HWY 331 Businesses Stories

Sharing the stories of local businesses and the people behind them can have a positive impact on our community. By sharing their experiences, challenges, and successes, we’re not only supporting our neighbors’ endeavors but also creating a sense of unity and connection. When people know the faces and stories behind the businesses they frequent, it adds a personal touch and encourages a stronger sense of community involvement.
custom made bunk beds

Transform Your Home with Superior Craftsmanship

Home renovation projects require more than just selecting quality materials—they demand choosing the right contractor who can bring a homeowner’s vision to life.

Pro window cleaner at work.

From Dark and Dingy to Bright and Brilliant

In Northwest Florida, pollen, salt, mold and debris can do damage to your windows and other exterior surfaces of your home. While it is good to keep up a regular cleaning regimen yourself, hiring professional cleaners can offer better results.

picture of the food truck

Big Mike’s Smokehouse

There’s something extraordinary rolling through Walton County, and it’s not just the smoky scent of barbecue in the air—it’s the heart and soul behind Big Mike’s Smokehouse. Launched in April 2024, this food truck is much more than a mobile kitchen; it’s a testament to the power of passion, partnership, and a love for feeding the community.

Two Decades of City Service

Two Decades of City Service

If ever there were a perfect job for a person, it’s for Latilda Hughes-Neel. In her crucial role
as planning director for the Freeport Planning and Zoning Department, Latilda uses her
background in education, art and city planning to make the City of Freeport the fastest
growing city in the fastest growing county in Florida.

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Big Mike’s Smokehouse

Big Mike’s Smokehouse

There’s something extraordinary rolling through Walton County, and it’s not just the smoky scent of barbecue in the air—it’s the heart and soul behind Big Mike’s Smokehouse. Launched in April 2024, this food truck is much more than a mobile kitchen; it’s a testament to the power of passion, partnership, and a love for feeding the community.

read more
Sweet Southern Comfort: A Story of Heart, Hustle, and Southern Grit

Sweet Southern Comfort: A Story of Heart, Hustle, and Southern Grit

Owning a small business is more than just fulfilling a dream—it’s an unrelenting commitment to hard work, late nights, and a passion that often goes unseen by the outside world. For Tammy and Jimmy Henderson, the journey to open Sweet Southern Comfort in DeFuniak Springs has been nothing short of a labor of love, showcasing the resilience and determination of small business owners everywhere.

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Tunnel Art

Tunnel Art

The recently opened underpass at Inlet Beach is a welcome safe passage across a busy intersection. But it’s also a delightful journey through a tunnel of painted swirls and colors, dazzling shapes and designs, each unique in their beauty. The art component, in the form of murals, was commissioned by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA). The murals were painted by local and tri-county (Walton, Okaloosa and Bay) area artists.

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In Your Corner

In Your Corner

Don Ballard, known as Coach Dude to his boxing students, helps young people channel their energy in a positive way. With students ranging in age from 8 to 26 at Dude’s Boxing Club in DeFuniak Springs, Coach Dude’s focus is on making sure local kids have a chance at a prosperous and meaningful life.

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Dog-Friendly Dining and Drinks in Walton County, FL

Dog-Friendly Dining and Drinks in Walton County, FL

Walton County, FL, is a paradise for dog lovers who don’t want to leave their furry friends behind when dining out or grabbing a drink. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, creative tacos, or a cold craft beer, these dog-friendly spots are ready to welcome you and your pup. Here’s where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with your dog by your side.

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Grit & Grace: Opening Night Success

Grit & Grace: Opening Night Success

In the heart of our community, a beacon of theatrical brilliance continues to shine brightly as “Grit and Grace” enters its 22nd season. This beloved local performance has become more than just a staple of entertainment; it is a cherished tradition that bridges the gap between generations, weaving together the past and present through the power of storytelling.

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Finding the Spark in Each Person

Finding the Spark in Each Person

People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) want the same things all people want — to have purpose, to be loved and understood, and to be able to help contribute to society. As a group, they are underemployed and underestimated. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, an estimated 85% of adults with autism are excluded from the workforce.

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Episode 14: Connect with Kim Wennerberg

Episode 5: Connecting Walton County Music Scene

Partners in Southern Sound Music Alliance, Jennifer Sundal and Naomi Alvarado help us to make a connection to the Walton County music scene. We talk about 30A Songwriters Festival, choosing venues and performances, a micro-festival happening simultaneously called Stinky’s Swamp Writers and how live music can bring energy, add economic, cultural and social significance for our community.

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Who is Behind Hwy331.com

Who is Behind Hwy331.com

The founder of Hwy331.com is Kerri Parker, a Walton County resident for over 25 years who lives in the city limits of DeFuniak Springs. Throughout her corporate career, Kerri was responsible for marketing and communications. In her various roles, one common denominator brought her the most satisfaction, creating digital marketing to support community objectives.

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Say Hello To Sweet Southern Comfort

Say Hello To Sweet Southern Comfort

Sweet Southern Comfort has rooted their reputation at their diner along State Road 20 in Freeport. Their praised home-cooking has patrons lining out the door. “We know about 90% of our customers by first name,” says Tammy Henderson, co-owner and operator of Sweet Southern Comfort. “We like to make people feel like they are welcome, whether they are stopping in to check out our progress here in DeFuniak Springs, or dining with us in Freeport.”

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Freeport Sees A Building Boom

Freeport Sees A Building Boom

Within the past 10 years, Freeport has become the fastest growing city in the fastest
growing county in Florida, according to the city’s Planning and Zoning Department. “We are
very well located for employment opportunities,” says Samantha Graves, senior planner for
the department. “For those who work at the beach or who work for the county, for the
military, as we are close to two military bases (Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field).”

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T’s Catch Seafood Market

T’s Catch Seafood Market

Destin native, Trent Wallace, opened T’s Catch Seafood Market and Steamer in Freeport, FL this year. While looking to fill a niche in the quickly-growing town of Freeport, Trent discovered the need for places to eat and especially a place to buy fresh, local seafood, steamed fresh shrimp, steaks and grab-n-go items.

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HWY331.com Ride or Die Partners

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Glamping, RV Spots, Tiny Homes, Lake Houses & Cabins

If a quiet getaway is what you need then the best place for you is right here at Twin Lakes in DeFuniak Springs. 

A picture of shrimp and a logo for T's Catch in Freeport.

T's Catch Seafood Market

T's Catch is a seafood market located in Freeport, FL. The market offers fresh, local seafood, prime steaks, steamed shrimp, homemade sauces, dips, soups, and grab-n-go meals.

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