Gulf Life Real Estate is proud to announce the opening of their new Real Estate office in Southport, Florida. Since its inception in 2022, the company has grown from 2 agents to nearly 40 agents across 3 counties in a little over a year. Founded by long time Real Estate Instructor and Broker, Robert “Opey” Russ and business veteran Melissa Harbour-Kratish, Gulf Life Real Estate attributes its rapid growth and success to their focus on one fundamental principle, Relationships. “Real Estate is NOT a ‘sales’ business, it is a ‘Relationship’ business,” says Broker Opey Russ. “People don’t need a sales person, they need a trusted advisor and friend. One who will listen intently to what their needs, wants and wishes are and then help them transition their lives from where it’s currently happening to where it’s going to be happening. Co-founder Melissa Harbour-Kratish adds, “Not only do we focus on building relationships with our home buyers and sellers, we do the same with our Agents. Our Agents are able to keep their focus on their clients’ needs because they know that our leadership team focuses on their needs. Our Agents don’t work for us, we work for them, and we never clock out. The public is cordially invited to the grand opening of the Gulf Life Real Estate Southport office to be held on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 from 4:00 PM till 8:00 PM. Located at 6718 Highway 77. Food, Beverages, Live Music, Bouncy House, Axe throwing, Silent Auction... Read More

  September 9th and 10th The seventh annual Emerald Coast Holistic Health Expo is set to take place on September 9th and 10th at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Conference Center. The expo will feature an exhibit hall and market open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. This highly anticipated event, now in its seventh year, will offer free admission and welcome all visitors to explore a diverse range of indoor and outdoor exhibit spaces, demonstrations, and presentations focusing on holistic health and wellness. Co-founded by Scott Chase and his wife, Daralyn, the expo has experienced significant growth over the years, becoming one of the most prominent annual events in the area. Scott and Daralyn are also known for their work with Natural Awakenings magazine in Northwest Florida. “Throughout Northwest Florida, we saw a surge of new businesses offering services and products dedicated to holistic wellness and environmental sustainability,” explains Daralyn. “With Natural Awakenings already enjoying a loyal following of readers and advertisers, it made sense to create an event where they could come together to explore and promote the vast world of natural health and green living.” This year’s expo will feature exhibitors showcasing their services and products, delivering presentations, and offering samples and experiences to attendees. Exciting door prizes, including gift certificates, spa packages, and gift baskets, will also be up for grabs. Limited vendor/exhibit space may still be available. For more information or to inquire about securing a... Read More

  “It’s hard to believe, but I’ve been in the driver’s seat for nearly 17 years,” said Mike Ragsdale, Founder of The 30A Company. “I’ve taken the brand as far as I’m personally capable, and I couldn’t be more excited to now work under Gary’s new leadership.” Ragsdale will now serve as 30A’s Chief Creative Officer. Gary John is a seasoned executive who moved his family to South Walton several years ago. “I’ve been searching for the best way to get deeply involved with our local community, and I can’t think of a better way than helping take the 30A brand to the next level,” said Gary. “We love our home, and I’m very honored to be able to help grow and elevate the 30A® and Beach Happy® brands.” Prior to becoming 30A’s new CEO and Partner, Gary founded Good Influence Group, a venture development company that develops new products, brands, and business ventures with top social media influencers, best-selling music artists, and household names in professional sports. Gary’s extensive expertise in product development, brand awareness, revenue growth, audience growth, mass market reach, and omni-channel initiatives is an ideal fit for 30A’s next chapter. “I will always cherish and respect the history of the 30A brand and our beautiful community,” said Gary. “We will continue to grow the 30A brand and business in the community, and work to bring the 30A brand experience to other markets and opportunities as well. It’s such an iconic brand that started with a sticker.... Read More

  Invoke performs one-evening-only August 20 at 6 p.m. ‘Peter and the Wolf’ performed by Fountain Five Wind Quintet on August 16, 23, 30 at 6 p.m. As part of its music education community outreach program, Sinfonia Gulf Coast is delighted to invite families and friends to four free al fresco summer concerts performed live in Seaside’s amphitheater this August. “Music education outreach is the heart of our mission,” we are delighted to continue our creative partnership with the Town of Seaside by presenting two terrific music offerings,” said Sinfonia Gulf Coast Artistic & Music Director Demetrius Fuller. “We hope everyone comes out to join us for a beautiful evening of music in one of our most iconic beach towns.” Peter and the Wolf Op. 67 will be performed by the Fountain Five Wind Quintet on August 16, 23, 30 at 6 p.m. in the Seaside Amphitheatre. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf Op. 67, a beloved symphonic fairy tale for children. The timeless classic will come to life through the artistic narration of seasoned actor Bruce Collier. In this special adaptation for woodwind quintet, the award-winning Fountain Five Wind Quintet — Sinfonia’s Woodwind Quintet in Residence — will mesmerize audiences with their expert musicality. Fountain Five Wind Quintet, comprising Brenna Wiinanen (flute), Nicholas Kanipe (oboe), Connor Croasmun (clarinet), Josie Whiteis (bassoon), and Tarre Nelson (horn), brings a rich blend of traditional and contemporary repertoire to their performances. Their unique rendition of Peter... Read More

  Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) launches new brand to continue growth and heighten their impact in the fight to end child abuse and neglect in Walton and Okaloosa Counties. ECCAC has revealed glimpses of some very exciting changes via social media over the recent weeks, culminating with the launch of its new website on August 4, 2023. Humbled by consistent growth over the past 23 years, they have taken the next step to update their logo, visual identity, brand messaging, and website to better represent where they are as an organization today—and the vision going forward. “This is a monumental milestone for ECCAC. We are truly grateful for the support and contributions of the many donors, agency & community partners, volunteers, and team members who have supported our mission and helped us serve our communities over the past two decades. We would not be where we are today without each and every contribution to our cause, and we’re so excited about the next chapter.” comments Julie Porterfield, Chief Executive Officer of ECCAC. With their new branding in place, they will continue to rise to the challenge of ending child abuse and neglect, providing child-friendly environments and therapies, and educating children and families on critical prevention issues so that not one more child becomes a victim. Their goal is to continue making a lasting and positive impact in the lives of those they serve and they will not waiver until that vision is realized. Visit their website and follow... Read More

  Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) presents Million Dollar Quartet September 15 – October 1, 2023. This performance explodes on stage with a monumental night of rock ‘n’ roll. Inspired by the most famous jam session in recording history, this smash-hit musical tells the story of legendary music icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins as they come together on December 4, 1956, at the famous Sun Studios. Million Dollar Quartet takes you behind the scenes and puts you in the middle of the action as these four musicians, who became legends, returned to the studio of legendary producer Sam Phillips, the man who invented Rock ’n’ Roll. It is equal parts stage drama and foot-tapping live performance featuring 21 timeless hits, including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “I Walk the Line,” “Fever,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “See Ya Later, Alligator,” “Fever,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and “Hound Dog,” this thrilling musical brings you inside the recording studio to experience an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal, and celebrations. A3WKW5 ELVIS PRESLEY – Million Dollar quartet photo see description below for details Nathanael Fisher, co-founder and producing artistic director of ECTC says, “Million Dollar Quartet is the perfect show to start season 11. The music of these four legendary artists transcends generations. Whether you enjoy rock ‘n’ roll, blues, or country, this show is for you. It’s a truly timeless musical for anyone who loves music.” Director: Nathanael Fisher Assistant Director:... Read More