The Florida Black Bear Receives a New Home

By

-

December 11, 2021

Northwest Florida boasts the second largest bear population in the state. But, due to a high level of development in the region, the black bear population is being pushed out of their homes at alarming rates, which increases bear sightings and injuries to bears.

Alaqua Animal Refuge wanted to help solve the challenge. When local philanthropists Raven and Ryan Jumonville learned of Alaqua’s plans, they wanted to know how they could get involved. And they did with a special gift to Alaqua Animal Refuge to build a bear sanctuary.
Their gift, a 2008 Cruisers Yachts 460 Express yacht, will be sold with proceeds going towards building a portion of a new sanctuary to house unreleasable Florida Black Bears and educate the public about their plight.

The bear sanctuary will be located at Alaqua’s new 100-acre home in Freeport and will include educational aspects that will teach our community and others how to live with them safely. “When wild animals are rehabilitated and deemed unreleasable by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), their fate is often euthanasia. There are not enough sanctuaries to help all of the animals in need, especially for larger native species like bears,” says Alaqua Founder Laurie Hood. “We want to be able to give these animals a place to live out their lives and become ambassadors for their species.”

“The more our community and visitors know about them, the safer it will be for humans and bears alike,” iterates Hood. “It was a dream come true to receive such a generous gift earmarked for a project that will be one of the first of its kind in the state. We look forward to teaching our community what a treasure these animals are and help some of the ones in need at the same time.”

Alaqua Wildlife Director Shelby Proie adds, “As our native fauna continue to get displaced and in turn have more unavoidable interactions with humans, we are grateful to have the space to facilitate such a large project for this charismatic megafauna. Black bears are such an integral part of North Florida’s ecosystem and not only do we want to offer them a second chance of life through developing a wildlife rehabilitation center that meets their needs, but we will be able to go beyond that and have a space where they can live out their lives in an expansive natural environment if they are deemed non-releasable.

The Jumonville family has been loyal donors to Alaqua for a number of years, gifting one million dollars towards the Refuge’s capital campaign to help build the new Welcome Center and Adoption Building at its new facility. The donation of the yacht to help with the bear sanctuary was the idea of their daughter, Jayden. “I like animals more than I like boats,” said Jayden.

Galati Yachts in Destin is assisting with the sale of the vessel, and they are also including monthly dockage and electric at their facility. For a private showing and additional information, call Galati Yachts at 850-998-3011.

Off the Hook: Winter Flounder Fishing

By

Bay Life

-

December 11, 2021

By Cali Hvlac

As colder temps roll in, we are starting to notice different species of fish migrate into our Gulf waters – specifically Flounder and Sheepshead. The cooler weather means the fish will school up in one area, making them easier to catch once you track them down.

Flounder and Sheepshead are two popular winter/spring fish that anglers will be targeting in this area. Flounder will start to school up in October as they prepare to migrate during winter with the cooler water, usually heading out into the nearshore gulf areas. The move allows them to settle on natural and artificial reefs to spawn at this time.

Because of their shape, flounder are typically always found on the bottom, where they can burrow into sand to await prey. They hang within 200 yards off the beach, typically at depths of 20 to 60 feet. Common flounder species in the Gulf of Mexico are the gulf flounder and the southern flounder, and odds are the latter will be a much larger fish – with the female southern flounder maxing out around 28 inches. One of the best things about targeting Flounder is that they like to come back for your bait if they miss it the first time, so just hold out and wait on them!

Sheepshead actually become more active with the colder water and are usually found hanging near structures like jetties and bridges, where oysters and barnacles grow. Sheepshead can be a little trickier to catch, as they like to steal your bait and leave the hook exposed. It’s a really subtle bite you’re looking for and once you hook them, you’re in for a fight.

Both these fish are abundant, so the season is open year-round for these species. The limit per angler is 10 flounder per day, and 15 sheepshead per day. Many anglers will tell you they love catching these fish and bringing them home for dinner. Both species are considered prime seafood, with a delicious white meat that’s never oily or “fishy” in taste. Before it gets too cold, we recommend getting out and hitting the waters to stock up while they’re easy to find!

Manatees are in Motion!

By

Bay Life

-

December 11, 2021

This is the time of year for migrating manatees! So, slow down and look out for them. As water temperatures cool, manatees naturally migrate to warmer waters, generally warmer than 68 degrees to survive the winter. So, in the fall they travel to Florida springs, power plant discharges and other warm-water sites.

Manatees can be difficult to see, especially when you travel in a boat on the water. You may see a swirl on the surface caused by the manatee when it dives; see an animal’s back, snout, tail or flipper break the surface of the water; or you may only hear the manatee when it surfaces to breathe. In all of these instances, keeping your distance and passive observation are the best ways to view manatees. Boat slow and look out below to allow them to swim safely.

While manatees are large, they can be difficult to see in the water. The West Indian manatee is an imperiled species and is protected by state and federal law. Please avoid harassing or disturbing manatees whenever you discover that manatees are in the water near you. Harassment is defined as any activity that alters the animal’s natural behavior. By altering the manatee’s natural behavior, you may create the likelihood of danger that is bad for the animal and against the law.

That’s why it is important to follow guidelines and follow all manatee protection zones; look out while boating; wear polarized glasses and always give them space. Manatee protection zones are marked by waterway signs and maps of manatee protection zones are available online at MyFWC.com/Manatee by clicking on “Data and Maps.” Disturbing manatees at warm-water sites can cause them to swim out of those protected areas and into potentially life-threatening cold water.

During the colder months, Slow down in certain areas to prevent manatees from being injured or killed by motorboats or personal watercrafts. Boat strikes continue to be a major threat to Florida manatees.

Being Near Manatees
Look, but don’t touch manatees. Also, don’t feed manatees or give them water. If manatees become accustomed to being around people, they can alter their behavior in the wild, perhaps causing them to lose their natural fear of boats and humans, which can make them more susceptible to harm.

Do not pursue or chase a manatee if you see one while you are swimming, snorkeling, diving, paddling or operating a boat.

Never poke, prod or stab a manatee with your hands, feet or any object.

If a manatee avoids you, do not chase the animal for a closer view.

Give manatees space to move. Avoid isolating or singling out an individual manatee from its group and do not separate a cow and her calf.

Keep hands and objects to yourself. Don’t attempt to snag, hook, hold, grab, pinch, hit or ride a manatee.

Avoid excessive noise and splashing if a manatee appears nearby. The manatee may be resting and may surface without being aware of your presence. Noise and activity may startle the animal awake, which may put it in harm’s way if it is frightened and leaves the area.

If the site you visit allows in-water activities near manatees, use snorkel gear and float at the surface of the water to passively observe manatees. The sound of bubbles from SCUBA gear or other devices may cause manatees to leave the area.

Physically handling a distressed or stranded manatee might cause more harm. Instead, report injured, distressed, sick or dead manatees to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or dialing #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone so trained responders can assist.

Additional resources for boaters, educators and other interested members of the public are available at MyFWC.com/Manatee.

Are you interested in supporting the FWC’s manatee research, rescue and management efforts? You can purchase a Florida manatee license plate, or donate $5 to receive a collectable FWC manatee decal. Both are available from your local Tax Collector’s office.

Catch A Florida Memory Celebrates 5-Year “Catch-Iversary” With Program Milestone

By

Bay Life

-

December 11, 2021

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Saltwater Angler Recognition program, Catch a Florida Memory, celebrated it’s five-year anniversary by achieving more than 20,000 approved angler catches, many from our local area. The program that launched in October of 2016 has seen tremendous growth over the years with participants submitting catches for a wide range of accomplishments in the Reel Big Fish, Grand Slam and Saltwater Life List recognition programs. Both participating anglers and partners including Mount This! Fish Company have played a crucial role in the success the program has experienced.

“We’re thrilled to see how anglers have embraced the Catch a Florida Memory program over the years,” says FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management Director Jessica McCawley. “With over 20,000 approved catches, program participants are diversifying the species that they are targeting and learning more about Florida’s marine fisheries while making memories they will surely cherish for years to come.”

“From the great prizes provided by our partners to creating opportunities for bragging rights, Catch a Florida Memory has something to offer every saltwater angler in the Fishing and Boating Capital of the World,” says FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “I’m so proud and thankful for the anglers, partners and staff who have made this program a success.”

Catch a Florida Memory’s Saltwater Angler Recognition program rewards anglers for their fishing efforts while encouraging them to target a diversity of species. Anglers do not have to harvest their fish to be eligible for prizes and are encouraged to use proper fish handling techniques.

New to Catch a Florida Memory? Learn more and submit catches at CatchaFloridaMemory.com. Check out the latest catches and see your achievements highlighted by following the Catch a Florida Memory Facebook page, Facebook.com/CatchaFLMemory. View angler catches and much more on Instagram and Twitter by following @MyFWC.

Catch a Florida Memory thanks its anglers for their participation in its program.
Your purchase of fishing equipment, motorboat fuel and a fishing license supports aquatic education and outreach efforts. Learn more at MyFWC.com/SFR.

FWC to Host Florida State Fish Art Contest

By

Bay Life

-

December 11, 2021

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in partnership with Wildlife Forever, will host the Florida State Fish Art Contest again this year. Students in kindergarten through 12th grade can compete in this free contest for a chance to win state and national honors and prizes. This program inspires creativity while developing the next generation of anglers and conservationists.

Florida winners will be selected by the FWC in four grade categories, kindergarten through 3rd grade, 4th through 6th grade, 7th through 9th grade and 10th through 12th grade. State winners will advance to the National Competition to be judged for top prizes including Best of Show. The deadline to enter is March 31, 2022. So, start designing today!

“We are committed to increasing youth participation in freshwater and saltwater fishing through this effort,” said Eric Sutton, Executive Director of the FWC. “The State Fish Art program is a unique and creative way to connect to youth anglers and the FWC is proud to be sponsoring the initiative for Florida.”

To enter, students from Florida should submit their entry at Wildlife Forever – Florida Art, www.wildlifeforever.org, consisting of the following:

• An original horizontal 9”x12” piece of artwork featuring any fish from the Official Fish List.
• A piece of creative writing, no longer than one page, about the chosen species (required for grades 4-12).
• A Florida State Fish Art Contest entry form.

Weigh Down To Christmas—Avoid The Holiday Halo

By

Bay Life

-

December 10, 2021

By Lisa Leath Turpin

Happy Holidays! Yes, the holidays are upon us. I challenge you to “Weigh Down to Christmas!” This is where you aim to avoid gaining the dreaded “Holiday Halo”—forcing yourself into the never-ending start of “The New Year Resolution.” You weigh yourself only twice, just before Thanksgiving, then again right after Christmas holiday. The goal isn’t to lose weight, but just not to gain any. Here is a list of tips to keep you in control but still allow you to partake and enjoy yourself; yielding a good healthy balance of fun, family time, giving/receiving cheer and still feeling good along the way. Feel free to share your success at BeActive850@gmail.com.

10. Drink!
Water that is…When you are about to attend a gathering where massive amounts of finger foods and holiday treats will be served, drink a few big glasses of water prior to arriving. This will help stall your hunger and cut down on the cravings when you step up to the beautiful display of goodies.

9. Eat!
Don’t go unsatisfied. Eat a protein rich food before a party or event. Protein digests slowly and will keep you satiated, help with blood sugar, and also help with making better choices.

8. Have Everything!
Try the several varieties of dips and casseroles, but make sure each portion is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. This concept goes a long way any day of the year.

7. Follow the Leader
Start with the veggies, then move to the protein, then to the starches: breads, puddings and sweets.

Ideally, filling up on meats and veggies will limit simple carb intake, and limiting carb intake will ideally keep you from the yearning to sleep in the middle of gift opening.

6. Cheers to You!
Eating big and getting toasted don’t mix if you are trying to keep your figure. If you want to stay lean this year, you have to choose between that one and that one too many. A good rule of thumb is stop drinking alcohol an hour before you eat and wait an hour before drinking again. Another great idea for any day of the year as it can really help in keeping your waistline chiseled.

5: Leave it!
If you don’t have it, you can’t eat it. Leftovers can really sabotage your efforts and can really be the culprit of Holiday weight gain. Because we all know it’s not just one day that does the damage! Leave the sweets there!

4: If You’re Achy, Fishy Takey
Take more fish oil by spoon or capsule. By bumping Omega-3 consumption, you can help keep your body from becoming inflamed from processed foods, and keep your Omega 3/6/9 ratios in check. This results in increased fat burning.

3: Keep it Fresh!
Brush your teeth after a meal. Brushing the teeth is a sign of finality, and will keep you from snacking more.

2: Be a Rule Breaker!
Just because we serve it up BIG or “Super-Sized” in the south doesn’t mean you have to play by the rules. Enlist one person to split food with you or, you know, take half a portion.

And TOP TIP #1: Pre Burn.
Exercise on the day of any party or food based gathering. The more intense the better, but anything is beneficial! Getting an intense full body workout will ensure that the calories you eat later will most likely go toward fueling the muscles, and not just building the gut.

Can’t make it to a gym? Your home or park will do. Get your family to join. A family that plays together, stays together! Make it fun, even a good brisk low impact walk will raise metabolism as well as endorphins to make you feel good, and should I say JUSTIFY a little overeating when tempted.

Don’t have a workout program? Try this holiday fat burning, muscle building treat—a gift from me to you.

Arrangement: I’m arranging exercises in blocks. Each block should be completed twice before moving on to the next block. Do 15 repetitions per exercise.
*Warm up with a 5-minute walk.

Block 1
Stationary Lunges (split lunges)
Plank with alternating row (in plank, pull one arm back like you are pulling a lawn mower cord from the floor then alternate to other side)
Push-up to Downward Dog (alternate from single pushup to piking your hips up making a teepee shape with your body then back to pushup)
Side Elbow Plank

Block 2
Wide Squats – see if you can reach the floor with back straight & chest and head up (you can bend over from hips only and as little as possible. heels planted knees direction of toes)
Grocery Biceps (fill a grocery bag to desired weight with cans or rocks, or whatever)
Tricep Dips
Grocery Shoulders (fill grocery bags and press overhead or straight out to sides)

Block 3
Bridge Dips (on back, feet on floor, knees bent, push hips up toward ceiling then back to floor)
Seated Side Twists (Russian Twists) lean back to engage abs
Anchored Leg Lifts or Knee Arcs (on floor, stabilize by grabbing something overhead with hands and raise and lower either straight legs or bent legs)

NOTE: To raise intensity, add Jumping Jacks, Jump Rope, Running in place or any cardio movement of choice for 1-3 minutes in-between each block. I suggest this only if you have already been doing this form of exercise and you have no underlying reasons not to. Remember: Be Active Stay Active 850!

FUN HOLIDAY FACT: The average person can burn an estimated 75-100 calories per 30 minutes SHOPPING! Add a shopping cart and move more briskly and that number can be higher!! Go get ’em!

Seasons of Stress

By

Bay Life

-

December 10, 2021

By Kay Leaman, Health Architect, HealthyDay HealthyLife

Welcome to the holidays! Whether you’re traveling, preparing for company, being separated from family or experiencing heartache during this season, one thing we all have in common is the stress the demands of this season create. Lists and credit card statements grow and family dynamics become future memories.

Short-term stress can be very beneficial. It’s true. A certain level of stress can be healthy and given the fact we can’t escape stress, this is good news. Stress triggers hormone responses by releasing cortisol and adrenaline, produced in the adrenal glands. Optimal levels of the hormones can make us feel alive and activate better performance and focus. However, the World Health Organization has called stress the ‘epidemic of the 21st century.’ Research shows that ignored or mismanaged stress can lead to serious issues.

I’ve experienced the effects of long-term (ignored and mismanaged) stress. My body refused to release fat, I had low adrenals (bordering on adrenal failure), low thyroid function, and a compromised immune system. Through this journey, I’ve learned how to recognize ongoing stress and how to manage it. This has not been a short journey, but it has brought a very clear realization to the importance of self-care. If I fail to take care of myself, I will be unable to care for those around me or enjoy the life I have yet to live. And, since I now care for my mom, it becomes all the more important.

Problems both physically and psychologically can arise when we are unable to return to a state of calm. Elevated levels of cortisol suppress our immune system by reducing production of white blood cells which slows/delays our response to infection.

Effects of long term stress:
• Can influence a rise in insulin levels causing lower blood sugar which triggers cravings
• Stimulates appetite causing weight gain
• Affects our gut and immune system
• Long term stress can affect our adrenal system

How we can manage stress:
– Take a break! Feelings of overwhelm is a signal of stress. Take a break, call a friend, go for a short walk, etc.
– Listen to calm music (can lower blood pressure). Research shows classical can work wonders. I prefer smooth jazz or instrumental music.
– Put away electronics at least two hours before going to sleep. A good night’s sleep has many benefits.
– Exercise such as walking, yoga, or recreational sports. How about dancing?
– Clear your mind. Let your stressful feelings spill out of your mouth so it doesn’t build up. No-one to talk to? Let it spill out on a piece of paper and then burn it!
– Eat less candy and more veggies. Eating well supports a healthy immune system, stabilizes energy levels and helps with a better overall demeanor. Approximately 95% of receptors for serotonin (a chemical tied to happiness) are found in the lining of our gut.
– Cut back on caffeine and increase water intake
– LAUGH and SMILE!
– Chewing gum has shown it can reduce anxious feelings, fatigue and improve mood (Not a gum chewer? Suck on a piece of hard candy.).
– Breathe. 4-5 long deep (belly) breaths can stop cortisol output.

Lastly, think about preparing ahead of time. Creating lists and choosing to not procrastinate can help to make the actual holiday calmer and happier. The last thing I recommend is to start a gratitude journal or a positive journal. Write a positive statement about what you like best about family members, the holidays, gifts, and how it feels to give to others.

Blessings to each of you this holiday season. Kay Leaman, HealthyDay HealthyLife succeed@healthydayhealthylife.com.

Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Has a New CEO

By

Bay Life

-

December 10, 2021

HCA Healthcare has appointed Zach McCluskey as its new Chief Executive Officer of Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, effective December 6. In his new role, Zach will oversee the growing 267-bed hospital which has served the Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa counties for more than 45 years.

Zach assumes leadership from Mitch Mongell, a 25-year veteran of HCA Healthcare, after Mitch announced his retirement earlier in the year. A native of Richmond, Va., Zach has more than 15 years of healthcare leadership experience within the HCA Healthcare system, following a career in critical care nursing. He most recently served as Chief Executive Officer of HCA Healthcare’s Johnston-Willis Hospital, a 292-bed facility and campus of CJW Medical Center in Richmond.

Where Did that Drive Go?

By

Bay Life

-

December 10, 2021

By Dr. Richard Chern, M.D.

One of the most bothersome symptoms women mention at their initial visit is a loss of sex drive. A decline in sex drive is very typical for women as they age. This decline is directly related to the decline of testosterone. Testosterone levels in women begin declining in the 30’s, but it’s often subtle until menopause when things can worsen drastically. As women’s testosterone declines, numerous changes occur in the body. Sex drive, mood, the ability to deal with stress, maintaining a steady weight and getting restful sleep all quickly deteriorate. In addition, numerous health indicators including cholesterol, sugar levels, blood pressure, bone density, cancer risk, heart issues and more all worsen with this decline in testosterone in women.

Unfortunately, most doctors do not even look at testosterone levels in women. Worse, when they do, they are unable to interpret the results properly. Women see benefits at levels greater than 100 ng/dL, but the reference range for most labs will tell you that “normal” is below 45ng/dL. This “normal” reference range is really showing levels that have already fallen. So, most levels appear to be in the “normal range” when they are actually severely low. If your doctor has never drawn a testosterone level in women before, are you going to trust their judgment of the results of that test?

Don’t be fooled. For most doctors, normal means, “Does the patient’s lab value fall inside the reference range?” and does not mean, “Does the patient’s lab value give them the most protection against disease and functional decline?”

Another great example of this is vitamin D. A level of 30ng/mL is considered “normal” and many doctors would tell you a level of 30ng/mL is fine. Well, a level of 30ng/mL is associated with a huge increased risk of cancer including breast cancer and is also associated with an increased risk of death from COVID infections. A level of 70ng/mL reduces the risk of cancer and reduces the risk of death from COVID. Are you going to be content when your doctor tells you your labs are normal?

Many times, patients tell me they’ve complained to their doctor, but always hear that their labs look fine and that this is just part of the aging process. Enjoy the aging you. You are not going to hear that from us! I bet you don’t even realize how bad you are feeling. Come find out what you’ve been missing and get your drive back!

Dr. Richard Chern, MD specializes in hormone and thyroid therapy in both women and men. He also teaches other providers both locally and around the country how to properly assess and treat hormone and thyroid problems. He has been providing BioTE hormone therapy longer than any other doctor in the region and is the only Platinum provider in the area. Dr. Richard Chern, MD, along with Sue Griffith, ARNP, are currently accepting new patients. Labs drawn in the office are typically resulted in 24 hours so often your consultation can be scheduled the same or following week. Call 850-837-1271 today for an appointment.

Bay Biz

By

Bay Life

-

November 25, 2021

Okaloosa Gas District presents the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce annual Sequins & Suits Auction event at The Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College, Thursday, Dec. 2, 6:30- 9:30 p.m. The event will feature silent and live auctions, delectable small plates, a fun wine pull, cash bar and more! Register online or call for tickets at (850) 678-2323.

It’s almost time for Walton Area Chamber of Commerce’s Next BIG Thing, Thurs., Dec. 9 at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. The event will showcase dynamic speakers, addressing topics beneficial to empowering women professionally and personally, emerging and existing entrepreneurs and leadership development. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear two national keynote speakers and attend four TED Talk-style breakout sessions. Visit business.waltonareachamber.com to register.

Put on your Jingle and come Mingle at FPRA’s Mingle & Jingle Holiday Mixer on Thursday Dec. 16 at Sunset Bay Cafe from 6-9 p.m. sponsored by Okaloosa Gas. Music, Heavy Hors D’oeuvres, Champagne Toast, Cash Bar, Silent Auction and more await you. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/…/mingle-jingle-holiday…

Purple Square Management, a Tampa-based management company that operates over 205 franchise locations in nine states – including 95 Dunkin’/Baskin Robbins stores throughout Florida and Alabama – has selected Okaloosa County for a new, state-of-the-art commercial bakery and distribution facility. The 24,500 SF facility will be developed on a four-acre parcel located within the Okaloosa Industrial Air Park – land that was previously certified as “shovel ready” through Gulf Power’s Florida First Sites program.
In October, Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club proudly unveiled its beautiful, new course and club upgrades following a multi-million-dollar renovation. Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club is the only member-owned golf course and private beach club on the coast – located on scenic Hwy. 30A in Santa Rosa Beach.

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY