Entering the South Walton Visitor Center is like walking into a room full of long-lost relatives. There's lots of “happy-to-see-you” faces and special greetings that wrap around you like a warm and fuzzy welcome blanket.
Walton County Commissioners approved covering entrance fees for day use at Grayton Beach State Park and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park from May 29th running through September 4th.
Walton County began the process of developing a paddle trail initiative on the Choctawhatchee River beginning in 2011. Former Walton County Board Member Scott Brannon led the movement towards the application for grant funds to develop the Blueway Paddle Trail. Unfortunately, Walton County was not awarded funding at that time.
It is important to be good neighbors. Sharing the resources we hold dear in all of Florida – and where I live, in South Walton County – is critical to the well-being of our citizens, visitors and economic interests.
A Better South Walton, Inc. (ABSW), a nonprofit organization founded to seek more effective governance and local representation for South Walton, is holding three community meetings to discuss the key findings of the preliminary feasibility study and the opportunities it gives the community. These meetings will give the community the chance to get the information surrounding the ABSW initiative, ask questions and voice their concerns.
Internationally famous artist Wyland will be in Destin to complete what will be the world’s largest painted American flag mural, an impressive 3.8-acres in size, on the roof of Legendry Marina, the world’s largest single indoor marine building. The awe-inspiring 555’ x 229’ flag honors the United States military armed forces who defend our country and first responders who watch over and protect our communities.
The grassroots organization “For a Better South Walton” is moving forward with community meetings with the goal of exploring South Walton's future and pursuing incorporation for a self-governing city. The second community meeting was held Thursday night in Seascape. Kelly Mossburg of Seagrove Beach led the meeting and described in detail many possible options that would better our beloved community of South Walton.
“If we stay on the current path we are on, we may wake up one day and realize this isn’t the special place we know and love anymore,” Kelly stated.
A proposed Hampton Inn at the eastern end of Seagrove Beach on Scenic Highway 30A has generated fierce opposition from SoWal locals, second homeowners, and beach lovers from across the country.
WaterSound West Beach resident Ehan Lyell has created an online petition against the building of the hotel. The petition has more then 9,000 signatures. The proposed 44,205 square-foot hotel would have 90 rooms on 2.4 acres.
Our South Walton Fire District (SWFD) is a unique organization, well run by dedicated, professional folks. We who live and visit here should feel fortunate to have their life-saving services.
Since being elected to the South Walton Fire District board in April, I have had the good fortune to see the inner workings and meet many of the great people who run the organization.
