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Nestled within the tranquil embrace of Henderson Beach Resort, the Henderson Spa is an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation along Florida’s Emerald Coast. From signature facials and massages to luxurious body treatments and beauty enhancements, every detail is designed to provide a world-class wellness experience. This spring, guests and locals alike are invited to discover the spa’s newest offerings at the much-anticipated Spring Open House—an exclusive event celebrating self-care, beauty, and holistic well-being.

Indulge in Signature Treatments

Henderson Spa’s menu of services is carefully curated to address relaxation, renewal, and revitalization. The spa’s massage therapies range from deep tissue and hot stone to aromatherapy-infused sessions that melt away stress and tension. For those seeking a radiant complexion, the spa’s skincare treatments feature the renowned Babor line, a European luxury skincare brand known for its advanced, science-driven formulas. Additionally, the spa proudly offers Dr. Schrammek’s Green Peel, a world-renowned herbal facial treatment designed to deeply rejuvenate and renew the skin. Whether indulging in the Ultimate Glow Facial or the Detoxifying Oxygen Facial, guests will experience transformative results tailored to their skin’s needs.

Body treatments elevate the wellness journey further with options like the Sugar Glow Body Scrub and the Marine Algae Detox Wrap, which deeply nourish and purify the skin. The spa also offers exclusive couples’ experiences, where partners can unwind together in a serene, intimate setting. Every service is enhanced by the spa’s signature rituals, ensuring that each guest leaves feeling fully refreshed and renewed.

Spring Open House: A Celebration of Wellness

As the season of renewal unfolds, Henderson Spa invites guests to its annual Spring Open House on April 10 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., a premier event showcasing the latest in beauty, skincare, and holistic wellness. This special gathering will feature live demonstrations of new treatments, complimentary mini-services, and exclusive discounts on spa packages and retail products. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the spa’s luxurious offerings, meet expert therapists, and sample premium products from top-tier beauty brands.

Guests will enjoy special mini facials from Dr. Schrammek, chair massages, HydraFacial hand treatments, complimentary polish change (no gel polish, please), Prickly Pear Bellinis and skincare consultations. Salty Sparrow will host a pop-up jewelry display while Prime IV will offer custom drips and injections. Sip, socialize, and indulge in a serene escape designed just for you. We encourage you to call the spa to pre-book your mini facials before they all fill up: (850) 424-4482.

An Escape Like No Other

Beyond its extensive service offerings, Henderson Spa provides an unparalleled setting for relaxation. With its soothing coastal-inspired design, plush treatment rooms, and tranquil relaxation lounges, the spa is a sanctuary that instantly transports guests away from the bustle of daily life. Whether visiting for a single treatment or indulging in a full day of pampering, every moment spent here is a step toward deeper relaxation and renewal.

This spring, there’s no better time to prioritize self-care and experience the best of what Henderson Spa has to offer. Locals enjoy 10% off spa services daily with a 20% savings between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. (discounts cannot be combined). Reserve your spot today and embrace the art of relaxation in paradise. To schedule an appointment, call 850.424.4482 or online at hendersonbeachresort.com/spa.

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The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) and SEASIDE® are proud to announce their partnership to provide professional beach lifeguard services for SEASIDE®  homeowners and vacation guests beginning March 11, 2025.

The contractual agreement for services was finalized following discussions between the two entities about the critical need for enhancing beach safety within SEASIDE® after the closure of the Van Ness Butler Regional Beach Access in 2024.

“The closure unfortunately created a three-mile gap between our lifeguard towers in Seagrove  Beach and Grayton Beach,” said SWFD Fire Chief Ryan Crawford. “SEASIDE® has stepped up  to provide its residents and visitors with lifeguard protection, which allows us to more effectively  prevent and respond to emergencies in an area with a historically high call volume.”

The beach will be staffed daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., during the 2025 Beach Safety Season, which includes extended hours during peak times.

“Our goal is to provide peace of mind for everyone who enjoys our beaches, knowing that professional lifeguards are on duty to keep them safe,” said Kevin Boyle, Seaside Community  Development Corp. General Manager. “I have the utmost respect for Beach Safety Director  David Vaughan, Fire Chief Ryan Crawford, and Fire Marshal Sammy Sanchez for their unwavering dedication to protecting our community. Their leadership has been instrumental in making this agreement possible, and we are grateful for their partnership. We also applaud Alys  Beach, Rosemary Beach, Sandestin, and others for paving the way with similar agreements,  setting a strong precedent for proactive beach safety measures across our region.”

SWFD and SEASIDE® encourage those visiting the beach to swim near a lifeguard and follow the beach flag warning system. For more beach safety information, follow SWFD on social media or visit www.swfd.org.

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Did you know Historic Downtown Panama City is home to one of only two documentary film festivals in the Southeast U.S.?

Redfish Film Fest – in its second year – is on track to become the premier event of its kind in this area. Last year was a smash, and festival organizers say they have more films and immersive live events planned for this year.

“We were awed how people embraced Redfish in its first year,” said Kevin Elliott, Director of Redfish. Elliot moved to Panama City in 1988, at the age of 13, and was smitten. A life-long arts kid, he has always wanted to help build arts and culture in Panama City like he sees in the big cities he visits with his film company, Wewa Films.

“Our town and people helped us make this what it was. We are thrilled and honored to do it again.”

This year’s fest happens April 24-27 in Historic Downtown Panama City. The fest will be screening at five venues this year –  Panama City Center for the Arts, Downtown Boxing Club, Mosey’s, Gallery of Art and Bay County Historical Museum – with more than 60 documentaries and immersive arts events happening each night.

Redfish is not a typical film festival. Its signature evening arts events are not usually seen at film festivals.

“Last year we had a 3D projection art block party, a blues jam, a Redfish comedy show, and bourbon tastings,” Elliott said. “Our arts community gathered round us and helped make Redfish so much better. It’s happening again this year.”

In addition to documentaries, Redfish will have an opening night party on April 24 called From Bayou to Beyond that celebrates Panama City’s past, present, and future. Friday, April 25 includes an “urban fantasy street party” called Storyteller’s Row that will feature musicians, light projections, and a nighttime art market from local group Trash Market, all in downtown’s Gateway and McKenzie Parks.

That same night, local haunt Mosey’s will host a concert by Matt Siegel Music called Music in the Movies, then Panama City Comedy will host its Redfish Comedy Showcase.

Saturday night, April 26 will see Masque of the Red Death, a “dark masquerade party” based on the short story by Edgar Allen Poe.

The Redfish team have a brunch planned for Sunday, April 27 that includes a boat journey across St. Andrews Bay to Papa Joe’s Bayside, where guests will be entertained with a true crime adventure.

But why documentaries only?

Redfish co-founder and head programmer, Lex Benedict, said it comes down to real stories about real people. Benedict is a producer, editor, and VFX artist who has been working professionally in L.A. for over two decades. She has spearheaded the post-production and delivery process of over twenty feature-length films, several docu-series, music videos, shorts and branded content distributed on platforms such as Array for Netflix, HBO/MAX, HULU, Buzzfeed, Billboard, FOX, COMPLEX and Amazon.

“In the end, Redfish is about people and their stories,” Benedict said. “Personal stories are our most treasured possessions as humans. We want Redfish to be a place where people can share their stories, celebrate them, and create some new chapters with us.”

For more information on Redfish Film Fest or to buy tickets, visit www.redfishfilmfest.com. Volunteers interested in assisting with set-up April 19-27 can email Lex Benedict at lex@redfishfilmfest.com for more information.

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Open Door Food Pantry, staffed by volunteers and their CEO, Bill “Boss” Howell, handles about 22,000 lbs of donated food every week.  This amazing service is open to all that ask for food and other help. Currently, the Open Door Food Pantry is in need of equipment, such as a forklift.  If you have equipment to donate or are interested in volunteering, please contact Bill Howell at (850) 217-6991.

The Open Door Food Pantry is located at 24388 HWY 331 S. For more information, visit www.thechurchatthebayandopendoorfoodpantry.com.

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After opening in 2022 in The Market Shops at Sandestin and then moving temporarily to Silver Sands Premium Outlets, Mountain High Outfitters has locked into a brand new permanent location where they celebrated their opening on April 4.

“We are beyond excited to finally be locked into the Emerald Coast, where people come from all over to enjoy the spectacular beaches and atmosphere. Allowing Mountain High Outfitters to spread our passion and the fun curated assortment of brands is truly a blessing. We can’t wait to have you visit and experience the MHO movement,”  says Chris Groom, Owner

Mountain High Outfitters (MHO) is more than a traditional outdoor retailer. Upon entering any store, you will notice a vast array of products and brands that create a compelling story for any patron. They pride themselves on guest engagement, making it a comfortable place to prepare for a first adventure, expedition, or lifestyle experience. Building a community and giving back to the community is at the forefront of MHO’s movement. Mountain High Outfitters currently has 25 locations throughout Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida and Utah, as well as a website, www.mountainhighoutfitters.com. Come experience MHO and be a part of the movement. Get Out, Get Active, Be Inspired and Live Your Passion.

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Jenna Landmon, 21, of Santa Rosa Beach, will compete for the title of MISS FLORIDA USA 2025 on May 23-25 at the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center in Orlando, FL. “I am so excited to represent and serve the area as Miss Emerald Coast USA,” said Jenna. “I look forward to competing with smart, talented women from across Florida and encouraging and inspiring children to make a difference in their communities.”

Jenna is a summa cum laude graduate from Boston College. She is the two-time published author of Little Paisley Makes a Big Difference and Little Paisley Goes to Africa. Both books tell the heartwarming story of a young girl who sets out to impact her community, both locally and abroad. Jenna’s mission is to inspire each child to use their voice to create positive change, which is why she formed the nonprofit Paisley’s Difference (www.paisleysdifference.org). Through speaking engagements at schools and churches both across Florida and the nation, Jenna loves to inspire children to become world changers!

The Miss Florida Teen USA® and Miss Florida USA® pageants are the Official Preliminaries to the MISS TEEN USA®, MISS USA®, and MISS UNIVERSE® pageants.

The young woman chosen as Miss Florida USA 2025 will go on to represent the state of Florida in the 2025 MISS USA® pageant, one of the most anticipated events of the year.

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Limited Seating for This Ferociously Funny Show, Tickets on Sale Now! 

Surfside Music Theatre is thrilled to announce that tickets are now on sale for the highly anticipated production of Mean Girls JR., a smart, hilarious, and “totally fetch” musical based on the hit movie written by Tina Fey. Performances will take place from April 23–26, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Surfside Music Theatre’s Blackbox Theatre located in Grayton Beach. Tickets are $16.50 and can be purchased at www.surfsidemusictheatre.com.

Mean Girls JR. follows the hilarious journey of Cady Heron, a student who must learn to navigate the treacherous social hierarchy of high school after moving to suburban Illinois from Kenya. With the “Plastics,” a group of popular but ruthless girls led by Regina George, Cady’s mission to climb the social ladder quickly takes unexpected and humorous twists.

Mean Girls JR. is presented through a special arrangement with, and all authorized materials supplied by, Music Theatre International (MTI). Featuring a book by Tina Fey, lyrics by Nell Benjamin, and music by Jeff Richmond, Mean Girls JR. is based on the 2004 film, which was adapted from the book Queen Bees and Wannabes by Rosalind Wiseman. The production is under the direction of Michelle Kerrigan, with Assistant Director Addison Hightower and house management by Michele Perkins.

With limited seating in the intimate Blackbox Theatre, tickets will sell out fast. Don’t be the last to find out what all the buzz is about—reserve your spot before it’s totally too late! Get your tickets now at www.surfsidemusictheatre.com.

Cast: Cady Heron – Avery Horn, Janis Sarkisian – Addison Hightower AD, Damian – Colin Grantham, Regina George – Lucy Leming, Gretchen Wieners – Ava Watt, Aaron Samuels – Cayden Perkins, Taylor, Mrs. Heron, French Teacher, Kevin G. – Ama Pinto, Rachel, Marymount 3 – Ivy Castle, Caitlin, Caroline Kraft – Penelope Lynn.

About Surfside Music Theatre: Founded by Michelle Kerrigan, Surfside Music Theatre encompasses two vibrant production companies: the professional Surfside Music Theatre (SMT), founded in 2006, and the youth-focused B.E.T.A. (Broadening Education Through Arts), established in 1986. Our mission is to produce high-quality theatrical and family-friendly live stage shows that enrich the cultural landscape of the beautiful 30A community, serving both residents and visitors alike. In August 2015, Kerrigan relocated B.E.T.A. from Destin to the artistic haven of Grayton Beach, where the quaint Black Box Surfside Music Theatre now flourishes. Surfside offers private masterclass opportunities for professionals and youth in performance voice, acting for stage and screen, and dance for the musical theatre performer. You can find more information at www.surfsidemusictheatre.com

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Heirloom Donuts is Finally Open! Stop by Tuesday – Saturday from 7 a.m to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. to see what the fuss is all about. Find them at 38 Thompson Rd in Santa Rosa Beach.

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By Kathleen Edge, Publicity & Website Chair

Reservations are still available for Green Thumb Garden Club’s upcoming

“From the French Coast to the Emerald Coast” floral designing event.

Renowned author and floral designer Laura Dowling will demonstrate the art of creating stunning floral arrangements for attendees.

As the White House chief floral designer from late 2009 through February 2015, Dowling managed flowers and décor for both public and private spaces as well as all official events and the famous Christmas decorations.  She studied French floral art in Paris and extended her floristry training in Germany.  Laura is the author of five books, most recently Designing Christmas:  Practical Tips for Festive Décor.

Using the theme “Gifts from the Garden”, she recently transformed nine rooms at the Cheekwood Estates & Gardens in Nashville into a holiday wonderland.

The GTGC event is on May 15 at Westwinds Conference Center at Sandestin, 4700 Westwinds Drive, Miramar Beach, FL,  32550.  Registration is required and attendance is limited.  Lunch and afternoon refreshments are included in the reservation.  Tablescapes created by talented GTGC members will be on display and there will be a book signing opportunity with Laura Dowling.  All details, including the agenda and registration form, can be found at www.greenthumbgardenclubinc.org, or email greenthumbgardenclubinc@gmail.com or call (209) 605-4146.

The Green Thumb Garden Club, Inc., located in Walton County, Florida, is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Its mission is to stimulate interest in the beautification of Walton County, furthering the education of its members and the public in botany, community beautification, conservation of natural resources, environmental awareness, floral design, gardening, horticulture, and nature studies and instill in our youth the love of gardening and respect for the environment.

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