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A Great Mix of Diverse Educational Programs Planned for Green Thumb Garden Club

By Kathleen Edge, Publicity Chair, email greenthumbgardenclubinc@gmail.com

GTGC celebrated Arbor Day by planting trees at historic Gulf Cemetery in Santa Rosa Beach in January. Dr. William Keyes, Cemetery Board President was the keynote speaker. He provided GTGC members and guests with the location’s history and highlighted Walton County founders and veterans who are laid to rest in this beautiful setting. Special thanks to Thomas Hicks Nursery for their donation and planting of the three sand live oak trees. A memorial marker from Green Thumb Garden Club is installed by the trees.

February’s meeting will have participants flying high and landing in their own gardens. Ron Houser from the Audubon Society of Bay County will educate us on “How to attract birds to your yard with native plants”. The timing is perfect for the planting season in our area.

The March meeting brings in a past GTGC Mercer Scholarship recipient, Casey McClain, to show participants how to achieve the best results from a container herb gardening. Casey will graduate from the University of Florida Milton this spring with a degree in Plant Life. Her goal is to create a residential edible landscape business.

GTGC will welcome spring in April with a tea party and bake sale. A guest speaker will present the health benefits of herbal teas. Bake sale proceeds from the member-donated cookies, cakes and other treats will benefit GTGC scholarships and local charities.

Additional details about the February, March and April meetings: Check in is 9:30 am at Westwinds Conference Center at Sandestin, 4700 Westwinds Drive, Miramar Beach, FL 32550. The cost is $30. for members and guests ($32.00 with credit card.) Lunch is included in the cost.

Please visit the Green Thumb Garden Club website to learn about our charitable mission, how to join and details on meetings, activities, and events. The website address is greenthumbgardenclubinc.org or send an email to greenthumbgardenclubinc@gmail.com.

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 gardening ~ horticulture ~ botany ~ floral design ~ environmental awareness ~ conservation of natural resources ~ civic beautification ~ nature studies and instill in our youth the love of gardening and respect for the environment.

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February 7, 2025
“Tea Fore Her” Fundraiser

Eleventh Annual “Tea Fore Her” Fundraiser Supports and Celebrates Breast Cancer Patients Along the Emerald Coast on March 9th at The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa

Fore Her announces ticket sales for their annual “Tea Fore Her” fundraiser on Sunday, March 9, at 12 p.m. at The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa. This tea and luncheon is a beloved tradition among locals who are ready to dress for Spring, gather with friends and support breast cancer patients along the Emerald Coast. Fore Her local nonprofit organization offers financial assistance, resources, hope, and compassion for all who are affected by breast cancer, with fundraisers like Tea Fore Her.

This year’s tea, presented by Emerald Coast Hospice, will include a seated luncheon with a special appearance from opera singer Toccara Scott, a silent auction, photo booth… and of course tea! Guests are encouraged to wear their most gorgeous hats for a chance to win the coveted “Best Hat” prize!

Guests will get a very special treat with Tea For Her’s Keynote Speaker, a local treasure and breast cancer survivor Donna Bell, News Director and Anchor at WJHG in Panama City. Bell is a “new” survivor as she was diagnosed with breast cancer only in July of 2024. Tea Fore Her will be Bell’s first public appearance after going through breast reconstruction in February of this year.

“In 2013 I lost my mom to breast cancer,” says Bell. “In 2024, I was diagnosed at stage one. What I learned through my experience with breast cancer is no two journeys are the same. Early detection is so important, but so is listening to your body, following your instincts, and advocating for yourself and your loved ones. I hope my story encourages others to do just that.”

“This event is near and dear to my heart, not only as a Fore Her board member but most importantly as a breast cancer survivor,” says Ginny Richerson, Fore Her Patient Liaison and Board Member. “It is truly remarkable to see our local community come together to raise funds for these breast cancer patients at this beautiful event. I look around the room every year and see how much good we are doing in caring for and supporting patients who need financial assistance during the most trying time in their lives..”

Tickets are $70 per person and tables (8 guests each) are also available for purchase at www.foreher.org. A discounted ticket price of $65 per person will be available for breast cancer survivors.

Tea Fore Her 2025 sponsors include Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa (Venue Sponsor), Emerald Coast Hospice (Platinum), Clay Garden and Gifts (Photo Booth and Centerpiece Sponsor), Silver Sands Premium Outlets (Beverage Sponsor), Eglin Federal Credit Union (Registration Table Sponsor), Shelley Albarado and Brenda Whitwell of Edward Jones (Dessert Table Sponsor), Veronica Trout and Family (Tea Table Sponsor), Community Bank (Pink Ribbon Sponsor), RHoward Photography and AlphaLit.

To become a Tea Fore Her sponsor, donate to the silent auction, or for more information, contact amy@foreher.org or visit www.foreher.org/tea-fore-her.

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February 7, 2025
Upcoming Events February 2025

Coastal Branch Library Winter Community Speaker Series

The Coastal Branch Library invites you to the Winter Community Speaker Series beginning at 10 a.m. every Wednesday through February 26. Informational brochures can be picked up at the library.

Feb. 12: Jessica Valek, natural resources

Feb. 19: Historian Brenda Rees

Feb. 26: Murder Mystery

Emerald Coast Theatre Company: Timeless Love: Songs through the Ages Feb. 14

Emerald Coast Theatre Company presents Timeless Love: Songs through the Ages Valentine’s Day Musical Revue at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m at ECTC’s space in Grand Boulevard Town Center. Share this evening or afternoon event with the ones you love. Each couple will enjoy their own private table. Complete your experience with a bottle of wine and a sweet or savory charcuterie box.

Tickets and information can be found at www.emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

AJ’s Grayton Pups & Pints Valentine’s Celebration Feb. 14

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at AJ’s Grayton Beach. Pups & Pints begins at 3 p.m. featuring fun, furry friends and live music. Road Dogg Rescue will be on-site from 3-6 p.m. with adorable puppies and dogs looking for their forever homes or foster families. Enjoy a free pint of beer, free crawfish, and sample a delicious Tito’s cocktail while you mingle with friends and fellow dog lovers. Don’t forget to indulge in sushi happy hour from 4-6 p.m., featuring 1/2 price sushi.

LIVE MUSIC

Main Stage, 4 p.m.: Bryan Bludworth

Courtyard, 3 p.m.: TBA

8 p.m.: DJ Charles

9 p.m.: About to Sweat

PCB Mardi Gras and Music Festival Feb. 14-15

You’re in for a real treat at the Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival on February 14 & 15, 2025. In conjunction with the Krewe of Dominique Youx’s great Mardi Gras at the Beach parade, the festival features entertainment for the whole family. Attendees will enjoy float tours, the kids’ fun zone, live music, and fireworks. For more details, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/events/concerts-music-festivals/mardi-gras.

SeaLight Festival Now-April 13

The SeaLight Festival has returned to Seascape Resort, open Thursday through Sunday from 5:30-9:30 p.m. The whimsical outdoor walk-through experience showcases over a thousand intricately designed Chinese lanterns and invites visitors of all ages to explore a luminous landscape inspired by Chinese legends and lore, while others celebrate the beauty of nature. Enjoy live entertainment by the Zigong Acrobatic Troupe, an award-winning Chinese acrobatic collective. Each festival also features a variety of vendors, games, food & drink, and cultural booths boasting incredible artisanal gifts for purchase.

Tickets are now available for purchase: sealightfestival.com.

CAA Cocktails & Canvases at Farm & Fire Feb. 19

Unleash your creative side with the Cultural Arts Alliance! Grab your friends and secure your spot for their Cocktails & Canvases experience with artist Pam Ridler at Farm & Fire on Wednesday, February 19, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Cocktails & Canvases is a program of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County that offers guests the opportunity to be guided by an experienced artist in creating a piece of artwork they will take home at the end of the session. This event is open to all levels of learners ages 21 and older. Cost is $75 which includes supplies, 2 cocktails and light bites. Visit CulturalArtsAlliance.com/upcoming-events to reserve your spot!

30A Wine Festival Feb. 20-23

The 30A Wine Festival, underwritten by The Alys Foundation, returns to the beautiful community of Alys Beach for its 13th year. Cleanse your palate and prepare for five days of exquisite wines, delectable dishes, and beautiful surroundings.

The festival showcases renowned distillers, vintners, and culinary favorites over four days of celebration – a series of events and workshops where wine enthusiasts and bourbon lovers alike relish in the festivities within the captivating town of Alys Beach.

All proceeds from the festival benefit the Children’s Volunteer Health Network, a local charity which provides health services to uninsured or underinsured school children in Walton and Okaloosa Counties.

Tickets and more info at 30awinefestival.com.

Florida Chautauqua Assembly Feb. 20-23

The assembly is an annual 4-day educational program for families featuring notable keynote speakers, educational breakout sessions, and a nightly street party. The assembly will also host free events along with paid events around the lake yard. The 2025 theme is “A Journey Into Vaudeville.”

See the full schedule and registration information at FloridaChautauquaAssembly.org.

Emerald Coast Theatre Company: Always a Bridesmaid Feb. 20 – March 2

Emerald Coast Theatre Company presents Always a Bridesmaid at 7 p.m., Sundays and Wednesdays at 2 p.m. at ECTC’s space in Grand Boulevard Town Center.

In this hilarious comedic romp a la “Golden Girls,” four friends have sworn to keep the promise they made on the night of their Senior Prom: to be in each other’s weddings…no matter what. More than thirty years later, these Southern friends-for-life are still making “the long walk” for each other, determined to honor that vow. If you’ve ever elbowed a stranger out of the way to catch a bride’s bouquet, seriously questioned the mental stability of the duo saying “I do” or been forced to wear the world’s ugliest bridesmaid dress, this deliriously funny Jones Hope Wooten comedy is definitely for you…and your dearly beloved!

Tickets and information can be found at www.emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

Sandestin Gumbo Festival Feb. 21 & 22

The event is a beloved local winter tradition in South Walton, featuring gumbo tasting throughout The Village as well as a bloody mary competition and live music. This year’s event promises to serve as fun for everyone. Gulf Coast restaurants will be featured along with live music and children’s activities.

Visit SandestinGumboFestival.com for tickets and details, including a daily schedule of events and entertainment. Event will happen rain or shine.

Escape to Create: A Performance by Seyko Groves Feb .21

Escape To Create makes its highly-anticipated return! Accompanied by local musicians, Soulful singer and songwriter Seyko Groves will perform a selection of jazz, soul and R&B standards and introduce new works at The REP Theatre. Tickets will be available through The REP Theatre at http://lovetherep.com.

Escape to Create performances continue throughout February at The REP and other various locations in Seaside. Ticket purchases support Escape to Create Residencies and Educational Outreach throughout Walton County. To learn more and view the full schedule, visit www.escape2create.org.

6th Annual Shrimp & Grits Festival Feb. 22

Don’t miss out on the 6th Annual Shrimp & Grits Festival Feb. 22 from 12-4 p.m. behind Brotula’s Seafood House and Steamer, benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. Delight your taste buds with creative twists on this classic southern dish from local chefs, sip on refreshing drinks, groove to a live DJ and cast your vote for the best Shrimp and Grits on the Emerald Coast. To purchase tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/5th-annual-shrimp-grits-festival-tickets-741754897867.

Dog-Harmony Hops for Hounds Feb. 23

Dog Harmony’s 5th Annual “Hops for Hounds” dog walk and after party, will be held February 23rd, 1-3 p.m. at Props Brewery in Hammock Bay, Freeport. The day will start with a picturesque, short stroll followed by a lively after-party at Props Brewery, complete with craft beer (for thirsty humans 21 and older), live music, vendors, food trucks and more.

To register, visit https://dog-harmony.org/hops-forhounds-2025.

Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show Feb. 28 – March 3

The Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show takes place at Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach. This land based show will feature boat displays from all major manufacturers and the top dealers representing the latest in boats, high-tech engines, electronics and marine accessories. Boats range from entry level bow riders and center consoles all the way up to the next generation 42′ center consoles with quad outboards. Buyers will find everything in between. REAL. FUN. BOATS.

Making it much more than a boat show, this event features everything for the kind of active, outdoor beach living so popular along the Emerald Coast, from stand-up paddleboards and fishing kayaks to outdoor kitchens, diving, active wear, and beach cruising bicycles.

Visit emeraldcoastboatshow.com to purchase tickets, check out the venue and registered exhibitors.

DeFuniak Springs Home and Garden Show March 1

The DeFuniak Springs Home and Garden Show takes place Saturday, March 1st from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Fair Grounds in DeFuniak Springs. Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.

The show is a local marketplace where you can shop for home-related products and services, purchase unique decor and gifts from arts and crafts vendors, get products from local hobby farms, support small business owners, view displays to help inspire your next home project, connect with home improvement and real estate professionals, and enjoy informative presentations from local home and garden experts. Enjoy plant and food vendors as well as pet adoptions on-site.

Visit waltoncountyfair.com/events for more information

La Vie En Rouge Friday, March 7

Immerse yourself in the glamour of 19th-century Parisian cabaret at La Vie En Rouge, presented by Emerald Coast Theatre Company on Friday, March 7th 6-9 p.m. This exclusive signature event will feature exhilarating live performances, dazzling costumes, and a vibrant atmosphere for guests 21+. Get ready to indulge yourself in an evening of elegance, as we transport you to the iconic Moulin Rouge for a night of dinner, dancing, entertainment, silent auction, and many more unforgettable moments. Purchase tickets at emeraldcoasttheatre.org/special-events.

ECCAC’s Signature Gala & Golf Events March 8-9

The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) is putting on its annual signature Gala & Golf event this year, presented by Peggy and Jerry Swanson. The Gala features a cocktail hour starting at 5:30 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. Guests will enjoy dinner and live entertainment; an exciting live auction, as well as a featured guest speaker. The Gala is an energetic, yet important ECCAC fundraiser to benefit children by providing services at no cost to help identify, treat and support child victims in abusive situations.

The Golf Tournament, also to benefit ECCAC, will take place on Sunday, March 9, at Kelly Plantation Golf Club with registration and a cookout meal from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. to be ready for a tournament shotgun start at noon. An Awards Ceremony will follow the tournament. Please make reservations online at eccac.org. Sponsorships are still available.

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February 7, 2025
Coastal Seniors Update for February

Chair Yoga Classes at the Blake in Miramar Beach– Tuesdays, February 4, 18 and March 4, 18 at 9:45 a.m. at the Blake, 90 Ponce De Leon St. in Miramar Beach. RSVP at (850) 650-5000 to register.

Monthly Meeting – Friday, February 21 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. A light lunch will be served. Also, The Walton County Library Bookmobile will be there. R.S.V.P. by calling (850) 280-5342 or email: coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com.

Exercise Classes – Angela Gibson will lead classes on Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 18, 25 and March 4, 11 at 10 a.m. and on Thursdays, February 6, 13, 20, 27 and March 6, 13 at 10 a.m., at 70 Logan Lane in Grayton Beach. Cost is $5 per session for CSSW members and $10 for non-members. Space is limited, please call (850) 280-5342 or email: coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com for more information.

Line Dancing Classes – Line Dancing classes are set for Wednesdays at 3 p.m. February 5, 12, 19, 26 and March 5, 12 at Watersound Fountains at 65 Origins Pkwy behind Publix at Inlet Beach. The cost is $5 for members/$10 for non-members. Space is limited and registration is required.

Art Classes – Watercolor Painting Class – Karen Peterson will teach classes on Fridays, February 7, 21, 28 and March 7, 14 from 8:45 a.m. to noon. Classes are held at 70 Logan Lane in Grayton Beach. Cost is $15 for CSSW members and $30 for non-members. Space is limited so call 850-280-5342 to reserve your spot, or email: coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com. All supplies are included.

Pickleball – Beginner Pickleball 101 at Walton Sports Complex courts on a date to be determined. Registration required. Register at www.waltonrec.com. Open to Walton County residents only. Email Sandy Gulak at sowalpickleball@gmail.com for more info and with questions. Also join us at the Boys and Girls Club on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through April 24. Cost is $5 per day and an initial $35 waiver fee. Please join the SoWal 30A Pickleball Association on Facebook for more information and weekly updates and check the CSSW calendar at www.coastalseniorsofsouthwalton.org.

Seniors 50 years of age and up residing in or visiting Walton County are invited to join CSSW. Membership is $30 for individuals, $40 for family, and $100 for businesses (your business will be listed on our home webpage and our Facebook page). You can become a member via email at coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com, or on the website at www.coastalseniorsofsouthwalton.org. Also, follow us on Facebook at Coastal Seniors of South Walton. Coastal Seniors of South Walton, Inc. is a non-profit 501© (3) organization for active adults and we are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic persons to join our Board of Directors. Media Contact: Jim Wilson, Director, Coastal Seniors of South Walton, Inc. T: 404-432-6037 Email: jim_wilson@bellsouth.net

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February 7, 2025
Tickets On Sale Now for the 2025 Caring & Sharing Spring Fashion Show & Luncheon at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

Join Caring & Sharing of South Walton for the Spring Fashion Show, presented by Bluewater Plastic Surgery and Emerald Coast Hospice, on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. The much-anticipated event promises an afternoon of fun, fashion, and community support, featuring a fashion show, lunch, music, a silent auction, a photo booth, and much more.

The doors will open at 12 p.m., and guests will be greeted with a complimentary welcome drink. Attendees will have the opportunity to mingle, browse the boutique, and place bids on silent auction items before the ballroom opens at 12:30 p.m. for lunch and the fashion show.

“The Caring & Sharing Fashion Show is not only an exciting and unique event (the only fashion show on 30A), but it also raises awareness in the community about our neighbors in need,” said Mary Catharine Miller, Board President of Caring & Sharing. “I’m proud, not only as the Board President, but also as an active volunteer.”

Volunteers and supporters of Caring & Sharing will walk the runway, modeling outfits made entirely of items donated to the Caring & Sharing Thrift Store. These featured pieces, along with additional thrift store items, will be available for purchase at the on-site pop-up boutique, specially curated for this event.

“In my five years as a volunteer and board member with Caring & Sharing,” said Miller. “I’ve witnessed this event grow year after year. It’s been exciting to see its continued success and to watch our guests enjoy themselves while supporting such a meaningful cause.”

Tickets are available for purchase online only. Caring & Sharing offers individual tickets for $65, as well as the ability to reserve a table for eight guests for $600. Visit https://springfashionshow2025.eventbrite.com or www.caringandsharingsowal.org to purchase tickets.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our generous event sponsors, including Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Emerald Coast Hospice, Bluewater Plastic Surgery, Cogent Bank, Blush Beauty Lounge, Eglin Federal Credit Union, Palms 30A, Sweet Henrietta’s, Mingle, GTS Entertainment, Shunk Gulley, Emerald Coast Florals & Event Design, and Epic Photo Booth Co.

Caring & Sharing of South Walton provides crisis relief to our neighbors in need in Walton County through financial assistance, food, counseling and case management. Founded in 1994, the organization serves over 800 local families each month. Caring & Sharing of South Walton also operates a Thrift Store. Sales in the Thrift Store help cover operating expenses and generate funds to help those they serve. Items for sale in the Thrift Store include clothing, housewares, bedding, furniture, electronics and books. For more information about Caring & Sharing of South Walton visit www.caringandsharingsowal.org

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February 7, 2025
Rare Snowfall Creates Winter Wonderland at Florida Golf Course

By Paul Willms

In an extraordinary meteorological event that left residents rubbing their eyes in disbelief, the Burnt Pines Golf Course transformed into a winter wonderland as over five inches of snow blanketed its pristine greens. The unprecedented weather event turned the Emerald Coast destination into a temporary winter retreat, complete with an unlikely visitor: a snowman named Bogey Frost holding court on the 16th hole.

“In all my years since moving from Rochester to Florida in 2001, I’ve seen a few flakes in the air but nothing like this,” says Golf Course Director Liam Branagan, who has overseen operations at Burnt Pines since 2019. “Building a snowman on a Florida golf green? That’s definitely a first for my career.”

Course General Manager Kristin Ercoli temporarily closed the facility. “We’re a bit out of our element here,” Ercoli admits with a laugh. “Snow removal isn’t exactly in our standard operating procedures.”

The unexpected snowfall sparked impromptu celebrations throughout the community, as local families descended upon the course’s gentle slopes with boogie boards in hand, repurposing beach equipment for winter entertainment. Children, many experiencing snow for the first time, delighted in rolling snowballs across the normally manicured fairways.

This rare meteorological event has created more than just operational challenges – it’s crafted lasting memories for the Emerald Coast community, proving that sometimes the most extraordinary moments come when Mother Nature decides to break with tradition.

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February 7, 2025
Toasting Hope with Bailey Brigade

By Heather Bennett Eye

We’ve all been affected by cancer. Cancer has touched us whether it’s a dear friend, a loved one, or a personal diagnosis. Michele Bailey, founder of Bailey Brigade, and her family were affected in a big way when her husband Scott, a father of three, passed away in December 2021 from a rare salivary gland cancer. He was only 54 years old.

Bailey Brigade was started to honor Scott and support locals battling all types of cancer. All money donated goes to help patients from The Emerald Coast. “Every dollar raised here is helping your neighbor,” stated Michele. They work closely with the oncology team at Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Care at Santa Rosa Beach. “They have the most incredible spirits and are so loving to the patients,” said Michele.

In the two years since they started, Bailey Brigade has provided four scholarships for those wanting to go into the medical field, hundreds of chemo care backpacks for cancer patients that contain self-care and hydration items along with letters of encouragement from local school kids and community members, held multiple fundraisers, and raised thousands of dollars in co-pay assistance, and now transportation assistance.

For their latest fundraiser in November 2024, Toasting Hope, Bailey Brigade teamed up with the 30A Distilling Co. to produce a charitable spirit. The bourbon, originally a single barrel from Indiana, had been resting at Sugarfield Spirits in Gonzales, Louisiana before making its way to 30A. The seven-year-old bourbon was transferred to an Orange Flavored Rum barrel to finish for two weeks. The final product is a unique 118 proof, limited-edition bourbon. The Bailey Brigade Board members hand-labeled and numbered the 195 bottles produced. Each bottle comes in a handcrafted wooden box to protect and display the bourbon. One hundred dollars of the $175 retail price goes directly to Bailey Brigade to support their mission.

You can purchase a bottle at the 30A Distillery Co. (605 N County Hwy 393, Bldg 15-B, Santa Rosa Beach) during their tasting room hours, or contact Michele directly. “This is an exceptional bourbon. One of a kind, there’s only one like it, and when it’s gone, it’s gone,” stated Michele. “It makes a perfect old fashioned.” You can learn more about the bourbon on the Bailey Brigade website or by visiting the 30A Distillery Co. website at www.30adistillingco.com under About Our Spirits.

Bailey Brigade also partnered with South Walton High School for several fundraiser nights at local sporting events, where they sold Bailey Brigade merchandise, and all ticket sales went to the non-profit as well. This fall Bailey Brigade was invited to the Flutterby Festival by the Cultural Arts Alliance where kids painted rocks with messages of encouragement to add to their chemo care backpacks.

The goal for Bailey Brigade is to be able to continue funding the assistance they have in place, and eventually expand. To reach this goal, Michele would love to have consistent donations and fundraising, ongoing signature events in the community and to partner with local businesses who support the mission behind Bailey Brigade. “If you are a local business that believes no one should go through cancer alone, and want to partner with us, please call. We’re determined to find a way to continue to be able to help local cancer patients,” said Michele. “Everybody is just one diagnosis away from being the person in the chair.”

Another way to help is to volunteer your time and skills. If you are interested in social media, website content or grant writing, Bailey Brigade is also looking for volunteers to assist with social posts, maintaining their website and writing blogs, and grant writing to help secure additional funding. These volunteer positions could be great for either someone with years of experience looking to get involved in the community, or students looking to gain community service hours for Bright Futures.

For more information about Bailey Brigade and their army of hope and love, please visit their website at www.baileybrigade.com and follow them on Instagram @baileybrigadefl. To reach Michele, please call (850) 586-1382.

Remember to get your bottle of bourbon before they are all gone!

Views: 53

February 7, 2025
2025 Perfect in Walton County Award Winners Announced

The Walton County Tourism Department unveiled the winners of the 2025 Perfect in Walton County Awards during a celebration at the Hotel Effie Sandestin on Thursday, Jan. 30. Now in its 11th year, this annual tradition invites residents and visitors to nominate and vote for their favorite tourism-related businesses, services and organizations.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate our local business, activities and events as part of the Perfect in Walton County awards,” said Matt Algarin, tourism director for Walton County. “These awards allow us to celebrate and shine a spotlight on our well-deserving businesses that work hard to provide unforgettable experiences throughout the year.”

This year, more than 6,000 votes were cast across 30 categories to determine the best in dining, entertainment, shopping and more throughout Walton County. The 2025 Perfect in Walton County guide features the 90 winners, including first, second and third place, or Diamond, Platinum and Gold, in each category.

“What it means to win is that you’re a leader in the community, you’re giving back to the community and you’re supporting the community – those three valuables,” said Kevin Rosa, director of Sales and Marketing at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, winner of three awards. “It validates everything you do in your job day to day, that you’re setting the standard in the community and being recognized by [Walton County Tourism], the entity that brings us all together.”

Jared Herzog, Diamond Award winner for Best Local Musician/Band, has won in the past and says he feels fortunate to attend the awards again this year.

“Music has been a big part of my life, ever since I was very young,” said Herzog. “There are so many incredibly talented musicians in this area, and I’m honored to stand aside them and get to attend this amazing event every year.”

The full list of winners and detailed category results can be viewed online at perfectinwaltoncounty.com.

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February 7, 2025
Digital Coupons

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February 6, 2025
Sean of the South: New Year

By Sean Dietrich

The misperception about New Year’s is that it’s supposed to be a happy occasion. Sort of like Christmas. Or a birthday party.

But it’s not Christmas. New Year’s represents the end of something. And goodbyes are not joyous.

New Year’s is also a beginning. Beginnings are not entirely happy affairs, either. Beginnings are frightening. You have no idea what you’re in for. Could be good. Could be bad.

This year your wife could win the lottery. And when you get home, she might scream, “We won the lottery, honey! Pack your bags!”

“What?” you might reply. “Should I pack for the beach or the mountains?”

“I don’t care!” she might answer. “Just pack your bags and get out of my house!”

Sometimes the worst news you can get is good news.

In many ways, last year was a rough one. Six of my close friends died. I was a pallbearer twice. That wasn’t happy.

But last year was also a year I accumulated new friends.

It all started when I adopted a blind dog. Which I wrote about in this column. Which led to me getting invited to schools for the blind.

I spoke at the Helen Keller Art Show. There, I met Henrietta, who has blindness due to a mitochondrial disease. She has practically grown up in hospitals. One of the happiest people I know. “I’m not fearless,” Henrietta said. “I’m brave. There’s a difference.”

I learned how to use a white cane in the hallways of the Callahan School for the Deaf and Blind. Whereupon a little blind girl traced my face with her little hands and sang “You Are So Beautiful.”

I visited Alabama Institute for the Blind and Deaf, where a little boy felt my face, and said, “Will you hug me so I know what you feel like?”

I met a cheerful 17-year-old girl named Morgan. We were at the Service Dogs Alabama training facility.

Morgan has paralysis on the left side of her body, frequent seizures, diabetes. She has low vision, and is blind in one eye. Today, she is a freshman at UAB. Totally independent, thanks to Clarabelle, the black Lab who has saved her life on more than one occasion.

I’ll never forget when Morgan squeezed my hand and said, “You have a choice to be happy or sad. And each moment you must consciously make that choice.”

I inherited a blind goddaughter named Becca.

I met a kid named Owen, who came to one of my shows. He underwent brain surgery that separates the left from the right hemisphere. He hugged me and said, “You’re shorter than I thought.”

I met a young woman who is blind, who was a national Braille reading champion. She held my hands and in a happy voice, said, “You’re officially one of us now.”

In only one year, I was sort of welcomed into the Blind and Deaf community. I have no idea how this happened. Or why. And I don’t know what it means.

But I know one thing. And this one thing was told to me by a young man who could not see, hear, or speak. Our conversation was translated by a tactile sign language interpreter.

He said to me, “When I first went blind, I told my mom that this is not the end, Mom. This is just the beginning of an adventure.”

And I can’t think of better words to begin the new year.

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January 23, 2025