Walton & Beyond
Rehab Your Home
Homeowners renovate for a variety of reasons, including to increase home value, to modernize or add space, and to adapt to a family’s changing needs.
Walton County is so much more than the beach
With a focus on the rich heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality that define this area beyond its renowned beaches, Walton County Tourism is excited to unveil the new brand chosen to represent communities in Walton County located north of the Choctawhatchee Bay – Authentic Walton.
UWF Historic Trust partners with DeFuniak Landmarks
he University of West Florida Historic Trust has announced a partnership with F. Diane Pickett, local emerging author and the president and founder of DeFuniak Landmarks, a nonprofit foundation established to preserve and protect the architectural integrity of homes within the historic districts of DeFuniak Springs.
Tim Jackson’s Storytellers Tour in Defuniak Springs
Fans are gathering family and friends of all ages for a live music experience at The Florida Chautauqua Theater in Defuniak Springs, Florida.
Walton County offers tips on getting into recycling
When you recycle, you are making the choice to help your community and create a healthier environment for generations to come.
Lifelong friends and Walton County residents explore Glamping in North Walton
When three couples decided to celebrate their friend’s 53rd birthday they immediately knew they wanted to try glamping together. Not only because it suited the birthday boy’s sense of adventure, but also because everyone wanted to escape the beaches of South Walton during Spring Break.
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.
Local Student to Attend World-Renowned Interlochen Arts Camp
Keyboardist Solomon Miller will join students from around the globe, acclaimed faculty, and celebrated guest artists on Interlochen’s scenic northern Michigan campus for a summer of artistic transformation.
Episode 9: Connect with Walton County Emergency Management
In this episode of the HWY 331 podcast, Kerri Parker interviews the director of the Walton County Emergency Management, Jeff Goldberg.
Swirl, Sip and Savor
The Bay and Farm & Fire restaurants, located across the street from each other on Highway 331, are both owned by nationally recognized restaurateur Chef Jim Shirley.
Stinky’s 14th Annual Pompano Tournament Kickoff & Anniversary Party
The purse for the annual tournament has grown exponentially over the years. In 2023, the anglers were awarded over $5000 in cash and prizes.
The Last Stop Brew Vault is on Track
Now open in Historic Downtown DeFuniak Springs, The Last Stop Brew Vault is on track to becoming a local’s favorite gathering space.
Freeport Merchants Association Gives Valuable Tools to Local Businesses
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.
Episode 8: Connect with Dr. Nguyen of North Walton Doctors Hospital
In this episode, we are connecting listeners to Dr. Nguyen, the Chief Executive Officer of North Walton Doctors Hospital opening later this spring in Defuniak Springs, Florida.
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.
The Bay to Host Locals’ Last Hurrah Dinner
The Bay Restaurant is celebrating locals before season arrives with a Penta Tequila Tasting and Four-Course Dinner on March 1, 2024 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Love to Support Westonwood Ranch
The professionally sanctioned rodeo will benefit Westonwood Ranch, an organization whose mission and programs serve teens and young adults with Autism and related developmental disorders
Love to Celebrate Fat Tuesday in Walton County
Mardi Gras is known for its parades, masquerade balls, and indulgent feasting before the Lenten season begins. Walton County has been celebrating Mardi Gras for decades, but this year a surge of celebrations has elevated the experience for locals and visitors alike.
For the Love of Wine
Specializing in Muscadine varieties, Chautauqua Winery in DeFuniak Springs offers a refreshing selection for wine lovers to explore.
Love This Rodeo Mom
Inspired by her family’s rodeo lifestyle, country music singer/songwriter Casey Kearney announces the Feb. 9 release of her new single “Born to Rodeo.”
Rustic Romance
Twin Lakes Camp Resort is a lovely place to give your partner time and attention
Wild Love
The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center shares the love of nature
Love is in the Baking
Perla Baking Co. has specialty baked goods for all of your Valentines
Breweries We Love a Bushel and a Peck
Sharing a pint with your Valentine at a local brewery has never been sweeter for those north of the bay
Sunbright Inn is for Sweethearts
Restored in 2023, Sunbright Inn is a relaxing retreat for love birds. Filled with Victorian furniture, the inn offers a blend of historic charm with modern amenities.
They Have A Crush On You!
Alaqua Animal Refuge can pair you with your fluffy Valentine
Episode 7: Connect with Teresa Horton, Seaside School Foundation
In this episode, we connect with Teresa Horton, Executive Director of the Seaside School Foundation. We discuss the Seaside Race weekend as a crucial fundraising event for the Seaside School Foundation, supporting both the Seaside Neighborhood School and the Seacoast Collegiate High School program.
You Can Do it!
Part of making a plan to become a healthier you is to make it convenient. With two locations (Freeport and DeFuniak Springs), various classes for all fitness levels, as well as workout coaches, Bend the Bar Fitness is an ideal spot to get your sweat on.
Let Me See Your Sushi Roll
So many flavors. So many colors. So many styles. So much to explore. That’s what Chef Jon Kendrick offers.
Shaping Futures, One Student at a Time
As The Seaside School continues to make strides in education, it opens its doors for enrollment from January 5th to February 15th. Prospective students and their families are invited to join a community where innovation, excellence, and a commitment to the whole child have been the driving forces for over two decades.
Episode 6: Florida’s Superintendent of The Year
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.
Seaside Race Weekend is here!
The Seaside School Foundation Announces Registration for the 22nd Annual Race Weekend Feb. 16th – 18th, 2024 in Seaside, Florida, Benefiting The Seaside School, Inc. Public Charter School
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.
Work, Learn, Thrive
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.
Mentoring in Walton County
Imagine the impact you can make if you carved out time to serve your community as a mentor for a child. Students who have mentors to inspire them are more likely to succeed in life. You may think, who am I to be a mentor?
Southern Sound Music Alliance helps business owners’ visions come to light
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.
January Sparks Music Lovers Throughout Walton County
Fresh into the New Year, there is a buzz with a cool beat around the music scene in Walton County. Local restaurants and music venues are planning and preparing in anticipation for the flock of music lovers who follow the music scene; to and within Walton County, Florida.
The Swamp Writers Festival Returns: Four Days of Free Live Music
Stinky’s Bait Shack is hosting the 14th Annual Swamp Writer Music Festival January 11-14, 2024.
Walton County Resident Nominated For a Grammy Award
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.”
Freeport Merchants Association Gives Valuable Tools to Local Businesses
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.
Walton County Legend Duke Bardwell
Sometimes the cycle of life can be brutal. But you get back up and you keep going, “Otherwise they will catch you,” says Duke Bardwell, a lifelong professional musician and Walton County legend.
Walton County Ranks #2 in the State for School Grades
After analyzing all the counties in the State, Walton ranks second in school grade components with 75 percentage points.
Twin Lakes Camp Resort is the ideal getaway for nature lovers
Camping is one of America’s great pastimes, but it’s not for everyone. Hauling the tent, sleeping bags and other equipment can mean a half-day’s work setting up your outdoor living experience.
Superintendent A. Russell Hughes has been named 2024 Florida Superintendent of the Year
Hughes will represent all Florida superintendents at the AASA’s 2024 National Education Conference February 15-17, 2024, in San Diego, CA, where Hughes will be recognized and honored for his public education service in Florida.
“The Paper Bear” is awarded substantial grant from Walton County
Walton County commissioners unanimously voted to invest $400,000 in local film project, “The Paper Bear,” as a testament to the vision and dedication shared by the county and the production team.
Blue Christmas Event at Alaqua Animal Refuge Postponed
The Blue Christmas, A Night with Ron Adams event, initially scheduled for December 1, 2023 at Alaqua Animal Refuge, is postponed to Tuesday, December 12, 2023 due to unforeseen and inclement weather conditions.
Holiday Kickoff
Year after year, the charming historical town of DeFuniak Springs hosts Christmas Reflections, a festive event that brings people together to view countless holiday displays under millions of twinkling lights around the perfectly round lake AKA Lake DeFuniak.
The Gift of Comfort
Freeport teenager LaRae Smith has a community service initiative that provides safe and simple Christmas gifts for such children in need. Through Comfort at Christmas, LaRae collects new pajamas, slippers and blankets for children in Florida’s foster and kinship care system.
Episode 4: Talking Santa Patrol with Tammy Godwin
Join us as we talk to Tammy Godwin of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office. Tammy is passionate in her role to oversee Santa Patrol. We hope this episode inspires more donations and helps make a positive impact in supporting these families.
You can reach Tammy directly at 850-520-2821 or santapatrol@waltonso.org.
Preserving Beauty and Increasing Safety
Formed in 2008, Scenic Walton works with community and elected officials to preserve the natural beauty of Walton County, while also increasing pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Uncovering Additional Veteran Services
There are many services for Veterans that are unknown or forgotten in stressful times. Please share these valuable resources with a veteran.
Medical Services Coming in 2024
Healthcare services are a vital part of any community. North Walton County has been
lacking in emergency medical services since March of 2022, when Healthmark Regional
Medical Center closed its emergency room for renovations, and never reopened.
Sunbright Inn Now Taking Reservations in DeFuniak Springs
Patrick (Pat) O’Neill has put his 30 years of construction expertise into various projects in Walton County. He built Camp Gulf RV Park in Miramar Beach. With his children, Nelson, Kaylynn and Maggie, he built Twin Lakes Camp Resort, which won the Best Small Park in Florida Award this year.
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.
Episode 3: Talking with Terry Mauer
In this episode we talk to Terry Mauer of Florida Small Business Development Center at the University of West Florida. While you may be familiar with the SBDC, what you may not know is that beyond start-up assistance, the SBDC offers free resources to help grow your business – and can even help with valuations and other services to sell your business.
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).”
Say Hello to Art & Marty Dees
Marty and Art Dees are all smiles as they celebrate homecoming during the Walton High School parade. Art, having broadcast the football games for Walton County from 1980 to 2014, is being inducted into the Walton High School Sports Hall of Fame. “Not for my physical abilities,” he jokes. “Marty deserves the award too, because she had to do the legwork behind the scenes before the games.”
Say Hello to Sweet Southern Comfort
By Kerri Parker
With the highly-anticipated announcement of Sweet Southern Comfort restaurant opening in DeFuniak Springs on Baldwin Avenue, the town is buzzing with excitement.
Support and Success: Veterans Lodge
Military veterans are facing a crisis of challenges upon returning home, many with physical, financial and emotional needs. A new complex set to begin construction soon will be a welcome addition to DeFuniak Springs. Veterans Lodge will offer a variety of life-saving services to returning servicemen and women.
Trick or Treating Around Lake Defuniak
The DeFuniak Springs Woman’s Club will again host Trick or Treating Around the Lake.
Episode 2: Talking with Anne McKenzie
Get to know the City of Freeport Events & Recreation Coordinator, Anne McKenzie. In this episode, Anne helps Hwy 331 listeners get up to speed on the busy upcoming events season.
“The Paper Bear” is inspiring all who love the biodiversity of Northwest Florida
Beyond the sugar-white beaches and emerald-green waters of the Florida Panhandle, there
is far more to discover. A vital part of the beauty of Northwest Florida is its biodiversity,
including more than 100 threatened and endangered species.
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.
The Odd Pelican in Freeport
The Odd Pelican story adds a charming and unique touch to the concept of a local brewery in Walton County. These folks embrace the laid-back, fun-loving spirit of our community.
Nathan Brown: Extraordinary Mural Artist
Having produced over 100 large scale commissioned murals for brands such as Red Bull, Wrangler, Patagonia, Top Golf, WeWork, Google, Spotify and more, Nathan Brown arrived to Defuniak Springs in 2022 with a clear vision for the mural that now adorns the walls of the CCB Community Bank Building off Baldwin Avenue and 7th Street.
Top 10 Reasons to Love Hammock Bay
Have you heard of the Hammock Bay development in Freeport? It’s a popular place to live for good reason. With a general store, farmers markets, and a brewery it’s also easy to see what it’s like before making the leap to live there.
There are 20 different neighborhoods and the Infinity apartment complex.
So why, exactly, do people love it so much?
Say Hello to Freeport’s Mayor Russ Barley
Mayor Barley grew up in Freeport. After he moved away for college, he didn’t plan to return home to make a living. He served our country in the Navy and then established himself as a businessman in Jacksonville, Florida, in the floral industry.
Say Hello to Defuniak Springs Mayor Bob Campbell
Mayor Campbell’s journey over the past decade highlights the importance of perseverance, support from loved ones, and personal growth. His dedication to Defuniak Springs goes beyond political aspirations.
Booming Baking Business
By Wendy O. Dixon
Main street businesses bring an all’s-right-with-the-world quality to any small town. With owner-operated shops that meet a neighborhood’s everyday needs, these vitally important stores help people feel like they’re part of a friendly community.
Introducing Sunbright Inn
Located at 30 Live Oak Avenue West and directly on Hwy 331 in historic DeFuniak Springs, Sunbright Inn is a labor of love for Patrick O’Neill and his family, who have completely renovated the oldest house in Walton County.
Episode 1: Talking with Tim Jackson
Our talk with Two-time Grammy nominated Tim Jackson is a Walton County resident and five decade veteran musician, songwriter, and performer. Tim brings national recording artists to DeFuniak Springs, Florida with his Storytellers Tour.
Stinky’s Fall Pompano Beach to Bay Grand Slam Fishing Tournament
For a decade, Stinky’s has been the host of two fishing tournaments; one in the spring and one in the fall. The Stinky’s Fall Pompano Beach to Bay Grand Slam Fishing Tournament will be held October 1 through October 28.
DeFuniak Springs Woman’s Club
Over a hundred years ago on a February Saturday in 1915, a group of women gathered at the request of the mayor who saw the need for beautification and sanitation of the town.
Welcome to the All-New Highway 331 Website!
We are thrilled to welcome you to our brand-new Highway 331 website, where adventure awaits around every bend! Whether you’re a local resident, a traveler passing through, or someone seeking the best of Florida’s charm, this platform is your gateway to exploring the...
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HWY331.com Ride or Die Partners
Optimum Window Cleaning
Specializing in residential and commercial window cleaning, Pressure Washing, and Gutter Cleaning Services.
SoWal.com Live Beach Cameras
SoWal.com Live Beach Cameras are a spectacular way to stay connected to the beach while inland. SoWal.com has a terrific events calendar too.
Walton Outdoors
The online source for outdoor adventure in Walton County and surrounding Florida Panhandle.
Over $5000 in Cash in Prizes
Tournament runs through May 5th. You only need one fish to WIN!
Perla Baking Co.
Perla Baking Co. is part of a thriving Historic Downtown DeFuniak Springs