Volume: 5 Issue: 7 April 4, 2013 bi-weekly Edition merald Star News E The The BEST LIL’ NEWSPAPER in Walton county - from Freeport, Florida A style of it’s own — a community Based Newspaper Free offered ‘free’ …….from our business Advertisers inside this week Made possible by your local advertising businesses in this edition. Real Estate listings inside: Inside this Edition : WALTON COUNTY TO OPEN BEACH DRIVING PERMIT LOTTERY ON APRIL 1 ST On April 1 st , the Walton County Board of County Commission Administration Depart- ment will begin the submission period for their annual beach driving permit lottery….Page 3 Tax Season Brings Scams As reported by WZEP AM1460 Many scams are already circulating regarding rebates, refunds, tax law changes and that dreaded of all dreads…audits……..…. Page 5 Rodeo The rodeo will take place at the Freeport Sports Complex located at Ham- mock Bay in Freeport, FL. Gates will open on Friday, April 5 th and April 6 th …Page 6 The Fools Rush In 5k Run/Walk is coming up on Saturday, April 13th at 9 am at the Freeport Regional Sports Complex at Hammock Bay. ….Page 11
“free”-HOW?? From the businesses advertising in this issue. Thank each one as you go to their store Yes it’s true. The rising demand for this newspaper our delivering needs we could not meet each week. If you live a bit further out we will get it to you. We need advertising help too, just give us a call today! The Emerald Star News is published bi-weekly We are locally owned and operated in Freeport
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
Volume: 5 Issue: 7 April 4, 2013 bi-weekly Edition
merald Star News E The
The BEST LIL’ NEWSPAPER in Walton county - from Freeport, Florida
A style of it’s own — a community Based Newspaper
Free
offered ‘free’ …….from our business Advertisers inside this week
Made possible by your local
advertising businesses in this edition.
Real Estate listings inside:
Inside this Edition:
WALTON COUNTY TO OPEN
BEACH DRIVING PERMIT
LOTTERY ON APRIL 1ST
On April 1st, the Walton County Board of
County Commission Administration Depart-
ment will begin the submission period for their
annual beach driving permit lottery….Page 3
Tax Season Brings Scams As reported by WZEP AM1460 Many scams are already circulating regarding
rebates, refunds, tax law changes and that
dreaded of all dreads…audits……..….Page 5
Rodeo The rodeo will take place at the
Freeport Sports Complex located at Ham-mock Bay in Freeport, FL. Gates will open
on Friday, April 5th and April 6
th …Page 6
The Fools Rush In 5k Run/Walk is
coming up on Saturday, April 13th at 9 am at the Freeport Regional Sports
Complex at Hammock Bay. ….Page 11
BCC Meeting As reported by WZEP AM1460
Walton got a lot back, but the staff still wants to make sure all options are
looked at. Walton will seek quotes for health insurance. Walton has been using Blue
Cross and the company returned a savings check of over $1 million in the last three
years. This from estimated premiums and what is left, that is not used. While this was
touted as significant, staff asked to seek proposals to see what is available. Commis-
sioner Sara Comander thanked the employees, saying the savings is through the well-
ness program and their work to stay healthy. Commissioner Bill Chapman said there
has to be a mandate to require insurance companies to be more forthcoming. He told
of a recent change that kept some employees from getting prescriptions filled and
other services.
The commissioners heard from three firms vying to engineer the county road 2 shoul-
der paving project. This eight mile project will include adding shoulders, similar to
the project recently completed on highway 1087. The engineers who looked at the
project noted the highway crosses two commissioner districts, the drivers often move
at speeds much higher than the speed limit and there are considerations with the
Commissioners approved an extension of repair times for Dead River Landing and
River Landing, for the engineering of the widening of 331. Both of these are due to
rain delays. The 331 widening project, the short section near Owls Head, should be
completed this summer. Commissioners approved replacing the handrails on the Gulf
Drive western boardwalk, will hear the top three firms for 3280 and 183 engineering
and the Carson Oaks letter of credit. The commissioners were updated on the North-
west Florida Commerce Park, known as Mossy Head Industrial Park. The cost esti-
mate for infrastructure improvements is at $1.8 million. This would include roads,
water and infrastructure.
Commissioners appointed County Administrator Halfhill to the Economic Develop-
ment Alliance. The county has two seats. Walton will look at building a boat ramp on
Shoal River off Hinote Road, if they can get funding. Commissioner Comander asked
to make sure there is adequate parking. The boating grants are said to be harder to get.
Gulf Trace wants to add sand to their beaches. The residents are asking for an en-
dorsement and say the request is to seek funds from the BP oil spill after BP people
and equipment damaged the beach. They also say rent was down because of the spill
and because BP was patrolling the beach with trucks and labs. The community is said
to be sea turtle friendly. The money would come from NRDA and the county is also
submitting NRDA projects. Commissioner Imfeld suggested they should file a dam-
ages claim, not just the NRDA, which deals with natural resources.
Commissioners were asked to support opposing a bill that would take the Mid Bay
Bridge Authority away. Commissioners were told the bill would create an Okaloosa,
Bay and Walton toll authority. Commissioner Imfeld noted such an authority would
bring in the counties when making decisions. Commissioners asked to have the lob-
byist look at the bill, currently in committee.
The Boys & Girls Club in south Walton is almost complete. The Club is suggesting
the county can use the facility when the Club is not using it. The Boys & Girls Club
of the Emerald Coast has agreements with other government entities. The new club
has basketball, baseball and soccer areas, a possible future pool and recreation space.
They do not generally use the facility in the evenings and weekends. Walton will look
at what to do from a budget standpoint.
Morrison Springs is owned by the state and managed by the county. It is possible
Walton can charge a fee. Commissioner Comander said the park is used so much in
the summer it is caused damages and the Sheriff’s Office has to put extra personnel
on site. There used to be a dive shop and Comander said having a private company on
site could help.
Commissioner Comander said allowing roadblocks during spring break is probably a
bad idea. She suggested adding holiday weekends and spring breaks to times they can
not hold a road block. Apparently a group has been stopping traffic and doing so a
several locations. Commissioner Meadows agreed and said it is dangerous. There is
an application process and it is unclear if the recent group had the permit. Mary Nel-
son suggested anyone collecting should be a Walton County non-profit agency or
someone that provides money to Walton.
Editorial Views expressed in The EMERALD STAR NEWS do not necessarily reflect those of the
publisher. The staff of The EMERALD STAR NEWS pride ourselves in our efforts to ensure
accuracy of the publication contents. However, there is no guarantee of the accuracy of all the
Information nor the absence of errors and omissions (especially when sent through a third party); therefore, no responsibility can or will be assumed. 2500 copies printed bi-weekly.
Page 2 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, April 4, 2013
Look online: theemeraldstarnews.bolgspot.com
Mail invoices and other information to:
P.O. Box 1133 Freeport, Florida 32439
Quote of
the week :
The Wolfe’s Den
“free”-HOW??
From the businesses advertising in this issue.
Thank each one as you go to their store Yes it’s true. The rising demand for this newspaper our delivering needs we
could not meet each week. If you live a bit further out we will get it to you.
We need advertising help too, just give us a call today!
The Emerald Star News is published bi-weekly
We are locally owned and operated in Freeport
I am determined to
be cheerful and
happy in whatever
situation I may find
myself.
For I have learned
that the greater part
of our misery or
unhappiness is de-
termined not by our
circumstance but
by our disposition.
Hey Businessman!!
Do you have an Ad that would look nice here?
Call to reserve your spot today!
850-585-0262
Page 3 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, April 4, 2013
Business Ads as low as $20,
call today to find out how!
WALTON COUNTY TO OPEN BEACH DRIVING PERMIT LOTTERY ON APRIL 1ST
On April 1st, the Walton County Board of County Commission Administration Department will begin the
submission period for their annual beach driving permit lottery. Each year, the county issues 150 permits via
the beach driving permit lottery. The submission deadline for inclusion into the lottery will be close of busi-
ness on May 10th.
In order to qualify to be entered into the lottery, the following documents must be submitted in the name of
the applicant at the time of application:
Proof of full-time residency (Driver's License with Walton County address or Walton County Voter's
Registration)
Copy of Driver's License
Copy of Voter Registration (if not a property owner)
Proof of real property ownership (if property owner)
Proof that property taxes are current (if property owner)
Current 4-wheel drive vehicle registration (registered in the State of Florida)
Completed 2013 lottery application
Lottery applications will be available on the County’s website beginning April 1st at 12:01am and may be sub-
mitted in one of three ways:
Obtain an application from County Administration or the South Walton Annex Planning Department and
complete and return it with the required documents to either location.
1. Download and complete the application and return it, along with required documents, to the County Ad-
ministration office or South Walton Annex Planning Department.
2. Submit an application online by completing the web form and attaching required documents.
If you should have any questions, please contact the Department of Administration at 850-892-8155.
Mossy Head Economic Development As reported by WZEP AM1460 The commissioners were updated on the Northwest Florida Commerce Park, known as Mossy Head Industrial
Park. when the first consultant helped set up the plans for the land, the commissioners agreed to call it the
Northwest Florida Commerce Park over calling it an industrial park. The land is part of the land swap with the
state and Eglin. This provided land between I-10 and Highway 90, land where the Mossy Head Park and Ele-
mentary School are and land further east where Commissioner Imfeld’s new more centrally located office is.
The cost estimate for improvements in the first stage is estimated at $1.8 million. This would include roads,
water and infrastructure. A sewer plant is planned for the park with the county planning on going into the
sewer business. Staff’s recommendation is to seek an RFP for the management of the plant. This could be
similar to how CH2MHILL works with DeFuniak Springs. Currently the Dixie RV and Mossy Head Elemen-
tary are being tied together to share their small sewer plants as a way to have enough effluent to make the sys-
tem work. Eventually, once the two package plants get over 40,000 a day, the new plant would be brought
online. Others have contacted the county with questions about tieing into the sewer. Commissioners were told
one big box company could eat up the capacity.
Since the county is using the Dixie RV package plant, they are not being charged at this time. The school has a
package sewer plant, but it would not work properly since the school was designed and outfitted for a potential
middle school addition. There simply was not enough stuff flowing to make the process work. The school in-
stalled a septic system. With the Dixie RV not having a hotel right now, the two are being tied together and
will use one plant, then bring the second one online when needed. Commissioner Comander suggested not
letting anyone else hook to the current sewer, except for the school and Dixie, and save the capacity for the
industrial park. Commissioner Imfeld agreed and talked about the need for a plan.
The county also has permits for stormwater. There is an entrance on Highway 285 between I-10 and 90. The
thought is infrastructure improvements are needed to help entice companies to locate. Engineer Greg Graham
also said Walton should draft a type of covenants and restrictions. Commissioners talked about the need for
rates. Commissioner Meadows suggested starting the marketing of the park and asked to continue the discus-
sion with more information, maps and said they keep talking about it, but need to take action. Commissioner
Imfeld suggested a workshop to specifically talk about economic development, including the Mossy Head
Park.
A fire Monday afternoon in north Walton burned several
acres after a young man let a campfire get out of control. The
fire was called in with no structures, but around five acres
affected. Firefighters had problems gaining access. The Divi-
sion of Forestry was called to assist.
The Freeport Fire Department was called to a smoke investi-
gation at the Fill Ups store at 331 and 20. The call was
downgraded after firefighters arrived and found it was likely
an electrical problem in the wall.
This time of year can be a high fire danger and we have re-
cently seen red flags for fire danger. Walton Fire-Rescue
Chief Brian Coley says you need to be careful with outside
fires, especially when there has not been recent rains, when
the humidity is low and there is wind. He notes that while
there has been plenty of moisture this year, we have not seen
recent rains and the plants have not begun to green up. This
means the woods can catch quick. Coley notes the recent
vehicle fire on Highway 331 and the nearby youpon bushes
just starting to burst into flames as firefighters arrived.
After winter, before the spring and summer rains, the dead
vegetation is still on the forest floor. It is not crushed down
and thus has plenty of dry air around it. It has also been dry-
ing all winter and has not begun to rot. This means a spark or
ember has plenty of kindling and fuel.
Remember, always call the Division of Forestry for a burn
permit if you burn a pile more than 8 feet across. If you are
not sure, call and ask if this is a good day to burn and if you
need the free permit. Even if you burn in a barrel or pit or
burn a small fire, you could be charged for suppression if it
escapes your property.
Thursday, April 4, 2013 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc.
Call for AJ’s -’tip of the week’
A.J.Dubuisson State Certified-Master Plumber License # CF-C057978
Inspect your water heater for
signs of leaking fittings and
corrosion or rust.
Health Post George Roll P.A.-C
Seagrove Medical Clinic
Call # 850-231-6200
Walk-ins and Appt.s
Send health questions or
comments to: P.O.Box 1133
Freeport, Florida 32439
850-835-2028
998 Bay Dr. Santa Rosa-Beach, Fl.32459
850-231-1473
Page 4
Spring Specials going on now!!
Advertise with us
Call today 850-585-0262
JoAn’s Perfect PAws Pet Salon
901 Hwy. 20E unit #1 CALL: 850-880-6707 (l.c.’s PizzA /vet PlAzA)
Freeport, Florida
Please be advised that the Economic
Development Alliance Board will hold a
SPECIAL MEETING on Friday, April
5, 2013 at 8:00 AM to discuss hiring an
Executive Director. This meeting will
be held in the County Administration
Conference Room located at 76 North
6th Street, DeFuniak Springs, FL
This meeting is open to the public.
Universal Health Care Insurance Shut
Down
Senior citizens who have health cover-
age through Universal Health Care
Insurance Company, Inc. Medicare
Advantage plans should be aware that
they will lose coverage beginning
March 31. This follows a move by the
Florida Department of Insurance
which placed Universal Health Care
Insurance Company, Inc. in receiver-
ship after regulators determined it
was insolvent.
According to the Centers for Medicare
and Medicaid Services (CMS), im-
pacted consumers will receive letters
explaining the options they have avail-
able. The Universal Health Care prod-
ucts are commonly referred to as Uni-
versal Any, Any, Any (PFFs) or Uni-
versal Hassle-Free (PPO).
If the beneficiaries do not elect the
facilitated enrollment, they will be
granted a one-time Special Election
Period to enroll into a new Medicare
Advantage plan or a Medicare Part D
plan. Contact the government or a
local Medicare Services Provider if
you were a customer.
The Rotary Club of DeFu-niak Springs’ Annual Char-ity Golf Tournament is Fri-day, April 12th at Black-stone Golf Course in Mos-syhead. Registration be-gins at 11:30 am with a shotgun start at 12:30 pm. 2 person teams. The entry fee is $50 per person and includes es the green fee, cart, range balls, and tee gift. For more information or to sponsor the event, call Jan Pickering at 951-
2099.
Researchers found the memory and
thinking skills of 126 inactive older
adults improved after they were as-
signed daily activities designed to
engage their brains and their bodies.
"The good news is that one plus one
equals three," said Dr. Richard
Isaacson, director of the Alzheimer's
division at the University of Miami
Miller School of Medicine, who was
not involved in the study.
The take-home point is that making small changes in physical and men-tal activity has led to positive changes in memory and thinking skills, Isaacson said.
Learning a few extra words in a for-eign language and walking several times a week, for example, will pay off in a few months, he noted.
"You don't have to run a marathon to be fit, and you don't have to become fluent in a foreign language to re-main sharp as you age," he said.
For the study, published online April 1 in JAMA Internal Medicine, Deb-orah Barnes, from the University of California, San Francisco, and col-leagues divided the participants, who were 65 or older (average age 73), into four groups. Three days a week for three months, all engaged in some type of mental stimulation one hour daily and some physical activity for an hour daily.
More rigorous options included in-tensive brain-training computer games and dance-based aerobics. Other participants, who were fol-lowed as "controls," watched educa-tional DVDs on arts, history and sci-ence, or participated in a stretching and toning class.
All study participants said their mem-ory or thinking skills had declined before the study began, but all showed improvements in memory and thinking skills at the end of the study period, no matter what activi-ties they performed, the study showed.
Thursday, April 4, 2013 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Page 6
Go to;
theemeraldstarnews.blogspot.com
Write it down; this our new web site
Check out past editions complete with
our advertising customers Ads.
Rodeo As reported by WZEP AM1460
The Okaloosa and Walton County Sher-iff's Offices have been announced as their corresponding county’s Youth Title Sponsor of the Inaugural Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast Rodeo. The PCA sanctioned Rodeo, produced by Bo Campbell Productions, will be an exciting weekend filled with riding, roping, and racing from participants across the coun-try. Through Okaloosa and Walton County Sheriff’s Office sponsorships, all children who attend school in Okaloosa and Walton County will receive a free ticket to the rodeo with a paid adult ad-mission.
Rodeo events will include: Bareback, Saddle Bronc Riding, Calf Roping, Barrel Racing, Steer Wrestling, Breakaway, Team Roping, and Bull Riding. The event will also be host to numerous food and retail vendors that will include face paint-ing, rodeo games for kids, clowns, and much more. This charity event is de-signed not only to showcase traditions of the "Wild West", but also to bring families together for a weekend of fun. Proceeds from this event will help the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast raise needed funds.
The rodeo will take place at the Freeport Sports Complex located at Hammock Bay in Freeport, FL. Gates will open on Friday, April 5
th and Saturday, April 6
th at
5:30pm and events beginning at 7:00pm. Tickets are available for pur-chase online at www.bgcec.com. Tickets: Adult one day - $12, Adult weekend - $20, Children 12 and under one day - $6, Children 12 and under weekend - $10. Contact the Rodeo Coordinator at 850-217-4007 or email [email protected] for more info, to get your business involved, or sponsorship opportunities.
RAINIER
By M. Vreeland
It’s a bit intimidating to go from living
in a hoarding situation to experiencing
life at our peaceful sanctuary. This is
especially true if you happen to be a
small dog coming into a place where
you have room to roam and people
who are concerned about you and your
individual needs. This irresistible Mal-
tese/Poodle mix was rescued from a
hoarding home along with three of his
canine buddies. When he first arrived
at Alaqua Animal Refuge, he was
dirty and heavily matted. After a thor-
oughly pampering spa treatment,
Rainier is looking and feeling worlds
better. He has a great personality, and
is very sociable with the other small
dogs who have befriended him.
He has also quickly taken to walking
on a leash. The perfect lap dog, Rain-
ier would love nothing more than to
find a forever home where he can get
all the individual attention he so longs
for. Springtime is a time for new be-
ginnings. You could be the special
someone Rainier is waiting for to offer
him a fresh start and a brand new life.
In return, he will give you his uncon-
ditional love.
"Northwest Florida's Premier
Animal Sanctuary and Adoption
Center"
Alaqua Animal Refuge is a non-
profit, no-kill shelter, located at
914 Whitfield Road, Free-
port. We welcome you to visit
all the adoptable animals at our
beautiful ten acre sanctuary any
Tuesday through Sunday from
12:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. For
more information you can call
us at 850-880-6399 or check out
our website at
www.alaquaanimalrefulge.org.
Paxton Student Wins at
Science Fair
As reported by WZEP AM1460
Paxton eighth grade student Hannah
Shaw won multiple prizes at the 58th
State Science and Engineering Fair of
Florida last week for her environmental
project investigating the association be-
tween water quality and adjacent land
usage.
Competing against 56 projects in the
environmental sciences category, Shaw
garnered the second place overall award
in the junior environmental sciences
category as well as the Florida Associa-
tion of Water Quality Control Award for
her work. In addition, she received a
Broadcom MASTERS nomination to
compete with junior students from
across the nation in an on-line competi-
tion.
Shaw competed in one of the largest
academic competitions in the state with
over 946 students competing from
grades six through twelve.
Former Walton Commissioner Arrested For Child Porn
As reported by WZEP AM1460
Walton County Sheriff Mike Adkinson
confirms former Walton county commis-
sioner Lane Rees, of Seagrove Beach,
has been arrested at his home on charges
of child pornography. Deputies seized
Rees’ computer equipment and other
items. The number of charges will be
determined by the number of porno-
graphic images found in his computer.
Rees owns and operates Human Re-
sources Solutions and has done work for
the city of DeFuniak Springs and other
agencies. Rees is an elected Republican
State Committeeman and lost re-election
to Scott Brannon in a highly financed
election by both candidates.
Sheriff Adkinson indicated that Rees
reportedly had “no clue” he was under a
month long investigation by a cyber-
crime investigation team. Adkinson de-
scribed the images as “pretty significant”
and expects to release more information.
4/2/13 RIP
Ralph Cooper.
Halfhill Resigns
After only a month, Walton
Administrator Halfhill has resigned, cit-
ing family and Walton issues. The new
administrator was hired after a search
started when the previous administration
left after being on the job only about a
year. The resignation is effective imme-
diately. Walton has also seen a number
of upper level management resign or
take early retirement over the last several
years. One administrator was removed
after a recommendation by then commis-
sioner Larry Jones. On the average, since
creating the position, Walton has had a
new administrator about every two
years. Early Tuesday WZEP AM 1460
found out Bob Halfhill resigned through
a letter and confirmed the resignation.
Various other media sources report the
Halfhill, cited “my personal situation
and continuing family medical prob-
lems” and that Walton County “faces a
multitude of challenges and will have to
make difficult decisions.”
It is unknown what direction the com-
missioners will take next. The second
ranked hire after Halfhill could be
tapped or the third ranked person, Jones
might be selected. The commissioners
could also change the position, fill it
temporarily, appoint someone or seek
additional candidates.
.Mr. Ralph Cooper passed away this morning. His family lives in Freeport, he worked for South Land Services (Les Miller), and he was a regular at the Freeport Cafe.
NEAR CHOCTAW BEACH - ID# T849573 Bank owned 4BR/2BA, 1,620 sq. ft. on .43 acre lot. Large kitchen. New carpet, back deck. Private well. ONLY $61,900
Thursday, April 4, 2013 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc . Page 9
The 14 day Overview
Aquarius
1/20 – 2/18
Pisces
2/19 – 3/20
Aries
3/21 – 4/19
Taurus
4/20 – 5/20
Gemini
5/21 – 6/21
Cancer
6/22 – 7/22
Leo
7/23 – 8/22
Virgo
8/23 – 9/22
Libra
9/23 – 10/22
Scorpio
10/23 –11/21
Sagittarius
11/22 – 12/2
Capricorn
12/22 – 1/19
Help…..Spread the word about this
newspaper to everyone you know!
Advertising specials going on NOW!!
Please thank those advertisers in this issue,
because of them we can continue to promote
business in Walton county. Thank you
Advertise with us!! Guaranteed the lowest price to fit any budget. Call today: 850.585.0262
Letter to the :
Get out and about -- new ideas and all kinds of excellent things await. But over the next couple of days, you
may experience delays or assorted other limitations. It's less than fun, but choose your battles -- know when
it can make a positive difference instead of more of a mess! And watch for improvement starting later on
Thursday.
Work or other issues that crop up on Monday aren't so hard to solve -- get input and info instead of stress-
ing. And don't be afraid to ask for more time; the ideas you'll have and the help you can get over the next
couple of days can really turn this around. Make the wait worth their while, and they'll totally get it. Then
get someone to help you sort through your thoughts starting later on Thursday.
While you're objective, logical and willing to move forward as the week gets going, others may be more on
the touchy-feely side. Show respect for their point of view -- you don't have to coddle them to get them on
board. And sometime Thursday, the stars kick in with some serious momentum for whatever it is you're all
about right now.
Don't ignore that internal voice on Monday -- in fact, you should stop, quiet down and consult it regularly
throughout the day. Then during the middle of the workweek, travel's favored. If you're not on vacation, try
taking a day off, or at least firm up some plans for an upcoming getaway. You're extra open to learning now,
too
Subtle powers of persuasion will get you a lot further on Monday than getting all righteous about getting
your way. Let 'em think they thought of it themselves! Over the next couple of days, though, your own
thoughts and feelings may be hazy. Things are in flux now, and you may not really get the clues you need
until sometime on Thursday.
You can only avoid something (or is it someone?) for so long as the week begins. Do what it takes to boost
your inner resources, then get out there and deal! The clearer you can be, the better -- try running your mes-
sage or plan by a trusted friend or coworker first. Then engage the ol' brain starting Thursday
Strike while the iron is hot on Monday, especially when it comes to love! Over the next couple of days, it's
more about doing good deeds than going after what you want -- although if you do the former, the latter
might just magically fall into place. Call it good karma. Then great minds may think alike, but starting later
on Thursday, you might clash with those who think they're a bit greater than you.
Even if you're super busy, stretching the ol' mind and body will get you in the proper mindset for what
comes next -- a couple of awesome days to be you! Your diligence and attentiveness are rewarded now, with
some serious attention coming your way. You're even seeing the beauty and charm in imperfections now,
which makes an imperfect world seem pretty sweet.
You're chock-full of lovely ideas and even lovelier feelings on Monday if the stars have their say. Enjoy it to
the fullest extent, because something (or someone) might bring you down a bit over the next couple of days.
Whatever it is, keep it in perspective; when in doubt, a long walk or a long talk -- or, better yet, both to-
gether
Think for yourself on Monday. It's not something you usually have a problem with (at all!), but right now
it's particularly important to find your own way. Then if there are negotiations to be made, the next couple
of days are super for that -- at work, in love, wherever. You've got a way with seeing through all the com-
plexities to find what works wonders for everyone involved!
You might be tempted to play hooky on Monday, and the stars say there's fun to be had! At least take a long
lunch or knock off early -- you only live once. Then when it comes to recreation over the next couple of
days, think low-budget, outdoors, music and/or art instead of dining or shopping. Get creative -- you'll get
more out of life, and so will any lucky companions.
Give your practical side the day off on Monday -- at least when it comes to love. Dare to dream, hot stuff!
You're only getting hotter over the next couple of days, too. The stars say go -- at work, at play, at night,
during the day. There's plenty of time to evaluate what you've gotten yourself into starting later on Thurs-
day. And don't worry, a massive shift probably isn't in order -- try a small adjustment or two.
Exercise is only part of the
weight loss story.
There's no getting around your tab of calo-ries in and calories out.
The obese patients Robert Kushner, MD, clinical director of the Northwestern Com-prehensive Center on Obesity, treats often tell him they're not seeing the results they want from exercise.
"They will say, 'I have been working out three days a week for 30 minutes for the past three months, and I have lost 2 pounds. There's something wrong with my metabo-lism,'" he says.
"First, we've got to get a handle on your diet," Kushner says. "As you're losing weight and feel better and get lighter on your feet, we shift more and more toward being more physically active. Then living a physi-cally active lifestyle for the rest of your life is going to be important for keeping your weight off."
Other experts have had success including physical activity early on. But they stress that the amount of exercise is key. Exercise is a must for weight maintenance.
"I come back to this over and over and over," Hill says. "You can't find very many people maintaining a healthy weight who aren't regular exercisers. What we find is that peo-ple who focus on diet aren't very successful in the long run without also focusing on physical activity."
Hill warns that people can be "wildly suc-cessful temporarily" at losing weight through diet alone. But there's plenty of data that show that those people regain the weight if they aren't physically active. "When it comes to weight, you can't talk about diet alone, and you can't talk about exercise alone. You absolutely have to address both issues at the same time."
Food splurges may undo your efforts.
Exercise may not buy you as much calorie
wiggle room as you think.
"The average person overestimates the
amount of activity they're doing by about
30% and underestimates their food intake by
about 30%," says Kathianne Sellers Wil-
liams, a registered dietitian and personal
trainer.
"When' I'm looking at people's food and ac-tivity logs, sometimes things just don't add up," she says. "People think, 'Oh, I just did 60 minutes at the gym' or 'I just did 30 min-utes at the gym' and think that counteracts a lot of what they're eating. But the reality is our food portions are huge."
Page 10 The EMERALD STAR NEWS, Inc. Thursday, April 4, 2013
College Study Looks Good As reported by WZEP AM1460
A new statewide study indicates Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) produces graduates
who are better prepared to become higher-income earners and that the college plays a significant
role in the health of the local economy.
According to the report, the estimated annual impact of those who attended NWFSC is some
$332.3 million in added regional income due to the higher earnings of alumni and increased out-
put of businesses in the Okaloosa and Walton County service area.
Dr. Ty Handy, NWFSC President noted the economic impact study, released Monday by the
Florida College System (FCS) at a press conference held at the Department of Education,
showed that graduates of all of Florida’s 28 public colleges, known as the Florida College Sys-
tem (FCS), pumped an additional $26.6 billion per year into the state’s economy.
The study showed NWFSC students enjoy an attractive 18.3 percent average rate of return for
their educational investment at NWFSC, recovering all costs in about 8 years, including tuition,
fees and forgone wages.
The college’s core mission is to provide access to high-quality education and job training that
responds to community and state needs. Compared to someone with a high school diploma, they
report their associate degree graduates earn $10,300 more per year, on average, during their
working career.
According to the study, altogether, the average annual income added due to all activities of
NWFSC, including operations, salaries and the impact of its former students equals $362.1 mil-
lion each year in the region, or approximately 3.8 percent of the total economy for the two-
county district served by NWFSC.
Among the highlights of the 2013 EMSI report on the economic contribution of Northwest Flor-
ida State College:
The total effect on the NWFSC service area, covering Okaloosa and Walton counties, based
on student productivity gains, college operations, and student spending, is more than $362
million annually.
For every dollar of support, taxpayers see a cumulative return of $4.00 over the course
of NWFSC students’ careers.
Every dollar of state tax money invested in the college today yields $36 in cumulative
benefits that accrue to all Florida residents, reflected through added taxable income and
avoided social costs.
85 percent of Northwest Florida State College students remain in the local Okaloosa and
Walton County community upon exiting NWFSC.
The Florida College System Annual Impact on Florida’s Economy http://www.fldoe.org/fcs/
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Take notice that the Walton County Board of County Commissioners will hold a closed attor-
ney-client EXECUTIVE SESSION on April 9, 2013, at their Special Meeting beginning at 3:00
PM, or as soon as possible to that time, at the Walton County Courthouse Annex located at 31
Coastal Centre Blvd., Santa Rosa Beach, FL. to discuss the following cases:
Case No. 2012-CA-744 Avalon Dunes Condominium Owners Association, Inc. vs. Walton
County Board of Commissioners.
The Board of County Commissioners, William “Bill” Chapman, Kenneth Pridgen, Bill Imfeld,
Sara Comander, and Cindy Meadows; Bob Halfhill, County Administrator; Mark D. Davis, In-
terim County Attorney; and Tim Warner and Bill Warner, Special Counsel for the County will
attend this meeting and it will be recorded by Sharon Payne, a certified court reporter,.
Any person who decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter considered at a
meeting of the Board will need a record of the proceedings, and for such purpose, may need to
ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence
upon which an appeal may be based.
DFS Council Meeting As reported by WZEP AM1460
The cops need new cars. DeFuniak Springs Police Chief Mark Weeks said
they have budgeted for new cars to replace cars from 2007. Weeks said the
Council approved budgeting three new cars, but not the purchase. He told
the Council they want to begin rotating older cars out instead of replacing
a large amount at once. The cars cost around $33,000. Weeks said they
need to start now with the rotation process, or some will not last long
enough. With some cars around 6 years old, others will be around 10 years
when swapped out.
Council member Ron Kelley asked about compressed natural gas. The
closest certified CNG installer is in Louisiana. Weeks suggested the city’s
mechanics become certified for the time they do have the CNG filling sta-
tion. Council member Kermit Wright said he is for the request, but with
the savings over a 5-7 year period when using CNG instead of gasoline,
they might want to wait as the city gets closer to a CNG filling station.
Wright asked about buying local. Weeks said they have asked Triangle in
the past, but they were not able to match the state contract price. He also
said they were going with a Dodge since it was several thousand dollars
cheaper. Ford no longer makes the Crown Victoria. Attorney Clayton Ad-
kinson said the dealers on the state contract price have a pre negotiated
price that does not have to go to bid. If they use Triangle, then the cars
will have to go to bid knowing they would have to meet or do better than
the state contract price. Weeks said he would not mind another model or
brand, they only require a rear wheel car, something that is getting harder
to find. As far as CNG, Weeks said the only ones you can buy straight
from the factory would not meet specifications. That means the vehicles
would have to be retrofitted. City Manager Sara Bowers said they are at
least a year away from a CNG filling station. Attorney Adkinson said the
chief could talk to Triangle to see if they have a model that can beat the
price. The matter was tabled and will be brought back.
Assistant City Manager Bill Holloway followed up on the gravity feed for
the businesses on the west end of town. The bad news is the grad is basi-
cally flat. This means no gravity feed. This means a lift station. The busi-
nesses have a lift station, but they paid for it and continue to pay for it with
maintenance and repair. They are not the only businesses that have a pri-
vate lift station. Council member Wright noted taking on paying for pri-
vate lift stations would cost the city. They asked what could be done. Hol-
loway said they are working to help with the grease from the restaurant to
The Fools Rush In 5k Run/Walk is coming up on Satur-day, April 13th at 9 am at the Freeport Regional Sports Complex at Hammock Bay. The race is hosted by Free-port Middle School and pro-ceeds will benefit Relay for Life. Visit www.facebook.com/FRIFMS for details and registration or contact Kimberly Miller at
Page 12 The EMERALD STAR NEWS Inc. Thursday, March 21, 2013
Ph: 850-835-4153 www.freeportwaterfront.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PHOTOS - TEXT PROPERTY ID# TO 85377
WATERVIEW COVE - ID# T739502 4BR/2.5BA w/lots of curb appeal. Master BR on ground floor. Side load garage. Separate 30’x30’ shop/carport. $249,900
SWEET DEAL! - ID# T902669 3BR/1.5BA, 1,150 sq. ft. brick home near Four Mile Creek. Split floorplan. Two out-buildings. Adjoining lot available. $106,900
ACREAGE-HOME-SHOP - ID# T88495 1.79 acres w/brick 3BR/2BA, 1,800 SF on corner. BONUS 30’ x 60’ metal workshop!! Short Sale, As-Is. NEW PRICE $169,500
MOVE IN READY! - ID# T606002 3BR/2BA, 1,216 SF on 1+ acre in DFS area. Oversized kitchen. Carport, fenced backyard, above ground pool w/deck. $74,900
POTENTIAL-TAKE A LOOK! ID#T908217 Older 3BR/1BA Florida cottage w/wood floors. Residential/investment/commercial. Needs TLC, can be a gem! CW&S. $63,500
MALLET BAYOU - ID# T88494 Move in ready 3BR/2BA, 1,514 SF split BR plan. His/hers closets. Dock w/pwr & water, fenced yard. Sold As-Is. $224,500
LAKEFRONT IN DEFUNIAK SPRINGS! ID# T863921 Like brand new! Custom brick 3BR/2BA, 1,593 sq. ft. home w/private dock on Lake Opal. Split BR plan. S/S appliances. Tile floors throughout. MBR overlooks lake & covered porch. Large laundry room. Oversized garage w/opener. Must see! $189,900
THE FLORIDA
GOOD LIFE
Waterfront 3BR/2.5BA, 1,836 SF cottage on LaGrange Bayou. 1st floor Master BR. Open kitchen w/ granite countertops.
Double garage. Dock on LaGrange Bayou with bench seat for dolphin watching. ID# T305914 NOW $356,900
MULTIPLE LOTS AVAILABLE! Magnolia Baye S/D in Black Creek! 0.31 ac wooded lot w/minimal restrictions. CW available. Close to boat launch. $24,900