Walton County is set to commemorate its Bicentennial in 2024. As of January 8, 2024, it marks the 200th anniversary since the county’s establishment in 1824. The current land area of Walton County spans 1,028 square miles, though it was originally larger. Parts of its initial territory were allocated in 1846 to form Washington County, in 1848 to Holmes County, and in 1915, to help create Okaloosa County along with a portion of Santa Rosa County. This means that Walton County once included much of the present-day Washington, Holmes, and Okaloosa Counties. The county boasts a significant history, reflecting its expansive original borders. Throughout 2024, various projects and events are planned to celebrate its historical and cultural heritage. Among these is the development of a new website dedicated to Walton County’s history, featuring articles, photographs, and videos. Additionally, a weekly video series titled “Reflections of Walton County” has been launched. This series includes interviews with residents of Walton County who have either been a part of its history or have relatives and ancestors who were. This series aims to educate, inform, and entertain the county’s residents with weekly historical insights throughout the year. Check out the first video from the series below: The hope is that these weekly episodes will provide an engaging journey through Walton County’s past, enhancing the appreciation for this unique place. The first episode of “Reflections of Walton County” features Chris Mitchell, a former television news reporter, historian, and past director of the Florida Chautauqua Association.... Read More

Marieanne Khoury-Vogt, representing Alys Beach’s Town Architect team with husband and partner Erik Vogt, has been acknowledged by the Urban Guild as this year’s recipient of the Barranco Award. The Urban Guild recognizes excellent architectural design within the context of good urbanism, with the Barranco Award going to “individuals who not only distinguished themselves in design but who also demonstrate a gift for building relationships beyond architecture, and inspiring coalitions for transformative change in the lives of families and communities.” The award announcement also recognizes a modesty in impacting the architectural landscape without a demand for personal credit and recognition, which speaks to the team that Alys Beach is honored to call their Town Architects. With Vogt and Khoury Vogt at the helm, shepherding a design code that responds to a dynamic climate, Alys Beach moves into its twentieth year of diligent pursuit of the master planned, New Urbanist vision. It is tremendously gratifying to see the talents of our Town Architects recognized in this way. In the words of the Barranco Awards Committee: Marieanne’s work (in Alys Beach) with her partner, Erik Vogt, has been pivotal in the recovery of the living tradition process, and (Alys Beach) is the best example of a living tradition we have seen in our lifetimes. A living tradition builds on what makes sense for sustainability and resilience in its location. The fact that Marieanne and Erik were producing stunning buildings without blemish and leading others to do the same, backed by a development team... Read More

Immerse yourself in the allure of coastal living with this custom-built retreat in the serene gated community of Cottage Grove, Santa Rosa Beach. This exclusive four-bedroom, four-bath residence, a mere 1.4 miles from the pristine beaches of 30A, is perched on one of the community’s four premium lots, offering a blend of elegance and tranquility. Start your journey of discovery with breathtaking sunsets and a private oasis in your backyard, complete with an outdoor kitchen, a sparkling pool, and a cozy fire pit, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Point Washington State Forest. Cottage Grove, nestled south of Highway 98, is a captivating, non-short-term rental neighborhood, boasting its own community pool, outdoor kitchen, and lush green spaces. The home’s exterior exudes charm, from its painted brick façade to gas lanterns and antique brick porch floors. A one-car garage with epoxy flooring includes a custom wall storage system, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, accommodating two stand-up paddleboards and four bikes, enhanced by a custom ceiling storage system accessible via remote controls. Inside, the open living area is a marvel of design, with 11-foot ceilings adorned with shiplap and painted beams, harmoniously paired with tumbled brick floors. Entertain in style at the oversized white marble island in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances including a 36-inch Wolf gas oven, a 42-inch Sub-Zero refrigerator, and more, all set against a backdrop of pecky cypress and shiplap-trimmed custom hood. Ample storage is discreetly integrated throughout, from the double pantry doors with pull-out drawers... Read More

It can be hard on a mom when a baby is first born. Add another baby 14 months later, and things get a little wild. Now, imagine that mom caring for those two babies on a giant tour bus, lumbering across the country while their superstar dad performs night after night at packed concert venues. “It was pretty crazy,” said Brittany Aldean, wife of country music star Jason Aldean, about the time when her children were born. “You have a little zip-up bunk that the infants sleep in. They are strapped in with Velcro, and you’re riding down the road and thinking, ‘What is happening right now?'” Today, Brittany (36), Jason (46), their now-five-year-old son Memphis, and four-year-old daughter Navy spend much of their lives on a tour bus. For nearly five months a year, they hit the road every Wednesday night, returning home Sunday morning. (Shorter stints dot the rest of the year.) “It’s predominantly the kids’ bus,” said Brittany. Every nook and cranny is stuffed with toys and books. On concert nights, the kids get to stay up, watching Daddy perform from the wings. Their days off are spent at their estate in Spring Hill, Tennessee, about 40 minutes south of Nashville, though their time there is fleeting. “Touring is extremely chaotic,” Brittany said. “There’s not a lot of time at home doing the normal things you do.” This rock-star life has become the norm for the Aldeans. For Brittany, it wasn’t always this way. Lake Life Brittany... Read More

In an unsettling turn of weather, winds roaring up to 60 MPH, carved a path of disruption, starting from Dune Allen, sweeping across Walton County, and extending through the regions of Freeport, Red Bay, and into Holmes, Washington, and Bay counties. The high winds left a trail of blocked roads and property damage, notably obstructing Chat Holley Road between CR-393 and US331 due to fallen trees. The impact of this weather event was not isolated, as neighboring areas east of Walton County also experienced similar turmoil, marked by additional tornadoes and wind damage. Thankfully, despite the extensive damage to structures and the ensuing power outages across various locales, there have been no injuries reported in connection with the tornado. Current efforts are focused on detailed damage assessments throughout the affected areas. The National Weather Service in Tallahassee has issued a wind advisory for high winds until 5 pm this evening. Schools in the area remain closed for the day. Walton County landfill has been temporarily shut down today due to storm and lightning impact. Residents who have experienced property damage are urged to contribute to the ongoing assessment by completing the survey available on the Emergency Management website at wcem@waltoncountyem.org. Reg Flags are up and beaches are closed to the public. Please follow storm safety rules and stay safe. For more info and live updates, follow 30A on Facebook.  https://30a.com/south-walton-weather-update/ Read More

This week on 30A, dive into a diverse mix of events! Discover career opportunities at Alys Beach, get inspired at Glenn North’s poetry workshop, groove to live music at the Swamp Writer Music Festival and 30A Songwriters Festival, and enjoy vibrant brunches and DJ nights. It’s a perfect blend of work, art, and entertainment along the scenic 30A. 1. Be a Part of Alys Beach’s Growth Story! Alys Beach is currently expanding its team, offering opportunities in a professional and inspiring environment. Positions are open in various departments, including Commercial Construction, General Construction, Food & Beverage (Front of House), Guest Services, and Security. Job Fair / Wednesday, January 10, from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. @ Alys Beach 2. Poetry as Healing: Join Glenn North for a Restorative Workshop at Distillery 98. Emerald Coast Storytellers, in collaboration with Escape To Create and the Seaside Institute, are excited to host Glenn North, a renowned ekphrastic and visual poet, at Distillery 98. North, known for his work featured in major art exhibitions, will open a workshop titled “Writing to Repair: A Restorative Poetics Workshop,” focusing on poetry’s healing effects on personal and community levels, especially in addressing social injustices. The event, supported by Seaside Arts & Entertainment Corporation, includes a cocktail hour and the opportunity for participants to create and potentially share poems inspired by North’s guidance. Glenn North, also the Director of Inclusive Learning and Creative Impact at the Kansas City Museum, is celebrated for his contributions to poetry and education.... Read More

Discover Unmatched Elegance at Silver Shells in St. Thomas Immerse yourself in the pinnacle of refined living at Silver Shells in St. Thomas, Destin. This exclusive, non-rental three-bedroom, three-bathroom condo has been artfully designed with luxury and comfort as its guiding principles. Set against the mesmerizing Gulf of Mexico, the unit offers awe-inspiring views from the principal master bedroom, living space, cozy nook, and state-of-the-art kitchen. Every detail in this fully furnished sanctuary reflects meticulous care, beginning with a private elevator entrance that heralds a lifestyle marked by supreme ease and elegance. Modern amenities blend with high-end finishes, such as leak detection systems, granite surfaces, premium vinyl plank floors, and detailed crown molding, to create an ambiance of chic sophistication, courtesy of Risa Interiors’ coastal design. The gourmet kitchen, a haven for culinary aficionados, comes equipped with a Viking wine cooler at the bar, perfect for elevated entertaining. The spa-inspired master bath promises daily pampering with its travertine shower, Jacuzzi tub, and dedicated makeup vanity. The master suite offers a tranquil escape with balcony access for private Gulf vistas. Silver Shells extends luxury beyond your doorstep with a wealth of amenities. Relish onsite conveniences like the tiki hut’s bar and restaurant, St. Thomas’ private pool or the larger Silver Shells pool, and keep active with tennis, pickleball, basketball, and a fully outfitted gym. Embrace the essence of coastal sophistication at St. Thomas—where your luxury living dream is realized. This beautifully appointed, fully furnished condo beckons you to cherish each moment... Read More