General News March 7, 2026

Living Shoreline Enhances Choctawhatchee Bay

 [[{“value”:” By Lori Leath Smith Okaloosa County has completed 2,000 feet of living shoreline along the Choctawhatchee Bay at Ross Marler Park on Okaloosa Island, marking a major milestone in shoreline protection and coastal restoration. The multi-year project utilized a cost-effective, nature-based solution designed to mitigate erosion while enhancing the coastal ecosystem surrounding Veterans Park and Marler Park. “This unique landscape is home to so many species that we need to protect,” said Okaloosa County Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel (District 2). “This living shoreline will supplement their success, the health of our bay and extend the life of these wonderful parks.” Living shorelines are natural or nature-based solutions that protect coastal areas from erosion while supporting habitat and improving water quality. Unlike traditional hard structures such as seawalls or riprap, living shorelines use native vegetation, oyster reefs, coir logs, and other natural materials to stabilize shorelines. These systems work with natural coastal processes by absorbing wave energy, trapping sediments, and providing essential habitat for fish, crabs, and birds, while also enhancing nutrient filtration, carbon storage, and overall ecological health. The living shoreline approach was significantly more cost-effective than traditional shoreline barriers and aligned with the parks’ intended use by visitors while prioritizing preservation of the surrounding natural environment. “Projects like these involve a team from multiple departments in the County,” said Okaloosa County Vice Chairman Drew Palmer (District 5). “I want to thank the engineers, project managers, coastal scientists and grant specialists who worked together to complete this project and ensure... Read More

General News March 7, 2026

Know Your Neighbor: Zoran Subotich

 [[{“value”:” The Person Behind the Music, the Moments, and the Magic By Lori Smith I’ll admit it — when I first sat down to write this, I smiled. Once upon a time, before publishing deadlines and page counts, I was a DJ myself. I know the rush of reading a room, the quiet pressure of timing it just right, the invisible responsibility of holding a moment in your hands and not dropping it. So, when I say that Zoran Subotich gets it, I mean that in the deepest, most professional, been-there way. For more than 30 years, Zoran has been the steady heartbeat behind thousands of celebrations across the Emerald Coast — from barefoot beach weddings on 30A and Destin to elegant military galas, mitzvahs, milestone birthdays and reunions that people still talk about a decade later. Four counties. Thousands of events. And somehow — no missed cues, no awkward silences, no stressed brides. That doesn’t happen by accident. Zoran doesn’t just plan parties. He engineers memories. Through his company, Celebrations By The Sea, Zoran offers a truly full-service approach — the kind that allows couples and families to relax and stay present in the moment while he quietly handles the flow behind the scenes. His services include: DJ and professional emcee services Full event planning and coordination Licensed wedding and event officiating Ceremony and reception direction Lighting and atmosphere design Timeline creation and flow management Multilingual hosting and announcements All of it is tailored. All of it intentional. And... Read More

General News March 7, 2026

Pine Pollen and Smilax: Ready for Spring?

 [[{“value”:” By Helen Petre Yes, we are! Winter has been cold and dreary, even though there was no snow this year. While wishing for warm weather, I read a book about  Theodore Roosevelt and J.P. Morgan and their solution to the coal strike. I empathize with the cold, wet, mine workers.    I am grateful that I am not a coal miner and I do not live in 1902. In 1902, in the middle of the coal strike, Roosevelt had a state dinner for the King of Prussia to celebrate his new yacht.  None of them had any idea things were not going to end well for Prussia or Germany, so they all had a great time being rich and spending money. World War I dissolved Prussia and the poor king was not a king anymore, however the state dinner was a fabulous success. They ate terrapin and ice cream,  and Edith Roosevelt decorated the dining room with Smilax species vines (those briar kind of vines that grow up trees and everywhere). Smilax is the reason they make those jeans with the extra layer of jean on the front legs so foresters, and other people who crash through the brambles, don’t tear their jeans to shreds. Edith strung the vines from the chandeliers and light fixtures,  and everywhere she could around her husband’s stuffed bears, elk, bison, and moose heads. The state dinner was in February, so there was probably nothing else green in DC, however I think Edith is... Read More

General News March 7, 2026

Green Thumb’s Junior Gardener Program is Growing at Butler Elementary School

 [[{“value”:” By Kathleen Edge, Publicity & Website Chair Green Thumb Garden Club’s Junior Gardeners Program was started in 1993 by then-President, Margo Yourick.  The 2025/2026 program at Butler Elementary School is in its fifth year, with 40 fourth and fifth-grade students participating this year.  The program includes class time as well as hands-on projects with five teaching teams.  Recently, the students learned that all plants, including Spanish moss and air plants, do not need dirt to grow.   Early Spring planting included potatoes and onions along with strawberries.  The Junior Gardener program is supported by eight GTGC members, two Butler teachers and one support person, plus a student’s father who helps with cultivation and fertilization of the raised beds. GTGC is very appreciative of all Junior Gardeners program volunteers. March’s member meeting is on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Westwinds Conference Center in Sandestin.  Jeff Talbert, Coastal Dune Lakes project leader at Deer Lake Park, will update attendees on the current state of and future plans for the precious Panhandle Dune Lakes as well as his work at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.  Yellow fly kits will be distributed by Walton County Mosquito Control District. The April 15, 2026, Member meeting program, also at Westwinds Conference Center,  is Farm-to-Table focused on sourcing local food.  There will be a Bake Sale with proceeds benefitting scholarships and other GTGC charities.  Members are asked to bring their favorite sweets to support the effort. The Green Thumb Garden Club, Inc., located in Walton County, Florida,... Read More

General News March 7, 2026

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport Continues  Record-Breaking Growth Trajectory 

 [[{“value”:” Northwest Florida Beaches International  Airport (ECP) has once again surpassed its previous record-breaking passenger numbers in 2025 by serving over 1,937,000 passengers. In 2025, the Airport served 1,937,224 passengers, a 3.10% increase over its 2024 total of 1,878,945. Since opening in 2010, ECP has consistently increased year-over-year passenger volume, with daily nonstop and seasonal flights to destinations served by American,  Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines. “Our Airport was built as an economic driver for the Region. We’re 15 years young, with  4,000 developable acres, a global air traffic network, and developable sites near a  10,000-foot runway. As business grows at the Airport and throughout the region, we’re seeing travel well beyond tourism, and it’s reflected in the numbers,” stated Airport  Board Chair Mark Sheldon. On January 9, Airport officials announced their Terminal Expansion project during a ground-breaking ceremony. Sheldon believes the expansion will only broaden ECP’s horizons. “The expansion will enhance the passenger experience from check-in, the passenger holding areas, an expanded baggage claim, and three additional gates to accommodate more airline partners. We’re preparing for our continued and future  success.” The post Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport Continues  Record-Breaking Growth Trajectory  appeared first on South Walton Life | 30A News, Events and Community Information. “}]]  South Walton Life | 30A News, Events and Community Information  Read More

General News March 7, 2026

Hop to Dog-Harmony’s 11th Annual Doggie EGGstravaganza on April 3

 [[{“value”:” Grab your bunny-eared best friends to celebrate Dog-Harmony’s 11th Annual Doggie EGGstravaganza, a canine-only Easter egg hunt and social, on Friday, April 3, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. This beloved doggie social tradition invites families to enjoy an evening of community fun and a comical, action-packed canine egg hunt. Dog-Harmony Founder Nancy Bown, CPDT-KA, says, “Doggie EGGstravaganza offers an entertaining family experience that helps fund our non-profit’s therapy dog team program in hospitals, schools, and libraries, and Paw Pantry, which aims to keep families in need together through donations of pet food and supplies.” With a $20 pre-registration per pup (or $25 on the day of the event), each registered dog will receive a souvenir bag for the race to collect nearly 1,000 colorful eggs containing sniff-worthy treats scattered across the greens. Separate egg-hunt areas for dogs, split by weight (over and under 35 pounds), ensure a fair competition. Dog-Harmony requests that families not use retractable leashes or apply prong, choke, or shock collars at the event. Attendees can also enjoy a costume contest with prizes awarded for the top 3 best “bunny” ensembles, delicious JC’s Gourmet served with libations, pup-approved Davis Dog Treats, music curated by DJ Diamond Dan, and a fabulous silent auction sponsored by local businesses. Spring Into Event Sponsorship Early sponsors include JC’s Gourmet, Davis Dog Treats, Destin Flooring America, Theresa Felton, REALTOR®, Elevate Next, and the Polakoff Group with Scenic Sotheby’s International Realty. Grand Boulevard serves as the... Read More

General News March 7, 2026

Coastal Seniors March Updates

 [[{“value”:” Exercise Classes – Angela Gibson will lead classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 10  a.m. at 70 Logan Lane,  Grayton Beach. Cost is $5 per class for CSSW members and $10 for non-members. Sign up on the email list. If you are  not already on the email list, call 850-280-5342 or email coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com Core Class – Angela Gibson will lead a 30-minute core class every Tuesday at 9:15 a.m. A yoga mat and  Pilates ring are used for this class. Cost is $5 per class for CSSW members and $10 for non-members. For  information or screening, call 850-280-5342 or email coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com Watercolor Painting Class – Karen Peterson will teach classes on Fridays March 6, 13, 27 and April 10 and  24 from 8:45 a.m. to noon at 70 Logan Lane, Grayton Beach. Cost is $20 for CSSW members and $40 for non-members. Sign Up Required Due To Limited Space. No walk-ins.. Sign up by the email list. If you need to  be added to the email list, call 850-280-5342 or email coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com Advanced Watercolor Painting Class – Karen Peterson will teach classes on Thursdays March 26 and  April 9 and 23 from 12 to 3 p.m. at 70 Logan Lane. Cost is $20 for CSSW members and $40 for non-members. Participants will be responsible for their own supplies. No supplies will be provided. Sign Up Required Due To Limited Space. Sign up by email list. To be added to email sign up list, call or email  850-280-5342 or coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com... Read More

General News March 7, 2026

Tickets On Sale Now for the 2026 Caring & Sharing Spring Fashion Show & Luncheon at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

 [[{“value”:” Caring & Sharing of South Walton for the Spring Fashion Show, presented by Emerald Coast Hospice, on Sunday, March 29th, 2026, 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 11:30 a.m., with guests being greeted by a complimentary welcome drink. Attendees will have the opportunity to mingle, shop the boutique, and place bids on silent auction items before the ballroom opens at 12:30 PM for lunch and the fashion show. “The Caring & Sharing Fashion Show is not only an exciting and unique event, 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 clothing 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.”... Read More

General News March 7, 2026

If We Want Authenticity, We Have to Initiate It

 [[{“value”:” Walk into almost any major retailer right now and you’ll see the same pattern: racks packed tight, new collections already replacing last month’s inventory, markdown signs quietly preparing for the next cycle. The system depends on constant turnover. More product. Faster releases. Shorter relevance. That model works in cities built on trend velocity. It doesn’t feel right on 30A. This coastline moves differently. The light changes daily, but the landscape remains. The dunes don’t reinvent themselves every month, and Western Lake doesn’t rebrand each season. There’s a steadiness here — a quiet consistency — and it makes you question why everything else has to move so quickly. Fast fashion has conditioned us to expect constant novelty. Weekly drops. Micro-trends. Clothing produced in such large quantities that disposal is factored into the business model. When something fades, stretches, or falls out of style, replacing it feels easier than keeping it. But speed carries a cost. Not only environmentally, but culturally. It shifts how we value what we wear. When garments are built to be temporary, our attachment to them becomes temporary too. 1 of 3 There’s a difference between buying something because it’s inexpensive and buying something because it feels right. One fills space. The other earns it. Along 30A, where lifestyle is deeply tied to place, that distinction matters. At Captured Clothing 30A, we’ve tried to avoid the fast-fashion, mass-produced approach as much as we can. Not because it sounds good in marketing language, but because it doesn’t align... Read More

General News March 7, 2026

A Superior Mechanical to Host Its Inaugural Veterans Appreciation Lunch in Niceville

 [[{“value”:” The Walton and Okaloosa communities are coming together to give recognition and thanks to our first responders, veterans, and active military. A Superior Mechanical will hold its inaugural Veterans and First Responders Appreciation Lunch at the Niceville Community Center, 204 Partin Drive North, Niceville, FL 32578 on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 pm.  Please save the date! During the event, A Superior Mechanical will donate a new AC system complete with installation to one First Responder or Veteran in need. This giveaway is open to all who have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and all first responders including EMT/Medics, Police, Sheriffs and Fire Fighters. Register to win at ASuperiorMechanical.com and go to ABOUT US > HVAC GIVEAWAY. “We are honored to give thanks to the men and women who put their lives on the line every day for the citizens of our community,” says A Superior Mechanical owner, Jimy Thorpe. Local businesses are invited and encouraged to donate door prizes and giveaways. Thorpe says he hopes this giveaway serves as an example of how others can give back. “We wanted to somehow give back to others and simply decided to give back what we have: AC systems.” The event includes a delicious hot lunch catered by Swiftly Catered, a brief welcome from the sponsors and supporters, and the AC Giveaway. This event is supported and sponsored by the City of Niceville and Niceville Community Center, Niceville High School (who will... Read More