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Choosing Healthy vs. Toxic Relationships
By Stephenie Craig

Have you ever found yourself in a relationship that is feeling unhealthy? Do you notice a pattern of unhealthy relationships in your life over time and wonder why you keep attracting people who don’t treat you well? Maybe a relationship seems great at first. The other person seems fun, friendly, and interested in a relationship with you. You share significant information about yourself pretty quickly and develop a connection. Then, perhaps, you start to notice your new friend ignores you when you say no, or is only interested in talking about themself, or punishes you emotionally when you don’t give them what they want, or yells and calls you names when they are frustrated. Maybe they express jealousy when you spend time with another friend, belittle your values, or refuse to take responsibility for their behavior and blame you when they behave badly. And, when these things occur, perhaps you make excuses for them telling yourself they are just upset and won’t do it again or focus on the good moments while ignoring the disrespectful ways they are treating you.

Over time, when you stay in unhealthy relationships, your brain becomes trained to believe this is how you deserve to be treated. As you tolerate being treated poorly, you are unintentionally setting yourself up to choose other unhealthy relationships in the future. It’s also possible you grew up in an unhealthy environment that set a pattern of being treated poorly by parent figures. This scenario also creates patterns and beliefs that how you were treated as a child is what you deserve in your adult relationships. Repetitive unhealthy relationships can leave you wondering what is wrong with you and why you can’t seem to find healthy people in your life. No one wants to be surrounded by toxic relationships, but, how are you supposed to stop the cycle? How do you start choosing healthy relationships and distance from toxic relationships?

7 Ways to Choose Healthy Relationships and Distance from Toxic Relationships
1. Define and notice deal breakers. Try making a list of qualities/behaviors that are relationship enders for you. Examples include: abuse of any kind (verbal, physical, sexual, emotional, financial), name calling, cursing at you, demeaning/belittling, disrespecting your consent, drug/alcohol abuse, infidelity, pushing, hitting, etc.
2. Define and notice red flags. Try making a list of qualities/behaviors that signal unhealthy patterns. Examples include: offloading anger on you, blaming you for their behavior, shaming, jealous/controlling patterns, isolating you from other relationships, passive aggressive punishment of you instead of direct, respectful conversations, hateful words, talking behind your back, insecurity, holding you responsible for their mood/mental health, refusal to have conversations about your experience in the relationship, disrespect of your values.
3. Define and notice green flags. Try making a list of qualities/behaviors you believe are important to have in a healthy relationship. Examples include: honesty, loyalty, respect, kindness, directness, caring, reciprocity, respect for your boundaries, calm conversations, taking responsibility, willing to apologize, listens, manages anger in healthy ways, communicates needs.
4. Approach relationships slowly and intentionally. Sharing too much too fast and getting close without having time to observe long-term behavioral patterns can result in missing red flags.
5. Clarify your values. When you know what is most important to you in life and relationship, it will be easier for you to notice if someone is a healthy fit for your values. Values fit does not require the other person to agree with you about everything. Values fit requires that your most important values are not in conflict with the character and lifestyle of the other person.
6. Be the friend you want to have. If you want a new friend to be kind, compassionate, and respectful of your boundaries. Engage in personal growth and become kind, compassionate and respectful of boundaries. You are more likely to pursue and attract health when you are healthy.
7. Be honest and let go. Be honest with yourself when someone is treating you poorly. Remember that while it is hard and sometimes complicated, you have the choice and power to step away from or end a relationship when needed. Grieving the end of a relationship is hard, however, staying in toxic relationships leads to more future toxic relationships.
Choosing more healthy relationships produces a life of positive community and support. Be patient with yourself as you navigate learning new relationship skills. Connect with us for counseling and coaching along your journey at Journeybravely.com.

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April 7, 2025
Medicare Stories for 2025

By Christian Regalado

This year has been more confusing than most. Medicare has always been complex, with a variety of options and terminology that most people just don’t understand. That is why the services of an independent broker are helpful, especially when they are at no cost to the client. Having a professional you can rely on to help navigate these complexities is similar to having an accountant for help filing taxes or a lawyer to help draw a will. The only difference is that your independent broker won’t send you a bill for their services. We are commission-based and work with multiple carriers in the area. I focus on contracting with established companies that have the most competitive products. The carrier that best fits a client’s needs is dependent upon personal situations. My job is to navigate the sea of options based on individual needs and preferences.

This year is unusual in a few respects. The good news was that the maximum out-of-pocket cost for prescription drugs dropped from $8000 to $2000 per year. For those on expensive drugs, this was terrific. The downside was that the insurance companies made up for this loss in revenue in several ways. The obvious was an increase in premiums on most prescription drug plans. For those on Medicare Advantage plans, certain benefits were either reduced or eliminated with increased copays. There were also changes in the insurance carrier’s formularies which is the list of drugs that are covered.

These are some of the stories that I heard from clients: An expensive drug that was covered in 2024 was no longer covered by that carrier in 2025. I had to find an insurance company whose drug formulary did cover that drug. If they had stayed on their old plan, the drug would not be covered, and it wouldn’t count towards the $2000 out of pocket maximum. That could have been a very expensive mistake.

I also had a client with a similar situation that had an expensive drug that was no longer covered and we could not find any other plan that covered the drug. Luckily, we were able to request a formulary exception and the company honored it. However, starting next year, they may have to consult with their doctor to find a similar drug that we can find in a PDP plan that will cover the drug.

Another client had a generous dental benefit on their Advantage plan that was reduced in 2025. Again, I had to search for a new carrier with a plan that offered better dental benefits. Other clients that had their dental benefit reduced opted to choose a different PPO plan that had a great network and a generous part B give-back benefit to make up for the difference in their dental coverage reduction.

One big reason for changes in 2025 was that a major carrier had a change of network. Doctors in their plan for 2024 could no longer be covered in 2025. Some folks kept their plan and changed doctors while others changed Advantage plans so that they could keep their current doctors. This has been a big issue that I was able to help multiple clients resolve just in time before the Open Enrollment Period ended on March 31. There were also changes in dental networks and dentists that took a particular plan in 2024 and are no longer accepting it in 2025.

This year also presented a stark contrast of Advantage plans vs Supplement plans. Recent press articles on Advantage plans have been mostly negative. However, nationally, more folks are enrolling in Advantage plans primarily due to no or low premiums and the extra benefits such as dental, vision and hearing. Locally, I see more people enrolling in Supplement plans but most still enroll in an Advantage plan.

If you are looking at enrolling in a Supplement plan, know why it may make more sense for you. One person wanted to enroll with the same carrier she had in her group plan. She thought that this would help to make sure her doctors were in network. Supplement plans don’t have networks. They are accepted by any doctor or hospital that accepts original Medicare. That is one of the positive reasons to enroll in a Supplement plan. She may have enrolled in a plan with a higher premium for the wrong reason.

Everyone’s story is different. Let us hear your story and help you select the right plan for you. Should you have any questions or need help, please contact me. My services are no cost to you and I am always happy to help a neighbor. Reach out anytime! Email Christian@evergreenhealthins.com or call (850) 687 7606.

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April 7, 2025
Board Certified Dermatologists Are The Experts In Medical and Aesthetic Dermatology

By Jessica Clark, MD FAAD

I have been surprised lately that patients do not realize that dermatologists not only “do botox and filler”, but we are also the experts. Board certified dermatologists are considered experts in skin conditions and aesthetic skin treatments because of their extensive training and expertise in cutaneous anatomy and physiology.

Medical Training: Dermatologists complete four years of medical school after a bachelor’s degree, followed by a dermatology residency program that typically lasts three years. The basis of dermatology is internal medicine and dermatologists are often the first to diagnose internal disease as well as cutaneous conditions. During this time, they receive in-depth training in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of skin conditions, including complex diseases, infections, and cancers. This broad knowledge allows them to effectively manage all aspects of skin health.

Specialized Expertise: Dermatologists specialize in the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes after learning general medicine. This makes them uniquely qualified to understand the complexities of skin anatomy, function, and aging, all of which are essential when performing cosmetic procedures like neuromodulators, dermal fillers, and lasers.

Board Certification: Becoming board-certified involves passing rigorous exams and continuous education. Board-certified dermatologists must stay up to date with the latest advancements and research in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. This ensures they provide safe and effective treatments.

Cosmetic Treatments Expertise: Dermatologists receive additional training in cosmetic procedures, including neuromodulators like Botox, dermal fillers, and lasers. Their knowledge of skin anatomy and how different treatments interact with the skin allows them to achieve optimal, natural-looking results while minimizing risks and complications.

Patient Safety: Dermatologists have a deep understanding of potential risks, side effects, and complications related to aesthetic treatments. They can manage and mitigate these risks by tailoring treatments to individual patients, considering their skin type, health history, and desired outcomes.

The injection of filler can be dangerous in a non-qualified injector causing skin necrosis or even blindness. Your face is not a place to look for bargains or specials.

Holistic Skin Care: Board certified dermatologists consider both the cosmetic and medical aspects of skin health. They can provide personalized, comprehensive care, addressing both aesthetic concerns and underlying skin issues, such as acne, rashes, chronic skin conditions, and aging.

This combination of extensive medical training, specialized expertise, and commitment to patient safety makes dermatologists the top choice for skin conditions and cosmetic treatments. Physicians swear by the Hippocratic oath that first says “Do no harm.” Providers who do not get a degree in medicine do not take this oath. Also, unfortunately, in 2025 it is possible to get a PhD online and then call yourself a doctor. I wish patients did not have to be savvy and ask about credentials but in today’s world, there are many people who present themselves to be experts who have very little training and may not even know basic anatomy.

I tell my patients to inform their friends and family to check the credentials of anyone treating them medically and verify there is board certification in the specialty being practiced. I would advise everyone to ask who the supervising physician on staff is before allowing anyone to perform procedures on your face and make sure they are actually in the office in case a complication does happen. In the state of Florida, it is not required for the physician to be on-site and I do not think the public is very aware of that.

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April 7, 2025
Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Calls For Artists For The 30th Annual Festival Of The Arts

Artist Applications Now Open for the 30th Annual Festival of the Arts Awarding More Than $12,000 in Cash Prizes

The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is now accepting artist applications for the 30th Annual Festival of the Arts, one of the most anticipated art festivals in the Southeast. This juried fine arts show will take place October 25-26, 2025, on the Dugas Pavilion green in Destin, Florida.

Celebrating three decades of artistic excellence, the Festival of the Arts features more than 100 premier artists from across the country, offering attendees an immersive experience of fine art, live music, and interactive activities for all ages. The event includes a beer and wine garden, a live entertainment lineup, “street” performers, and engaging art activities for children—all narrated by a professional emcee.

Artists are invited to apply for this juried show, which awards more than $12,000 in cash prizes, including Best in Show, People’s Choice, Awards of Excellence, Awards of Merit, and Judge’s Recognition Awards. A variety of mediums will be showcased, including painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, digital art, sculpture, ceramics, fiber, glass, wood, jewelry, mixed media, and more.

The Festival of the Arts provides a prime opportunity for artists to showcase and sell their work to an audience of more than 6,000 art enthusiasts and collectors. Participants benefit from inclusion in the official festival guide, both in print and digital formats, with artist contact details featured in the Artist Preview. MKAF offers exceptional artist hospitality, including free admission to the kickoff party Friday (optional), complimentary breakfast each morning and a special artist award dinner on Saturday evening. Artists also enjoy easy, drive-up access for booth setup and teardown, free on-site parking, booth sitters, and overnight security.

Artists must submit four high-resolution images, including three of their work and one of their booth setup, for jury consideration. The application fee is $30 per category. Booth fees are $350 for a single space, $400 for a corner space (limited availability), and $700 for a double space (limited availability). The deadline to apply is June 30, 2025, with jury results announced in mid-July.

Proceeds fund the MKAF’s community outreach mission to provide cultural outreach programs serving K-12 students, individuals with special needs, and active-duty military and veterans in our community.

For full details on artist participation, rules, and applications, visit www.MKAF.org or contact (850) 650-2226 or info@mkaf.org.

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April 7, 2025
Emerald Coast Theatre Company Raises $54,193 at Inaugural Signature Event, “La Vie En Rouge”

Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s (ECTC) signature event, “La Vie En Rouge,” held on Friday, March 7 raised $54,193 for the local organization.

Embodied after the hit musical, Moulin Rouge!, the event brought the glitz and glamour of a 19th-century Parisian cabaret to the Emerald Coast. From entry to exit, guests were delighted with spotlight performances sponsored by Presenting Sponsor Blue Water Oral Surgery Center, Grand Boulevard, and Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals and Real Estate. Throughout the evening guests were surprised by pop-up performances and atmosphere entertainment from ECTC’s talented performers. There was also an extensive silent auction and a special finale dessert presented by Cafe Thirty-A and baked with love by Charcuterie by Shelli.

ECTC was transformed into a 19th-century Parisian cabaret with decor sponsored by Hilton Sandestin. Guests were greeted upon arrival by our strolling Champagne Dress Lady sponsored by Own at the Beach Team Keller Williams, with champagne courtesy of Vin’tij Food and Wine. Guests enjoyed the Moulin Rouge-themed cocktail hour and an opening performance by presenting sponsors Blue Water Oral Surgery Center. Commemorative keepsake wine glasses were provided by Grand Boulevard. The Cabaret Lounge hosted additional craft cocktails made with Distillery 98 Vodka, each poured into a commemorative keepsake rocks glass, courtesy of Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals and Real Estate. Patrons indulged in gourmet bites prepared by local chefs from Bijoux, Swiftly Catered, Fish On, Cantina Laredo, Tommy Bahama, Flemings, P.F. Chang’s, Grimaldi’s, and Beignets and Brew.

“Another amazing soiree – thanks to YOU” said Anna Fisher, co-founder of ECTC. “The music, the costumes, the food, the performances – we can’t wait to do it again year after year! Thank you to each person who supported this event, from the restaurants serving food and local businesses who donated auction items, to the ticket holders and sponsors – you all helped make this event so special.”

Through ticket sales, donations, and silent auction purchases, ECTC was able to raise $54,193. This money will go directly to the organization’s continued mission to enrich and entertain the Emerald Coast community through professional and educational theatre.

Emerald Coast Theatre Company would like to thank these additional local businesses and individuals for sponsoring the event- Basmati’s and Poate/Bonjean Financial Group of Wells Fargo. A special thanks to The Gathering for their sponsorship of this event in honor of Shirley Simpson. Media sponsors include: Emerald Coast Magazine, Tallahassee Magazine, Life Media, Scarlett Magazine, SoWal.com, and Destin the Beautiful.

La Vie En Rouge only happens once a year! Join us next spring on March 6, 2026, for this annual epic night of food, fun, and jaw-dropping performances!

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April 7, 2025
Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County Announces Gerard Frank As 2025 ArtsQuest Featured Artist

The Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of Walton County, proudly announces Gerard Frank as the Featured Artist for the 37th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival. Frank’s custom artwork—One Man Show—will be showcased on all ArtsQuest marketing materials. The festival, a beloved May tradition, will take place May 3-4, 2025, at Grand Boulevard Town Center’s North Park.

Frank, a professional artist for 26 years, holds the distinction of being the first living artist included in the permanent collection of the Anna Lamar Switzer Center for the Visual Arts. His work is also featured in The Lofts Gallery in Pensacola, FL, and a prestigious Central Park West lobby in New York City. His collectors span the U.S., from Miami to NYC’s SoHo district to Long Beach, CA, and internationally in Germany. In addition to his fine art career, Frank has dedicated over two decades to tattoo artistry, owning and operating his own shop while exhibiting in multiple galleries across the country.

A self-taught painter with a background in commercial screen printing, Frank has worked with clients such as Hewlett-Packard, Boeing, and Lucent Technologies. His expertise in printing on diverse materials—including plastics, metals, wood, and glass—helped shape his abstract style. Encouraged by his wife, Teri, he continues to explore creative boundaries, blending fine art and tattoo artistry.

“As humans we have a desire to belong to something. As artists, we exist in a paradox—trusting our process even when it separates us from the group,” says Frank. “When people connect with your work as deeply as you connect with creating it, you’ve achieved a fundamental human desire: belonging. Being named the Featured Artist for ArtsQuest 2025 is an incredible honor, reinforcing my passion and obligation to keep creating.”

ArtsQuest will feature over 125 artists from across the U.S., exhibiting in a variety of mediums, including ceramics, sculpture, glass, oils, acrylics, mixed media, photography, metal and wood, jewelry, and works on paper. Artists will compete for awards and cash prizes totaling $10,000, judged by a panel of distinguished experts.

Beyond the art, attendees can enjoy live demonstrations, a CAA member exhibit featuring artists from The Foster Gallery, a Walton County student exhibit, a special showcase from the CAA’s Prison Art program, an interactive public art installation, a silent auction, continuous live entertainment, and “ImagiNation: Where Kids Rule.” A full cash bar will be available throughout the weekend in Grand Park.

ArtsQuest is part of Art Month Walton County, a collaboration of visual, performing and literary arts events presented in diverse formats and venues throughout Walton County in May. Art Month Walton also includes Dine + Dive – a fundraiser for the Underwater Museum of Art, Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach, the Longleaf Writers Conference, an Open Mic Night with Emerald Coast Storytellers, Sinfonia Goes Pop at Alys Beach, Legally Blonde – a production from Emerald Coast Theatre Company, Gallery events, concerts, and more.

Presented by Grand Boulevard Town Center, with additional support from Visit South Walton, Hwy 331.com and Emerald Coast Magazine, volunteers are needed throughout ArtsQuest weekend to work on all aspects of the festival. Those willing to help can sign up at CulturalArtsAlliance.com/volunteer. Sponsorships are still available, and interested businesses can contact Gabby@culturalartsalliance.com for more information.

ArtsQuest is a rain or shine event. The festival is open to the public, and a $5 admission donation is requested. Visit CulturalArtsAlliance.com for more information about ArtsQuest as well as other Art Month events, which are supported in part by Visit South Walton.

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April 7, 2025
Watersound Fountains Provides a Welcome Space for Coastal Seniors

The senior living community offers space to Coastal Seniors of South Walton to hold fitness classes, events

Watersound Fountains, an independent living community in Inlet Beach, has become a welcome space for local seniors – and not just the ones who live there. Over the last year, the community has partnered with Coastal Seniors of South Walton (CSSW) to provide space for the group’s regular fitness classes and special events.

On March 17, the group launched its popular water aerobics class at the Watersound Fountains pool. During the winter months, they also hosted line dancing classes at the community, which wrapped up on March 12. For years, the Coastal Seniors have petitioned to have a senior center built in South Walton to house its regular classes and events. Until that happens, Watersound Fountains is happy to provide a space for all seniors in South Walton to meet.

“We’ve built a strong partnership with the Coastal Seniors since opening our doors last year,” said Melissa Adams, Executive Director of Watersound Fountains. “We believe strongly that regular socialization and physical activity are important to maintaining an active lifestyle for local seniors. We’re happy to provide CSSW a space to host those events until they have a space of their own.”

In addition to providing a space for CSSW’s regular fitness classes, the senior living community has provided food for its events – like the Bicentennial event in Santa Rosa Beach last June. They also served as the venue for CSSW’s member appreciation event last fall.

Earlier this year, CSSW started a petition on Change.org to raise awareness of the need for a senior center in Walton County. In it, they note that seniors are often impacted by isolation as they age, which can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, and more. Currently, seniors age 50 and above make up 42 percent of the population of Walton County, yet there is not an adequate facility where programs for active seniors can be provided.

When they are not holding class at Watersound Fountains, CSSW meets at the Walton County Commissioners Office in Santa Rosa Beach and hosts events throughout the community. The organization provides a community for active seniors and focuses on personal health, social, recreational, volunteer opportunities, and life-long learning. Classes include exercise, chair yoga, Tai Chi, watercolor painting classes, and pickleball sessions. The organization also regularly hosts guest speakers.

Adams said that CSSW members are always welcome at Watersound Fountains events, and the invitation goes both ways. The senior living community has purchased CSSW memberships for residents so they can attend events with the Coastal Seniors outside of the community. Creating a space where all seniors are welcome is a common thread the two organizations share.

The two organizations are in the early phases of discussing a possible CSSW art class in Watersound Fountains’ Create Art Studio.

“There have been discussions about a watercolors class with a local senior who is a member of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County,” said Adams. “We have a beautiful art studio in our community and we’d love to see more people enjoy it. This seems like a win for everyone involved and the next phase of the beautiful partnership we’ve created with CSSW.”

Coastal Seniors will hold its weekly water aerobics class at Watersound Fountains from March until October. The class is held four times a week – on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Members can register for the classes on the CSSW website.

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April 7, 2025
The Watersound Club® Team Announces the Opening of Its Newest Course, The Third, Designed by Golf Legend Davis Love III

Masterfully sculpted by Love Golf Design, the new course blends the Club’s renowned amenities with an exhilarating new playing experience

The Watersound Club® team proudly announces the official opening of The Third, a premier 18-hole championship course designed by golf legend Davis Love III and his team at Love Golf Design for the prestigious Watersound Club private membership club. Spanning acres of green in Panama City Beach, FL, The Third enhances the exclusive club’s world-class offerings, bringing its total to 54 holes of championship-level golf. Named in homage to its designer and as a nod to its place as the club’s third course, it delivers a dynamic new playing experience to the region.

Starting March 20, The Third will be available for play, not only to members, but also to guests of Camp Creek® Inn. The luxurious 30A hotel boasts a Member for a Stay program, which treats guests to Northwest Florida’s most sought-after, otherwise private, amenities and championship-caliber courses during their stay. The Third is the latest of several recent demand driven expansion projects, including Watersound Camp Creek® amenities, featuring a state-of-the-art wellness center, tennis and pickleball courts, a sprawling pool complex and three dining venues, as well as Watersound Club Sporting Preserve, a 15-station sporting clays course.

“The opening of The Third represents a monumental milestone in the ongoing Watersound Club evolution and an intentional response to growing demand for more golf options,” said Patrick Murphy, Senior Vice President of Hospitality with St. Joe. “We’re thrilled to elevate the experience on the green for our members, while also offering an exclusive opportunity for Camp Creek Inn guests to enjoy premier golf.”

Just north of Shark’s Tooth Golf Course, the newly designed grounds boast a meticulously crafted layout that caters to golfers of all skill levels. Expansive greens with subtle undulations, strategically positioned bunkers, and six tee options create a course that is both inviting and rewarding—delivering a challenge even for the most seasoned players.

Describing the course, Founder and President of Love Golf Design, Mark Love, noted, “Players should be able to find a set of tees that matches their game. The greens are large and have a good deal of movement in them. We can set the course up to challenge highly skilled players in a major event, but on a daily basis, we can provide a nice mix of easy, medium and difficult pins to keep things interesting, but not too difficult for the average golfer.”

Alongside the existing Watersound Club golf offerings–Shark’s Tooth and Camp Creek courses–The Third continues to establish Northwest Florida as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. Golfers looking to treat themself to an unforgettable golf retreat should explore one of Camp Creek Inn’s exclusive Golf Packages, which are perfectly tailored to offer avid golfers exceptional accommodations, tournament-caliber golf, and luxurious amenities.

For more information on The Third and accommodations at Camp Creek Inn, visit campcreekinn.com/golf/the-third-golf-course

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April 7, 2025
Watersound Fountains Residents Visit St. Augustine for Memorable Trip

Earlier this month, a group of residents from Watersound Fountains, a senior living community in Inlet Beach, embarked on an extraordinary outing to St. Augustine, Florida. The trip was the brainchild of residents and was planned and executed with the help of Community Life Director Michelle Graves.

Five residents, accompanied by Graves, visited St. Augustine from March 3 to March 6. Before the trip, they each shared their wish list items, and over the three days were able to visit, see, eat and enjoy it all!

The itinerary included visits to iconic landmarks such as the Lightner Museum and the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, providing a rich historical backdrop to their visit. These sites were cited by residents as among the most memorable and educational aspects of their adventure.

The ladies also enjoyed leisurely shopping along the bustling St. George Street, while the group collectively savored a delicious lunch at The Columbia Restaurant and a lively Mardi Gras party at Harry T’s. The itinerary also included a visit to the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum and dinner at River and Fort.

“There truly was something for everyone on this Extraordinary Outing,” said Graves. “What was even more special was the deeper connections and friendships that were formed during our travels.”

During the trip, residents Frank and Kay discovered a surprising connection: they had both lived on the same military base, and Frank had known Kay’s late husband.

“It was fun to learn that connection,” added Graves. “Spending time and getting to know each other on a more personal level was so nice.”

Residents also had the opportunity to explore on their own based on their personal interests. Resident Frank attended Ash Wednesday service at the Basilica Cathedral in downtown St. Augustine, a short walk from their hotel, before joining the group for the day’s activities.

“Since returning, they’ve spoken of how much they enjoyed the trip and told other residents and associates about their time in St. Augustine,” said Graves.” The residents’ enthusiasm is a testament to the success of the trip and the strong sense of community we are developing at Watersound Fountains.”

Extraordinary Outings are a regular part of community life at Watersound Fountains. These trips give residents the opportunity to explore beyond their community and experience new things in their retirement.

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April 7, 2025
Walton County Tourism Wins Multiple HSMAI Adrian and ADDY Awards

Walton County Tourism Director Matt Algarin and Director of Marketing Kelli Carter

Walton County Tourism has been recognized for excellence in marketing and communications with multiple awards at the 2024 Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International Adrian Awards and the New Orleans Chapter of the American Advertising Awards. These accolades highlight the organization’s commitment to innovative storytelling and strategic marketing in promoting South Walton as a premier destination.

“I’m incredibly proud to see our team honored for their hard work in promoting Walton County as a world-class destination,” said Matt Algarin, Walton County tourism director. “To know that our work stands tall against international competition speaks volumes to the time and effort that goes into telling the stories

that inspire travel and allows our visitors to create lifelong memories, all while supporting our community through direct spending and job creation.”

The American Advertising Awards, also known as the Addy Awards, is the largest and most prestigious advertising competition, drawing over 25,000 entries annually to celebrate creative excellence in marketing and design. Walton County Tourism was recognized at the New Orleans Chapter of the ADDY Awards, earning one Gold and one Silver award:

Gold ADDY – Sales & Marketing | Collateral Material | Publication Design | Book Design: South Walton Cookbook

(Gold winners advance to the district competition.)

Silver ADDY – Out-of-Home & Ambient Media | Events | Multiple Events: South Walton Unpacked

The American Advertising Federation conducts the three-tier competition annually, beginning at the local level and culminating in the national stage.

The HSMAI Adrian Awards, held recently in New York City, celebrate outstanding achievements in hospitality advertising, digital marketing, and public relations. This year, Walton County Tourism was honored with one Silver and five Bronze awards across various categories:

Silver Award – Public Relations/Communications (Feature Placement Online or Print): Florida’s South Walton; Where to Eat, Play, Stay & More – Read the feature Bronze Award – Advertising, Brand Campaign: Authentic Walton Branding – View the case study

Bronze Award – Advertising, Print Collateral: South Walton Cookbook – Explore the cookbook

Bronze Award – Advertising, Group Sales/Travel Trade: Meetings Interactive Brochure

Bronze Award – Digital, Social Media/Social Networking: 16 Beach Neighborhood Locator Videos

Bronze Award – Integrated Campaign, Business to Consumer: Your Getaway. Your Homecoming. Your South Walton.

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April 7, 2025