly talented artists to share their creations and connect with their fans in a more intimate way,” he said.

Featuring a lineup of top-notch, popular talent, the Lakeside Songwriters Concert Series kicks off with Craig Campbell on March 22nd, followed by Keith Stegall and Bradley Gaskin on March 29th, Michael Morgan on April 5th, Charles Esten on April 12th, Leslie Satcher and Kevin Mac on April 19th and Bryan White on May 3rd.

Each artist brings their own distinct style and expertise, promising an array of musical genres and captivating tunes. As the first in the series, Craig Campbell is a renowned country singer and songwriter from Georgia known for his distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics. Developing a passion for music at an early age and influenced by classic country legends, his career spans over two decades and Craig has established himself as a talented artist with a genuine connection to his audience. His debut self-titled album, “Craig Campbell,” released in 2011, features hit singles like “Family Man” and “Fish,” earning him recognition and praise within the country music community.

Craig’s music is characterized by its authenticity, often drawing inspiration from personal experiences and relatable themes. He has a knack for crafting songs that resonate with listeners, blending traditional country sounds with a modern twist. In addition to his success as a solo artist, Craig has also contributed his songwriting talents by penning hits for other artists. Whether performing on the Grand Ole Opry stage or connecting with audiences during live shows, he continues to leave a lasting impression with his soulful performances and relatable storytelling.

On March 29th, Keith Stegall and Bradley Gaskin take the stage.

Keith is a Grammy award winning producer and writer of multiple #1 hits including “I hate everything” by George Strait, “Don’t Rock The Jukebox” by Alan Jackson, and “I Do (Cherish You)” by 98 Degrees. Keith Stegall is one of Nashville’s most celebrated men behind the scenes. As Alan Jackson’s longtime producer, the pairing has sold over 60 million records. With the Zac Brown band, Stegall produced the group’s first three albums, resulting in the group’s first nine singles to reach #1 on the country charts. Stegall is currently president of Dreamlined Entertainment Group, a Nashville-based production and publishing company specializing in songwriter/artist development.

Singer-songwriter Bradley Gaskin signed with Columbia Nashville in 2010 and released his debut single, “Mr. Bartender,” which he wrote solely by himself. Bradley’s single charted on country radio for 20 weeks that led him to a Top 40 country hit. Soon after his immediate success, Sony shelved the artist along with the rest of the music. The spotlight for Bradley slowly faded, so he decided to take a break and focus on other options for a career. The artist put down his Gibson J45 and went back to a life he’d known before his music stardom, being a normal working man. He filled his days hanging sheetrock and later worked as a full-time janitor at an elementary school. Bradley could have settled into a normal life, but he knew that wasn’t what he was supposed to do. There were plenty of others cheering him on when Jack Cole, a seasoned friend, offered him a deal of a lifetime.

“Why don’t we record the music you want to write?” Jack said. Jack started 30A Life Records sealing the deal with Bradley Gaskin as his very first signed artist. Bradley is currently tracking his first full-length record in over a decade with Grammy Award winning producer Keith Stegall. The first single will be released this summer.

The Lakeside Songwriters Concert Series not only offers an exceptional musical experience, but also provides an opportunity for attendees to indulge in a delectable dining experience. For those looking to enhance their evening, the Dinner and Show VIP Package offers premium seating, a delicious five-course dinner during the show, and a glass of beer, wine or champagne.

Tickets are available for purchase at www.oldflfishhouse.com/lakesidesongwritersconcert. Early booking is recommended to secure the best seats for this highly anticipated event. The artist meet and greet will begin at 6 p.m., with the show starting at 7 p.m.

Located at 33 Heron’s Watch Way in Santa Rosa Beach, Old Florida Fish House is a renowned dining and entertainment destination offering exceptional food, live music and unique experiences in Santa Rosa Beach. With a commitment to providing unforgettable moments for guests, Old Florida Fish House continues to be the go-to destination for food and entertainment enthusiasts on 30A and the Emerald Coast. For more information, visit OldFloridaFishHouse.com.

March 10, 2024
Wait to Prune Cold Injured Landscape Plants

By Larry Williams, UF/IFAS Extension Agent, Okaloosa County

Recent freezes have resulted in many people questioning whether to prune or not to prune cold damaged plants. The short answer is — wait. Winter’s not over. Our winter temperatures go back and forth all season – one week it’s winter, the next week we think spring has sprung and then winter decides to pay us a visit again. This is typical here in Northwest Florida.

It’s difficult to tell how much damage has been done to plants in the winter. Pruning immediately after a freeze will cut away live wood that doesn’t have to be lost. Also, leaves and branches, which have been killed, can help protect the rest of the plant when the next freeze strikes.

Some of the more tender landscape plants such as bananas, cassia, gingers, tropical hibiscus and many of the tropical perennials may have been killed back to the ground. Don’t give up on them too soon. These plants may surprise you by sending up new shoots come spring. Some of these plants require warm soil temperatures before they’ll produce new growth. Many of the gingers, for example, may not show any signs of life until April or May.

Some winter and spring flowering plants such as camellias and azaleas may experience flower bud damage. This will be evident at blooming time with few to no flowers. Cold damaged camellia flower buds will either drop off the plant or only partially open showing brown centers. Stem damage will show up in spring and early summer when some of the branches die. Cold inured leaves will fall as new spring growth occurs.

Individual woody stems on some azalea and bottlebrush plants are likely to split or crack during a freeze. These injured stems/branches are subject to dieback the following spring or summer. It’s best to wait until these branches begin to die before removing them, during spring or summer. When pruning, make sure to cut below the split or injured area into healthy wood.

When spring really has sprung, you’ll know what survived and what didn’t. That’s the time to prune.

February 29, 2024
Meet Our Local Pro Corey Booth

Growing up in Pensacola, Corey Booth didn’t need to look far to learn the meaning of generosity.

“As a child, I watched my father work at the local utility and live his faith by helping others, and I knew I wanted to follow in his footsteps,” said Booth.

The now always-busy father of four works at Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) leading a team of energy efficiency experts who help customers save energy and money.

“If you were to ask my kids about what I do for work, they would say ‘Daddy helps people,’” he said with a smile.

Despite his hectic schedule at work and home, Booth always manages to find the time to give back to the community that raised him. For the last decade, Booth has represented FPL as a volunteer for the United Way of West Florida.

“I’m blessed to work for a company that encourages us to volunteer where we live,” said Booth.

Year-round, he helps plan the organization’s biggest community-wide initiative, “Day of Caring,” taking place in October. From painting murals on elementary school walls to cooking meals for the homeless, countless lives have been touched through volunteer events, financial resources, and essential aid offered by the United Way and partnering companies.

“People can be emotional, thanking us for our work in the community,” said United Way’s Community Impact Coordinator, Julia Helton. “Last year, [Booth] brought together more than 40 FPL volunteers.”

As the chill of winter descends upon Northwest Florida, the need for resources and energy-saving guidance intensifies.

“This time of year, we put the focus on being a light and helping others in need,” said Booth. “We all know the saying ‘It’s better to give than to receive… and I believe that to be true.’”

Whether he’s volunteering through United Way, his church or helping FPL customers save money on their electricity bills, Booth has a genuine heart for serving others no matter the season. From his early days as an energy solutions specialist to now spearheading a team of energy experts as the northwest regional manager, Booth has built trust in his hometown.

As cold weather sets in, Booth offers practical advice on ways to stay warm while keeping your bill low when the thermometer dips in the winter:

1. Adjust thermostat settings
For every degree you lower your thermostat during colder weather, you’ll save about 3-5 percent on your monthly heating costs. Heat your home at 68° or cooler with the thermostat fan switch on “auto.” To save even more, lower your thermostat to 65° or cooler when you’re away from home for more than a few hours.

2. Safely use space heaters rather than heating your entire home
The cost to run a central heating system with only electric heat (not a heat pump) can add up to $1.50 or more per hour to heat your home. Rather than heating the entire house, use an electric blanket or a single space heater. Keep in mind the average space heater costs about 25 cents per hour to heat the space, so turn it off and unplug when not in the room.

3. Get personalized tips from FPL’s Energy Manager
FPL’s Energy Manager automatically breaks down and itemizes the actual cost and use of energy throughout your home, with personalized tips on how to save on your bill.

For more information on ways to save visit https://www.fpl.com/save/lower-my-bill.html.

February 29, 2024
A Pastor’s Ponderings: Manifesting More Mercy in 2024

By Pastor Doug Stauffer

Like so many other churches, we establish a new theme every year. Interestingly, our theme for 2020 was pretty predictable—“20/20 vision” (ugh, right before COVID-19 reared its ugly head). The vision that year seemed blurry at best. Last year, it was from James 4:8: “Draw nigh to God,” because God promises to “draw nigh to you.” Think about that one if you ever sense that God is distant. I incorporated that thought as a sidenote in many of my sermons throughout the year.

As our church embarks on the theme “Manifesting More Mercy in 2024,” we are reminded to live more like Christ, displaying mercy in every aspect of our lives. This journey of manifesting more mercy is about tempering justice with compassion, forgiving those who do us wrong and embodying the tenderness of heart that Christ Himself demonstrated. An impossible feat without God’s help every day!

In Matthew 5:7, Jesus declared, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” This profound statement underscores mercy’s reciprocal nature. It reminds us that showing mercy is not just an act of kindness towards others, but a pathway to receiving mercy. Words and actions tend to reflect our spirit. So, do a self-checkup. Do you nurture a spirit of complaint and judgment or mercy and understanding?

The parable of the Prodigal Son serves as a great example. A young man demands his inheritance, squanders it and returns home in shame. His father sees him and doesn’t greet him with scorn or ‘I told you so’ remarks. Instead, he welcomes his son with open arms, symbolizing God’s unconditional forgiveness and MERCY. In this story, Jesus teaches us about the heart of God—a heart ready to forgive, restore and project mercy.

Consider a similar story—that of the Good Samaritan. In him, we see a man who embodies mercy. He doesn’t walk by the injured man like others; he stops, cares for him and ensures his recovery. Here, mercy is an action—it goes beyond mere feelings or words. It is about doing what is right and kind, even when it is less convenient or costly.

Our pride and self-righteous attitude often prevent us from showing mercy toward others. Jacob reminds us of God’s mercy while recognizing his unworthiness. Jacob told God: “I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto thy servant” (Genesis 32:10a). As we manifest more mercy this year, this humble acknowledgment is essential.

In our daily lives, we need to clothe ourselves with garments of a Christ-like character. They are not just for Sundays or church gatherings; they are for every interaction, conflict and challenge.

Our commitment to mercy must also extend beyond our sphere. Micah 6:8 reveals what God requires of us: “to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.” This direction is not a passive requirement, but an active engagement in showing mercy in our communities and outreach programs. Being merciful often means going against our natural inclinations to judge or retaliate.

Prayer plays a crucial role in cultivating mercy. Hebrews 4:16 encourages us to boldly approach God’s throne of grace, “that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” When we return from God’s throneroom, our hearts will be transformed and realigned. We will truly have a heart of mercy after being in God’s presence.

As we embrace the journey of “Manifesting More Mercy in 2024,” let us recognize this not as a mere annual theme, but as a transformative call to action. Imagine the ripple effect if we commit to living out mercy in our daily interactions. This philosophy is not just about acts of kindness within our church walls; it’s about extending God’s grace into the hearts of our communities, one merciful act at a time.

Mercy, after all, is more than a concept—it’s a way of life that echoes the very nature of Christ. By adopting this Christ-like attribute, we don’t just change ourselves; we can bring about a wave of compassion and understanding in a world that deeply needs it. So, as we step into this year, let’s do so with a resolve to embody mercy to let it shape our actions, words and thoughts. Together, we can turn “Manifesting More Mercy in 2024” from a theme into a tangible, living reality, making a lasting impact in our lives and the lives of those around us.

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.

February 29, 2024
There Are Surprises Behind Oral Health

By Kay Leaman, HealthyDay HealthyLife

Did you know that there is a consensus emerging that maintaining good oral health can be an underappreciated practice for a longer, healthier life?

Even though having healthy gum tissue and removing the plaque buildup on a daily basis is important, it’s the microbiome that needs our attention. Our oral cavity is home to viruses, fungi and 700+ bacteria species. If we let our oral hygiene slip, this bacteria can travel throughout the body causing or exacerbating problems, from cardiovascular disease and cancer to Alzheimer’s and arthritis. On the flip side, keeping this environment in check staves off decline.

Recent studies, DNA sequencing along with more attention being given to a person’s oral health when they are dealing with other diseases has led to several connections:

• People with gum disease are as much as 20% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer compared to those with healthy gums. Another recent study revealed oral bacteria in the brain of those with Alzheimer’s. In very basic terms our oral bacteria could be hitching a lift inside specific immune cells (white blood cells) and traveling to other parts of the body (brain) and released when the white blood cell breaks apart. These processes cause inflammation and can create a snowball effect as the body can’t keep up with the invaders.
• 39 People with IBD (irritable bowel disease) had elective colon surgery and the affected biopsy samples were found to contain much higher levels of oral bacteria compared with nearby healthy colon tissue.
• One study tracked 10,000 healthy volunteers over 15 years and showed that participants with gum disease were more than twice as likely to go on to have a stroke as people without this condition. They have studied plaque that has been scraped from carotid arteries and the bacterial DNA revealed bacteria from gum disease. These bacteria are migrating to the arteries and building a home by forming a protective layer preventing antibiotics and the body’s natural defenses from attacking them. Once they are established, these bacteria cause atherosclerosis by provoking immune cells to release a chemical that turns LDL cholesterol into a special oxidized form that builds up on artery walls.

Flossing and brushing before bed and brushing in the morning should become a ritual. Don’t be in a hurry. Take time to curve the floss around each side of the tooth, bringing the floss below the gum line and back up. Also, remember to brush your gums. It increases circulation and stimulates the tissue. Do not add pressure when brushing; be gentle. Begin using a tongue scrapper after brushing. I am amazed what actually remains on the tongue between all those little fungiform papilla. GUM brushes can be used after every meal or snack which cleans debris between the teeth. You might also consider an oral probiotic (Contact me for details). And since fluoride is added to water and toothpaste as well as the dentist’s office list of therapies (‘for our benefit’), let’s take a quick look.

Fluoride is a byproduct of the element fluorine. There are three types of fluoride produced (Fluorosilicate, Sodium Fluoride and Hexafluorisilicic Fluoride). Of these, Fluorosilicic acid is the most regularly used additive for our water and it is not pharmaceutically graded. It’s a byproduct of the phosphate fertilizer, aluminum, steel and cement industries. The warning labels on these products are marked with hazard signs (corrosive, toxic, health hazard, harmful) and must be handled using great caution. Fluoride is a cumulative toxin and increases with the amount and length of exposure. It also has an insatiable appetite for calcium which can deplete the natural calcium hydroxyapatite that contributes to bone density, thus making our bones more brittle.

As of December 2019, 72 studies have investigated the relationship between fluoride and human intelligence. Over 60 animal studies concluded exposure impairs learning and memory capacity of animals. 62 studies have found that elevated fluoride exposure is associated with reduced IQ and IQ examinations were of 23,773 children (62 studies) and 245 adults (2 studies).

In October 2022 The National Toxicology Program (NTP) published a review draft of fluoride neurotoxicity conclusion: “…Fluoride is presumed to be a cognitive neurodevelopment hazard to humans. This conclusion is based on a consistent pattern of findings in human studies across several different populations showing that higher fluoride exposure is associated with decreased IQ or other cognitive impairment in children.”
You can repair a cavity, but you can’t repair a child’s brain.

A few other known health effects are cardio toxicity, neurotoxicity, endocrine dysfunction and hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Anyone drinking this water is prone to toxic cumulative and highly reactive substance. The younger you are, the worse are its effects.

Consider these questions: Can you guarantee that no toothpaste is swallowed while brushing? What about fluoride treatments? Please take some time and learn more about this in-depth topic which I have only skimmed. It can help you make an informed decision with your next purchase and dental visit.

If you would like a list of the top sources of fluoride in daily life, email succeed.hdhl@gmail.com with Fluoride in the subject line.

Here’s to Health!
succeed.hdhl@gmail.com

February 29, 2024
Golf Series: Fort Walton Beach Golf Course, the Affordable Gem of the Emerald Coast

By Barbara Palmgren

Long before there were courses in Destin, there was the city course of Fort Walton Beach.
The municipal golf course in Fort Walton Beach began slowly, built to its 36-championship status over several decades. The 18-hole Pines course was built in 1961. The Oaks course opened with nine holes in the mid 80’s and another nine was added in 1992 to make a complete and challenging 18-hole course. Together, the Pines and the Oaks are the Fort Walton Beach Golf Course.

David Trimm, Operations Manager since 2009, shared a unique story. A true piece of history. When the Pines was opened in 1961, Bill Roberts was mayor. In 1992, when the Oaks became an 18-hole course, Bill’s son, Bill Jr., was mayor. They say the “acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree” and this certainly applies to the mayor and the golf course. Bill Roberts Junior got to see the final improvements to a golf course that serves not only the citizens of the city and the county, but offers reasonable rates to visitors from all over the country. The driving range is also lighted at night until 8 p.m.

The Pines has 6,700 yards through an upland pine forest. The Oaks course has 6400 yards of narrow fairways, water hazards and fairways lines with oak trees. There are both city resident and county resident rates. Many community-oriented charity golf tournaments are sponsored each year at the golf club and First Tee clinics are provided for the junior golf program along with individual lessons with Butch Byrd, a well-known teaching professional in the Southeast. The Clubhouse Grill restaurant offers food and beverage service for both courses. Although not located near the beach, Fort Walton Beach visitors are only a few miles away from this city owned course. Friendly staff welcome visitors and residents when players check in for tee times.

David Trimm became Operations Manager in 2009. Prior to that, David was head golf professional at Indian Bayou in 1978 and then moved to manage Bluewater Bay when it opened in 1981. David learned to play golf at Fort Walton golf course and played on the Choctawhatchee High School golf team and the golf team at Okaloosa Walton Community College. You might say he came full circle with his golf history, circling the bayou from Destin back to Fort Walton Beach.

David is a modest and caring professional. He gives most credit to the continuing success of the course to Richie Edwards, grounds superintendent, who takes meticulous care of the course itself. David thinks that Richie’s job us underrated. Few people know how hard it is to keep the course looking pristine.

I asked David about his favorite hole. He finally settled on the Par 5 of the Pines which overlooks a lake. Beautiful and reachable—if you keep your head down and forget about the water barrier in front of the green.

As the reader knows, I find a poem or song and change a few words to highlight the course of the month. In this case, I found a song that had something to do with trees:
I’m comin’ home, I’ve done my time,
I’ve got to know if golf’s still mine.
Received a letter telling me the tee time was a go,
So, now I just have to grab my clubs and so,
“Tie a welcome ribbon ‘round the ole oak tree
It’s been too long; will the course welcome me?
It’s been three long years, am I the duffer that I fear?
So, I’ll tee up my ball,
I’ll widen my stance, I’ll swing in reverie,
And hope I don’t hear my golf ball hit the ole oak tree.

February 29, 2024
Stage Crafters Announces Spectacular 52nd Season Lineup

Stage Crafters Community Theatre, the oldest continuously running all-volunteer, not-for-profit community theatre in the state of Florida, proudly unveils its highly anticipated 52nd Season. Celebrating over 50 years of enriching lives through the magic of live theatre, Stage Crafters invites the community to join them for an extraordinary lineup of productions, showcasing the diverse talent and commitment to excellence that has made them a cultural staple in Fort Walton Beach.

The 52nd Season kicks off with “Brighton Beach Memoirs” by Neil Simon, directed by Don Goodrum. This heartwarming and hilarious play, running from March 8 to 17, 2024, provides a glimpse into the life of a young teen in 1937 Brooklyn, navigating the challenges of family and adolescence with Simon’s signature wit and charm.

Following in June is Agatha Christie’s timeless classic, “The Mousetrap,” directed by Gail Hurley. This murder mystery, celebrating its 70th anniversary as the world’s longest-running play, promises suspense, intrigue, and a thrilling theatrical experience from June 7 to 16, 2024.

In August, Stage Crafters presents “The Naked Truth” by Rich Orloff, directed by Pamela J. Strecker and Nancy Kruzek. This comedic tale unfolds as an Ohio couple inherits a clothing-optional resort in Key West, exploring self-discovery and challenging beliefs in unexpected ways. Catch the laughter and surprises from August 16 to 25, 2024.

Closing out the season in November is the musical extravaganza, “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” by Robert L. Freedman, with music by Steven Lutvak and lyrics by Steven Lutvak and Robert Freedman. Directed by Douglas Henderson, this captivating musical set in 1907 London follows the hilarious and twisted journey of Monty Navarro as he seeks love and inheritance, with performances scheduled for November 8 to 17, 2024.

David Chancellor, President of Stage Crafters Community Theatre, expressed his excitement about the upcoming season, stating, “Our 52nd Season promises to be a journey through laughter, mystery, and musical delight. We are proud to continue our tradition of providing exceptional theatre experiences to the Fort Walton Beach community.”

Season memberships for Stage Crafters Community Theatre’s 52nd Season are now available for purchase online at StageCraftersFWB.com. Additionally, individual show tickets can be purchased either online or at the door. All performances will take place at the Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium in Downtown Fort Walton Beach.

For those interested in joining Stage Crafters on-stage or backstage, audition information and volunteer opportunities can be found at StageCraftersFWB.com.

February 29, 2024
Growing the Game

By Barbara Palmgren

U.S. Kids Golf – Winter tournament at Shalimar Pointe Golf Club

On Sunday, January 28, 2024, one of six local winter tournaments took place for this local organization. Played at Shalimar Pointe Golf Course, teen groups played 18 holes and younger golfers beginning at age 6, played nine holes.

I spoke with Denise Kafferly, tournament director, who stressed that her local organization is a teaching program as well as a tournament program. U.S. Kid Golf Local Tours are created to provide boys and girls, ages 5-18, the opportunity to advance their skills in the game in age-appropriate competitions. The local tour consists of between six and eight one-day tournaments including a season-ending one-day Local Tour Championship.

U.S. Golf itself is as a world-wide organization in over 40 countries. The U.S. Kids Golf World Championship is held at Pinehurst Golf Club in North Carolina. Young golfers provide players the opportunity to earn status points to quality for events at the regional, state level, and international levels. Priority status is dependent on attending 4 out of 6 tournaments and submitting the two lowest scores. In addition, as I viewed the names and score categories, each winning category has points attached and the local winners are those who accumulate the most points from as many as six tournaments. The more tournaments you enter, the more opportunities to accumulate points.

As I listened to Denise review basic golf information about the U.S. Kids Local Tour before players teed off to begin the tournament, I realized that these young players learn about all aspects of the golf game. Accompanied by adults who caddy and provide encouragement, young players learn the difference between sand traps and waste areas, how to take relief from standing water, etc. Until you play golf, you don’t really understand how to play golf. Learning by doing, learning by trial and error, and learning while improving as one acquires skill and patience, is truly the secret to participating in a life-long sport.

Status point winners in first place on January 28 included:
Mia Salatiello (Girls 8 and under); Olivia Haddock (Girls 9-10); Emberly Settle (Girls 11-12); Michele Burt (Girls13-14); Acey Anolis (Girls15-18.)
Adrian Randolph (Boys 6 and under); Lincoln Patsakham (Boys 7); Caleb Topp (Boys 8); Reese Riley (Boys 9); Pierson Hooper (Boys 10; Matthew Deroy (Boys11); Wiley Alford (Boys 12); Devin Grandt (Boys13-14.)

The First Tee Gulf Coast

In January, I watched young golfers with their adult partners enjoy nine holes of a unique golf competition at Shalimar Pointe Golf Course presented by the First Tee. Usually, I’m reporting about a junior golf event with young golfers competing. This particular event, the Winter Cup, involved children and adult partners. This two-player scramble was a modified tee version set up by age and gender, with low team awards 1st through 3rd place, male and female. There were also Pin Awards for closest to the pin for adults and juniors. This multi-age/player tournament was one of four throughout the year. A fun contes, it paired a young player with an adult who encouraged and mentored the young golfer in his or her first golf tournament.

“The First Tee organization is a nonprofit junior golf association.” said Marty Stanovich, President and CEO of the First Tee Gulf Coast. Marty has served our youth as Executive Director for over 15 years, being one of the founders of the local organization that began 20 years ago. The son of a professional PGA golfer, Marty grew up with the game. After retiring from teaching as a college professor at Pensacola Junior College and a Talk Radio host, Marty turned his attention and dedication to the First Tee organization.

The First Tee strives to enable kids to build strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of challenges. The game of golf is integrated into a life skills curriculum to build strength, self-confidence and resilience. This national organization’s leader is Honorary Chair, President Geroge W. Bush. The headquarters are in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl. Operational for twenty-five years, there are 150 chapters with programs delivered at 1,400 golf courses across 50 states and select international locations. The First Tee Gulf Coast serves youth ages 5-18 at over a dozen programming sites from Mobile, Alabama to Panama City, regardless of ability to pay. The majority of events are clinics, stroke play tournaments, and they also offer a series of other tournaments, mostly in the summer. Close to home, the Bubba Watson Mini-golf Championship is held at the home facility in Warrington, the site of the historic 1958 Goofy Golf Pensacola.

Winners of this event are listed in categories: Girls 5-11: 2nd place Joesph Morrow and Lyla Morrow; 1st place Corrina Gormley and John Gormley. Boys 5-11: 2nd place Mason Dean Hampton and Travis Ritter; 1st place Tyler Goodman and James Tyler Goodman. Girls 12-18: 2nd place Tenley Sharron and Tommy Sharron;1st place Charlie Perkins and Rayna Perkins. Boys 12-18: 2nd place Ian Jackson and Betty Glenn; 1st place Charlie Penrod and Adam Penrod.

A special mention of thanks must be given to the Shalimar Pointe Ladies Golf Association who funded much of the event to make it memorable for these young golfers. Swag bags, food, awards and encouragement were given to each participant. The ladies’ reward? Smiles and thanks from young girls and boys along with the knowledge that a future champion might mention their first start at the First Tee Winter Cup at Shalimar Pointe Golf Course.

February 29, 2024
Do You Wanna Get High?

By Lisa Leath Turpin, Health & Wellness Coach

The exercise high that is! Through this column, I have encouraged you to just MOVE.

Movement of any kind is beneficial. Even if you have limitations, please try to get moving in any capacity. Exercise is health-enhancing and life-extending, but many think of exercise as a chore. Movement can and should be a source of joy! And I have stumbled upon a must read book, “The Joy of Movement” by Kelly McGonigal, PH.D. McGonigal is a research psychologist, a lecturer at Stanford University, and an award-winning science writer. She is the author of the international bestsellers, “The Willpower Instinct,” “The Upside of Stress,” and “Yoga for Pain Relief.” Kelly is also a fitness instructor in the San Francisco Bay Area, teaching yoga, dance and group exercise classes. She explains in “The Joy of Movement” through her trademark blend of science and storytelling, how movement is intertwined with some of the most basic human joys, including self-expression, social connection, and mastery… and why it is a powerful antidote to the modern epidemics of depression, anxiety and loneliness. These insights are drawn from neuroscience, psychology, anthropology, and evolutionary biology, as well as memoirs from clients and philosophers. McGonigal tells stories of people who have found fulfillment and belonging through running, walking, dancing, swimming, weightlifting, and more. According to her website, kellymcgonigal.com, McGonigal paints a portrait of human nature that highlights our capacity for hope, cooperation, and self-transcendence. Her findings are revolutionary and go beyond familiar arguments in favor of exercise, to show why movement is integral to both our happiness and our humanity. She has lived it, experienced it and neurologically studies it. There is a lot to the exercise high and you can achieve it also!

Exercise of any kind, where you raise your heartrate and keep it moderately high will make your body produce and release the pain killing hormones called endorphins. This helps with the euphoria feeling that comes from the workout. But researchers are also learning there’s more to this feeling than just endorphins. Recent studies show there are two other compounds that contribute to the high. Endocannabinoids, lipid (fat) molecules that help regulate pain and mood and that our brain processes in almost the same way that it does cannabinoids (which cause marijuana high). According to Johannes Fuss, PH.D., the lead researcher in a study published in “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences” states endocannabinoids have a more powerful effect on how we feel; especially for it lasting post-exercise. Cardio is what counts; the study’s authors found anaerobic exercise like weight lifting doesn’t activate the endocannabinoid system. It is suggested to aim for 70% to 85% of your maximum heart rate (220-age=max. hr.) But weightlifters, you can do a more circuit style workout and keep moving, changing body parts. While the last used muscle group rests, you can be working a different muscle group and rotate through. The second new and more surprising find is that the hunger hormone, leptin, might also play a role in workout happiness. In another study from the University of Montreal, they found that low levels of leptin will help with increased energy and motivation to exercise. Shape magazine says “this is key because feeling excited during exercise can result in a bigger high after.”

Lisa Turpin is a degreed and certified health and fitness lifestyle coach who has devoted her life to motivating and strengthening the body and minds of others. With over 20 years experience is a group exercise leader at Destin Health & Fitness and an independent personal trainer in the Destin area, she is diverse and extensively trained in classical and modern pilates, lifestyle management, personal training, group exercise, and post-rehabilitation. Email: BeActive850@gmail.com.

February 29, 2024
J&B Medical Can Give You A Lift!

By Kelly Stalnaker

Falls within the home are the leading cause of hospital visits for older adults. But, there are tools and products available to help prevent falls and fall related injuries.

For example, Golden lift chairs help individuals with mobility issues to safely sit down or rise from a seated position. They look like a regular recliner, but have a motorized feature that lifts the chair up and tilts it forward for assistance into a standing position. Some models of the chairs are offered with the capability for micro-adjustments in the reclined and seated positions. This feature can help improve posture and allows for optimal comfort for the user. And with the elevated leg rest, it can improve circulation and reduce swelling. They even offer the ability to recline into the Trendelenburg position (elevating the feet and legs of the patient above the level of the heart).

Golden lift chairs are luxurious, very practical and made by Americans in Philadelphia, Pa. If you or your loved one has a difficult time sitting down or rising to a standing position, a Golden lift chair could be a game changer for them to allow for more independence. They are super comfortable to sleep in, too, especially for an individual that might need elevation while sleeping.

At J&B Medical, we have Golden lift chairs available for sale and rent. A rental chair is perfect for someone just needing a little extra assistance during recovery from a surgery or injury. Stop by and check out all of the chairs we have in stock. We also carry Golden scooters that you can take with you anywhere you go! Currently, we have several in stock and on sale and we offer FREE local delivery!

February 22, 2024