SoWal Scene - South Walton County, Florida Blog

SoWal Scene's Weekend Live Music Roundup - July 11

Looking for some live jam sessions in South Walton?  Check out these bands playing around town this weekend.

Friday, July 11________

• Ball's Out Sports Bar on Hwy 331 S [map (in old SeaBar location] 850.622.9140
  ► 9pm New Fangled Theory
• Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin [map] 850.267.8117
  ►7-9pm Coconut Radio Band
• Bud & Alley's Rooftop Bar at Seaside [map] 850.231.5900
  ► 8pm - Diane Durrent
• Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar at Grand Boulevard [map]
  ► 8pm - Sean Dietrich
• Old Florida Fish House [map] 850.534.3045
  ► 815pm - Fish House Band
• Red Bar in Grayton Beach [map] 850.231.1008
  ► 7pm - The Red Bar House Jazz Band
• Stinky's Fish Camp on 30A in Dune Allen Beach [map] 850.267.3053
  ► 8:30pm - Blue Lew
• Salty Dog Saloon in Santa Rosa Beach [map] 850.267.1184
  ► 8pm - WaCo Ramblers

Saturday, July 12_________

• Amavida Coffee in Seaside [map] 850.231.3539
  ► 7pm - Cody Copeland
• Ball's Out Sports Bar on Hwy 331 S [map (in old SeaBar location] 850.622.9140
  ► 9pm Acoustic Duet by Corduroy Blues
• Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin [map] 850.267.8117
  ►7-9pm Coconut Radio Band
• Bud & Alley's Rooftop Bar at Seaside [map] 850.231.5900
  ► 8pm - Diane Durrent
• Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar at Grand Boulevard [map]
  ► 8pm - Sean Dietrich
• Fonville Press at Alys Beach [map] 850.213.5500
  ► 5-9pm - spindletree
• JamBone - A Hardwood Joint in Santa Rosa Beach [map] 850.267.1497
  ► 10pm- JamBone Jack and Tejas Brisket Blues Band
• Old Florida Fish House [map] 850.534.3045
  ► 815pm - Fish House Band
• Red Bar in Grayton Beach [map] 850.231.1008
  ►noon and 8pm - WaCo Ramblers
• Sally's Backside on 30A (behind Sally's By The Sea Store) [map] 850.267.2016
  ► 8pm - Sally's Backside Cabaret - Redd Sings
• Salty Dog Saloon in Santa Rosa Beach [map] 850.267.1184
  ► 8pm - WaCo Ramblers

Sunday, July 13_________

• Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin [map] 850.267.8117
  ►7-9pm Coconut Radio Band
• Gulf Place Amphitheater [map] 850.267.2562
  ► Outdoor Free Summer Concert Series from  6-9pm
• Red Bar in Grayton Beach [map] 850.231.1008
  ► noon and 7pm - Dread Clampitt
• Salty Dog Saloon in Santa Rosa Beach [map] 850.267.1184
  ► 9pm - Singer and Song Writer Jam Night with Quite the Duo

Have some live entertainment you want to share?  Add a comment below!

Hip Happening, Notable News from WaterColor & WaterSound

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art opens museum in WaterColor

Building upon the larger regional and national interest in the Ogden Museum of Southern Art/University of New Orleans, the Ogden will open a new satellite museum on July 3, 2008 located in WaterColor Resort, one of the South's most popular and rapidly growing regions along Highway 30A in Northwest Florida, in the former Cerulean's location right of of Scenic 30A in the WaterColor Town Center (next to Sugar Pies Cafe).

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art @ WaterColor will showcase a number of changing exhibitions, and will also incorporate a branch of the Ogden ’s Center for Southern Craft and Design.

Eileen West will be the on-sight coordinator of exhibitions and daily operations for the Ogden Museum of Southern Art @ WaterColor and will serve as the public representative of the WaterColor location.

The first two exhibitions at WaterColor will be Hunt Slonem: Artist and Collector and Richard Sexton: Terra Incognita, both organized by the museum:

• Hunt Slonem: Artist and Collector offers an intimate glimpse into this famous painter’s life—including his two Louisiana plantations and New York loft and studio. His paintings of birds, animals, flora, saints and other mystics are a colorful result of a lifetime of travel and collecting, incorporating his growing interest in the natural and historical worlds of Louisiana.

• Richard Sexton: Terra Incognita, will appeal to admirers of fine photography, particularly to those who appreciate landscapes. His black and white photographs of the Gulf Coast are dramatic, yet haunting—reminders of a Gulf Coast that has seen its share of change during the 15 years (1991 to 2006) Sexton documented the region. It will be cherished by anyone who spent time running through the dunes, forests and tropical settings of this beautiful, yet sometimes stark coastal environment.

The museum will be open daily, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and admission is free. Phone is 850.231.7735.

• • •

First Annual Summer At The 'Sound Pre-Independence Day Extravaganza

WHAT Summer at the 'Sound is a free public event to celebrate the Village Commons opening at the new WaterSound Community.  Families will enjoy a WaterSound Showcase of Homes tour, swimming in the new Village Commons pool, face painting, magic tricks, live music, kickball, Frisbee, soccer games, giveaways and door prizes, as well as free treats and soft drinks.  Guided bike tours along the Intercoastal Waterway, kayak tours on Lake Powell and golf at the 9-hole Origins course will be offered.  Box lunches are available for purchase.

Family Golf Outing Includes:

• A round of golf for adults ($15.00); Kids 15 and under play free with an adult. A golf cart costs $10.
• Free short game clinic, including chipping and putting, with a member of Camp Creek's professional staff.
• Kid’s Chipping and putting contests.  A small wading pool will enable kids to chip in the water. Winners get candy and treats.

When Thursday, July 3rd, 2008; between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Where Events will take place in and around the new Village Commons Pool, a central gathering spot and resident community hub.  The Davis Love III-designed Origins (nine-hole) Golf Course is just a short stroll from the Village Commons.

Directions WaterSound is located in South Walton County in Northwest Florida, on Highway 98 just north of Scenic Highway 30A, half a mile north of Camp Creek Golf Club and three miles east of WaterSound Beach. The address is 180 North WaterSound Parkway, WaterSound, FL  32413

For event information please call, 850-534-2100

About WaterSound  WaterSound is the newest residential community in the Town of WaterSound.  It sits between the Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Powell, one of the world’s rare dune lakes fed by both rainwater and meandering tides - perfect for freshwater and saltwater fishing.  WaterSound is located three miles from WaterSound Beach, a 256-acre gated community set on a mile of white sand beach, and WaterSound West Beach, a 62-acre gated community with private beach access located adjacent to Deer Lake State Park.

4th of July in South Walton

The neighborhood party, the smell of the grill all around town, burgers, American flag cheesecake, hot dogs, the sound of kids laughing, watermelon, potato salad, s'mores, running through the sprinkler, red-white-and-blue bomb pops, the bike parade, sparklers and fireworks.... these are the memories of my childhood.  Growing up in Milwaukee, our 4th of July festivities most years were straight out of the pages of Martha Stewart Living Magazine - seriously.  We decorated our bikes with streamers and rode in the community bike parade in the morning.  We gathered with a large group of friends and family for a full day of grilling, eating, drinking, swimming, and fireworks.  And the day always ended at the "big" fireworks show at a community public park - in Whitefish Bay (the suburb in Milwaukee I grew up in) that was Klode Park.  Everyone in the community, for the most part, did the same exact thing.  I am feeling nostalgic thinking about it!

The same can be found on the 4th of July in South Walton.  The difference is, in South Walton, the festivities are more.....fragmented.  You will not find one big ole cohesive community party where all of South Walton participates or even a public park with a fireworks show.  Instead, there are sub-community parades, parties and a couple of small firework displays off the beach.
.........................................................................................................................................

4th of July Calender of Events
DAY TIME

• 8am 8:30am - Grayton Beach community parade down DeFuniak Street.  The parade starts at the Red Bar and ends right before Grayton General on the corner of 30A.
• 8:45am - Rosemary Beach Bike Parade starting in North Barrett Square and end on the Western Green.  The Emerald Coast Pipes and Drums will again lead this year's parade
• 8am - Seaside Parade down 30A.  The parade starts in Seagrove and ends in Seaside. 
• 9-11am - Family Field Day at Rosemary Beach on the Western Green.  Sack races, three-legged races, hula-hoop contests, a water balloon toss, music, moonwalk and much more.

NIGHT TIME ACTIVITIES AND FIREWORKS

• 5-10pm - Red, White & Baytowne Celebration and Fireworks at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin - Village Events Plaza.
• 8:45pm - Fireworks at Rosemary Beach.  Sit on Western Green, Eastern Green or get a front row seat on the beach. Concert on the Green before the fireworks from 630-830p featuring Sticks and Stones.
• 7:30pm - Fireworks at Seaside.  Concert in the amphitheater from 7:30pm until dusk when there will be a fireworks show.  Sit on the beach for front row seats.
• Dusk at Grayton Beach behind the Red Bar.  A local's tradition. Light your own fireworks or watch others light fireworks.  Not the best choice if you have small children or are elderly and have never been. It's not necessarily dangerous but not particularly safe either.

.........................................................................................................................................
I guess it is just the nature of a resort community - each beach town has it's own character and identity and most people here on the 4th are visitors and want to celebrate in the resort they are staying.  Keep in mind, out of the tens of thousands (or more?) here for the 4th of July holiday, only 7,000-8,000 are full time, year round residents.

4th of July Weekend Events at Alys Beach

Related Post: 4th of July in South Walton

Shrimp Boil at Fonville Press
Thursday, July 3, 5-9pm | Live music by Cadillac Willy

Boiled local shrimp, corn, potatoes, smoke Andouille sausage and grilled Chicago hot dogs on a poppy seed bun.  Beer and wine available for purchase.

Sweet station to include: cotton candy, flavored shaved ice, ice cream bars and fresh carved watermelon.

Cost is $16.50 per adult & $8.00 for children under age 12.  Tickets can be purchased at Fonville Press. Call 850.213.5500 for more information.

Tour the Courtyard Homes of Alys Beach
Saturday, July 5 | 10-2pm
Join us for a walking tour of the beautiful courtyard homes and pedestrian paths of Alys Beach.
Live music by Bill Evett.

Apres Beach at Fonville Press
Saturday, July 5 | 5-9pm
Music by Spindletree. A weekly tradition of delicious food, fine wines and beers, live music and friendship!

Support The Local Farmer's Market at Seaside

Awesome! New Summer Event Series starting tonight - Beach Villages Around the World

I got an email yesterday from Hillary Fosdyck, co-owner and event designer of Monark Events, about a new Friday night summer event series being hosted at Redfish Village called "Beach Villages Around the World" which kicks off tonight! 

In Hillary's words, "The concept is to travel the world by celebrating other beach villages such as Redfish.  We will celebrate a different village/country every week with food/drink/entertainment/ambiance to go with it."

I just think this is brilliant!!  Hillary and her business partner, Briane Workman, really thought outside-the-box on this event, offering something totally unique and innovative to attract folks to Redfish Village.  I am putting this on my personal calendar for sure!  Way to go gals!

Loreto, Mexico is the first Beach Village to be "experienced" tonight.  Here are the details -

Join Redfish Village this Friday, May 30th at 5:30 p.m. as they celebrate the culture of Loreto, Mexico. You will enjoy live Mariachi music, authentic Mexican cuisine, a top-shelf Tequila and Margarita tasting, and an unforgettable atmosphere.  Recapture the spirit of Loreto's Town Square at Redfish Village, where you will experience the enchanting culture of the Baja right here on 30-A.

Here is the line up for the rest of the summer!  Head to Redfish, SoWal, to experience the world - enjoy!

Hip Happenings This Week

Looking for something to do in South Walton this week??

Monday, May 19

• Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach - An informational meeting will be held for interested locals and artists at Fonville Press at Alys Beach on Scenic 30A on Monday, May 19th at 7pm. The meeting is open to the public.

Wednesday, May 21

• Wednesday Night Free Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf - Village Events Plaza | Sandestin | 7 -9pm | This week enjoy the music of Todd Wolfe | For more information, call 850.267.8117.

Thursday, May 22

• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from Bill Evett | Call 850.213.5500 for information.
• Sunset Cinema at at Baytowne Wharf | Village Events Plaza | This kid-friendly event is free and open to the public | Film begins at 8pm | Showing this week - The Last Mimzy | For more information, call 850.267.8117.

Friday, May 23 (MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND)

• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from Reed Waddle | Call 850.213.5500 for information.
• Blackeyed Susan at Bud & Alley's | Seaside | 830pm | Blackeyed Susan, touted as one of Alabama’s premiere 80’s Music cover bands for over a decade, returns to Bud & Alley’s in Seaside, FL this Memorial Day weekend armed with their arsenal of 80's Party Rock classics and modern radio hits. | For more information, call 850.231.5900. 

***UPDATE****Friday, May 23 - Sunday, May 26 | Seaside Jazz Festival Weekend Two | Day Passes and Weekend Pass NOW available.  Tickets can be purchased through The Merchants of Seaside by calling (866) 579-5424 or online at www.seasidefloridajazzfestival08.com and are available as daily passes or full-access weekend passes. Friday, May 23 is a free kick-off concert; tickets for Saturday, May 24 are $50; tickets for Sunday, May 25 are $50 and tickets for Memorial Day, May 26, featuring the Neville Brothers are $75. The full weekend access pass is $150. 

• May 23 at 7pm - Hot 8 Brass Band - This concert is free and open to the public
  
• May 24 at 4pm - Glen David Andrews
• May 24 at 6pm -  Little Freddie King
• May 25 at 3pm - Dayve Stewart
• May 25 at 5pm - Marva Wright
• May 26 at 4pm - Walter "Wolfman" Washington
• May 26 at 6m - The Neville Brothers

Hip Happenings This Week

Wednesday, May 14

• Wednesday Night Free Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf - Village Events Plaza | Sandestin | 7 -9pm | This week enjoy the music of Dikki Du | For more information, call 850.267.8117.

Thursday, May 15

• Attention Builders and Architects!  Attend the 2008 Cottages for Kids Kick-off Party at Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-7pm | RSVP ASAP to Susannah Rice, CFK Co-chair at susannahrice@mac.com or call 225.413.6246.  For more information, call 850.622.3200 or visit www.childrensvolunteerhealthnetwork.org. 
• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from Bill Evett.

Friday, May 16 - Sunday, May 18 | Seaside Jazz Festival - Weekend One (of Two) | Weekend Pass $100

• May 16 at 7pm - The Rebirth Brass Band
• May 17 at 2pm - The Jim Ward Band
• May 17 at 4pm - Shamarr Allen
• May 17 at 6pm - Nestor Torres
• May 18 at 3pm - Ted Shumate
• May 18 at 5pm - Jesse McBride

Calling all Artists!

This is going to be an A-M-A-Z-I-N-G event, folks - I personally can't wait!

Digital Arts Festival Coming to Alys Beach
Local & National Artists Invited to Submit Entries

A unique new festival is coming to Scenic 30A this Labor Day weekend.

"Digital Graffiti" is a new event created to celebrate and recognize some of the world's most talented and innovative digital artists. But like almost everything at Alys Beach, the festival has a very unusual twist.

"We're inviting artists to project their original artwork onto our famous white walls using the latest projection technologies," said Kelli Arnold, the town's Events Coordinator. The town of Alys Beach will literally become their blank canvas.

Sometimes referred to as "Photon Bombing," Guerilla Projection", "Projection Bombing" or "Urban Projection," underground artists around the globe have started using the latest design, animation and  projection technologies to cast their unique works of art onto skyscrapers and other urban structures, as a means of artistic expression.

"Some of the talent we're finding is stunning," said Arnold. "We're extremely excited to help promote this emerging new art form."

To help lure such talent to the Emerald Coast, Alys Beach has announced numerous award categories and prizes, including a $2,500 Best of Show award sponsored by The Alys Foundation, and a $1,000 Best Local Artist award sponsored by www.30A.com. To qualify for the Best Local Artist award, the winner must reside full-time in Walton, Okaloosa, Bay or Washington County.

Hip Happenings this Week

Monday, May 5 - Sunday, May 11 :: ARTSQUEST - click HERE to see the ArtsQuest schedule for the week.

Monday, May 5

• Cinco De Mayo Party at the Taco Bar in Seaside on 30A | all day and night - $2 tacos, $3 burritos, $4 margartias and a Mexican Pig Roast | Live music by Tropisound from 4-8pm

Thursday, May 8

• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from Bill Evett | Call 850.213.5500 for information.

Friday, May 9

• Trivia Night at the Fonville Press, Alys Beach from 6-9PM. Join comedian Kevin Boyle of the Seaside Repertory Theater for an evening of fun facts and friendly competition!  Call 850.213.5500 for information.

ArtsQuest turns 20

ARTSQUEST 2008 - May 4 - 11 | For information call 850.622.5970.

Walton County, FL - Since its humble yet inspired beginning as the Grayton Beach Fine Arts Festival in 1989, ArtsQuest, under the leadership of committed volunteers and the Cultural Arts Association, has developed into one of the top 200 juried art shows in the United States, attracting over 10,000 people to its full week of events. 

ArtsQuest exists and succeeds to fulfill the Cultural Arts Association’s mission to enhance the quality of life for youth and adults by providing life-long learning through arts education and appreciation; to promote the fine arts, performing arts and the humanities; and to support local artists by promoting their work.

Along with its partners, Beaches of South Walton, The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, and The Walton Sun, The CAA invites you to be a part of this extra-special week-long celebration of the arts.

Here is a line up of the week-long events or click here to go to the website):

Hip Happenings this Week

Looking for something to do in South Walton this week?

Wednesday, April 30

• Wednesday Night Free Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf - Village Events Plaza | Sandestin | 6-8pm | This week enjoy the music of The Shadow of Elvis. Call 850.267.8100 for information.

Thursday, May 1

• Free Flute Workshop for Children the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 9 - 10am |  The workshop will be led by composer, recording artist and “multi-instrumentalist” James Wisniewski of "wZ”  (www.jimmiwz.com) | For more information, call 850.213.5500.
• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from Bill Evett. For more information, call 850.213.5500.

Friday, May 2

• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from The Steenos. For more information, call 850.213.5500.

Saturday, May 3

• Children's Volunteer Health Network's Circle of 100 annual sponsorship gala | Caliza Pool in Alys Beach |  The Annual Children's Volunteer Health Network Circle of 100 annual sponsorship drive is on.  CVHN is looking for 50 more sponsors to contribute $1,000 over the next 12 months to support the charity. Donate and attend the gala this Saturday.  To learn more about CVHN and the Circle of 100 or to become a Circle of 100 Sponsor, call 850-622-3200.

Saturday, May 3

• CANCELLED A Night of Stargazing with Alan Knothe, former astronomy instructor for Okaloosa-Walton College, meet at Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 7pm | Free and open to the public | Participants will guided on a tour along the beach and will learn about many interesting stars, constellations, planets and astronomical facts. | For more information, call 850.213.5500 or email events@alysbeach.com.

Flute Workshop for Children at Fonville Press

Fonville Press—a popular coffee shop, newsstand and wine bar located on County Road 30A in Alys Beach—will host a free flute-playing workshop for children on Thursday, May 1st from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m.

The workshop will be led by composer, recording artist and “multi-instrumentalist” James Wisniewski of “wZ” (www.jimmiwz.com).

Over three decades, Wisniewski has studied and shared billings with such renowned artists as Julius Baker, Ornette Coleman and Herbie Mann. Following dozens of recordings, Wisniewski’s latest creations “echo of ancient musicians and vibrations of the present,” blending Oriental, Indian, Native and South American sounds.

Hip Happenings this Week

Looking for something to do in South Walton this week?

Wednesday, April 23

• Wednesday Night Free Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf - Village Events Plaza | Sandestin | 6-8pm | This week enjoy the music of The Shadow of Elvis. Call 850.267.8100 for information.

Friday, April 25

• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from Sean Dietrich Reed Waddle.  Call 850.213.5500 for information.

updated: The 2008 Seaside Reperatory Theatre Prom King and Queen Are.....

George Hartley and Cheri Peebles!  Congratulations and great job to you both! 

To view photos from the event, check out the Pizza By The Sea blog - thanks for sharing those with us, Stacy and Bryan!

Word on the street is that it was one of the best fundraisers yet for the Rep and they raised over $56,000!  Congratulations to the Rep, as well.

Hip Happenings This Week

Looking for something to do in South Walton this week?

Tuesday, April 15

• High-Low 5-course Wine Dinner at Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar | 6:30p |  Grand Boulevard at Sandestin | Can you tell the difference between a $45 wine and a $90 wine? | cost $95/person | call 850.269.0830 to make your reservation.
• Blood Drive Held at Alys Beach | 1-5pm | The “bloodmobile” will be parked adjacent to Alys Beach’s development offices, which are located at the far east end of Alys Beach.  Call 850.213.5500 for more information.

Wednesday, April 16 - Sunday, April 20

• 10th Anuual Seabreeze 106.3FM Jazz Festival | Gulf Place Ampitheather | Click HERE for the weekend's line-up and other event details | Purchase tickets online or call 1-800-595-4849.

Celebrate Earth Day at Alys Beach on April 19th

Alys Beach will host an Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 19th.

Free and open to the public, the day’s festivities will begin with a seminar entitled “Building Better Homes and Towns by Building Green.” Held at Fonville Press on 30A, the discussion will showcase environmentally-friendly homes, towns and building practices.

“A growing number of homebuilders and developers are including environmental initiatives in their operations, and many local residents are looking for homes and towns built with green features,” said Christian Wagley, Alys Beach’s Environmental Program Manager. “We’ll be learning how green development standards result in better homes and neighborhoods.”

The seminar will also include a walking tour of Alys Beach to examine real-world applications such as innovative storm water treatments, energy-efficiency measures for coastal homes, solar panels and more. Seminar speakers will include Christian Wagley of Alys Beach, Jeff Allen of Stalwart Built Homes, Carl Roberts of EcoSmart Inc., Kendall Horne of Alys Beach, Teresa Howard of Gulf Power Company and Chandra Hartman of CFH Design Studio.

Hip Happenings this Week!

Looking for something fun to do in South Walton this week?

Tuesday, April 8

• Seaside's Tuesday Night Concert Series - free and open to the public | Seaside Amphitheater | This week enjoy the music of the Dread Clampitt | 7pm—9pm | call 850-231-5424 for information.

Tuesday, April 8 -Saturday, April 12

• For the Health of It's 13th Anniversary Celebration - 5 days of fun, entertainment, demonstrations and activities.  Each day has a theme - Tuesday - "Body Beautiful", Wednesday -"Fit and Energized", Thursday - "Natural Health", Friday - "Nature Day", Saturday - "Family Day".  Call for more information or stop in to help them celebrate!  2217 W. Scenic Hwy 30A in Blue Mountain Beach.  850.267.0058.

Wednesday, April 9

• Wednesday Night Free Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf - Village Events Plaza | Sandestin | 6-8pm | This week enjoy the music of The Michael Warren Band . Call 850.267.8100 for information..

Mark Your Calendar- 22nd Annual Sandestin Wine Festival starts this Thursday

April 10 - 13 | 22nd Annual Sandestin Wine Festival at Baytowne Wharf

Stop and smell the bouquet as the The Village of Baytowne Wharf transforms itself into the south of France and the Napa Valley rolled into one for a spectacular four-day event.

Enjoy:

● Grand wine tastings showcasing more than 600 domestic and international wines
● Winemaker dinners and tastings with top area chefs and selections from world-renowned wineries
● Celebrity winemakers and vintners
● Auctions for rare and distinctive wines.
● See below for weekend schedule of events.

Proceeds benefit Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation.

Ticket prices vary - a two day pass is $100 or buy separately for $60/day.  Visit the website at www.sandestinwinefestival.com for full ticket and event info or call 850.267.8116.

WEEKEND EVENTS CALENDAR
Thur., Apr. 10 - Marlin Grill: 6 p.m.
Illuminating all the qualities of a fine dining experience, Marlin Grill brings Bryan Del Bondio of Markham Vineyards to the table. Del Bondio will host diners over a four-course meal with an engaging and informative presentation. Noted for serving the best hickory-grilled steaks on the Emerald Coast, the kitchen shall not disappoint. Reservations requested, 850.351.1990. $80

Thur., Apr. 10 - Bistro Bijoux Wine Walk-about: 7 p.m.
Savor the flavors of French-inspired cuisine and arouse your senses with delicately selected wine pairings from Caymus Vineyards at Bistro Bijoux. Mingle with guests about the restaurant's charming atmosphere at this cocktail-style soiree or relax in a cozy corner for a more intimate toast. Reservations requested, 850.622.0760. Advanced payment required. Price includes tax and tip. $125

"From 1978 Dateless Geek to 2008 Prom King..."

As you may have noticed, I have been posting information on the campaigns of the those that have been nominated for Prom King and Queen for this year's fundraiser for the Seaside Rep.

To bring you up to speed, the Seaside Repertory Theatre holds an annual themed ball fund-raiser and this year the theme is going to be "The Prom".  Six women and six men have been nominated for Prom Queen and King and all are spearheading their own fund-raising campaigns as the King and Queen who raise the most money will be crowned.  You can read all the fine details about it HERE.

I received an email yesterday from JD and Kate Johnson of Beach to Bayou Property Inspections about one of the King candidates, Ed Walborsky.  Mr. Walborsky has created his own website (www,78prom.com) for his cause which I think deserves special consideration.  Not only does creating a website show a noteworthy dedication to the task at hand, but the website itself is absolutely hysterical!  Make sure you watch the videos!  Great job, Ed!

5th Annual Torre Rosa Benefit to be held on April 26

The 5th annual Torre Rosa benefitting the South Walton Montessori Academy will be April 26, 2008 from 6:00 to 9:30 PM on St. Augustine Park in Rosemary Beach. The theme this year is a good old fashioned barbeque, with great local music by Dread Clampitt & dancing under the moon! Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q will be catering and we’ll have a cash bar (wine and beer). Tickets are $75 each. We’ll also have a silent auction and are getting lots and lots of great stuff! Order your tickets securely online by clicking the button below or by calling 850-231-5955.

The South Walton Montessori Academy, Inc. is a 501(c)(3), not for profit, private school in Walton County Florida, currently located in Rosemary Beach, FL.  The schools serves children from 18 months through 6th grade.  Your generous support of the school is sincerely appreciated.

Learn or Perfect Plein Air Painting Skills at Cultural Arts Workshop

Santa Rosa Beach - The Cultural Arts Association invites artists of all skill levels to attend a plein air painting  workshop featuring Ft. Walton Beach artist, Carol Ann Cain, on Saturday, April 26 from 9:00am to 3:00pm.

Plein air painting is done on location in front of the subject and mostly completed while experiencing the landscape.  The finished product is a representation of the artist’s perception and response to the conditions of the landscape.  The setting of Cain’s workshop at the former Bayour Arts and Antiques building will offer views of gardens, marshes and the Bay, all ideal subjects for plein air painting.

Cain will provide a lecture and demonstration that will include specific guidelines and suggestions for beginning a plein air painting.  Students will then select their subject and begin painting.  The day-long class will allow ample time for critiques.

Hip Happenings this Week

Looking for something fun to do in South Walton this week?  Remember - tune into South Walton's very own radio station - 30A Radio.  Stream it live right from your computer from the link to the left or dial it up at 107.1FM!

Tuesday, April 1

• Seaside's Tuesday Night Concert Series - free and open to the public | Seaside Amphitheater | This week enjoy the music of the The Underdogs | 7pm—9pm | call 850-231-5424 for information.

Wednesday, April 2

• Wednesday Night Free Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf - Village Events Plaza | Sandestin | 6-8pm | This week enjoy the music of  Sarasota Slim. Call 850.267.8100 for information.

Friday, April 4

• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from Po' Boyz.
• First Friday Art Walk at The L2 Gallery | Seaside | 5-8pm | 123 Quincy Circle | The L2 Gallery is playing host to April's First Friday ArtWalk, this month featuring three "wearable art" masters - Paul Pearman, Wendy Mignot and Jimmy wZ.  Call (850) 231-1091 for more information.

Sunday, April 6

• Seaside Reperatory Theatre's Starlight Film Series | Lyceum Lawn | Admission is $5.00 and there is a full bar available | Film begins at 8pm.  Showing this week - TheWizard of Oz | make sure to bring a blanket and chair.

Have an event you want the world to know about?  Send all the fine details to jill@sowalscene.com. 

Z'IVO Wine Dinner at Alys Beach on March 27- A Foodie's Night to Remember

OMG - this wine and food event to be held at the Caliza Pool in Alys Beach is going to be absolutely fabulous! 

Dr. John Zelko of Z'IVO Winery in Oregon will be featuring some of his finest Pinot Noir's paired with a 5-course gourmet meal that would make most foodies weep.

Seating is limited and I have heard it is almost booked so if you would like to attend, make your reservation today (info below). I am saving my pennies and will be attending with my Mother - and will be sure to post about the experience on the 28th!

Z'IVO Wine Dinner
March 27, 2008 at 6PM
Caliza Pool at Alys Beach
Call 850.213.5514 to make a reservation (*note-a credit card number is required for all reservations).
$175/per person, tax and gratuity not included

• 1st course paired with Z'IVO Three
  Grilled Mediterranean Rouget, Fennel Custard, Curry Thai Lobster Froth, Petite Mustard Green Salad and Raw Celery.

YouTube Phenomenon to Perform at Alys Beach March 29

Alys Beach, Florida – In December, a short video clip of an extraordinary guitar player began making its virtual rounds through the offices of Alys Beach. The video was of Andy McKee, now one of the most downloaded artists on www.YouTube.com.

“Andy’s style of play is really extraordinary,” said Kelli Arnold, Events Coordinator at Alys Beach. “I forwarded the email to our Town Founder (Jason Comer), and he immediately encouraged me to invite Andy to perform at Alys Beach.”

As a result, Andy McKee will perform a free live outdoor concert in Alys Beach’s new Central Park on Saturday, March 29th at 7pm.

Hip Happenings this Week

Looking for something fun to do in SoWal this week?

Tuesday, March 11

• Seaside's Tuesday Night Concert Series - free and open to the public | Seaside Amphitheater | This week enjoy the music of the Waco Ramblers 6pm—8pm | call 850-231-5424 for information.

Wednesday, March 12

• Wednesday Night Free Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf - Village Events Plaza | Sandestin | 6-8pm | This week enjoy the music of Geoff Achison & the Soul Diggers.

Thursday, March 13

• Kitchenique Cooking Class @ Market Shops at Sandestin | Cooking Basics with Vicki McCain, Kitchenique Cooking School Director | 6-8pm | Cost-  $35 | This class will instruct the basic technique of pan searing poultry, pork and beef then deglazing to make a simple “pan sauce” to create a quick, simple and delicious entrée. | Call 850.837.0432 for reservations and information.

1st Annual 30A St Patricks Parade Planned for Scenic 30A on March 15th!

This sounds like it has the potential to be a huge annual party day in SoWal!  I think it's a great idea and another way to draw visitors to the area and help give small businesses some exposure.  It looks like it was recently organized and they are looking for businesses and individuals who want to be in the parade!  Sign up today!

"The 1st Annual 30A St Patrick's Parade is gathering steam. An idea that started a couple of weeks back is evolving into what could be a great annual tradition.

The Parade route is planned for Saturday, March 15th at 2pm, to travel from Gulf Place to Grayton Corners. Several fun events are planned such as green beer, horseshoes, a darts tournament, and yards of Guinness, great food, and live music.

To enter the parade, all that's required is a vehicle with a sign on the side to promote your business, go to www.30aparade.com  Some have even planned to decorate in various ways to add to the fun."

Vote for a Prom Queen and King!

Didn't get a chance to go to Prom or want to re-live the night?  This sounds really fun (see candidate campaigns below)!  The Seaside Repertory Theatre's annual themed ball fund-raiser this year is "The Prom" on April 18 at 7pm at WaterColor's Marina Park Amphitheater Seaside Lyceum Lawn.  Tickets are $100 and you can call the Rep to purchase at 850.231.3033.  Enjoy good food, music, dancing and the highlight of the evening - the crowning of the Prom Drama King and Queen.

So who are the candidates that have been nominated for King and Queen?  There are six women and six men competing for the title.  All are spearheading their own fund-raising campaigns as the King and Queen who raise the most money will be crowned. 

Queen Candidates are:

Delta Bluesman to Perform in South Walton

For forty years, Kent DuChaine has traveled the globe, sharing his passion for the Delta Blues along with “Leadbessie,” his duct-taped 1934 National Steel Guitar. During his career, DuChaine has shared the stage with music legends such as John Lee Hooker, Albert Collins, Bukka White, Willie Dixon, Howling Wolf, Margie Evans, Snookie Pryor and Johnny Shines. He’s performed on a Grammy-nominated album, and he’s toured Europe more than 50 times, where his stage show was hailed by The London Times as “one of the five best concerts in the U.K.”

In March, DuChaine will perform along Scenic 30A for the very first time.

Alys Beach Welcomes The Easter Bunny

The Easter Bunny will hop over to Alys Beach on Friday, March 21st.

“We’re very excited to welcome the Easter Bunny back to Alys Beach this year,” said Kelli Arnold, the town’s Events Coordinator. “He’ll greet guests and children in the courtyard of one of our new homes.”

The Easter Bunny’s visit coincides with a Courtyard Home Tour, which will also feature a performance by children from the New Gulf Coast Choir. The free Open House event will last from 6:00pm until 8:00pm, and is open to the public.

Fonville Press—a popular coffee shop, newsstand and wine bar located in Alys Beach directly on Scenic 30A—will also host its weekly “Après Beach” party that Friday, from 5:00pm until 9:00pm, with a live performance by The Justin Fobes Band.

Please note that the Courtyard Home Tour may be postponed in the event of inclement weather. For more information, please call 1-866-481-8387 or email events@alysbeach.com.

Cultural Arts Association Showcases "Women on the Fringe"

Santa Rosa Beach, FL – The Cultural Arts Association is proud to present “Women on the Fringe” as part of the CAA’s monthly Artist Series.

Artists Ann Morrell, Beth Church and Mary K. McGraw, all members of the Fiber Art Group, will present their work and discuss their non-traditional approach to quilting and fiber art with the audience.

This presentation will take place at the Coastal Branch Library at 336 Loop Road off Hwy. 331 on Sunday, March 9 from 3-4pm. It is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served.

Ann Morrell says that most of the members of the Fiber Art Group, which meets the first Thursday of each month, started out as traditional quilters but became interested in creating quilts with more artistic function.

Hip Happenings this Week

Looking for something fun to do in SoWal this week?

Wednesday, March 5

• Wednesday Night Free Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf - Village Events Plaza | Sandestin | 6-8pm | This week - Dread Clampitt

Thursday, March 6

• Aesthetic Clinique - Redfish Village Grand Opening | 7-9pm | Hors d'ouerves, Grand Prize drawings for Botox treatments and much more
• Northwest Florida Philharmonic performance - "The Eroica" and "Fingal's Cave Overture" | St. Rita's Catholic Church - Santa Rosa Beach | 7:30pm | $25 advance or $27 at the door.
• Kitchenique Cooking Class - Firehouse Fitness Celebrity Guest Chef Joseph Bonanno, Jr | Market Shops at Sandestin | 6- 8pm

Friday, March 7

• Aprés Beach at the Fonville Press | Alys Beach | 5-9pm | Food, wine/beer, music from Spindletree

Sunday, March 9

• Cultural Arts Association showcase - "Women on the Fringe" | 3-4pm | Coastal Branch Library at 336 Loop Road off Hwy. 331 | Free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served | For more information contact Lee at 850.622.5970

Know of anything going on this week that you want to share?  Email me at sowalscene@gmail.com.

Blithe Spirit at the Seaside Rep - Next Week Only

Wednesday - Friday | Feb 27 - 29 | 7:30pm
Seaside Rep - Meeting Hall Theatre | $15 | Buy Tickets

After months of controversy and delay, Noel Coward's farce, Blithe Spirit, will find its home on stage at the Seaside Repertory Theatre at the end of February. The play, which had been previously contested as part of the curriculum at South Walton High School, will feature an all high school cast and crew. After news that the play would not be able to be performed at the school, the Rep decided to host the production and give the students a chance to put on the 1940's era play.

The play tells the comedic story of a man named Charles who comes face to face with his deceased ex-wife after taking part in a séance in his home. Hilarity ensues as a medium extravagantly goes through the motions of reaching out beyond the grave in the quirkiest of ways.

As an added bonus, all proceeds raised from the performance will go to the newly formed Rep Internship Program. This program will offer hands-on experience for high school and college students looking to be a part of a professional regional theatre.

Celebrate Leap Year at “Fifth Friday at Fonville” Festivities

Event Kicks-Off with Book-Signing by Award-Winning Architect & Sustainability Expert

To celebrate the extra day in 2008, Fonville Press—a popular coffee shop, newsstand and wine bar located on County Road 30A in Alys Beach—will host a special “Fifth Friday” party on February 29th from 4:30pm until 8:00pm.

From 4:30pm until 6:30pm, award-winning architect and author Doug Farr of Chicago’s Farr Associates will be present to discuss and sign copies of his new book, Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design with Nature. Farr’s book eloquently lays out long-term solutions for our built environment by bringing the philosophical backbones of the green building, smart growth and new urbanism movements together, knitting them into a design philosophy that allows the creation of truly sustainable human environments.

Love is in the air

I love Valentine's Day.  For me,  it's not like an anniversay where Olivier and I are celebrating our marriage together but moreso a day where I feel like I'm going on a date with my boyfriend.  Anniversaries feel more mature and romantic - Valentine's Day more youthful and mushy. 

I know some people are down on the holiday, believing it to be just another Hallmark card mass marketing schtick, but I see it as a day where collectively we pause to celebrate the universal emotion Love and one another.  What is more positive than that?  And humanity needs a whole lotta love these days so I am not going to knock it.

Olivier and I usually pop a bottle of champagne before heading out for a romantic dinner, usually at one of our favorite SoWal restaurants, Fish Out of Water.  Several local restaurants are offering special menus on Thursday so I thought I would do a round up for all you lovebirds. 

If you want to share your Valentine's Day story or tradition, email me at sowalscene@gmail.com.

• Inn By The Sea - Seaside | 2 seatings - 6pm & 8pm - $120/couple | Choice of four course dining, bottle of champagne or wine, keepsake flowers for the table | Reservations required 850.231.2287.

Hip Happenings this week

Looking for something to do this week in SoWal?  Have an event you know about or want to share with community?  Email me at sowalscene@gmail.com.

Tuesday, February 12

• Book lovers group meeting - book Rules for Old Men by Peter Pouncy | 10am | Coastal Branch Library
• Sherlock Holmes Beach Hounds meeting - Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts gather for cocktails and crime solving fun. Guest speaker is private detective. | 630pm | Santa Rosa Beach Club
• Bark Park's Anuual Valentines Event - Romancing Rover | 6pm | Pets Fifth Avenue Sandestin