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Walton County Tourism celebrated the destination’s strong tourism economy in 2023 at its annual meeting on Oct. 24 at Hotel Effie Sandestin.

“Because of the hard work and dedication of our industry partners and workforce, Walton County continues to shine as a vacation destination,” Tourism Director Matt Algarin said to the event attendees, who included tourism partners, county officials, leadership and staff.

Walton County welcomed more than 5.1 million visitors in 2023 who spent more than $4.7 billion, contributing to an economic impact of $6.8 billion for the county. More than $60 million in Tourist Development Tax was collected in 2023.

These spending numbers also helped lower county residents’ taxes, on average, by $2,082 per household, and supported more than 41,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly. This effect generated $1.2 billion in salaries and wages.

“Knowing that our efforts, in a small way, help provide jobs to our residents and support families is incredibly rewarding,” Algarin said.

Algarin emphasized the tourism department leading visitation efforts forward and touched on two main points – normalization of tourism and travel and sustainable tourism.

“There is a delicate balance between the tourism industry and our residents,” he said. “Neither can be successful without a great partnership that benefits both. We are working every day to make sure that happens.

“We’ll continue to balance the needs of our tourism industry, economy and residents in everything we do in the Walton County Tourism Department,” Algarin said.

Brian Kellenberger, director of Beach Operations, thanked his staff, industry partners and county leadership for their support of his work maintaining the pristine beaches, facilities and landscaping around Walton County.

“I really enjoy creating and maintaining public space, and I really enjoy doing it here in South Walton with all of our industry partners and public officials, and all of the people who help us do it,” said Kellenberger.

Winners of the Artist of the Year and the Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality awards were also announced. Accepting the Artist of the Year award was Sarah Page, whose murals can be found in Walton County locations such as Grand Boulevard, the newly opened Inlet Beach Underpass, and the Walton County Fairgrounds.

The Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award went to Amy Wise-Coble, general manager of Homeowner’s Collection and Tourist Development Council member.

To view a video of Walton County Tourism’s 2023 Year in Review, visit youtube.com/watch?v=rOcVQ1WO4tA. For more information about the impact of tourism in Walton County, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/annual-reports.

For more information on the Artist of the Year program, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/artist-year.

For more information on the Van Ness Butler., Jr. Hospitality Awards, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/van-ness-butler-jr-award.

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The REP Theatre is thrilled to announce the return of esteemed pianist Joshua A. Thompson performing in concert as part of The Sock Joplin Trio

The REP Theatre is pleased to announce a special event added to its 2024 Fall Season featuring The Sock Joplin Trio! An exciting addition to The REP’s already impressive lineup of live music, The Sock Joplin Trio will present their concert entitled “A Journey Into Sound” on Friday, November 15, and Saturday, November 16.

Based in Indianapolis, The Sock Joplin Trio is led by pianist Joshua “Sock Joplin” Thompson and includes PsyWrn Simone on vocals and Jared Thompson on saxophone. Accompanying the trio, The REP Theatre is pleased to welcome local musicians Joe Murphy on bass, Jim Ward on guitar, and DJ Rhodes on drums, promising a dynamic and diverse performance.

In January, Joshua A. Thompson delivered a captivating solo performance at The REP as part of his month-long Artist Residency with Escape To Create. His sold-out concert, a dazzling showcase of classical masterworks by African American composers, showcased Joshua’s exceptional talent and magnetic stage presence, leaving a lasting impression on all fortunate enough to attend.

This November, Joshua Thompson will continue to leave his indelible mark on the 30A community with The Sock Joplin Trio. Thompson welcomes his twin brother, Jared Thompson, a composer, saxophonist, and bandleader of the multi-album-producing band Premium Blend. Powerhouse vocalist PsyWrn Simone will join the duo. Together, the combined talents of these acclaimed and national touring artists promise to ignite the stage and give audiences a musical experience that explores Black music’s rich and intertwined histories.

“A Journey Into Sound” is a unique experience for the area and showcases the enduring legacy of Black music and its powerful impact on the world. In addition to the two-night concert event, The REP and The Sock Joplin Trio will host free film screenings and provide music workshops to local schools. This lineup of enriching arts programming fosters cultural engagement along 30A and illustrates The REP’s fierce commitment to the community.

The Sock Joplin Trio performs “A Journey Into Sound” on Friday, November 15th, and Saturday, November 16th, at 7:30 pm at The REP Theatre. Tickets are $60 and $48 for REP Members. For tickets and more information on The REP’s Fall Season, visit LoveTheREP.com.

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Tickets are now on sale for Taste of the Race, the official pre-party of the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K Race Weekend, with headliner The Velcro Pygmies on Friday, February 14, 2025 in beautiful Seaside, FL. 

 Tickets are officially on sale for one of the most anticipated events along 30A, Taste of the Race, presented by Publix! Set for Friday, February 14, 2025, this culinary celebration will kick off the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K Race Weekend, presented by Frankie’s Bike Shop, at the iconic SEASIDE® Lyceum in Seaside, FL with a night of incredible food, entertainment, and community spirit.

This year’s Taste of the Race will be headlined by The Velcro Pygmies, the high-energy rock band known for bringing 80s hair band flair to fan favorites across rock, dance, and country genres. Emceed by DJ Telemitry, the event will feature live performances from The Velcro Pygmies, as well as a special performance by the SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL™ Performance Band, setting the tone for a truly unforgettable night.

“Taste of the Race is not only a wonderful evening filled with delicious food and incredible music but also a critical fundraiser that benefits the SEASIDE SCHOOL FOUNDATION™,” said Teresa Horton, Executive Director of the SEASIDE SCHOOL FOUNDATION™. “The funds raised directly support vital academic and extracurricular programs at SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL™, including our growing Culinary Program, which we’re thrilled to highlight as part of Race Weekend.”

Guests at Taste of the Race will enjoy tastings from over a dozen Gulf Coast top chefs and restaurants, who will be competing for coveted awards including People’s Choice, Judges’ Choice, and Chef’s Choice. Paired with complimentary fine wines, craft cocktails, and local brews, the evening promises a delectable culinary journey like no other.

VIP ticket holders are invited to elevate their experience with early entry at 6 PM, exclusive VIP gift bags, and access to an exciting live auction featuring extraordinary experiences, such as a golf trip with Charles Kelley of Lady A, a stay at the Manzanita House on Spring Mountain for three couples, and an unforgettable trip to the Academy of Country Music Awards in Dallas.

Publix Super Markets, the event’s Presenting Sponsor, expressed its commitment to the community: “Publix is proud to support Taste of the Race, an event that brings people together to celebrate food and music while giving back to local students. Supporting education and investing in our communities is an important part of our mission,” said Hannah Herring, Publix media relations manager.

Proceeds from Taste of the Race support the SEASIDE SCHOOL FOUNDATION™, benefiting programs that enhance academic and extracurricular opportunities for students at SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL™ and Seacoast Collegiate High School. This year’s proceeds will further the mission of the school by funding key programs, including the school’s Culinary Program.

To learn more about the SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K Race Weekend and to purchase tickets to Taste of the Race, visit RunSeasideFL.com. If you are a local chef or restaurant and interested in participating in Taste of the Race, please email Teresa Horton at teresa@seasideschoolfoundation.org.

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In a peaceful 52-acre forest of oak, pine, and cypress at the edge of Florida’s capital, the quiet is broken by a pair of honking geese, a snorting horse, and the kinds of woodsy sounds you’d expect of such a sylvan location. Here at Tallahassee Museum, however, there’s more on offer than animal noises and an introduction to the region’s heritage. A startling rustle in the tree canopy overhead and an exhilarated scream breaks the calm. It trails off into the foliage as someone flies past overhead, harnessed to a very high cable threading through the treetops, all part of the museum’s Tallahassee Tree-to-Tree Adventures zipline courses. It becomes quickly clear this isn’t your ordinary non-profit. Yes, you’ll find a visit to this cultural gem educational and even inspiring, but you also have the opportunity to get up close and personal with Florida at heights hitherto unexperienced (and possibly scare yourself just a little in the process).

Established in 1957, this museum offers a glimpse into the area’s history, showcasing structures that date back to the 19th century. One of the museum’s highlights is the historic farm, with authentically restored buildings. Each structure is meticulously preserved, allowing visitors to imagine life in early Florida when water was pumped by hand, everyone shared one bedroom, and hurricanes hit without warning.

Russell Daws, President/CEO of the Tallahassee Museum, highlights the Museum’s unique appeal, which stems from its expansive outdoor campus. The Museum integrates a biodiverse natural landscape with historic buildings, living exhibits of Florida’s native wildlife, and a variety of history, natural science, and art displays. Each visit offers an immersive experience, inviting guests of all ages to explore, learn about, and connect with Florida’s rich history and natural wonders.

The newest attraction at Tallahassee Museum isn’t an old building but the enclosure hosting four red foxes rescued from a fur farm through an organization near Jacksonville, OtterSpace Wildlife, aka the Ark Wildlife Care and Sanctuary, working with the Save a Fox Foundation. Of these four, only one, the lone male, Boots, looks like a red fox. The rest are white with gray, the result of a breeding process that targets the eight genes controlling fur coloration, explains Suzie Buzzo, the Museum’s animal curator. Now, with space to move, these foxes, including two sisters, are finding their new normal. Buzzo feeds them different types of food – they ignore the bananas and dislike peanuts so much they take them away and bury them, but seem to be fond of hot dogs.  One of the females cautiously takes a hot dog morsel from my fingers before ducking back into the foliage. It becomes clear that each fox has its own temperament. Boots is a pacer, uneasy around people, but the females appear more interested in human interaction. When one fur farmer who’d been passing on the misfit foxes deemed unsuitable for furs went to visit the refuge where they were being housed, he was so taken enough with their friendliness and personality that he shuttered his farm. Currently, there are still 250 fur farms in 21 U.S. states, but these lucky foxes have a better future ahead. Tallahassee Museum will be housing them temporarily while a gentleman in Jacksonville finishes building enclosures to provide safe haven for 89 rescued foxes.

In addition to fox-watching, leave time for a leisurely meander along peaceful trails traversing the museum grounds.  Stop to spot the turtle hiding under a submerged log in the new alligator enclosure but don’t linger so long you miss the bald eagles, the black bear snoozing in a sunny spot, or the endangered red wolves taking a break from parenting their pups to enjoy some fresh air and exercise.

Though these animal visits are special, it’s hard to match the adrenaline rush of the high-octane zipline experience. While anyone with a serious fear of heights might opt to stick to terra firma, the adventurous won’t want to miss this tree-top tour. Obstacles are interspersed between “zips” and even though you’re safely latched in throughout, stepping off the edge into the ether takes some getting used to. Once you do though, you’ll be making exhilarated noises of your own.

If there’s yet time for more, supplementing these zoological experiences are a range of educational programs. Additionally, the museum hosts special events throughout the year, including nature walks, historical reenactments, and their popular annual arts and crafts market, Market Days. For a current schedule and more information visit tallahasseemuseum.org

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Surf Brigade just wrapped up its fall class in the heart of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, where a team of veterans spent five weeks learning to surf together. Surf Brigade, a non-profit organization founded by veterans for veterans, harnesses the healing powers of the ocean and the camaraderie of surfing to address the unique challenges faced by those who have served. Through its 5-week evidence-based surf therapy program, Surf Brigade is helping veterans redefine their purpose, write their narratives, and build a supportive community along the stunning Emerald Coast.

The Program: More Than Just Surfing

Surf Brigade’s program is not solely about riding the waves; it encompasses a holistic approach to mental health and well-being. Each week, veterans participate in group discussions facilitated by licensed professional counselors, focusing on three critical challenges:

1. Defining Your Purpose: Transitioning from military to civilian life can leave veterans feeling adrift. Through guided conversations, participants explore their passions and values, helping them reconnect with their sense of purpose.
2. Writing Your Narrative: Every veteran has a unique story, often filled with experiences that can be difficult to articulate. The program encourages veterans to share their journeys, fostering self-reflection and personal growth while reinforcing the importance of their experiences.
3. Finding Your Community: Isolation is a common struggle for many veterans. Surf Brigade aims to cultivate a sense of belonging by connecting participants with others who understand their journey. This community aspect is crucial for ongoing support and camaraderie.

Surf Therapy: A Unique Healing Approach

At the core of Surf Brigade’s program is the weekly surf therapy session. Participants receive instruction from professional surf coaches on the picturesque beaches of the Gulf Coast. The act of surfing not only provides physical benefits but also offers a unique therapeutic experience. The ocean’s rhythm and the exhilaration of riding waves help veterans release pent-up stress and anxiety.

Research supports the therapeutic benefits of surf therapy, linking it to improved mental health outcomes. The combination of physical activity, exposure to nature, and the thrill of learning a new skill contributes to a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem. For many veterans, the ocean becomes a place of healing and reflection, where they can leave behind the weight of their service.

A Community Built on Shared Experiences

One of the most powerful aspects of Surf Brigade is its emphasis on building a community among participants. Graduating from the program means not only gaining a new sense of purpose and confidence but also forming lasting friendships with fellow veterans. Surfing together fosters a sense of belonging and shared experience, creating a network of support that extends beyond the program itself.

Surf Brigade is committed to making this life-changing experience accessible to all veterans. There is no cost to participate, and no prior surf experience is required. All necessary equipment is provided, ensuring that anyone can join in and benefit from the program.

Join the Movement

Surf Brigade is more than just a surf therapy program; it’s a lifeline for veterans seeking connection and purpose. By blending the therapeutic qualities of surfing with meaningful dialogue, the organization empowers veterans to embrace their stories, redefine their paths, and foster a sense of community that lasts a lifetime.

For more information about Surf Brigade and how to get involved, visit surfbrigade.com. Whether you’re a veteran looking for support or someone wanting to contribute to this noble cause, Surf Brigade welcomes you to ride the wave of healing together.

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The Walton County Snowbirds (WCS) will be kicking off their 2024-2025 Season on December 5, 2024. We have a great season planned!!

The WCS are a collection of fun-loving, caring and sharing seniors who enjoy the wonderful communities of South Walton County during the winter months. This season they will continue their social, educational, recreational, and charitable pursuits on the Emerald Coast. You must be a registered WCS to take part in their activities and social events. Membership cost for the season is $20 per person. You can register at any of the scheduled registrations or an hour before any Snowbird gathering.

It is hard not to stay active with the WCS. For those who love the outdoors and/or exercise, we offer golf, basketball, pickleball, bowling, aerobics, line dancing, biking, tennis, and ballroom dancing. Interested in music and art? We have two ukulele groups, an art group, a creative writing group, and a crafts group. Our card and game groups include bridge, hand and foot, poker, euchre, and mahjongg. The book club, discussion group, and investment group are also popular and well-attended. This season we have added a Panhellenic group so the ladies can enjoy sisterhood and fellowship time. No doubt, there is something for everyone!

Our December social events include:

➢ Thursday, December 5, 2024 – 8:30-10:30 a.m. – Registration

Faith Assembly Church Hall, 306 S. Geronimo, Miramar Beach, FL

➢ Thursday, December 5, 2024 – 3:00-5:00 p.m. – TGI Thursday with Entertainment

Auston’s Oyster Bar and Grill, 125 Poinciana Boulevard, Miramar Beach, FL

➢ Monday, December 9, 2024 – 10:00-12:00 noon – Snowbird Gathering

St. Andrews by The Sea Episcopal Church, 307 US-98 W, Destin, FL

For more information on registration and all the activities and social events the club offers, check out the website www.waltoncountysnowbirds.com or join the Facebook page “Walton County Snowbirds.”  The WCS club hopes to see many snowbirds join this season where you will have fun and meet new friends from all over the US and Canada!

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A Mo Bro’s crowing

Alighted rooks lips tending

Shoo’d away; shaven!

– by J.H. Douglas

A haiku is a traditional Japanese poetry form characterized by three unrhymed lines with a specific syllable pattern: 5 syllables in the first line, 7 in the second line, and 5 in the third line. Typically, haikus capture a brief moment in time, often related to nature, and aim to evoke a subtle emotional or sensory impression.

Here’s a classic haiku by the famous Japanese poet Matsuo Bashō translated by Robert Hass:

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