Want to know what's up in the Beaches of South Walton, in the Panhandle of Florida? You've come to the right place. We cover it all - Events, Dining, News, Real Estate, Photos, Area Info ...and everything in between. We're hyperlocal. We inform, educate & entertain. We update daily.
On Link ♥, we celebrate those who have embraced the potential and
power of the Internet, social networking, and social media. Here you'll find
links to websites, blogs, and other online spaces owned and operated by
locals and local businesses up and down the Emerald Coast.
♥ EmeraldCoastReflections.com "Dave Alexander brings a fresh perspective and insight on the serenity and the magnificent beauty of twilight along the Gulf Coast."
♥ ExploringNorthwestFlorida.com "Got a kayak, a Yolo Board or an inner tube? How about a bike, a car, or a scooter? Got two feet? Whatever your mode of transportation, Exploring Northwest Florida is the adventure you don't want to miss." (CONTINUED BELOW)
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♥ Alaqua TV "Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, Florida is a haven for unwanted pets. Alaqua TV aims to document progress at the refuge and provide video support."
The People of 30A is a "growing compilation of friendly and diverse people who help make this special place a home" by the extraordinarily talented photographer Shane Carter of the dynamic duo Marla & Shane Photographers.
Visit Shane's website at http://www.MarlaandShane.com. He can be reached at 850-217-9367 or via email at shane@marlaandshane.com.
[click to enlarge]
Michael Granberry, Simple Photography, SEASIDE, Florida
"I always enjoy running into Michael. He's a great guy to know. I really look forward to
seeing the new project he is working on. I'm sure it will be beautiful!" - Shane Carter
First Florida Bank to Move to New Corporate Headquarters First Florida Bank, formerly Destin First Bank, recently announced that beginning Monday, April 19, 2010 its corporate headquarters will be at a new location. Defying economic indicators, First Florida Bank is embarking on an aggressive growth plan with the relocation of their corporate headquarters and the opening of a second location at The Market Shops at Sandestin in late May.
The corporate offices for First Florida Bank will be moving to its new location at 125 Main Street in Destin, which coincidentally is where Destin Bank first got its start.
“Some have said that we’re returning to our roots. The goodwill and nostalgia of the original building, with the rocking chairs on the porch and where we knew everyone’s name, feels like a good fit,” added president Ronny Clay.
Already underway is the projected May opening for a second branch, which will be located at 9461 Highway 98 East near The Market Shops at Sandestin, with Carol Jones as branch manager. For more information about First Florida Bank, please visit www.FirstFLBank.com or call 850.269.1201.
'ANNIKA Experience at WaterSound' Last Month Raised Over $100,000 The ANNIKA Foundation and The St. Joe Company recently announced the "ANNIKA Experience at WaterSound" raised over $100,000 for local children's charities and the ANNIKA and Mia Hamm Foundations.
The Seaside Repertory Theatre, Northwest Florida’s premier professional theatre company, announced that tickets are now on sale for the reprisal of the hit musical play, "Always…Patsy Cline," sponsored by Midtown Seagrove. It's been six years since Patsy has been featured on the Rep stage, and the show will kick off the theatre’s 10th anniversary season on March 18, running every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through April 10.
DATE & TICKET INFORMATION
"Always…Patsy Cline" will run Thursdays – Saturdays, March 18 – April
10, at 7:30pm in the Seaside Meeting Hall Theatre located on Quincy
Circle in downtown Seaside, Florida. Tickets are $29, and $25 for
members and can be purchased at www.SeasideRep.org or by
calling (850) 231-0733.
ABOUT
Written by Ted Swindley, "Always…Patsy Cline" is more than a tribute to the legendary country singer who died tragically in a 1963 plane crash at age 30. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in 1961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death. (CONTINUED BELOW)
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The musical play, complete with down home country humor, true emotion and even some audience participation, includes many of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as Crazy, I Fall to Pieces, Sweet Dreams and Walking After Midnight … 27 songs in all. The show’s title was inspired by Cline’s letters to Seger, which were consistently signed, “Love ALWAYS… Patsy Cline.”
Under the direction of Rep interim Artistic Director Brook Stetler and the musical direction of Anne Marie Carroll, the cast will be comprised once again of Jennifer Steele Saunders as Patsy and Teance Blackburn as Louise. A live band will also share the stage, including Bill Garrett on guitar and Jim Garrett on bass and piano.
There will be a pre-show 10th anniversary season celebration on Saturday, March 20 from 4:00pm – 7:00pm, featuring live music by Dread Clampitt, food, beer, wine and fun. This event is sponsored by Midtown Seagrove and Déjà Vu in Seaside.
Find out what events are happening put on by local business, groups and organizations for locals (and of course our {beloved} visitors are always welcome at these events, too!) on the NEW COMMUNITY EVENTS page >> here. Grand openings, Arts/Entertainment events, groups and organization events, classes and programs ... and everything in between! We will be updating this daily so check in frequently so you don't miss anything! Have something to add? Email me all the fine details to jill@southwaltonscene.com! |
The Saturday morning SEASIDE Farmer's Market is now an annual event! Located in Seaside, Florida's Town Center behind the Raw & Juicy airstream [MAP], winter market hours are Saturday mornings from 9AM-1PM.
"Hello Beach Lovers! Spring has sprung! (I am knocking on wood) The Camellia Trees are blooming in Point Washington, the air is balmy, and finally breakfast is back! John from the Artesano booth will make a beautiful farmers market breakfast with all the ingredients coming from the market. Break out the bike and pack up the family for a fun morning in Seaside. Come get your local milk and eggs, soap and bread, and even a Camellia Tree of your own at the market this weekend...
The Seaside Farmers Market is not only a fan favorite for its fantastic produce, but also for its artwork. The 2009 Seaside Farmers Market poster series, designed by DeGregorio Design, was recently awarded a Gold Addy Award by the Emerald Coast Advertising Federation. The posters will be exhibited in the Holl Building with limited quantities available for purchase at the Seaside Farmers Market, all proceeds go to the Farmers Market." - Market Organizer, Jenifer Kuntz
Continue reading "This Week at the SEASIDE Farmer's Market [March 13, 2010]" »
Check out the NEW South Walton Community Event Page
for more info on local events happening!
...........................................................................................................................................................■ Friday, March 12: Live Music Venues
- Bud & Alley's in SEASIDE: The Kyle Parker and Easthill Band at 8PM
- Bluz Bar & Grill in MIRAMAR BEACH: Walker Smith Band at 930PM
- Shorty's Surfside & Topside in GRAYTON BEACH: Howlin' Jack at 7PM
- Funky Blues Shack in BAYTOWNE/SANDESTIN: JB Roberts Band at 930PM
- The Red Bar in GRAYTON: Jay Liles from 5-7PM
- The Red Bar in GRAYTON: Red Bar Jazz Band at 7PM
■ Saturday, March 13: Live Music Venues
- Amavida in SEASIDE: Cody Copeland from 7-9PM
- Bud & Alley's in SEASIDE: The Kyle Parker and Easthill Band at 8PM
- Bluz Bar & Grill in MIRAMAR BEACH: Walker Smith Band at 930PM
- Shorty's Surfside & Topside in GRAYTON BEACH: Howlin' Jack at 7PM
- Funky Blues Shack in BAYTOWNE/SANDESTIN: JB Roberts Band at 930PM
- The Red Bar in GRAYTON: WaCo Ramblers from 12-3PM
- The Red Bar in GRAYTON: Jay Liles from 5-7PM
- The Red Bar in GRAYTON: Red Bar Jazz Band at 7PM
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■ Saturday, March 13 @9AM - 1PM
Saturday morning SEASIDE Farmer's Market
Seaside Town Center [MAP] >> INFO.■ Saturday, March 13 @11AM
YOLO Board ECO-Tour
End of Hotz Ave. Dock (near the Red Bar) on Western Lake
>> FULL INFO.■ Saturday, March 13 @2PM
3RD Annual 30A St. Patty's Day Parade
Down Scenic Hwy 30A
>> Full Info.■ Weekend live music venues, Sunday brunch and church services >> here.
The People of 30A is a "growing compilation of friendly and diverse people who help make this special place a home" by the extraordinarily talented photographer Shane Carter of the dynamic duo Marla & Shane Photographers.
Visit Shane's website at http://www.MarlaandShane.com. He can be reached at 850-217-9367 or via email at shane@marlaandshane.com.
[click to enlarge]
Andy McAlexander, co-owner, Mac Farms, Santa Rosa Beach, FL
""Only two things that money can't buy, that's true love and home grown tomatoes." - Guy Clark
Thanks to Andy we can all scratch home grown tomatoes off that list!" - Shane Carter
Effective this week, Spring Break 2010 is officially underway and will last through mid-April.
Let me be one of the first to welcome all of you visiting our beautiful beaches! We are really glad you are here. Here are just a few gentle reminders - for both locals and tourists - as we all gear up to enjoy another season of fun in the sand, surf and sun!
Posted by Jill Gaupin
Sometimes when you're in a hurry, you just want to grab something delish to start your day on the right foot - without the hassle of sit-down service, servers and wait times. Be it a sausage, egg and cheese biscuit or a plate of grits and eggs, I'm talking about the type of unpretentious fare that you can eat in the car or order at a counter and sit at a table where you're required to clean up after yourself.
Here is a round up of some favorite local eateries to grab your morning fuel when on the fly in South Walton:
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Continue reading "South Walton FOODIE Guide - Breakfast On-The-Go" »
This season, several of the contenders hail from Florida making VIE’s coverage of the show that much more exciting. Cloutier has already selected some of her favorites and invites readers to give their input on all aspects of the competition.
South Walton Restaurant News Roundup
The People of 30A is a "growing compilation of friendly and diverse people who help make this special place a home" by the extraordinarily talented photographer Shane Carter of the dynamic duo Marla & Shane Photographers.
Visit Shane's website at http://www.MarlaandShane.com. He can be reached at 850-217-9367 or via email at shane@marlaandshane.com.
[click to enlarge]
Laura Granberry, co-owner, Simple Designs, Seaside, FL
"Artist, graphic designer, gallery owner... Kind, creative, easy going, fun...
I could go on for days! It is my pleasure to call her a friend." - Shane Carter
This Week's Call For Artists One of the unique things about South Walton is the amount of artists that reside here. Just drive down Scenic Hwy 30A to get a first hand look at the creativity of the community found around every turn. There are also many art-inspired events and classes. Here is an open "Call to Artists":
Women's Self-Defense Class is being offered at Grayton Beach Fitness Saturday, March 20 Paul Hunter, owner of Grayton Beach Fitness [MAP], announced that they will be holding a Women's Self Defense Class on Saturday, March 20, from 930-1130AM, to empower women to protect themselves and fight back against crime. Cost is $15 (free to members of Grayton Fitness). To reserve your spot, please call 850.231.7075.
(left: poster from 2004)
SEASIDE is calling all artists to join in a competition to produce the official artwork for the 20th Annual Seeing Red Wine Festival, November 4-7, 2010. As well as a $500 award, the winning artist’s design will be featured in all festival marketing materials from advertisements to brochures, T-shirts to posters.
Artists of all mediums are encouraged to submit their original designs. Artwork should be thematically related to the Seeing Red Wine Festival and embody the look of Seaside and/or recognizable icons. Abstract designs are encouraged. Judges of the competition will be comprised of Seeing Red event committee members. Judging criteria will also include viability of sales potential. Entries should be appropriate for replication.
Submission Requirements
■■ Let The FCAT Begin >>
■■ A SCAM WARNING: Just in time for spring break >>
■■ Investigators recover remains of plane from Gulf (PHOTOS) >>
■■ Updated: Some residents worry after nearby stunt plane crash >>
■■ Updated: Airport construction strike averted >>
■■ Thousands take to the street in Seaside race (PHOTOS) >>
■■ RESTAURANT REVIEW: Gravel Road brings goodness to new location >>
■■ WCSO Prepares for Spring Breakers >>
■■ South Walton County man takes fight against offshore drilling to Facebook >>
■■ Children’s Volunteer Health Network opens doors in South Walton >>
■■ St. Joe reveals timetable on West Bay, gears up marketing >>
■■ Dangerous stretch of Highway 98 causes another accident >>
■■ Quit Smoking Now! Free Classes at Walton County Health Dept. >>
■■ Walton, Santa Rosa counties approve 2010-11 school calendars >>
■■ WHERE'S THE BEACH? New boardwalk on Scenic Gulf Drive brings mixed reactions >>
The People of 30A is a "growing compilation of friendly and diverse people who help make this special place a home" by the extraordinarily talented photographer Shane Carter of the dynamic duo Marla & Shane Photographers.
Visit Shane's website at http://www.MarlaandShane.com. He can be reached at 850-217-9367 or via email at shane@marlaandshane.com.
[click to enlarge]
Morgan Lemly, Perspicacity, Seaside, FL
"Sweet, friendly, outgoing, helpful, fun loving... everyone loves Morgan!
You gotta see her dance!!! :)" - Shane Carter
Looking for things to do this week? What events are happening around South Walton? Catch some music? Sunday Brunch? Yoga and fitness classes? We sort through all the information for you so you can easily and quickly plan your week - and get outside to enjoy paradise! Here are this week's Highlights. And be sure to check out the *NEW* South Walton COMMUNITY Events Page & the South Walton Event Calendar for the full skinny on what's happening in town.
Are you following us on Facebook? No? You are missing out on tons of real time information updates, news, event reminders, local chatter, and more. "Friend" us today >> HERE.
Event Highlights This Week in South Walton .......
➡ Tuesday, March 9 from 330-430PM
Artist of the Year Reception for local artist Michael McCarty
Walton County Courthouse Annex on Hwy 331S
Join the The Walton County Tourist Development Council for a reception honoring the 2009 artist of the Year, Michael McCarty. Michael's commissioned artwork, "Twenty Six Miles of Paradise," is a large, vibrant reflection of life along the Beaches of South Walton. Questions? 850-267-1216. >> More info. (CONTINUED BELOW)
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Check out these great events!
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➡ Wednesday, March 10 @630-9PPM
Live model figure drawing class
studio b at Alys Beach
$15; Full event information - map & directions >> GO.
➡ Saturday, March 13 at 2PM
3rd Annual 30A St Patrick’s Parade
Begin at Gulf Trace, ending at Gulf Place
This year, the parade has a new route, with gathering near Gulf Trace (not Gulf Place) on the north side of 30A, proceeding along 30A westbound to end at Gulf Place. The “Best Parade Entry” judges table will be in front of Johnny McTighes in Blue Mountain Beach. The activities will continue after the parade at Gulf Place from 3-6PM - live music by the 23 Highlanders Bag Pipers, Irish Dancers performance, and a leprechaun hunt for kids. Link >> 30AParade.com.
➡ Sunday, March 14 from 6-730PM
Benefit Concert for Muscogee Indian Nation
The Chapel at Crosspoint on 393
The Muscogee Indian Nation of Bruce, Florida have fallen on very difficult times. Join the David Seering Trio for a benefit concert in their honor. Tickets are $25; all proceeds to benefit Muscogee Indian Nation. Questions? 850-267-3146.
See even MORE Community Events happening HERE and on the Calendar of Events!
Live Music around Town .......
On Link ♥, we celebrate those who have embraced the potential and
power of the Internet, social networking, and social media. Here you'll find
links to websites, blogs, and other online spaces owned and operated by
locals and local businesses up and down the Emerald Coast.
♥ Paradise Taxi "Paradise Taxi serves these beach communities of south Walton County Florida, 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
♥ SellingSand.com "Scott Cobine, REALTOR, specializing in real estate in Grayton Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seagrove Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Dune Allen Beach, Seacrest, ..."
♥ CRUSH Wine Bar in SEASIDE, Florida on Facebook - "Part of the Harbor Restaurant Group family of restaurants, which includes Destin Chops 30A and Marina Cafe, Crush promises to meet high expectations of delicious food and hip, sophisticated atmosphere!" (CONTINUED BELOW)
Advertise here! ■ ■ ■
■ ■ ■
♥ Hibiscus Guesthouse Weddings and Events on Facebook "Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse is now opening its Inn and grounds to host your Wedding or Special Event"
Just A Miscellaneous FUN & HELPFUL Link
♥ Fav4.org "A simple website to set as your browser's default start page featuring links to 4 of your favorite websites."
And Don't Forget About This Link ...
♥ South Walton CONNECT "Find It. Sell It. (for free!), blog and blab, unite with like-minded folks, upload photos and videos, and more!"
*UPDATES BELOW*
Federal Aviation Administration personnel from Birmingham, Alabama are arriving in South Walton County to take over the crash investigation of a single-engine aircraft which went down in the Gulf of Mexico at 12:36 this afternoon.
The World War Two era AT6-Texan crashed about a mile offshore from Topsail Hill Preserve State Park off South Walton County. The plane would then sink. The Walton County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by numerous local, state, and federal agencies: the U.S. Coast Guard; the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission; Walton Fire-Rescue; the Florida Department of Environmental Protection; and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Dive team.
Late this afternoon, divers were able to locate the aircraft with its two occupants inside. The male pilot and his female passenger were pronounced dead at the scene and their bodies sent to the First Judicial Circuit Medical Examiners office in Fort Walton Beach for an autopsy. The release of the victims’ names is pending notification of family.
The FAA will coordinate efforts to retrieve the plane from the Gulf of Mexico, and will conduct its investigation into the cause of the tragedy.
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