In this episode we speak to Florida’s Superintendent of the Year, our very own Mr. Russel Hughes, the superintendent of Walton County School District. We discuss the district’s achievements and the positive impact the district has on our community. As Walton County’s largest employer, we also discuss the need for bus drivers.
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.
Debbie Flynn got her start in the restaurant business, first as a hostess at 16 years old, which she loved. She has worked in other industries over the years but has always come back to her passion — the hospitality industry.
Live music can be the key to turning a business into a vivacious cultural space. It can bring energy, add economic, cultural and social significance, and generate community engagement. Music adds a cool factor that makes people want to visit.
The nominations have been announced for the 66th Grammy Awards. Donnie Sundal, a Walton County resident who contributed to Sam Bush’s album, Radio John: Songs of John Hartford, nominated for Best Bluegrass Album – is recognized for dual roles; Recording Engineer and Tenor Background Vocals on the song “In Tall Buildings.”
Unity among businesses can yield positive results to everyone’s bottom line. With that goal in mind, the Freeport Merchants Association (FMA) was formed. Bill Blanken, president of FMA, has grown the association from below 50 in the summer of 2023 to 140 members today, and it’s growing continually.
