By Kirk McCarley, As the parent of adult children, one of the disciplines I’ve tried to stick to has been refraining from giving advice.  Without doubt I’ve fallen short of that aspiration at times. I have shared with my son, daughter, and their respective spouses that one of the greatest gifts they can give is the act of asking for advice.  On those occasions where advice is sought interestingly, my responses are often rhetorical, where the first comment is to ask them, “what do you think you should do?” I aim to also say, “thank you for asking for my opinion.”  To be viewed as a sage of wise counsel and thought is of highest esteem. Years ago, I worked for a mayor in a small community, an elected official.  There was another office holder in a somewhat complementary agency who was garnering a reputation as being outspoken, surly, and often rude.  It was vital that the two officials enjoy a compatible working relationship for the sake of not only their respective jurisdictions, but in serving the public well. The mayor shared his story. “I invited him to lunch.  Once seated, as expected he went through a laundry list of things that he found disagreeable:  road and bridge issues, law enforcement, and intergovernmental relations.  His complaints could be wearisome, but again I was accustomed to his laments.  Amid his soap box, came a sigh and a pause.  He hesitated, turned towards me and asked why he was not achieving the... Read More

 By Victoria Ostrosky Being married is a good thing and being single is a good thing.  As the Apostle Paul said, whether you’re married or single is good.  Serving God and living for Him is the most important thing. For older adults, in Christian circles, being single can be a little difficult.  It seems that most church functions are geared toward married couples.  Unless, of course, you’re a teen-ager or young adult. Which can be a deterrent for some.  Who wants to show up and sit by themselves or feel like they have nothing to contribute in a group of married couples? Andrew Farmer, originally from Jacksonville, has lived in the Destin area for about 11 years.  He was raised in a Christian home with a praying mom.  As Andrew says, “you can never outrun a praying mom.”  For some years he was into partying and drugs and alcohol.  But Jesus got ahold of him, and he’s been sober for 3 years.  “Once you eliminate those things, you have more room for Jesus.” Andrew admits that it’s tough being single.  He has a wonderful 12 year-old son whom he loves and focuses on.  But being in your mid-thirties and single means he can get lonely, especially on weekends.  So, Andrew has learned to find more ways to serve to not only fill up the time, but immerse himself in a Godly environment to assist in his spiritual growth. “I know God has someone for me.  I pray for my future... Read More

 Pickle’s, located at 2236 East County Hwy. 30A, is celebrating three decades in business at their original Seaside Central Square location. Founded in 1993 by Bill and Heavenly Dawson, of The Dawson Group, Pickle’s began with only 48 square feet and a limited menu consisting of hotdogs, beer, and pickles. The locally owned and operated eatery quickly became famous for their burgers and hand-spun milkshakes. Throughout the years, Pickle’s has become an unofficial landmark in the Seaside community and is one of the few establishments that has remained in the same location along Seaside Square. In 2023, 30A’s® Hot Spot Awards named Pickle’s the Hottest Spot for Burgers. After 32 years in business, the Dawsons sold their company consisting of the five notable Seaside restaurants, including Dawson’s Yogurt, It’s Heavenly Shortcakes and Ice Cream, Pickle’s, The Shrimp Shack, and Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs, to Clark and Ashley Beecher of Houston, Texas. Since the acquisition, the Beechers along with their local operating partners Baron and Courtney Fields, have remained true to the roots of The Dawson Group while also incorporating innovative systems, additional menu items, modern concepts, and merchandise to each of the restaurants, including Pickle’s. They have developed a new brand identity for Pickle’s that remains true to its history yet shines a new light on the retro diner that appeals to a younger audience as well as their long-time customers. “As Texans, there were a lot of special dishes that we loved and wanted to bring to 30A,” Courtney... Read More

  May 6 Jazz on the Lawn @ Seaside Amphitheater Enjoy an afternoon of LIVE jazz in the Seaside Amphitheater on Saturday, May 6th from 1 – 7PM. Jazz on the Lawn features a full lineup on jazz musicians ready to entertain the whole family. Bring a chair or blanket, snacks and drinks, and enjoy the show. Free and open to all ages. Jazz on the Lawn artists include: La’Roy Bodiford, Ramblin’ Roses, Dharma Beats, Kenny Cohen, Kayonne Riley’s Implications, Michael Levine Band. Seaside Amphitheater, 25 Central Square, Seaside. Tuesdays, May 9, 16, 23, 30   Casey Kearney Band @ Red Fish Taco                                                                             Rock out to live music featuring Casey Kearney Band every Tuesday in the Garden Room at Red Fish Taco from 6 – 9PM. Tuesdays | 6 – 9PM. Red Fish Taco, 2052 W County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. May 12 Brandi Carlile’s Mothership Weekend Brandi Carlile’s Mothership Weekend will be held at Seascape Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida May 12 -14. Brandi Carlile invites you and yours to celebrate Mother’s Day in a whole new way – with a 3-day music vacation in Miramar Beach, Fl. Enjoy curated activities, unforgettable adventures, and plenty of relaxing beach time during the day before you cozy up together in your reserved Cove... Read More

 Studying music is a rewarding experience for students of any age, and in recent years online lessons have made it much, much easier to access. The growing popularity of online music lessons comes with many benefits, like the flexibility to learn from anywhere, at any time, and without the need to travel. However, choosing between in-person and online lessons can be a tough decision to make – each type of lesson comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately depends on the student’s preferences and lifestyle. So, which type of lesson is right for you? Here are some factors to consider. In-Person Music Lessons The in-person approach has been the typical method of learning music for centuries. The physical presence of the teacher allows for a more hands-on approach, where they can observe and give feedback on the student’s posture, technique, and progress. This can be particularly helpful for beginners who need extra guidance on playing their instrument with optimum comfort and technique, for example keeping the fretting hand relaxed when playing guitar, or moving the hands and wrists freely on the piano. In-person lessons also offer a great social aspect. Students can develop respect and friendship with their teachers (and each other in group classes) in order to build a closer community and inspiration to learn. As an added bonus, the accountability of an in-person class motivates the student to show up and perform their best. Online Music Lessons  Online lessons can be especially beneficial... Read More

 Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditions. It can be found almost anywhere, including on walls, ceilings, floors, and even in the air we breathe. While mold is a natural part of our environment, it can become a serious health hazard when it grows out of control. Mold can cause a variety of health problems, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues. Some of the health risks associated with mold exposure include: Respiratory Problems: Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. Inhaling mold can irritate the lungs and cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to mold and may experience symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. Toxic Reactions: Some types of mold produce mycotoxins, which can cause serious health problems such as neurological damage, organ damage, and even death. Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as black mold, is one of the most dangerous types of mold. Infections: Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to mold infections, which can cause serious health complications. Given these risks, it’s essential to remediate mold as soon as possible to protect your health and well-being. However, not all mold remediation services are created equal. While some homeowners may attempt to remove mold themselves using bleach or other household cleaners, this approach can be dangerous and ineffective. Professional mold remediation services like APEX Disaster Specialists use state-of-the-art equipment... Read More

 Fridays with Friends – May 12th from 10 AM – Noon Each “Fridays with Friends” program will be open from 10 AM until noon.  Coastal Seniors will welcome members, who are 50 years and older, to our office to participate in activities, such as: card games, board games, ping pong, bingo, art classes, exercise classes, etc.  If you are interested in any of these activities, please let us know so that our volunteers can prepare. You can contact us by calling 850-280-5342, or by sending an email to: coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com. Game Day at Somerby on Wednesdays May 10TH, 17TH,   24TH and 31st  from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Somerby of Santa Rosa Beach is located at 164 W. Hewett Rd., Santa Rosa Beach.  Melissa Bailey, CSSW member will host game day. Melissa teaches and plays many games such as Hand & Foot, 5 Crowns, Euchre, Mexican Train Dominoes, and more. Refresh your skills or learn a new game.  Local seniors and Walton County snowbirds are welcome! Call/text Sonia at 850-280-5342 or email coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com if you have questions. Chair Yoga at The Blake in Miramar Beach– May 2nd and 16th at 9:45 am – Join us for our chair yoga classes led by Colleen at The Blake at 90 Ponce De Leon St. in Miramar Beach. Art Classes – Karen Peterson will teach CSSW members Beginner Watercolor Painting on Tuesdays in May (9th, 16th,   and 23rd) 9am-Noon. Cost is $22 for CSSW members/$30 for non-members. Sign up by calling 850-280-5342, or by sending an email... Read More

 May 9 ECTC: Spring Cabaret at the Boulevard                                                                             Join Emerald Coast Theatre Company for Spring Cabaret at the Boulevard on Tuesday, May 9 at 7:30PM. Mix, mingle and enjoy live musical selections performed by talented actors. All ECTC productions will be staged at ECTC’s space located upstairs at 560 Grand Boulevard in Grand Boulevard Town Center, located in Miramar Beach. For additional info, visit www.emeraldcoasttheatre.org. Emerald Coast Theatre Company, 560 Grand Blvd (Upstairs) Miramar Beach. Baytowne Wednesday Night Concert Series                                                             Welcome to The Village of Baytowne Wharf where live music concerts take place in the Baytowne Events Plaza every Wednesday night from 7-9pm. Various local and regional artists perform throughout the year – see the lineup. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Free and open to the public. Baytowne Wednesday Night Concerts May 2023 | 7PM – 9PM – May 10: Dion Jones & The Neon Tears, May 17: Shenanigans May 24: Casey Kearney, May 31: Horseshoe Kitty. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9100 Baytowne Blvd. Miramar Beach. May 13-20 Longleaf Writers Conference                    ... Read More

  May is filled with excitement for the Walton County School District! Awards ceremonies, music concerts, art shows, drama performances, and senior activities create the backdrop for the culmination of a year’s hard work. Students will highlight their efforts and showcase their learning as assessments begin across the district. We are proud of our student’s dedication and “stick-with-it-ness” as we near the 2022-2023 finish line! If your student participates in assessments this month, please ensure they attend school well-rested and nourished with a healthy breakfast. Having breakfast containing protein, fat, and carbohydrates helps children feel full and remain focused during their exams. Students’ success comes through the partnership of parents, volunteers, and the community. April is the month volunteers are celebrated for the time they share with local Walton County School District schools. In addition, schools throughout the county held volunteer brunches and special lunches and gave appreciation awards to community members who shared time with students and faculty members. Walton County School District is always seeking interested persons for volunteering and mentoring. If you are interested in volunteering or mentoring in our schools, please visit our web page for more information! One of the many events volunteers may assist with includes the K-12 Special Olympics. The 2023 event was hosted Friday, April 28, 2023, at Emerald Coast Middle School track field. Students from across the District converged at the Santa Rosa Beach school to enjoy a day of friendly competition. Superintendent Hughes was there supporting student athletic efforts and... Read More

 This springtime soiree is scheduled for May 21st at Grand Boulevard The month of May typically ushers in picnics, flowers and little girls in beautiful dresses. This May 21st will encompass all of these things and much more, with a Mommy and Me Picnic hosted by La Luna Children’s Boutique and presented by The Henry Haus on Grand Boulevard’s North Lawn from 3-5pm. This special afternoon party will benefit a worthy cause with all proceeds going to Caring and Sharing of South Walton. Mothers and their children will delight in a southern coastal picnic with fare by Blue Mountain Bakery, sweet treats from Kilwin’s and Sweet Henrietta’s, live music by Tyler Acosta Music, and arts and crafts sponsored by Beau Interiors. Salty Girls Beach Setups will set the scene with beautiful chairs, blankets and picnic decor. Rose and Co. Flowers will add their special touch with gorgeous floral arrangements. And photographer Lexi Arielle will capture special memories from the day. Guests are encouraged to call La Luna Boutique to schedule a special appointment for their “mommy and me” attire at 850-368-5654. La Luna will work with moms to select the perfect styles to wear for the day…matching or coordinating but unique to each family. A limited number of tickets will be available for the “Mommy and Me Picnic” at https://www.laluna4kids.com, for $100 which includes Mom plus one child. Each additional child is only $15. Nashville based artist, Kelly Terrell Art, will also offer her kids’ art commission kits in advance... Read More