WZEP AM 1460 Community Calendar
Information, Meetings, Services, Happenings, Volunteer Opportunities and Events in our Community. These are undated events, for more events please choose the month wanted or church news
If you would like your announcements made on the air, go to the Community Calendar Submission form or fax us at 850-892-9675 or mail to PO Box 627, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435 or just bring them by the station at the end of North 12th Street in DeFuniak Springs.
Walton County School District Calendar Page with links to schools
DeFuniak Springs Freeport Paxton
Okaloosa County Schools Calendar Holmes County Schools
Okaloosa County Holmes County Washington County
The WZEP AM 1460 Community Calendar Regular, Church and Government Events
There is a new number for the Animal Control Center, 892-8682.
Categories are listed alphabetically: Animal Groups/Programs; Assistance Programs; Clubs, Groups & Teams (includes their meeting times if given); Community Participation Events; Community Programs; Donation Opportunities & Charity Funds; For Sale: Items & Services; Government & County Information; Health & Medical; Help Programs; Information Programs; Meetings; Miscellaneous; Seniors; Services; Support Groups; Veteran Services; Volunteer Opportunities (Items are listed alphabetically under categories)
HELP OUR SOLDIERS OVERSEAS
ANIMAL GROUPS/PROGRAMS
CARE Spay and Neuter Assistance Program - designed to reduce the ever-growing population of unwanted and unloved animals in the county. CARE will pay a fixed amount toward the cost of the procedure if pre-approved by the organization. Pet owners must reside in Walton County to be eligible. CARE may be contacted by email at CARE@dfsi.net.
Canine Rescue and Rehabilitation - offers information online at their new website, www.canine-rescue.com. There you can see the dogs and puppies they have available for adoption. You can also download an application for adoption, enjoy the photos of their Alumni page and read all about Canine Rescue and Rehabilitation. Their Alumni page contains information about dogs that have already been adopted and where they are now. Canine Rescue and Rehabilitation is a non-profit organization that rescues dogs in need. After the animals are taken in, they are spayed or neutered and given their vaccinations. Adoption of these animals cost about $75 or more if the animal required extra medical care. A three-member board reviews applications for adoption. If anyone has a website and would like to do a link exchange with Canine Rescue and Rehabilitation, they can contact Vickie at rustysfavorites@prodigy.net or call 267-2032.
Walton County Animal Control - Looking for a lost dog or cat or a new furry friend? Visit www.co.walton.fo.us. At the top of the page, click on Divisions, scroll to Emergency Response, and select Animal Control. This will take you to the main page for Walton County Animal Control. Click DOGS or CATS to view the animals and lost pets currently being held at the Chipley facility. Animals not claimed or adopted within seven days are euthanized. To adopt an animal featured on the Web site contact Animal Control of West Florida (850) 638-3598. To claim you lost pet contact Walton County Animal Control (850) 892-8682.
ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Chautauqua Head Start - accepting applications for three and four year olds, who are born on or before September 1st. Their phone number is 892-6144, and please ask for Ms. Kelley.
DeFuniak Springs Department of Children and Families Food Stamp, Medicaid, and Cash Assistance offices moved to the Ft. Walton Beach Service Center, 340 Beal Parkway NW, Ft. Walton Beach, FL, 32548. Applications for these benefits are being taken at 340 Beal Parkway NW, Ft. Walton Beach, FL, 32548. Please call 1-866-762-2237 if you have questions about filing an application, or you can visit the website at http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/ess/ for a web application. All others please call the Customer Service Number toll free at 1-866-762-2237 for information about your case.
Free Tutoring in Math & Reading - parents, your child may be eligible for $1,192 dollars worth of tutoring through Supplemental Educational Services or SES. You may qualify if you are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch and attends a public Title I school that the state says is "in need of improvement" for 3 years or more (Maude Saunders, West DeFuniak & Walton Academy). Trained instructors will work with your child and you can choose a tutoring provider that meets your child's needs. to find out if your child qualifies, call the Walton County School District, 892-1154.
Tri-County Community Council - Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Applications are being accepted. The LIHEAP program has three categories of assistance: home energy, crisis, and weather related or supply shortage crisis assistance. An application, proof of income and a copy of the electric or gas bill or receipt of energy payment must be submitted in order to receive assistance. Applications are available at the following locations: Tri-County Community Council, Health and Rehabilitative Services, Health Department, Council on Aging, Food Stamp Office, COPE Center, South Walton Public Health Unit, Extension Service, Gulf Power, CHELCO in DeFuniak Springs and Freeport, Ameri-Gas, Community Gas, Dawdle Gas in DeFuniak Springs & Freeport, Town Hall and Post Offices in Paxton, Mossy Head, Freeport and DeFuniak Springs. For information, contact Bertha Hood, 892-3615.
Better Breathers Club - meet 3rd Tuesday, 2:00-3:00pm, American HomePatient, 913 Beal Pkwy, Ft. Walton Beach. For those living with lung disease. Free, refreshments and speakers. For information, Patty Ballantine, pballantine@lung-fla.org, (800) LUNG USA, (850) 478-5864.
Boy Scouts to Home school community - Boy Scout Troop 25 and Cub Scout Pack 25 has sent fliers home with students at the local schools for those youth and parents interested in scouting. If you, or your young man, are interested in information about the Scouting program, please feel free to visit the Troop 25 web site at http://bsatroop25.clubspaces.com/ or contact us at: David O'Brien, Scoutmaster BSA Troop 25, 859-0236, bsatroop25@embarqmail.com or mailto:bsatroop25@embarqmail.com OR Melissa O'Brien, Committee Chair Person, BSA Pack & Troop 25, 859-0236, bsapack25@embarqmail.com or mailto:bsapack25@embarqmail.com.
Chautauqua Cruisers - seeking any individuals who have an interest in automobiles as well as actively helping their community. Meeting are held monthly and extra activities are now in the works. Membership dues are only $5/year. You do not need to own an antique or classic car, but just have an enthusiasm for them. For more information about membership call Rickie at 859-2187 or Patsy at 892-9112.
Chautauqua Cyber Club - 3rd Thursday, 10:00am, OWC Chautauqua Center. For more information, J.B. Hillard 892-3450 or cell 974-2620.
Chautauqua Porcelain Artists - 2nd Thursday, 9:00am, September through June, in the Fellowship Hall of the First Baptist Church in DeFuniak. All porcelain painters, as well as those who would like to learn porcelain painting, are invited to attend.
Chautauqua Quilters - Meet every 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 9:00am at the First United Methodist Church of DeFuniak Springs, 88 Circle Drive.
Cheernastics Classes - 9:00-11:30am. Held every Saturday at Freeport High School. Registration is held year-round. For more information, contact Gina Wood 892-9164 or Andy Watkins 892-8703.
Chess club - meets at the Library in DeFuniak Springs on Thursdays. The club is open to al ages and all levels of chess skills. The club meets at the library on Circle Drive and enters through the back door. Contact Dan Owens at the library for more information. 892-3624.
DeFuniak Springs Dance Association - 6:30-8:00pm, classes - 8:00-9:00pm, dancing. New dance classes every Monday, DeFuniak Springs Community Center, (361N. Tenth Street). The club has two Instructors at the present time, Pat Pollard and Rodney Ryals who are BMI and ASCP Licensed. One of the Class instructors has completed the Rock Mountain Square Dance Caller’s School for Square Dance Calling and is looking at starting a group that wants to learn: Old Time Square Dancing, Modern Square Dancing, and Couples Western Dancing all at the same time. You will have to have a partner for these classes. The club will keep a list of single people wanting to do the above dances. For more information contact the club Caller Rodney Ryals at 850-892-2526(H), 850-892-8284(W) or e-mail: opvnkv-rakko@gdsys.net.
F.A.I.T.H. Riders Bike Night - 6pm each Monday. A ministry of Mossy Head First Baptist Church. Charles 892-3525.
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION EVENTS
Bluegrass or Gospel Bluegrass players - 1:30pm. Come to the Opinion Place gazebo on Baldwin Avenue in DeFuniak Springs, Sunday afternoons. Call John Courtney at 892-3089.
DeFuniak Springs Caboose - Do you know information about the caboose in DeFuniak Springs? The Walton County Museum located in the Train Depot in Downtown DeFuniak Springs is looking for an individual with knowledge of the caboose located near the Train Depot here in town. The museum would like to know how the various places and items in the caboose were used. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Paul, 585-3917 or stop by the museum and leave your name and number.
Second Saturday Show &
Tell - monthly program at the
Walton
Walton County Heritage Book - a book of 425 family and 220 general interest stories submitted by residents, has gone to print and is available for purchase. You may purchase a Walton County Heritage Book at: The Book Store, Bass Barber Shop, or Heritage Publishing at http://heritagepublishing.net/. Additional copies are available for $64.20 each. For additional questions contact Dan Ownes, 892-4232 or Jo Nagel 729-0468. While stories for the Heritage Book are no longer being accepted, Dan Ownes with the Walton County Library is accepting stories for preservation or future works.
WHS Brick Sale - Walton High School is selling commemorative bricks to be placed in front of the new Walton High School, around the flag pole. The price is $40 per brick and you may place 3 lines of 19 characters per line. Honor alumni, a graduate, current student or in memory of a loved one.
Yard Sale, Florala, AL - 8:00am-noon. Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce sponsors a monthly yard sale on the Florala City sidewalks. No fees, just clean up your area.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
Walton County Heritage Museum - Projects in Progress: Depot Walkway – Museum Board members Beverly Naylor and Paul Baur created the Depot Walkway, which allows you to honor your family and friends for years to come with the placement of their names on stepping stones. Each stone is 12-inches square and may be engraved with up to 4 lines of 12 letters each for a $100 donation to the Museum. Walton County, 1885-1945 - We are working on a book depicting the history of Walton County in photographs from the earliest photograph in the Museum’s collection, dated 1885, until the end of World War II. We very much need photographs showing the people, places, and events of Walton County in that era. All contributors will be given credits for their photographs. We will make digital scans of the photographs so you do not have to let them out of your possession. We can come to your home or office with a laptop and scanner, or you can bring the photographs to the Museum for scanning. Walton County Cooking - We are also working on a cookbook as a companion to the photographs book. We very much need old recipes that were used in Walton County. All contributors will be given credits for their recipes. If you have not visited the Museum recently, it is open Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 until 4:00 and on Saturday from 1:00 until 4:00, and they are always pleased to accommodate tour groups at other times.
Walton County Heritage Museum - Do you know information about the caboose in DeFuniak Springs? The Walton County Museum located in the Train Depot in Downtown DeFuniak Springs is looking for an individual with knowledge of the caboose located near the Train Depot here in town. The museum would like to know how the various places and items in the caboose were used. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Paul, 585-3917 or stop by the museum and leave your name and number.
DONATION OPPORTUNITIES & CHARITY FUNDS
CARE - soliciting sponsors for the KIND Program (Kids In Natures Defense) a monthly publication, published by the Humane Society of the United States, geared towards the child's grade level which, is used in the classrooms of Walton County Schools to teach children good stewardship of our earth, to be kind to each other and animals, about responsible pet ownership, the importance of spay/neuter programs in controlling the pet over population, the importance of inoculating animals against infectious disease and a host of other informative issues effecting our world. For $25.00 per year, you can sponsor a classroom of children in Walton County to receive this monthly publication. The 2004 -2005 academic school year had 35 individual sponsors for this fabulous learning guide and I would like to see that figure double for the 2005-2006 academic school year. If you are interested in sponsoring a classroom to receive this publication to help teach our children the importance of Spay/Neuter programs, how to help control the epidemic pet overpopulation problem and how to be responsible pet owners, please contact me at 892-9549 and I will put you in touch with members of CARE who are ready, willing and able to assist you in sponsoring a classroom. Or you can contact CARE directly at CARE@dfsi.net.
Canine Rescue and Rehabilitation - seeking donations: dog beds, new or in excellent condition, chew toys and chew bones for all size of dogs and puppies, baby gates, collars and leads, grooming supplies, medicated shampoo, treats, greenies, comforters, blankets, towels, bath mats, canned food, waterproof baby mattress pads, heartworm preventives (Heartgard, Revolution, Interceptor), flea control products (Frontline, K9-Advandtix, Capstar, Advantage), computer, HP 45 and 78 printer ink cartridges, sponsor a spay or neuter $125, sponsor vaccinations for a dog $25. Even though an item may not be listed at this time, it does not meant that other items are not needed. The items listed are for most needed items. Donations may be dropped off at Three Dog Framing, located in Santa Rosa Village or call 267-2032. Monetary 501(c)(3) donations can be sent directly to: Canine Rescue and Rehabilitation, PO Box 1312, Santa Rosa Beach, FL, 32459. For more information call 267-2032 or wags1@prodigy.net.
Children in Crisis - non-profit organization that will provide homes and hope for foster children of our community, needs your support to raise funding to continue construction of the Children's Neighborhood. Donations are always welcome. Please contact Children in Crisis at 850.651-1537.
Children’s Volunteer Health Network’s mission is to recognize children throughout the county which may need medical, dental or mental health attention. Referrals are made by teacher identification of classroom students. In order to generate additional funds to offset the cost of these medical services, Cartridge World Recycling Program of Santa Rosa Beach has joined CVHN to help raise money by remanufacturing used laser or inkjet empty cartridges. You can contribute to the success of this program by dropping off your empty inkjet or laser printer cartridges at the DeFuniak Springs or Santa Rosa Beach branch offices of the Tax Collector. Each month, Cartridge World will deliver a check to CVHN for Walton County children’s healthcare. Everyone can participate in this recycling program. For more information about CVHN, or to become a collection site you may call 850 622-3200.
Council on Aging - collecting old, unused cell-phones and fixing them up for the elderly people to use in case of an emergency. The phones may be dropped off at the Council on Aging building or at the Healthmark Regional Medial Center Auxiliary desk.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore is now open. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are designated for donations and they would be happy to have any of your good, unwanted household goods or building materials. You are welcome to drop items off or call Gary to arrange for pick ups at 880-6108. The store is located at 17596 Hwy 331 S, which is about 5 miles north of the 331 bridge. Operating hours are currently Thurs through Sat from 9:00am-4:00pm. There are a lot of nice building supplies, furniture, light fixtures, cabinets, etc. in stock, so please come in and shop. Remember all profits made go to further the works of Habitat for Humanity of Walton County.
Literacy - Help Promote Literacy - Donate your old books to the Walton County Department of Corrections. The books should be soft covered. All donations can be brought to the facility Mon-Sun, 8:00am-4:00pm.
NAFI Book Drop - Donate books third to 10th grade level reading materials in good condition. Material should be oriented to help young people stretch their minds and make positive choices in their lives. Books can be dropped off at WZEP, NAFI, or the library.
Recycled Computers Needed. Help need based students obtain an education and job skills by donating your good used computers. Minimum requirements: Pentium 233mHz, 4GB hard drive, 32 MB RAM, sound, Monitor- 14/15 SVGA. Your donation may qualify for TAX incentives. For more information call the Chautauqua Center at 892-8100, Chautauqua Cyber Club, PO Box 251, DFS, 32435, fax 892-8198 or email, hillardj@owcc.net.
Tri-County Weatherization Program - seeking the donation of good, working fans and window air conditioning units or cash to provide for those in need. Also needed are donations of building materials, weather stripping, doors, lumber, insulation, and other related items to help repair the homes of many elderly or disabled residents. Volunteer labor to work on the many Weatherization and projects is also needed. Tri-County will make sure these donations go to the people and projects where they are most needed. Those with questions or donations, should call Edwards or Steve Henderson at 547-3698 in Bonifay.
Walton Cares Needs your help - they need donations of diapers and powdered baby formula. Contact Walton Cares at 892-6616, 2551 Hwy 90 East in DeFuniak Springs (the old Little Mac Store). Check what sizes of diapers they need. They have helped many people and want to continue to do so. The donation of one dollar a month can assure that someone in Walton County will have food on their table today. Make your pledge to: Walton Cares, Inc, Food Ministry, P.O. Box 217, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435.
FOR SALE: ITEMS & SERVICES
Chamber of Commerce - newsletter inserts are available to promote your business. Form more information, call 892-3191.
DeFuniak Springs Pilot Club Brain Disorder Support Foundation and Friendship House - "Buy-a-Brick" Campaign. A single brick, engraved with a name and other information (three lines of type), costs $50. Miniature bricks, with the same engraving, are available for $10 each. For more information call 892-0565, www.waltonbraindisordercenter.org or BDSF@panhandle.rr.com.
Golf Discount Card - The Lung Card - of the American Lung Association of Florida, will give discounts at over 350 courses throughout Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. The Lung Card costs $15. Buy three-get one for free. Call the American Lung Association at 1-800-LUNG-USA.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore is now open. The store is located at 17596 Hwy 331 S, which is about 5 miles north of the 331 bridge. Operating hours are currently Thurs through Sat from 9:00am-4:00pm. There are a lot of nice building supplies, furniture, light fixtures, cabinets, etc. in stock, so please come in and shop. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are designated for donations and they would be happy to have any of your good, unwanted household goods or building materials. You are welcome to drop items off or call Gary to arrange for pick ups at 880-6108. Remember all profits made go to further the works of Habitat for Humanity of Walton County.
"Heritage of Walton County" Books may now be purchased for $64.20 at: Bass's Style Shop, 858 Baldwin Ave., DeFuniak Springs; Carol's Family Hair Care, 3841 State Hwy 83, DeFuniak Springs, 892-6722, (next door to Randell Carrol's Barber Shop and Fannin's Family Restaurant); Charlot Lindsey, 230 E. Indian Creek Ranch Rd., DeFuniak Springs, 892-9979, (off County Rd. 280A). Inquire about having Heritage books at your Family Reunion, 892-9979.
Walton Cares in partnership with Angel Food Ministries - offering a food program to the citizens of Walton County. For $25.00 you will receive $48.00 to $72.00 worth of fresh and frozen good quality food every month. We accept cash and food stamps. There are no restrictions or eligibility requirements. Anyone can get this food. Contact Walton Cares at 892-6616, 2551 Hwy 90 East in DeFuniak Springs (the old Little Mac Store).
GOVERNMENT & COUNTY INFORMATION
Congressman Allen Boyd (D-North Florida) - A member of his staff will be visiting Santa Rosa Beach on the first Thursday of every month so that the people of Walton County will have the opportunity to discuss in person issues of concern to them. Congressman Boyd's staff has been trained to assist constituents with a variety of issues related to various federal agencies.
Congressman Allen Boyd's Staff (D-North Florida) - Office Hours, Destin, 9:30-11:30am. City Hall, 4200 Two Trees Road, Destin. They will be in Destin the second Thursday of every month.
Congressman Jeff Miller (R) - contact information for his Washington DC offices. Washington D.C. office 1535 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C., 20515, Phone (202) 225-4136, Fax (202) 225-3414, web/email www.house.gov/jeffmiller, Toll Free 1-866-367-1614. Pensacola office: 4300 Bayou Blvd., suite 12, Pensacola, FL, 32503, Phone (850) 479-1183, Fax (850) 479-9394. Ft. Walton Beach Office: 348 S.W. Miracle Strip Pkwy., Suite 24, Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548, Phone (850) 664-1266.
State Representative Dave Murzin
(R-Pensacola) - his
office is making available forms that will help people fill out a
Living Will and designate a Health Care Surrogate in light of the events
involving the recently passed “Terri’s Law.” The
forms to complete a living will and to designate a health care surrogate may be
obtained at Rep. Murzin’s district office or on the internet at: http://www.gulf1/murzin,
4400 Bayou Boulevard, Suite 22B;
Walton County - New web site - http://walton.ifas.ufl.edu. Check out the 4-H page updates every week. Go to the 4-H calendar to see what exciting events and activities are taking place in your neighborhood.
Walton County Elections Office website: www.votewaltoncounty.com. Of special interest, is the link located in the center of page 1. It offers a chance to learn about the new Touch Screen Voting Machines. This style of voting machine will NOT replace the Optical Scan machines that use a paper ballot.
Walton County Sheriff's Office Cybersubstation is now "open" and available for public viewing, http://www.waltonso.org.
Walton County Tax Collector - adds E-Check to their on-line payment options. The transaction fee is $1.50 per transaction regardless of the payment. To learn more about E-Check payment options or to take advantage of this service, visit the tax collector's website at www.waltontaxcollector.com.
HEALTH & MEDICAL
Better Breathers Club - meet 3rd Tuesday, 2:00-3:00pm, American HomePatient, 913 Beal Pkwy, Ft. Walton Beach. For those living with lung disease. Free, refreshments and speakers. For information, Patty Ballantine, pballantine@lung-fla.org, (800) LUNG USA, (850) 478-5864.
Brain Disorder Support Foundation, DeFuniak Springs - now open. They are currently offering all services except for respite care at this time. Their mission at the Brain Disorder Support Foundation is to create a center that provides a warm, caring, and friendly environment for families affected by brain disorders. The public is invited to stop by and browse their wide selection of brain disorder information, including, but not limited to, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, Stroke's, depression, chemical dependency and much, much more. The Friendship Cottage also has Internet Service the public is invited to browse thru for additional information about brain disorders, www.waltonbraindisordercenter.org or email bdsf@panhandle.rr.com. The office is open Mon, Wed, Fri 9:00am-1:00pm; Tue 1:00-5:00pm & Thurs 4:00-8:00pm. The cottage is located at 353 Juniper Lake Rd, 892-0565, 892-5687 or fax 951-2354. Volunteers are needed for this community service, contact Diane Elleenberg at 892-0565 office or 305-2016 cell.
Cancer Patients Support Group - 2nd & 4th Tuesday, 1:00pm. The Cancer Care Center, Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center. For patients & their families. For information, 315-7889.
Cancer Patients Support Group - 2nd & 4th Thursday, 1:00pm. The Cancer Care Center Support Room,4th floor Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center. For patients & their families. For information, 315-7889.
Cancer Support Group - every Monday, 5:30-6:30pm. Walton County Council on Aging, Main Street, DeFuniak Springs. For information, contact April 892-9132. The meetings are for anybody who needs support or would like to help support others with any kind of cancer issue.
Children’s Volunteer Health Network’s mission is to recognize children throughout the county which may need medical, dental or mental health attention. Referrals are made by teacher identification of classroom students. In order to generate additional funds to offset the cost of these medical services, Cartridge World Recycling Program of Santa Rosa Beach has joined CVHN to help raise money by remanufacturing used laser or inkjet empty cartridges. You can contribute to the success of this program by dropping off your empty inkjet or laser printer cartridges at the DeFuniak Springs or Santa Rosa Beach branch offices of the Tax Collector. Each month, Cartridge World will deliver a check to CVHN for Walton County children’s healthcare. Everyone can participate in this recycling program. For more information about CVHN, or to become a collection site you may call 850 622-3200.
Discount Prescription
Drug Cards to the residents of Florida, FREE. The Children's Volunteer
Health Network (CVHN) announced today that it will distribute the cards.
Everyone is eligible to participate in this program. There are no
restrictions to membership, no income limits, no age limit and no
application to fill out. Residents can download their free card by
visiting CVHN's website (www.childrensvolunteerhealthnetwork.org)
to receive savings of up to 75% at almost every pharmacy in the country.
Also, the card is available through many local doctors and clinics who
participate with CVHN in its mission to assist children without insurance in
receiving medical and dental care. The
Florida prescription card was launched to help the uninsured and
under-insured people of Florida afford their prescription medications.
However, the program can also be used by people who have health insurance
with no prescription drug coverage and high deductible plans.
Additionally, people who have prescription coverage can use this program for
non-formulary or non-covered drugs. It also can be used by those who
do not qualify for publicly funded programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid.
"This will be a godsend" said Tricia Carlisle Northcutt, President
and Founder of CVHN. "We have already had some patients tell us
of 50% savings and more on drugs that they had to pay full price for before
our card. We are happy to have been chosen to distribute the card and
hope everyone will take advantage of it. We urge those who do not
have their drugs covered by insurance to visit our website, download the
card and take it to their local pharmacy. It even helps those who find
themselves in the "donut hole" caused by a quirk in the Part D of
Medicare." The prescription
card is pre-activated and can be used at a participating pharmacy to receive
a discount on medicines. Members save up to 75% with an average
savings of 30%. A complete list of participating pharmacies and list
of drugs covered are available by going to the CVHN website and downloading
the card. This program is powered
by UNA Rx Card which is a division of United Networks of America.
Brian Oliver, EVP, noted “the Free Rx program has brought
almost $66,000,000 in prescription savings to members around the country in
the short history of the program with calendar year savings for 2007
projected to approach $100,000,000.” The UNA Rx card is the
fastest growing discount prescription card company in the U.S. CVHN has
partnered with UNA to bring this service to Northwest Florida. Children’s
Volunteer Health Network, Inc. is a faith-based, 501(c)3 organization whose
mission is to enhance the lives of uninsured and underinsured school-aged
children by facilitating free immediate access to medical, dental and mental
health care. To contact CVHN or get more information about the Florida
Prescription Drug Card call Char at (850) 622-3200 or visit us at our
website at www.childrensvolunteerhealthnetwork.org.
Family Council of the Walton Convalescent Center - asking all family members of residents to attend a monthly meeting every 3rd Monday at 1:30pm in the new dining room. The public is invited to attend and share ideas, suggestions and projects to make the nursing home even better.
Florida
SHOTS, the State Health Online Tracking System for Immunizations - made
the new feature of immunization reminder/recall capabilities available to
enrolled private health care providers throughout the state of
Florida.
Leader Dogs for the Blind - Many blind people are not aware they can have a "Leader Dog" as their constant companion and as an aid in mobility. For information, write - Leader Dogs For the Blind, Rochester, Michigan 48307, or see a member of the local Lions Club.
Medicare Part D, Information in understanding - call 1-800-633-4227, 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-523-5800. Order AARP booklets, "The new Medicare drug coverage, what you need to know", English #D18350; "Extra help with limited income", #D1835; Call 1-888-687-2277.
Mental Illness Support Group - Wednesday, 5:30-7:00pm. Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center, room 1. For adult family members of people diagnosed with mental illness.
Overeaters Anonymous - Wednesdays, 5:00pm. The Camel Club, E. Hewitt off U.S. Hwy 98, east of Sandestin. For information, 428-0274.
Patient Support Group - Wednesdays, 5:30-7:00pm. Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center, One South Unit. For previously hospitalized patients with mental illness. For information, 863-7681.
Red Cross - offers
training at no cost not only for DAT volunteers, but for disasters. Courses
include: Introduction to Disaster, Mass Care, and Shelter Operations.
Anyone interested in class information and joining the Red Cross
disaster teams should contact Jennifer Accardi at 850.432.7601.
Red Door Group of Alcoholics Anonymous - 7:00pm. Every Monday, 144 Circle Dr., DeFuniak Springs. No dues or fees. For more information call AA (850) 244-2421.
SHINE - can help you in understanding Medicare or other health insurance benefits or selecting a supplemental health insurance policy. SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders), is a program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, and provides FREE health insurance counseling and assistance of seniors and their families. For more information call Joanne Gee at the Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging, 850-595-5420.
Sacred Heart Women's Hospital
- extending its expertise in managing high risk pregnancies into the Florida
Panhandle thanks to advances in telemedicine technology. Telemedicine
equipment allows pregnant women in Okaloosa, Walton,
Senior Mobility Program - makes available to senior citizens and the permanently disabled electric wheelchairs at no cost to the recipient, if they qualify. The power wheelchairs are provided to those who cannot walk and cannot self-propel a manual wheelchair in their home, and who meet the additional guidelines of the program. No deposit is required. For more information, call 1-800-451-0971.
Senior Wheels USA Program - makes wheelchairs available to senior citizens and the permanently disabled at no cost to the recipient, it they qualify. Call for more information to see if you qualify, 1-800-246-6010.
Shriner Hospitals for Children - network of 22 hospitals to provide expert medical care to children with orthopedic problems including spinal cord injuries and youngsters with burn injuries, all free, sponsored by Shriners. For information, call 892-9996, Walton County Shrine Club.
Stroke Survivors - Tuesdays, 1:00pm. Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center rehab unit, 4th floor. For stroke survivors and family members. For information, 863-7640.
T.O.P.S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) - TOPS #483 of DeFuniak Springs meets every Thursday at the Council on Aging building, 454 W. Baldwin Ave. Weigh-in, 5:00-5:30pm, meeting 5:30-6:30pm. Contests, recipes, programs for all. Pre-teen and teens welcome.
Walton County Sheriff’s Office Morning Call List - a list of 26 elderly persons in the county whom they telephone each day. The morning call list was established in order to provide a means of checking the welfare of the elderly and any other citizen of Walton County. This may be permanent or temporary, due to a medical condition or other reasons, such as living alone. Once a need has been established a call sheet shall be initiated and filled out with the individuals name, address, and emergency contact information, if applicable. Other information that may be included, but not mandatory is medical condition and/or history. The individual is then telephoned each morning between 6:00–8:30 and the sheet is annotated. If contact cannot be made by telephone or through the emergency contact the Sheriff’s Office will send a deputy to the residence to check on the welfare of the individual. If you are interested in being added to the call list or know of someone who you would like to add to the list please contact, Donna Smith, Communications Supervisor with the Sheriff’s Office at 892-8186 or 892-8111.
Women Walking for Wellness - 6:30am. Destin Commons, 4300 Legendary Dr., Destin. W3 meets every Wednesday. All ladies will receive a FREE T-shirt after completing their first walk. Call Holly Taylor, 654-1809 with questions or to register for your first W3 walk. There is no charge. Ages: teens and up.
HELP PROGRAMS
Walton Cares & Angel Food Ministries - relocated from 44 Smith Rd. to 2551 Hwy 90 East in DeFuniak Springs (Formerly Lil' Mac General Store). Angel Food Ministries accepts monthly food orders. The cost of a regular order is $25. To see food items and special orders available, go to www.waltoncares.org and click on the Food Program link. Contact Walton Cares at 892-6616.
INFORMATION PROGRAMS
Washington-Holmes Technical Center - your community GED testing site. The GED test is scheduled at least one time per month. Prep classes, with flexible hours are offered free of charge in Chipley and Bonifay. Call Student Services at WHTS for more information, (850) 638-1180.
The State of
MEETINGS
Argyle Fire District Board - 7:00pm. Argyle Station #1, 67 Fire Department Ave., Argyle. They meet the 2nd Monday of each month.
Chautauqua Quilters - 9:00am. First United Methodist Church, 88 Circle Dr., DeFuniak Springs. They meet the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.
Christmas Reflections Board Meeting - 7:00pm. Old Boy Scout Building. They will meet the last Thursday of every month. The meeting is open to the public.
Freeport Town Planter's Society - 7:00pm - first Tuesday of every month. Everyone is welcome to stop by and see what good things are being done for the "Gateway To Them Emerald Coast". New members are always welcome.
Model Aviators of DeFuniak Springs - 7:00pm. McLain's Restaurant. Members fly models every Sunday from noon until. For more information, call Bob Jones, 892-5011. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month.
Walton County Amateur Radio Club - 7:00pm - first Tuesday of every month - Walton County Emergency Services complex on Davis Lane south of highway 90. For more information, call 892-7061.
Walton County Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee, Meeting - 8:00am. Old Post Office, Freeport, the second Saturday of the Month. Anyone interested in learning more about out military community is invited to attend.
Walton County Over 50 Club - 5:30pm - second Friday of every month - Freeport City Hall meeting room, located on SR20, just west of Hwy 331. Members of the club bring covered dishes and a social gathering is held. For additional information contact Colleen Clark at 835-4352 or Marie Hackney at 835-2009.
MISCELLANEOUS
VFW - Bingo - every Sunday from 12:00 to 4:00pm. The VFW is located at 25 25th Street in DeFuniak Springs. The public is very welcome. Any one wanting more information, please contact the VFW at 892-3539.
SENIORS
Adopt-A-Soul (Resident) program - Chautauqua Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (CRNC) is implemented a new Chaplaincy Program a part of their “Heart-to-Heart” programs. They say this is a ministry opportunity for the local churches and community to become involved in a CRNC resident’s life in a significant way. Involvement can be as simple as visiting and talking to a resident on a regular basis or taking them to Church or Bible study (if appropriate for the resident. CNRC will coordinate the matching of residents to community volunteers or you may already know a resident with whom you would like to become involved. Becoming involved in the Adopt-A-Soul program is as simple as 1-2-3: 1) Call the Chaplain and express an interest; 2) Become matched with a resident; 3) Visit your resident on a regular basis to talk, pray, and minister to them. For more information contact the Chaplain or Activities Director at Chautauqua Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 892-2176.
Senior Mobility Program - makes available to senior citizens and the permanently disabled electric wheelchairs at no cost to the recipient, if they qualify. The power wheelchairs are provided to those who cannot walk and cannot self-propel a manual wheelchair in their home, and who meet the additional guidelines of the program. No deposit is required. For more information, call 1-800-451-0971.
Senior Wheels USA Program - makes wheelchairs available to senior citizens and the permanently disabled at no cost to the recipient, it they qualify. Call for more information to see if you qualify, 1-800-246-6010.
Senior Workers - Must be Unemployed, be 55 years of age or older, be capable of performing employment duties and training and must have an annual family income which does not exceed 125% of federal income guidelines. Call 892-5121 for more information.
Social Security, New Location - visit at the College Avenue Government Office, on College Avenue next to where the old hospital used to be. They will continue to come every other week, usually the second and fourth Wednesday, from 9am to 12 noon. Call 1-800-772-1213 for more information.
SERVICES
English as a Second Language - Tuesdays, 6:00pm. Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church, Airport Road and Main Street, Destin, 837-2133 or 650-3673.
Habitat for Humanity Walton County - now taking applications for Habitat houses. For information or an application, call 267-0606.
Jobs Plus, One-Stop Centers - One-Stop Career Center for services to job seekers and a Regional Employer Services Center for services to employers. For more information call your local office: DeFuniak Springs Jobs Plus 951-8256; Crestview Jobs Plus 689-7823; Ft. Walton Beach Jobs Plus 833-7587; the Employer Services Hotline 833-9106 or www.jobsplusonestop.com.
Ryan White Title III program
- Persons living with HIV/AIDS in
Okaloosa and Walton counties can now enroll to receive local medical care.
Case managers funded through a Ryan White Title III grant will coordinate
services. Contact OASIS (Okaloosa AIDS and Support Informational Services) at 314-0950,
or your case manager for more information.
Tri-County Community Council Transportation - offering “shopping trips” rides throughout the local area for only $2 per passenger, round-trip. Tri-County Community Council Transportation will pick riders up at their homes, transport them to their destinations, and then return them home again. Anyone, regardless of income, can utilize this new program. The following routes have been established to run from 1:30am until 3:30pm in Walton County. First Tue - Mossy Head; Second Tue – Freeport, Woodlawn, South Walton; Third Tue – Valleyview, Red Bay, Argyle; Fourth Tue – North Walton, Paxton, Gaskin, Glendale, Liberty. Reservations must be made in advance by calling Campbell at 892-2422 by noon the previous day.
Tri-County Transportation - provides
non-emergency transportation to medical appointments, and purchasing agency referred
destinations, on the following days (times reflect the actual time we will be in that
area, try to arrange your appointment times within this period), All routes are
coordinated. We require a 24 hour notice, and all next day appointments must be made
by 12:00 the previous day. For more information please call
Tony Campbell at 850-892-2422.
Walton County ARC Thrift Shop - open every Friday from 9:00am to 12:00 noon. For more information, call 892-5013.
Walton County Council on Aging - has videos to loan on the following subjects: The New Medicare Law and what kind of additional help is available. Caregivers Training Program, which covers the roles, goals, challenges and needs for both the caregiver and the family unit.
SUPPORT GROUPS
Better Not Bigger - free new weight loss support group - Santa Rosa Beach. Meet Mondays at the Coastal Branch Library, 6:00-7:00pm. Everyone is invited to discuss nutritional, emotional and physical well being issues in support of each individual's plan for weight loss. Those wishing to become a guest speaker, should call (850) 622-9762 or visit gwensfile13@yahoo.com.
Bi-Polar Disorder Support Group - meets every Tuesday, 7:00pm, St. Simons Episcopal Church, classroom201. For information, 244-1040.
Breast Cancer Support Group - meets every third Tuesday, 6:00pm, Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast, conference room. For more information, 278-3980 or www.sacredheartemerald.org.
Cancer Patients Support Group - 2nd & 4th Tuesday, 1:00pm. The Cancer Care Center, Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center. For patients & their families. For information, 315-7889.
Cancer Support Group - every Monday, 5:30-6:30pm. Walton County Council on Aging, Main Street, DeFuniak Springs. For information, contact April 892-9132. The meetings are for anybody who needs support or would like to help support others with any kind of cancer issue.
Caregivers Support Group - for parents and caregivers of children and adults suffering from neurobiological brain disorders in Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties meets Thursdays at 7:00pm at Mental Health Association Building, 571 Mooney Rd, Ft. Walton Beach. For information, call 936-7924.
DeFuniak Springs Brain Disorder Support Foundation - now open. They are currently offering all services except for respite care at this time. Their mission at the Brain Disorder Support Foundation is to create a center that provides a warm, caring, and friendly environment for families affected by brain disorders. The public is invited to stop by and browse their wide selection of brain disorder information, including, but not limited to, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, Stroke's, depression, chemical dependency and much, much more. The Friendship Cottage also has Internet Service the public is invited to browse thru for additional information about brain disorders, www.waltonbraindisordercenter.org or email bdsf@panhandle.rr.com. The office is open Mon, Wed, Fri 9:00am-1:00pm; Tue 1:00-5:00pm & Thurs 4:00-8:00pm. The cottage is located at 353 Juniper Lake Rd, 892-0565, 892-5687 or fax 951-2354. Volunteers are needed for this community service, contact Diane Elleenberg at 892-0565 office or 305-2016 cell.
Diabetes Support Group, Holmes County - 11:30am-1:00pm, Holmes County Chamber of Commerce; & 5:30-7:00pm, Doctors Memorial Hospital. For more information, call 547-8500, ext 249.
Ladies' Night Out is a Christian-based support group for women to address women's issues of the spirits, soul and body. The group meets Friday nights, 7:00pm at 1200 Circle Drive (The Resources for Human development building next to Gulf Power) , or join them at 6:00pm for a walk at the Lakeyard. Call 892-9189 for more information. This new organization has been formed for ladies that are bored, frustrated or overwhelmed with financial problems, parenting, and life itself.
Mental Illness - Wednesday, 5:30-7:00pm. Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center, room 1. For adult family members of people diagnosed with mental illness.
NIC-A - 7:00pm. Crosspoint Church, 1477 S. County Rd. 393, Santa Rosa Beach. This is a support group for people trying to give up their addiction to nicotine. Meet every Thursday. Free admission. For Teens and up.
Overeaters Anonymous - Wednesdays, 5:00pm. The Camel Club, E. Hewitt off U.S. Hwy 98, east of Sandestin. For information, 428-0274.
Patient Support Group - Wednesdays, 5:30-7:00pm. Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center, One South Unit. For previously hospitalized patients with mental illness. For information, 863-7681.
Red Door Group of Alcoholics Anonymous - meets Mondays , 7:00pm - 144 Circle Drive in DeFuniak Springs. Meetings last about an hour and are open to anyone with a desire to stop drinking. No dues or fees. For more information, call AA, (850) 244-2421.
Singles Ministry - Tuesdays, 7:00pm. Niceville First United Methodist Church. Weekly seminar and support group for those who are separated or divorced. Information, 678-4411, ext. 18.
Stroke Survivors - Tuesdays, 1:00pm. Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center rehab unit, 4th floor. For stroke survivors and family members. For information, 863-7640.
VETERAN SERVICES
ATTENTION VETERANS - More military retirees
across the
JobsPlus veteran representative - now available to assist Walton County veterans with employment needs and information on Mondays from 8:00am to 12:00pm at the DeFuniak Springs JobsPlus, 171 N. 9th Street. For more information, call 892-8668.
Veterans with a service-connected disability of ten percent (10%) or greater may receive a $5,000 exemption on their property tax in addition to the $25,000 Homestead Exemption. Contact the Property Appraiser at 892-8123 or 267-4500. Veterans with service-connected disability for trinities should also contact the Veterans' Service Office. They may be eligible for additional benefits. Your Walton County Veterans Service Officers, Phil McMillan and Raymond Gainer, can be reached at 892-8140.
"Vote In Honor Of A Veteran" - It's not necessary to be a veteran, or be related to a veteran. Simply stop by the SOE office and select a veteran's name from the list of those participating in the program. Registered voters and veterans, participating in the program, will be given a special sticker to wear to the polls, proudly stating" "I'm Voting In Honor Of A Veteran". On election day, or during early voting, anyone who votes in honor of a veteran, will receive another special sticker that states: "I Voted In Honor Of A Veteran Today". For more information, contact Supervisor of Elections Attn: Bill Vorwald, 892-8112 or vorbill@co.walton.fl.us.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Adopt-A-Soul (Resident) program - Chautauqua Rehabilitation and Nursing Center (CRNC) is implemented a new Chaplaincy Program a part of their “Heart-to-Heart” programs. They say this is a ministry opportunity for the local churches and community to become involved in a CRNC resident’s life in a significant way. Involvement can be as simple as visiting and talking to a resident on a regular basis or taking them to Church or Bible study (if appropriate for the resident. CNRC will coordinate the matching of residents to community volunteers or you may already know a resident with whom you would like to become involved. Becoming involved in the Adopt-A-Soul program is as simple as 1-2-3: 1) Call the Chaplain and express an interest; 2) Become matched with a resident; 3) Visit your resident on a regular basis to talk, pray, and minister to them. For more information contact the Chaplain or Activities Director at Chautauqua Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 892-2176.
Adult Literacy
Tutors - Volunteers urgently needed throughout the Okaloosa and Walton
County
region. Advance registration for the Literacy Volunteer training is $10 or $15
at the door the day of the training. For information contact ACE in
AmeriCorps program at Okaloosa-Walton College - seeking committed adults to serve as reading tutors in Okaloosa and Walton County elementary and middle schools beginning August 14. Applications must be received by July 1. Tutors must be at least 17 years of age and have a high school diploma, GED or higher education. Full time AmeriCorps members commit to 1,700 hours, receive a taxable living allowance and an education voucher in return for their service to the community, and serve through July 31, 2007. Half-time AmeriCorps members commit to tutor for 10 months and receive a pro-rated education award. OWC is seeking 28 full time and 10 half time AmeriCorps members. AmeriCorps members also participate in community service projects and help recruit community volunteers to assist students and the community. Special benefits may include student loan deferment, free health insurance and childcare if qualified. Applications are available at all six OWC campuses. For more information, contact the AmeriCorps office at 729-6037 or 729-4946 at OWC Niceville or 892-8100 for the OWC Chautauqua Center in DeFuniak Springs.
AmeriCorps
program at
Okaloosa-Walton
College
is seeking committed adults to tutor youth who have limited English
language skills. Fluency in Spanish or another
foreign language is
not required. AmeriCorps members serve in Okaloosa and
DeFuniak Springs Brain Disorder Support Foundation is now open - Volunteers are needed for this community service, contact Diane Elleenberg at 892-0565 office or 305-2016 cell. They are currently offering all services except for respite care at this time. Their mission at the Brain Disorder Support Foundation is to create a center that provides a warm, caring, and friendly environment for families affected by brain disorders. The public is invited to stop by and browse their wide selection of brain disorder information, including, but not limited to, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, Stroke's, depression, chemical dependency and much, much more. The Friendship Cottage also has Internet Service the public is invited to browse thru for additional information about brain disorders, www.waltonbraindisordercenter.org or email bdsf@panhandle.rr.com. The office is open Mon, Wed, Fri 9:00am-1:00pm; Tue 1:00-5:00pm & Thurs 4:00-8:00pm. The cottage is located at 353 Juniper Lake Rd, 892-0565, 892-5687 or fax 951-2354.
Family Visitation Center in DeFuniak Springs - needs volunteers that can help the center with family visitations for foster care children and their families. If you are interested in being a volunteer for the Center, please contact Sherri Martin at 951-2141 or 892-8634.
Foster Parents Needed! The CIRCLE Program of Lakeview Center is looking for dedicated people in Okaloosa and Walton Counties to open their homes to children and adults with developmental disabilities and special needs. Foster parents receive free training, extensive professional support and financial compensation. Training classes are starting soon. For more information, call 609-1151.
Hospice of the Emerald Coast - has volunteer opportunities in Ft. Walton Beach, Crestview, Milton, Destin, and DeFuniak Springs to: Read to patients/take them for walks; Reminisce quietly about their life; Perform office duties; Create crafts/floral arrangements. Hospice will serve terminally ill patients and their families in their homes as well as in facility settings. They provide FREE volunteer training to ensure your volunteer experience is fulfilling and rewarding. Call Teresa Smith at 689-0300 for more details or www.hospiceemeraldcoast.org.
Learning Wheel Buddies - volunteers for the Pre-K, Head Start, and Child Care Centers in Holmes, Washington and Walton counties. Volunteers will assist children in the areas of emotional well-being, self-esteem, social skills, language development, and cognitive