SouthWaltonScene.com™

Thanksgiving Dining in South Walton county, Florida 2009

2009-11-07T12:06:18-06:00

[**We will be updating this post as more information and details come in!**]

Yeah! It's time to start thinking about one of my favorite foodie holidays of the year - Thanksgiving! And gosh, is there really any place more special to celebrate a day of "thanks" than in paradise? What is better than walking off that huge meal on the beach??

Are you going to be in South Walton for Thanksgiving this year? Look no further. Here is the 2nd Annual Guide to Thanksgiving Dining 2009 in South Walton county to help you plan for the big day if you don't feel like slaving in the kitchen yourself this year. Gooble gobble - Happy Turkey Day, folks!

Help update this list! Know of any additions? Please email all the fine details to: jill@southwaltonscene.com .

To Go

98 BBQ Turkey Dinner To Go | 5008 Hwy 98 W, Unit 1 [MAP] | 850-622.0679
Details All orders must be received by November 20. Pick up is Wednesday, November 25 (the day before Thanksgiving)
Menu Smoked and roasted Turkeys and Hams and all the fixins. Please call for pricing and menu.

Cocoons Fine Food Turkey Dinner To Go | 4101 E County Highway 30A, Seagrove Beach [MAP] | 850-231-4544
Details All orders must be received by Monday, November 23. Pick up is Wednesday, November 25 until 5pm (the day before Thanksgiving)
Menu There are many items to choose from to construct the perfect Thanksgiving meal so please call for full menu including: Honey Baked Ham, smoked turkey breast, turducken, pepper-crusted pork loin, dressing, gravy, sides, desserts, and more.

Cowgirl Kitchen Thanksgiving Sides & Wines To Go | 54 Main Street, Rosemary Beach [MAP]| 850.303.0708
Details Order by November 22. Pickup between 9am - noon on Thanksgiving Day.
Menu Spiral hams, sauces & gravies, casseroles, dips & sides, salads, desserts, wines by the bottle and more! See Menu and Pricing (pdf)

Publix Turkey Dinner To Go
Three South Walton locations: 2038 US Hwy 98 W, Santa Rosa Beach (850) 267-0582; Grand Boulevard: 725 Grand Blvd at Sandestin (850) 622-2326 | WaterColor Crossings: 110 Watercolor Way at WaterColor (850) 534-4565. [MAPS]
Details Place your order as early as possilble.
Menu includes Roasted Turkey, Dressing, Gravy, Mashed Potatoes and Cran-Orange Relish; and you can obviously pick up all the other things you would need (e.g. rolls, pies, etc.)

Dining Out

BaitHouse at WaterColor Thanksgiving Day Brunch Buffet | 238 Watercolor Blvd, Santa Rosa Beach (WaterColor) [MAP] | (850) 534-5960
Details Reservations ARE required; Buffet-style; Thursday, November 26, 2009 from 11AM - 3PM; Cost: $40.00 Per Adult and $20.00 Per Child (Age 12 & Younger)
Menu See Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet menu here

Cafe Thirty-A Thanksgiving Dinner | 3899 East Scenic Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach [MAP] | (850) 231-2166
Details Noon to 4pm. Call for reservations and information. Cost: $40 Adults. $15 Children.
Menu See Thanksgiving Dinner menu.

Fish Out of Water Thanksgiving Dinner | 34 Golden Rod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach (Watercolor) [MAP] (850) 534-5050
Details 4-course dinner to be served. Open from 4-8PM. Cost: $55 Adults, $25 Children 12 and under. Reservations required.
Menu See Thanksgiving Dinner menu.

Old Florida Fish House & Bar Thanksgiving Dinner | 5235 E County Highway 30A, Seagrove Beach [MAP] | (850) 534-3045
Details Choice of entree with selection of sides, rolls and dessert. ($23.95 - $26.95) Open from noon-7pm. Call for reservations.
Menu See Thanksgiving Menu.

Restaurant Fire Thanksgiving Day Buffet. | 55 Clayton Lane, Grayton Beach [MAP] | 850.231.9020
Details Two seatings: 11:30am and 2:00 pm. Cost: $35 for adults, $15 for children ages 3-12, and free for children under 3. Reservations are required.
Menu Salads, turkey, salmon, short ribs, shrimp pasta, 12 sides and gravies, and dessert table.

The Great Southern Cafe Thanksgiving Buffet | 83 Central Square, Seaside [MAP] | 850.231-7327
Details Open from 11am to 3pm; reservations are encouraged. Cost: $24 per adult, Children 12 and under $12
Menu See Thanksgiving menu.

Santa Rosa Beach Club Thanksgiving Buffet | 4801 W. Co. Highway 30A, Dune Allen Beach [MAP] | 850-267-1240
Details Open from 11am - 3pm. Reservations required - call Christine at 850-267-1240. Cost: $29 Adults, $12 Children.
Menu View Thanksgiving Buffet menu

Stinky's Fish Camp Thanksgiving Dinner | 5994 W County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach [MAP] | (850) 267-3053
Details: Open from 11AM - 9PM. No reservations are being taken. Three course meal - choice of soup or salad, turkey with the fixin's and choice of homemade pie. Cost: $24.95. LIMITED Dinner Menu will also be available.
Menu Call for menu specifics.

2009-11-07T10:29:35-06:00

Jill Gaupin

Congratulations! Sonny Mares, Walton County TDC Executive Director, Named "Person of the Year" by FPRA

2009-11-07T10:23:18-06:00

Each year, the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) recognizes a professional who has made a significant contribution within the field of public relations and to the community. At the 2009 FPRA year end program, the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter named Sonny Mares, executive director of the Walton County Tourist Development Council (TDC), as “2009 Person of the Year” for his use public relations principles to benefit the tourism industry and community at large.

“Sonny’s philosophy is one of collaboration and inclusiveness with the community and tourism industry, and his skills in community relations and public affairs are to be admired,” said Tracy Louthain, Walton County TDC director of communications during a toast at the event. After accepting the position of executive director of the Walton County TDC, Sonny Mares immediately began collaborating with the tourism industry, county officials and the community on controversial issues ranging from signs and beach nourishment to public vs. private beaches and the County’s Leave No Trace Ordinance. Sonny worked collaboratively with constituents along the way holding public workshops and consistently makes himself available to the community and the media.

Most recently, his public relations skills were put to the test as he launched a community relations campaign to pass to an additional half cent of bed tax to be used to attract a low cost airline to the region. He worked diligently to communicate the benefits of the additional bed tax revenue, which is paid by visitors. Workshops were held with the community and the Walton County Taxpayers Association to fully understand all positions. After making modifications to address the community’s concerns, an increase in bed tax was approved by the Walton County Board of County Commissioners.

“Sonny Mares has effectively demonstrated that he has solid understanding of public relations principles especially as it relates to community relations, media relations and public affairs,” said Kara Stallings, president of the FPRA Northwest Florida Coast Chapter. “Mares is an excellent spokesperson for the TDC and our community.”

For more information on the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter of Florida Public Relations Association, visit www.nwfcoastfpra.org or contact Stacey Brady at stacey@grandboulevard.com.

From the South Walton Police Blotter - South Walton Internet Fraud

2009-11-06T13:06:23-06:00

Sandestin, FL (November 5, 2009) – Walton County Sheriff’s Officials would like to remind the public to be very careful when posting any personal information over the internet. Recently, a South Walton County woman was victimized while searching for a job on-line.

The Loblolly Bay Drive resident told Walton County Sheriff’s Deputies’ that she had posted an ad on Monster.com looking for a job. A company by the name of “Regency Group Inc.” contacted her through her Monster.com account. They recruited her to be a “money manager”. The victim filled out an application for the job, giving all of her personal information for a background check. That included her bank account information.

A representative from the bogus group explained to the woman that they would deposit money into her account, and she would then wire the money to their customers. The victim was reportedly contacted by e-mail stating that the funds had been deposited, but instead an undetermined amount of money was removed from the victim’s bank account.

Walton County Sheriff’s Investigators say be completely sure who is to receive the information before sending it into Cyberspace. Bank account and credit card information should be kept confidential. Social security numbers can often be used by criminals to steal a person’s identity.

Related Links:

Archives

2009-11-06T13:00:04-06:00

Jill Gaupin

Hip Happening Weekend Event Hightlights in South Walton county, Florida! Live music, Sunday brunch, and more!

2009-11-06T08:30:32-06:00

Live Music? Sunday Brunch? Art & Theater Events?
Wooo - it's Friday, folks. And that means it's time to start planning your weekend at the beach! We make it easy for you to do just that, so you have more time to get on out and enjoy paradise! Here are the hip happening highlights this weekend. And be sure to check out the Calendar of Events and Nature + Outdoors Scene for the full skinny on what's happenin' this weekend in South Walton!

*featured* ► SEASIDE's Seeing Red Wine Festival

*featured* First Friday ArtWalk at Ruskin Place in Seaside [MAP]- 5-8PM - Enjoy live music, view beautiful works of art and artist demonstrations at the galleries and shops of Seaside, Florida.

► Telluride MountainFilm Festival on Tour at WaterColor

► Live Music & Entertainment Around Town >> See all the venues around town here

► Saturday Morning Farmer's Market at Seaside on Scenic Hwy 30A [MAP], 9AM - 1PM

*featured* ► SEASIDE's Seeing Red Wine Festival

► Telluride MountainFilm Festival on Tour at WaterColor

► Live Music & Entertainment Around Town >> See all the venues around town here

► Ice Skating at Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 4-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 12-6p. For those visitors who miss the cold and ice, the ice skating rink at The Village of Baytowne Wharf is the perfect opportunity to get into the winter spirit. The seasonal ice skating rink has become a local holiday favorite. For just $8 guests can skate the night away. Questions? (850) 267-8117. BaytowneWharf.com

► Sunday Brunch in South Walton Here are some recommendations:

Another Broken Egg Cafe (multiple locations) - Voted "Best Sunday Brunch in South Walton 2009" by SouthWaltonScene.com readers, Another Broken Egg Cafe has several South Walton locations. See full info, including directions, here >>

The Great Southern Cafe in SEASIDE - Beignets, Grits and Grillades, Fried Green Tomato Benedict, Eggs Sardou ... if you are looking for an authentic Southern brunch menu, The Great Southern Cafe is your spot. 83 Central Square, Seaside, 32459, 850-231-7327, thegreatsoutherncafe.com

The Red Bar in Grayton Beach - All-American breakfast fare is served from 7-10:30am; lunch from 10:30am on. Live music by Dread Clampitt starts at noon. 70 Hotz Avenue, Grayton Beach, 32459 | 850-231-1008 | www.theredbar.com

Restaurant Fire in Grayton Beach - If you are looking for something more upscale, Fire will satisfy with their "Napa Valley country-style" cuisine. 55 Clayton Lane, Grayton Beach, 32459 | 850-231-9020 | www.restaurantfire.com

Santa Rosa Beach & Golf Club - Traditional American Breakfast Buffet with stations. 1030AM-1PM

Related Links:

What's Up in South Walton This Week?

Swing for a great cause! 6th Annual Cancer Cure Classic at Sandestin November 22, 2009

2009-11-06T07:52:33-06:00

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is hosting the 6th Annual Cancer Cure Classic at Raven Golf Club Sunday, Nov. 22 as part of the South Walton Area Relay for Life Team to benefit the American Cancer Society.

Sponsorships
To support the American Cancer Society, sponsorships are available in forms of table sponsors, sun hat sponsors, moon car sponsors and star hole sponsors.

Table sponsors receive a sign at the registration station or an event table.
Sun hat sponsors receive a Raven hat with company name embroidered on the back for each player on the team.
Moon car sponsors receive golf for two and a sign with company's name on it on one of Raven's beverage carts.
Star hole sponsors receive golf for four and a sign on one of Raven's greens with company name on it.

Registration and Costs Registration for the four person scramble begins at 7 am with a shotgun start at 8 am. A BBQ lunch follows the tournament. Each player's entry fee is $125 and includes green fee, cart and BBQ lunch. Mulligans are also available for $5 each with a limit of four per person.

Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places along with last place. The closest to the hole, longest and straightest drive will also receive a prize. Registration forms can be found at all Sandestin Golf Shops.

For more information call 850-267-8210 or visit sandestin.com/cancercureclassic.

2009-11-05T15:00:00-06:00

Jill Gaupin

Walton County TDC Names Recipient of the Van Ness Jr. Hospitality Award

2009-11-05T11:28:11-06:00

Each year, the Walton County Tourist Development Council (TDC) honors pioneers in tourism for their integral efforts in supporting and building tourism in Walton County through the Van Ness Butler Jr. Hospitality Award.

This year, the prestigious honor was bestowed upon the Walton County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) for their visionary leadership that has been a critical part in ensuring Beaches of South Walton continues to evolve as a premier tourist destination.

“It was a difficult decision for the TDC Council members as we had some very qualified nominees,” said Maurice Gilbert, Seacrest Beach Realty and chair of the TDC Council. “We are honoring the Board of County Commissioners for all the important actions they have taken over the years to ensure the scenic beauty and charm of our destination has been maintained while supporting local businesses and development.”

Together, Chair Sara Commander, District 4; Vice-Chair Scott Brannon, District 1; Kenneth Pridgen, District 2; Larry Jones, District 3; and Cecilia Jones, District 5; graciously accepted the award presented at the TDC’s Annual Meeting.

The BCC initially supported the passage of the South Walton Conservation and Development Trust (SWCDT) in 1994. This plan includes the 50-foot, four-story height restriction, which has been critical in preserving our scenic beauty as well as an enormous benefit in differentiating Beaches of South Walton from other Florida beaches.

More recently, the BCC has taken a proactive role in preserving the area’s number one attraction—the beach. Through the passage of the “Leave No Trace” ordinance major strides have been made in ensuring the area’s beaches are clean, pristine and safe for visitors, residents and nesting sea turtles. Visioning the impact low cost air service would have on this region and with the tourism industry’s urging, The BCC took action to help boost the local economy by supporting a half cent increase in bed tax. The passage of this half cent will enable the TDC to support initiatives to attract a low-cost air carrier in Northwest Florida. By marketing Beaches of South Walton in emerging domestic and international markets, the TDC aims to drive new travelers to the destination.

The Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award was first presented to Van Ness Butler, Jr. in honor of his visionary leadership and continuing his family’s legacy in making Beaches of South Walton a premier tourist destination. Each year, Walton County TDC Marketing Committee accepts nominations for individuals with an active role in the tourism industry and provides their top three recommendations to be voted on by the TDC Council.

This year’s awards was created by the 2009 Artist of the Year, Michael McCarty and the original artwork will be placed on display in the South Walton Annex and a framed print will be given to each Commissioner for their personal enjoyment.

For more information on the Van Ness Butler, Jr. Award program, contact Kelli Carter at (850) 267-1216 or kcarter@beachessouthwalton.com.

[Column] The Wedding Girl - Getting Hitched in the Beaches of South Walton in the fall.

2009-11-05T11:13:26-06:00

Posted by The Wedding Girl, Jamie Gummere, web publisher of MarryMeAtTheBeach.com

I’m thrilled to be on the South Walton Scene and bring you the latest and greatest gossip in beach weddings!

What an amazing time of year to get married! October is the second most popular month to get married on the beaches of Northwest Florida (May being the most popular) and why not?! The weather is cooler (perspiration markings on clothes are sooo last season!), the humidity is down (read: less hairspray ladies) and neighbors pass each other on the streets once again.

This is a great time of year for locals to host (what I have termed) an at-home destination wedding. For locals, this is the perfect set-up. It’s all the frills and fantasy of a destination wedding in our own backyard: the beach.

I have a friend getting married in November in Seaside. She lives here locally in Santa Rosa Beach but couldn’t think of a better place and one that she loves more than her home at the beach. For the couple, it’s just a little backyard wedding. For the traveling guests, it will be one fantastic destination wedding, and for all the guests that live locally (moi’), we’ll pretend to be on vacation, visit with our friends, drink wine, and dance under the stars wearing our new pashmina wraps (oh, oops, that will be me!), and return home to fall asleep in the comfort of our own homes.

A warm, Southern welcome to all those visiting destination wedding parties and local wedding parties as well. Enjoy our little backyard and best wishes!

[Photo: HBB Photography]

Related Links:

South Walton WEDDING Scene