December 2023 Newsletter
Patricia Lee
A Note From The Publisher
Don't forget to scroll all the way down and read the devotional titled Christian Corner which always anchors this newsletter. I pray that the words of encouragement will be of help to someone.
The article below was submitted especially for us by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc.
(Newspaper distributions: Destin Life, Fort Walton Beach, Hammock Bay & Bluewater Bay, Niceville & Valparaiso, Santa Rosa, 30A & Inlet Beach, Miramar Beach, & Panama City).
A Destin Holiday
For many years, our piece of Paradise has ignited the holiday spirit in each of us and allowed
the season to come to life for the young and young at heart. With a unique blend of theatrical
storytelling, musical notes and beautiful and whimsical Christmas lights, we are welcomed into
a world of yuletide nostalgia and local flavor and personalities where reindeer fly, sugarplums
dance in our heads and Christmas comes alive in our own bay area, coastal style.
I invite you to explore the vast, unique holiday traditions, some many years in the making and
new ones to delight our senses and usher in the “reason for the season” – the celebrated birth
of Jesus, our Savior. Join Destin Life and the Life Media family in some of these holiday
celebrations where you can create some new family traditions of your own while rekindling
your favorites.
Visit Santa at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at his sleigh Dec. 6, 13 and 20 during the holiday
concerts from 6-8 p.m. and during the Tuba Christmas event from 5-7 p.m. Dec. 9.
www.baytownewharf.com.
Visit Santa at Bass Pro Shop at Destin Commons now through Dec. 24 (book at basspro.com)
and at HarborWalk Village weekends until Dec. 17 from 1-4 p.m.
Baytowne on Ice | Now–Feb. 4 | Village of Baytowne Wharf
Dust off those skates and get ready for the holidays at The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s
Baytowne on Ice. Ice rink is open Now – Sunday, Feb. 4. Hours vary daily. Visit
BaytowneWharf.com.
Festival of Trees | Now–Dec. 25 | Grand Boulevard
The Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin runs Nov. 21 through Christmas Day
2023. Participating non-profit organizations compete to win cash prizes totaling $7,000. Cast
your vote for the People’s Choice award. Festival of Trees is an annual event in the park at
Grand Boulevard shopping center showcasing uniquely decorated Christmas trees from 12 local
non-profit organizations.
Christmas Reflection Displays | Now-Dec. 31 | Defuniak Springs
The City of Defuniak Springs lights up Chipley Park lights with its annual Christmas Reflection
Displays, a light display like no other in our area with more than 10 million lights reflecting on
the lake and throughout the park. You can view the lights by walking, driving or even taking a
horse-drawn carriage ride. A variety of Victorian, animal and toy soldier cutouts, Santa’s
workshop, and the grandfather clock ticking away are among the thousands of decorations that
adorn these historic grounds. Admission is $5 per person and children 5 and under are free.
(850) 978-2999.
Merry Main Street | Now-Dec. 23 | Defuniak Springs
Free to attend, Merry Main Street boasts live music and theatrical performances, an outdoor
market, food trucks, rides on the Choctaw Express Train, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, kids
character appearances by The Character Clubhouse and more. Baldwin Ave. in downtown
DeFuniak Springs. 5 p.m. Fridays and 3 p.m. Saturdays until Christmas. MainStreetDFS.org. (850)
296-9051.
Jolly Jubilee | Now-Dec. 24 | Destin Commons
Embrace the festive spirit at Destin Commons with the annual Jolly Jubilee! This holiday
celebration, featuring musical performances on the new lawn area at Center Plaza, comes alive
every Friday, Saturday and Sunday now through Dec. 24. Wander through the festive decor,
hear the sweet sounds of Christmas carolers and enjoy live performances, all while standing
beneath the glow of a majestic, 50-foot tree. Or take pictures with family and friends in a life-
size Santa’s Sleigh.
Wesley House Holiday Guided Tours | Now–Jan. 9 | Eden State Gardens | Santa Rosa Beach
The Wesley House at Eden State Gardens will be open for holiday guided tours
Thursday–Monday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on an hourly basis. This year’s theme is “A Victorian
Christmas and all are invited to attend.
Photos with Santa; Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides | Dec. 1-30 | 5-8 p.m. | Grand Boulevard
Complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Center every Friday and Saturday
night, 5-8 p.m. Take in the Coastal White Christmas lights and the Festival of Trees display. Get
a professional photo with Santa while listening to the seasonal sounds of “Rock Around the
Christmas Tree” Musical Revue from Emerald Coast Theatre Co. grandboulevard.com.
Nights of Lights | Dec. 1-31 | 6, 7 & 8 p.m. | Events Plaza Lawn
Enjoy a free, festive light show every night of December in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at
Sandestin and featured during the special holiday edition of the Wednesday Night Concert
Series. The tree lights in the events plaza will dance and blink to music at 6, 7 and 8 p.m.
Visit BaytowneWharf.com.
7th Annual Troon Goon Christmas Lightshow| Dec. 2 – Jan. 5 | 6-9:30 p.m. | Bluewater Bay
area
A free, residential graphic light show that combines classic Christmas songs with modern
versions for a fun and energetic twist of entertainment. The hi-tech light animations dance to
the music and feature the house, mega tree, arches and other standalone features for an
unlimited amount of pixel combinations. The 30-minute show starts every hour and half-
hour. It's a different show every year and you can vote online for your favorite song versions
while you watch. View from your vehicle while listening on your car stereo at 101.3 FM. The
lightshow will run nightly from Visit http://www.troongoonchristmas.com or Facebook for the
latest news.
“Geek Lights on the Corner” | 6-9:30 p.m.–Sun.-Thurs. | 10:30 p.m. Fri., Sat. & holiday eves
Located at the corner of Bluewater Blvd. and Antiqua Way in Bluewater Bay, the shows loop
every 30 minutes starting at 6 p.m., with the last show starting at 9:30 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., and
10:30 p.m. Fri., Sat. and holiday eves. Now in its 16th year, the free show consists of Christmas
lights and other themed display elements, all under computer control and synchronized to
music and usually is lighted and available to the public through the first week of January. All
donations this year will support Healing Paws for Warriors. The show is the technical and
creative wizardry of Jeff Werner, the “Northwest Florida Geek” and Wendy Werner, his “spouse
peripheral.” FaceBook.com/GeekLightsOnTheCorner. [email protected]
Holiday Concert Series + Visits with Santa | Dec. 6, 13; 20 | 6-8 p.m.
Tap your feet to some of your favorite sing-a-long classics every Wednesday in December at the
Holiday edition of The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s Wednesday Night Concert Series. Each
concert features visits with Santa.
December 6 | Fort Walton Beach High School Choir
December 13 | Alissa Steffens Vocal Studios
December 20 | Matt McCarty Band
A Christmas Carol | Dec. 8 – Dec. 22
From the first “Bah humbug” to the final “Wassail,” this timeless classic is sure to rekindle your
holiday spirit. Join all your favorite Dickens characters—Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family, the
Fezziwigs, the Ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet-to-come, and of course, everyone’s
favorite curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge.
560 Grand Boulevard, 2 nd Floor, Miramar Beach. Purchase tickets: emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
Holiday Pops | Fri., Dec. 8 | 7:30 p.m. | Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center
Features Brian Stokes Mitchell, dubbed; the last leading man; by The New York Times,
Sinfonia’s main event of the season featuring this A-list star will perform holiday classics,
Broadway tunes and classic favorites with the Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra.
Stokes is a two-time Tony Award winner with a versatile career spanning Broadway, television,
film and concerts. Receiving critical acclaim and awards for his performances in Kiss Me, Kate,
Man of La Mancha, and Ragtime, Stokes has collaborated with renowned conductors like John
Williams and Gustavo Dudamel performing at Carnegie Hall and the White House. Some of you
might remember him as Trevor in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Tickets range from $30-$75 for
adults. Seats at tables of 10 are from $55 per person.
The Nutcracker! | Dec. 9–5 p.m. | Dec. 10–2 p.m. | Destin Community Center
Studio6twenty5 presents The Nutcracker featuring the dancers of studio6twenty5’s children’s
program and introducing local Shaye Smith and guest dancer Fredrick Davis as the Sugar Plum
Fairy and Cavalier. Prepare to be transported into Clara’s magical world of sugarplum fairies,
toy soldiers and enchanting adventures. Saturday doors open at 4 p.m. Sunday doors open at 1
p.m. Tickets $16 on sale now at studio6twenty5.com.
Seaside Pops | Sat., Dec. 9 | 5 p.m. | Seaside Amphitheatre
Sinfonia Gulf Coast presents a concert featuring seasonal and pop favorites in the Town of
Seaside. Bring a low-back chair or blanket. Seaside Pops is free and open to the public.
Winter Extravaganza| Dec. 9 | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. | E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center
Join the Center for games, food trucks, animal encounters and even a visit from Santa Claus
himself! Don't forget to bring a coat for the coat drive this year! Tickets: $10 for adults, $7 for
ages 4–12. eowilsoncenter.org. 4956 State Hwy. 20 E. Freeport, FL
Yule of Yesteryear | Sat., Dec. 9 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida
Enjoy carols, food vendors, craft vendors, Walton guard reenactors, school choir groups, bake
sale, raffle ticket prizes, letters to Santa and more! 115 Westview Ave., Perrine Park, Valparaiso.
Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour of Homes | Dec. 9 | Rosemary Beach
Mark your calendars for the Holiday Home Tour on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. in the
community of Rosemary Beach. Rosemary Beach Realty & Cottage Rental Company have
selected stunning homes, decorated in their finest for this self-guided tour that’s guaranteed to
get you into the Holiday spirit. Advanced tickets required. www.rbhometour.com. 2023
Charitable Partners are Habitat of Humanity of Walton County and Shelter House of NW
Florida.
Christmas Craft and & Elf; Movie Screening | Dec. 9 | 10 a.m. | The Island Resort
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy Christmas crafts and a screening of the beloved holiday
classic movie & Elf; in the lounge/bar area.
Alaqua Holiday Bazaar | Dec. 10 | 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.
Find something special for everyone on your list including handcrafted gifts from the finest local
artists and craftsmen. Enjoy festive music and delicious brunch-style treats. Contact Lauren Gall
at [email protected] to participate. Proceeds go directly towards the care and protection
of animals in need. Visit https://www.facebook.com/AlaquaAnimalRefuge.
35th Annual Destin Boat Parade | Dec. 10 | 6 p.m. | Destin Harbor
The Destin Harbor will be dancing with lights and cheer during the 35th Annual Destin Boat
Parade, Sun. Dec. 10 from 6 – 6:30 p.m. followed by a Fireworks Finale! Watch from many
places along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk such as AJ’s, Boathouse, Brotula’s and The Edge
Restaurant & Skybar (where this year’s judging will take place.)
Live Nativity | Thurs., Dec. 14 — Wed., Dec. 20 | 6–8:30 p.m. each night |corner of 2nd St.,
and Church Ave.
First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach will present the FREE, 35th Live Nativity celebration
next to the First Baptist Church sanctuary. Parking is available in the church parking lot. When
you walk through, you can have your picture taken with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus, as well as
the three wise men. Your photo will be waiting for you as you depart. In the Shepherd’s Field,
the visitors can pet and feed the miniature donkeys, sheep and Naomi the Camel!
A Jingle Jangle Christmas Musical Revue | Sat., Dec. 16–2.30 p.m. | Tues., Dec. 19–7.30 p.m. |
Thurs., Dec. 21 –7.30 p.m.
Enjoy classic holiday songs from some of your favorite Christmas musicals like “Have Yourself a
Merry Little Christmas,” “Snow” and, of course, “White Christmas.” The cast will invite you to
join in some beloved Christmas carols as well.
560 Grand Boulevard, Grand Boulevard Town Center, 2 nd Floor, Miramar Beach. Purchase
tickets: emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
A Victorian Christmas Tea | Sat., Dec. 16 | 1-3 p.m. | The Heritage Museum of Northwest
Florida
Members $20; Non-members $25. 115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso.
LuLu’s Annual Billy Claus and The LuLuBelles | Sat., Dec. 16 | 3 to 5 p.m.
Free photos with Billy Claus and the LuLuBelles as well as crafts and treats. Billy Claus is Santa’s
warm weather-loving brother who lives in the Caribbean, but comes this way every year to help
Santa during the holiday season. The LuLuBelles are Billy’s version of Santa’s elves. The
children’s book written by LuLu’s owner, Lucy Buffett, “Billy Claus and the Spirit of Christmas
Island” is available in the gift shop or on-line. From 5 to 7 p.m., enjoy the movie, Dr. Suess’ The
Grinch. Come back on Dec. 20 for the Christmas movie, The Polar Express at 6 p.m. with free
crafts and treats. 850-710-5858.
Cookies and Crafts with the Grump | Dec. 16-17 | 12-4 p.m. | The Island Resort
Everyone's favorite green and grouchy holiday character, The Grump, along with his holiday-
loving friend, Miss Cindy, will be at The Island Resort, Dec. 16 and 17, 12 to 4 p.m. Guests can
visit The Grump, known for his "stink, stank, stunk" charm, and snap memorable photos, enjoy
a cup of apple cider or hot chocolate and listen to live music. Following the music, engage in a
fun and creative craft session, face painting and a Whoville hair station. Free and open to the
public.
LJ Schooners’ 7th Annual Santa Paddle Parade | Sat., Dec. 16, | Noon | Bluewater Bay Marina
All paddlers welcome; if you can paddle it, bring it! Paddle on a stand-up paddle board, canoe,
kayak, paddle boat or surf skis. Group photo is at noon with paddle starting at 12:10 p.m. Santa
Clauses leave BlueWater Bay Marina and paddle east to Rocky Bayou Bridge, north to North
Shore of Rocky Bayou and back to the marina. Registration $10 or 15 canned goods. Must
paddle in Santa suit and provide your own suit. Proceeds benefit Sharing and Caring of Niceville.
To register, call Bluewater Bay Marina Ship Store at (850) 897-2821 or
visit bluewaterbaymarina.com.
Annual Christmas Boat Parade | Sat., Dec. 16 | 5:30 p.m. | Bluewater Bay Marina
Skippers meeting at 4 p.m.; parade staging at 5 p.m. The parade course exits Bluewater Bay
Marina north to Nelson’s Cove, around Rocky Bayou, south to the Rocky One marker and then
returns to Bluewater Bay Marina. Boats must pre-register. After the Boat Parade, LJ Schooners
Dockside Restaurant will host a Christmas party with DJ Christ Saylor, 6-10 p.m.; ugly sweater
contest at 9 p.m. Call 850-897-2821 or visit bluewaterbaymarina.com to register.
2023 Niceville Valparaiso Rotary Club Christmas Boat Parade | Sun., Dec. 17 | 5:30 p.m. |
Emerald Coast Marine
The boat parade will feature a traditional display of fun onboard holiday-themed lights and
decorations. Festivities include complimentary hot cocoa, a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs.
Claus and the elves, provided by the Rotary. The parade route travels southwest from Emerald
Coast Marine to Tom’s Bayou, past Lincoln Park, then east toward Lions Park, returning back to
Emerald Coast Marine. All proceeds raised benefit Sharing and Caring Niceville. For more
information, visit nicevillevalparaisorotary.org.
Noon Year’s Eve | Dec. 31 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | LuLu’s Restaurant
Noon Year’s Eve is just for kids at LuLu’s Destin. It’s the 8th annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration
Tues., Dec. 31, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with non-stop, free kid-friendly fun. There will be arts and
crafts, inflatables, face painting, live music and more. Kids can have their fun by counting down
to Noon with kid-safe “fireworks” and a huge Beach Ball Drop.
Visit LulusFunFoodMusic.com/destin or call (850) 710-5858.
Baytowne Countdown | Sun., Dec. 31 | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Two breathtaking fireworks displays at 8 p.m. and midnight. Enjoy a family-friendly evening
from 6-8 p.m. with face painting, kids’ activities and LIVE music on the Baytowne LIVE stage.
Dance the night away with LIVE music from DJ Q$, 7 p.m. until 1 a.m. at the Events Plaza Stage!
End the night with spectacular fireworks. *21 & over after 10 p.m. 20 & under must be
accompanied by a legal guardian after 10 p.m.
-----------------------
Personal Message From Patricia:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with 9,000+ members.
If you live in Destin proper, you receive a freely distributed Destin Life newspaper. Please look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Palms 144: 1 & 2: From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Bless The Lord who is my immovable Rock. He gives me strength and skill in battle. He is always kind and loving to me; He is my fortress, my tower of strength and safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield. "
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Est. 2015 Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Original Newsletter created: December 2021
Don't forget to scroll all the way down and read the devotional titled Christian Corner which always anchors this newsletter. I pray that the words of encouragement will be of help to someone.
The article below was submitted especially for us by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc.
(Newspaper distributions: Destin Life, Fort Walton Beach, Hammock Bay & Bluewater Bay, Niceville & Valparaiso, Santa Rosa, 30A & Inlet Beach, Miramar Beach, & Panama City).
A Destin Holiday
For many years, our piece of Paradise has ignited the holiday spirit in each of us and allowed
the season to come to life for the young and young at heart. With a unique blend of theatrical
storytelling, musical notes and beautiful and whimsical Christmas lights, we are welcomed into
a world of yuletide nostalgia and local flavor and personalities where reindeer fly, sugarplums
dance in our heads and Christmas comes alive in our own bay area, coastal style.
I invite you to explore the vast, unique holiday traditions, some many years in the making and
new ones to delight our senses and usher in the “reason for the season” – the celebrated birth
of Jesus, our Savior. Join Destin Life and the Life Media family in some of these holiday
celebrations where you can create some new family traditions of your own while rekindling
your favorites.
Visit Santa at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at his sleigh Dec. 6, 13 and 20 during the holiday
concerts from 6-8 p.m. and during the Tuba Christmas event from 5-7 p.m. Dec. 9.
www.baytownewharf.com.
Visit Santa at Bass Pro Shop at Destin Commons now through Dec. 24 (book at basspro.com)
and at HarborWalk Village weekends until Dec. 17 from 1-4 p.m.
Baytowne on Ice | Now–Feb. 4 | Village of Baytowne Wharf
Dust off those skates and get ready for the holidays at The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s
Baytowne on Ice. Ice rink is open Now – Sunday, Feb. 4. Hours vary daily. Visit
BaytowneWharf.com.
Festival of Trees | Now–Dec. 25 | Grand Boulevard
The Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin runs Nov. 21 through Christmas Day
2023. Participating non-profit organizations compete to win cash prizes totaling $7,000. Cast
your vote for the People’s Choice award. Festival of Trees is an annual event in the park at
Grand Boulevard shopping center showcasing uniquely decorated Christmas trees from 12 local
non-profit organizations.
Christmas Reflection Displays | Now-Dec. 31 | Defuniak Springs
The City of Defuniak Springs lights up Chipley Park lights with its annual Christmas Reflection
Displays, a light display like no other in our area with more than 10 million lights reflecting on
the lake and throughout the park. You can view the lights by walking, driving or even taking a
horse-drawn carriage ride. A variety of Victorian, animal and toy soldier cutouts, Santa’s
workshop, and the grandfather clock ticking away are among the thousands of decorations that
adorn these historic grounds. Admission is $5 per person and children 5 and under are free.
(850) 978-2999.
Merry Main Street | Now-Dec. 23 | Defuniak Springs
Free to attend, Merry Main Street boasts live music and theatrical performances, an outdoor
market, food trucks, rides on the Choctaw Express Train, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, kids
character appearances by The Character Clubhouse and more. Baldwin Ave. in downtown
DeFuniak Springs. 5 p.m. Fridays and 3 p.m. Saturdays until Christmas. MainStreetDFS.org. (850)
296-9051.
Jolly Jubilee | Now-Dec. 24 | Destin Commons
Embrace the festive spirit at Destin Commons with the annual Jolly Jubilee! This holiday
celebration, featuring musical performances on the new lawn area at Center Plaza, comes alive
every Friday, Saturday and Sunday now through Dec. 24. Wander through the festive decor,
hear the sweet sounds of Christmas carolers and enjoy live performances, all while standing
beneath the glow of a majestic, 50-foot tree. Or take pictures with family and friends in a life-
size Santa’s Sleigh.
Wesley House Holiday Guided Tours | Now–Jan. 9 | Eden State Gardens | Santa Rosa Beach
The Wesley House at Eden State Gardens will be open for holiday guided tours
Thursday–Monday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on an hourly basis. This year’s theme is “A Victorian
Christmas and all are invited to attend.
Photos with Santa; Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides | Dec. 1-30 | 5-8 p.m. | Grand Boulevard
Complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Center every Friday and Saturday
night, 5-8 p.m. Take in the Coastal White Christmas lights and the Festival of Trees display. Get
a professional photo with Santa while listening to the seasonal sounds of “Rock Around the
Christmas Tree” Musical Revue from Emerald Coast Theatre Co. grandboulevard.com.
Nights of Lights | Dec. 1-31 | 6, 7 & 8 p.m. | Events Plaza Lawn
Enjoy a free, festive light show every night of December in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at
Sandestin and featured during the special holiday edition of the Wednesday Night Concert
Series. The tree lights in the events plaza will dance and blink to music at 6, 7 and 8 p.m.
Visit BaytowneWharf.com.
7th Annual Troon Goon Christmas Lightshow| Dec. 2 – Jan. 5 | 6-9:30 p.m. | Bluewater Bay
area
A free, residential graphic light show that combines classic Christmas songs with modern
versions for a fun and energetic twist of entertainment. The hi-tech light animations dance to
the music and feature the house, mega tree, arches and other standalone features for an
unlimited amount of pixel combinations. The 30-minute show starts every hour and half-
hour. It's a different show every year and you can vote online for your favorite song versions
while you watch. View from your vehicle while listening on your car stereo at 101.3 FM. The
lightshow will run nightly from Visit http://www.troongoonchristmas.com or Facebook for the
latest news.
“Geek Lights on the Corner” | 6-9:30 p.m.–Sun.-Thurs. | 10:30 p.m. Fri., Sat. & holiday eves
Located at the corner of Bluewater Blvd. and Antiqua Way in Bluewater Bay, the shows loop
every 30 minutes starting at 6 p.m., with the last show starting at 9:30 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., and
10:30 p.m. Fri., Sat. and holiday eves. Now in its 16th year, the free show consists of Christmas
lights and other themed display elements, all under computer control and synchronized to
music and usually is lighted and available to the public through the first week of January. All
donations this year will support Healing Paws for Warriors. The show is the technical and
creative wizardry of Jeff Werner, the “Northwest Florida Geek” and Wendy Werner, his “spouse
peripheral.” FaceBook.com/GeekLightsOnTheCorner. [email protected]
Holiday Concert Series + Visits with Santa | Dec. 6, 13; 20 | 6-8 p.m.
Tap your feet to some of your favorite sing-a-long classics every Wednesday in December at the
Holiday edition of The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s Wednesday Night Concert Series. Each
concert features visits with Santa.
December 6 | Fort Walton Beach High School Choir
December 13 | Alissa Steffens Vocal Studios
December 20 | Matt McCarty Band
A Christmas Carol | Dec. 8 – Dec. 22
From the first “Bah humbug” to the final “Wassail,” this timeless classic is sure to rekindle your
holiday spirit. Join all your favorite Dickens characters—Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family, the
Fezziwigs, the Ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet-to-come, and of course, everyone’s
favorite curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge.
560 Grand Boulevard, 2 nd Floor, Miramar Beach. Purchase tickets: emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
Holiday Pops | Fri., Dec. 8 | 7:30 p.m. | Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center
Features Brian Stokes Mitchell, dubbed; the last leading man; by The New York Times,
Sinfonia’s main event of the season featuring this A-list star will perform holiday classics,
Broadway tunes and classic favorites with the Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra.
Stokes is a two-time Tony Award winner with a versatile career spanning Broadway, television,
film and concerts. Receiving critical acclaim and awards for his performances in Kiss Me, Kate,
Man of La Mancha, and Ragtime, Stokes has collaborated with renowned conductors like John
Williams and Gustavo Dudamel performing at Carnegie Hall and the White House. Some of you
might remember him as Trevor in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Tickets range from $30-$75 for
adults. Seats at tables of 10 are from $55 per person.
The Nutcracker! | Dec. 9–5 p.m. | Dec. 10–2 p.m. | Destin Community Center
Studio6twenty5 presents The Nutcracker featuring the dancers of studio6twenty5’s children’s
program and introducing local Shaye Smith and guest dancer Fredrick Davis as the Sugar Plum
Fairy and Cavalier. Prepare to be transported into Clara’s magical world of sugarplum fairies,
toy soldiers and enchanting adventures. Saturday doors open at 4 p.m. Sunday doors open at 1
p.m. Tickets $16 on sale now at studio6twenty5.com.
Seaside Pops | Sat., Dec. 9 | 5 p.m. | Seaside Amphitheatre
Sinfonia Gulf Coast presents a concert featuring seasonal and pop favorites in the Town of
Seaside. Bring a low-back chair or blanket. Seaside Pops is free and open to the public.
Winter Extravaganza| Dec. 9 | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. | E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center
Join the Center for games, food trucks, animal encounters and even a visit from Santa Claus
himself! Don't forget to bring a coat for the coat drive this year! Tickets: $10 for adults, $7 for
ages 4–12. eowilsoncenter.org. 4956 State Hwy. 20 E. Freeport, FL
Yule of Yesteryear | Sat., Dec. 9 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida
Enjoy carols, food vendors, craft vendors, Walton guard reenactors, school choir groups, bake
sale, raffle ticket prizes, letters to Santa and more! 115 Westview Ave., Perrine Park, Valparaiso.
Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour of Homes | Dec. 9 | Rosemary Beach
Mark your calendars for the Holiday Home Tour on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. in the
community of Rosemary Beach. Rosemary Beach Realty & Cottage Rental Company have
selected stunning homes, decorated in their finest for this self-guided tour that’s guaranteed to
get you into the Holiday spirit. Advanced tickets required. www.rbhometour.com. 2023
Charitable Partners are Habitat of Humanity of Walton County and Shelter House of NW
Florida.
Christmas Craft and & Elf; Movie Screening | Dec. 9 | 10 a.m. | The Island Resort
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy Christmas crafts and a screening of the beloved holiday
classic movie & Elf; in the lounge/bar area.
Alaqua Holiday Bazaar | Dec. 10 | 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.
Find something special for everyone on your list including handcrafted gifts from the finest local
artists and craftsmen. Enjoy festive music and delicious brunch-style treats. Contact Lauren Gall
at [email protected] to participate. Proceeds go directly towards the care and protection
of animals in need. Visit https://www.facebook.com/AlaquaAnimalRefuge.
35th Annual Destin Boat Parade | Dec. 10 | 6 p.m. | Destin Harbor
The Destin Harbor will be dancing with lights and cheer during the 35th Annual Destin Boat
Parade, Sun. Dec. 10 from 6 – 6:30 p.m. followed by a Fireworks Finale! Watch from many
places along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk such as AJ’s, Boathouse, Brotula’s and The Edge
Restaurant & Skybar (where this year’s judging will take place.)
Live Nativity | Thurs., Dec. 14 — Wed., Dec. 20 | 6–8:30 p.m. each night |corner of 2nd St.,
and Church Ave.
First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach will present the FREE, 35th Live Nativity celebration
next to the First Baptist Church sanctuary. Parking is available in the church parking lot. When
you walk through, you can have your picture taken with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus, as well as
the three wise men. Your photo will be waiting for you as you depart. In the Shepherd’s Field,
the visitors can pet and feed the miniature donkeys, sheep and Naomi the Camel!
A Jingle Jangle Christmas Musical Revue | Sat., Dec. 16–2.30 p.m. | Tues., Dec. 19–7.30 p.m. |
Thurs., Dec. 21 –7.30 p.m.
Enjoy classic holiday songs from some of your favorite Christmas musicals like “Have Yourself a
Merry Little Christmas,” “Snow” and, of course, “White Christmas.” The cast will invite you to
join in some beloved Christmas carols as well.
560 Grand Boulevard, Grand Boulevard Town Center, 2 nd Floor, Miramar Beach. Purchase
tickets: emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
A Victorian Christmas Tea | Sat., Dec. 16 | 1-3 p.m. | The Heritage Museum of Northwest
Florida
Members $20; Non-members $25. 115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso.
LuLu’s Annual Billy Claus and The LuLuBelles | Sat., Dec. 16 | 3 to 5 p.m.
Free photos with Billy Claus and the LuLuBelles as well as crafts and treats. Billy Claus is Santa’s
warm weather-loving brother who lives in the Caribbean, but comes this way every year to help
Santa during the holiday season. The LuLuBelles are Billy’s version of Santa’s elves. The
children’s book written by LuLu’s owner, Lucy Buffett, “Billy Claus and the Spirit of Christmas
Island” is available in the gift shop or on-line. From 5 to 7 p.m., enjoy the movie, Dr. Suess’ The
Grinch. Come back on Dec. 20 for the Christmas movie, The Polar Express at 6 p.m. with free
crafts and treats. 850-710-5858.
Cookies and Crafts with the Grump | Dec. 16-17 | 12-4 p.m. | The Island Resort
Everyone's favorite green and grouchy holiday character, The Grump, along with his holiday-
loving friend, Miss Cindy, will be at The Island Resort, Dec. 16 and 17, 12 to 4 p.m. Guests can
visit The Grump, known for his "stink, stank, stunk" charm, and snap memorable photos, enjoy
a cup of apple cider or hot chocolate and listen to live music. Following the music, engage in a
fun and creative craft session, face painting and a Whoville hair station. Free and open to the
public.
LJ Schooners’ 7th Annual Santa Paddle Parade | Sat., Dec. 16, | Noon | Bluewater Bay Marina
All paddlers welcome; if you can paddle it, bring it! Paddle on a stand-up paddle board, canoe,
kayak, paddle boat or surf skis. Group photo is at noon with paddle starting at 12:10 p.m. Santa
Clauses leave BlueWater Bay Marina and paddle east to Rocky Bayou Bridge, north to North
Shore of Rocky Bayou and back to the marina. Registration $10 or 15 canned goods. Must
paddle in Santa suit and provide your own suit. Proceeds benefit Sharing and Caring of Niceville.
To register, call Bluewater Bay Marina Ship Store at (850) 897-2821 or
visit bluewaterbaymarina.com.
Annual Christmas Boat Parade | Sat., Dec. 16 | 5:30 p.m. | Bluewater Bay Marina
Skippers meeting at 4 p.m.; parade staging at 5 p.m. The parade course exits Bluewater Bay
Marina north to Nelson’s Cove, around Rocky Bayou, south to the Rocky One marker and then
returns to Bluewater Bay Marina. Boats must pre-register. After the Boat Parade, LJ Schooners
Dockside Restaurant will host a Christmas party with DJ Christ Saylor, 6-10 p.m.; ugly sweater
contest at 9 p.m. Call 850-897-2821 or visit bluewaterbaymarina.com to register.
2023 Niceville Valparaiso Rotary Club Christmas Boat Parade | Sun., Dec. 17 | 5:30 p.m. |
Emerald Coast Marine
The boat parade will feature a traditional display of fun onboard holiday-themed lights and
decorations. Festivities include complimentary hot cocoa, a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs.
Claus and the elves, provided by the Rotary. The parade route travels southwest from Emerald
Coast Marine to Tom’s Bayou, past Lincoln Park, then east toward Lions Park, returning back to
Emerald Coast Marine. All proceeds raised benefit Sharing and Caring Niceville. For more
information, visit nicevillevalparaisorotary.org.
Noon Year’s Eve | Dec. 31 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | LuLu’s Restaurant
Noon Year’s Eve is just for kids at LuLu’s Destin. It’s the 8th annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration
Tues., Dec. 31, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with non-stop, free kid-friendly fun. There will be arts and
crafts, inflatables, face painting, live music and more. Kids can have their fun by counting down
to Noon with kid-safe “fireworks” and a huge Beach Ball Drop.
Visit LulusFunFoodMusic.com/destin or call (850) 710-5858.
Baytowne Countdown | Sun., Dec. 31 | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Two breathtaking fireworks displays at 8 p.m. and midnight. Enjoy a family-friendly evening
from 6-8 p.m. with face painting, kids’ activities and LIVE music on the Baytowne LIVE stage.
Dance the night away with LIVE music from DJ Q$, 7 p.m. until 1 a.m. at the Events Plaza Stage!
End the night with spectacular fireworks. *21 & over after 10 p.m. 20 & under must be
accompanied by a legal guardian after 10 p.m.
-----------------------
Personal Message From Patricia:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with 9,000+ members.
If you live in Destin proper, you receive a freely distributed Destin Life newspaper. Please look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Palms 144: 1 & 2: From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Bless The Lord who is my immovable Rock. He gives me strength and skill in battle. He is always kind and loving to me; He is my fortress, my tower of strength and safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield. "
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Est. 2015 Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Original Newsletter created: December 2021
If you are interested in being a sponsor or article contributor, contact Patricia: [email protected]
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Lori Leath Smith
You Are A Holiday Hero When You Help Those In Need:
by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Anyone can be a Holiday Hero when they help those in need in our community. As always
during the holiday season, there is an ongoing need for giving or volunteering. Many children
don’t have enough food to eat over a weekend, much less over Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Some just want Santa to visit them. Some have no beds or gifts. Many homeless veterans go
without a warm meal all year long.
Okaloosa County has a food insecurity rate of 12.3 percent among children younger than 18
and Walton County is at 12.6 percent (source: Feeding America), slightly lower than last year,
but still too high. Though many families in our area are struggling to get by, we can bless them
with an extra boost this holiday season. Fortunately, we are a generous and compassionate
community that pulls together for its own. Below are ways you, too, can be a Hometown Hero
this season:
It's that time of year for The Salvation Army. Ready to help you help others with its popular
Angel Trees, Angels (children 0-12 years old) are available for adoption beginning November
18th at all the Walmart Stores in Okaloosa and Walton Counties as well as Bass Pro Shop
Destin, Ashley Home Furniture Crestview and Ft. Walton, AJ’s on the Bayou in Fort Walton
Beach and Chick-fil-a Niceville. Simply pick a tag off a tree and return your Angel’s gifts to any of
the above locations or drop off at the Thrift Store, 425 Mary Esther Cutoff, Fort Walton Beach,
by December 9th. If your business would like to adopt some Angels, please call Laura Beeman,
(850) 243-4531 x20.
Have you ever had to sleep without a bed? Some in our community do. Why not put some
sparkle into a child’s holiday this year? A Bed 4 Me invites you to help provide beds for children
in Okaloosa and Walton counties this season. $10-$25 Walmart gift cards can purchase pillows,
bedding go towards the purchase of a bed. $300 sponsors a full bed kit and helps with
operational expenses. A Bed 4 Me has provided beds to thousands of children in our
community since 2016. To help, visit abed4me.org where you can donate in any amount.
Food For Thought (FFT) provides year-round programs to bridge the meal gap in the lives of the
food-insecure children they serve, but it’s especially needed during the holidays. You can help
by sponsoring a family for the holidays. Food for Thought will provide holiday services during
Thanksgiving and Christmas school holiday breaks, feeding over 700 families during each
holiday, distributing 30,000 pantry staples and more than 11,000 lbs. of produce. Families
supported by Food for Thought programs throughout Okaloosa and Walton Counties will be
provided food to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal along with food to support their
students’ needs while they are out of school for a week, which is about 10 meals they will miss.
To enroll, email [email protected]. To volunteer or donate, please visit www.fftfl.org.
At Emerald Coast Children's Advocacy Center (ECCAC), 1,585 kids were assisted in 2022. This
giving season, you can make a child’s Christmas by helping to stock ECCAC’s toy room for
families and agency partners to “shop!” Purchase items from ECCAC “wish lists” or shop for
items yourself. Contact [email protected] to schedule your drop-off and drop off at one of
ECCAC’s locations: Niceville Chamber Office, 1055 John Sims Pkwy E, Niceville or Pierce Family
ECCAC, 336 College Ave, DeFuniak Springs. eccac.org.
Children in Crisis, our community non-profit charity committed to providing homes and
keeping brothers and sisters together, is asking all of the wonderful local Christmas elves to
help with their kiddo's Christmas lists. Simply visit https://a.co/0UDgndl to shop from the
Amazon Wish List or scan the QR code! Please deliver your gifts by noon on Dec. 22 to 1000
Luke’s Way, Fort Walton Beach. Call 850-864-4242 or email [email protected] for
more information. childrenincrisisfl.org
Each year this season, leadership students from Fort Walton Beach High School (FWBHS)
become “heroes” for many parents in our community who have no way to provide a joyful
Christmas for their children—10 days of meals, holiday gifts and any other necessities such as
utilities and maintenance for families in Okaloosa County. In December, students shop at
Walmart to select gifts such as bikes for the children. Donations are also spent on necessities
such as bread, butter, milk, eggs and turkeys and even family bills. Through Christmas
Connection, you can join these amazing hometown heroes by making a monetary donation for
gifts and bills or contributing canned goods and boxed food. $100 provides a holiday package
for one child. Simply send your check to FWBHS with “Christmas Connection” written in the
memo section. A tax receipt by request can be provided.
The Angel Tree Program, a collaborative effort of the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office School
Resource Officers (SROs) and the OCSO Sheriff's Star Charity, is in full gear! SROs provide a list
of names of children within their schools whose families may be experiencing financial hardship
and could benefit from the program. Children fill out a wish list with their SRO and guidance
counselor asking for things sucha as bikes, video games, new pajamas or socks. OCSO
employees purchase gifts, but you can help by making a monetary donation to help fulfill the
wish lists. Since the program began in 2010, more than 1,000 Okaloosa County children have
received special deliveries from their SRO before Christmas. To donate, contact Brian
Muhlbach, PIO for the Sheriff’s Star Charity, at [email protected] or visit
ocsostarcharity.com.
Help support the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) in its annual Santa Patrol Mission,
helping the less fortunate families in our area this Holiday Season. Santa Patrol's goal is to seek
out those in the community with a need and lighten the burden of providing Christmas to their
Children. Santa Patrol accepts NEW and UNWRAPPED toys, games, crafts and art supplies for all
ages. Gift cards to clothing stores, hygiene items and hoodies or jackets in all sizes for ages
newborn to 18 years. Please contact event director [email protected] to
schedule a drop off through Dec. 15. You can also make a monetary donation at WCSO on
PayPal.
Fatboys and Holi Indian Restaurant has launched a month-long non-perishable food drive
spanning all of its locations, benefitting different local hunger relief organizations throughout
the area. The campaign runs now through December 23, 2023. Fatboy’s Miramar Beach and
Destin locations as well as Holi’s Miramar Beach location will support Destin Harvest. Patrons
are invited to participate in Fatboy’s efforts this holiday season by bringing nonperishable and
canned food items to receive 20% off their meal. To make the donation process as convenient
as possible, labeled boxes will be placed in each Fatboy’s location for the collection of donated
items.
by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Anyone can be a Holiday Hero when they help those in need in our community. As always
during the holiday season, there is an ongoing need for giving or volunteering. Many children
don’t have enough food to eat over a weekend, much less over Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Some just want Santa to visit them. Some have no beds or gifts. Many homeless veterans go
without a warm meal all year long.
Okaloosa County has a food insecurity rate of 12.3 percent among children younger than 18
and Walton County is at 12.6 percent (source: Feeding America), slightly lower than last year,
but still too high. Though many families in our area are struggling to get by, we can bless them
with an extra boost this holiday season. Fortunately, we are a generous and compassionate
community that pulls together for its own. Below are ways you, too, can be a Hometown Hero
this season:
It's that time of year for The Salvation Army. Ready to help you help others with its popular
Angel Trees, Angels (children 0-12 years old) are available for adoption beginning November
18th at all the Walmart Stores in Okaloosa and Walton Counties as well as Bass Pro Shop
Destin, Ashley Home Furniture Crestview and Ft. Walton, AJ’s on the Bayou in Fort Walton
Beach and Chick-fil-a Niceville. Simply pick a tag off a tree and return your Angel’s gifts to any of
the above locations or drop off at the Thrift Store, 425 Mary Esther Cutoff, Fort Walton Beach,
by December 9th. If your business would like to adopt some Angels, please call Laura Beeman,
(850) 243-4531 x20.
Have you ever had to sleep without a bed? Some in our community do. Why not put some
sparkle into a child’s holiday this year? A Bed 4 Me invites you to help provide beds for children
in Okaloosa and Walton counties this season. $10-$25 Walmart gift cards can purchase pillows,
bedding go towards the purchase of a bed. $300 sponsors a full bed kit and helps with
operational expenses. A Bed 4 Me has provided beds to thousands of children in our
community since 2016. To help, visit abed4me.org where you can donate in any amount.
Food For Thought (FFT) provides year-round programs to bridge the meal gap in the lives of the
food-insecure children they serve, but it’s especially needed during the holidays. You can help
by sponsoring a family for the holidays. Food for Thought will provide holiday services during
Thanksgiving and Christmas school holiday breaks, feeding over 700 families during each
holiday, distributing 30,000 pantry staples and more than 11,000 lbs. of produce. Families
supported by Food for Thought programs throughout Okaloosa and Walton Counties will be
provided food to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal along with food to support their
students’ needs while they are out of school for a week, which is about 10 meals they will miss.
To enroll, email [email protected]. To volunteer or donate, please visit www.fftfl.org.
At Emerald Coast Children's Advocacy Center (ECCAC), 1,585 kids were assisted in 2022. This
giving season, you can make a child’s Christmas by helping to stock ECCAC’s toy room for
families and agency partners to “shop!” Purchase items from ECCAC “wish lists” or shop for
items yourself. Contact [email protected] to schedule your drop-off and drop off at one of
ECCAC’s locations: Niceville Chamber Office, 1055 John Sims Pkwy E, Niceville or Pierce Family
ECCAC, 336 College Ave, DeFuniak Springs. eccac.org.
Children in Crisis, our community non-profit charity committed to providing homes and
keeping brothers and sisters together, is asking all of the wonderful local Christmas elves to
help with their kiddo's Christmas lists. Simply visit https://a.co/0UDgndl to shop from the
Amazon Wish List or scan the QR code! Please deliver your gifts by noon on Dec. 22 to 1000
Luke’s Way, Fort Walton Beach. Call 850-864-4242 or email [email protected] for
more information. childrenincrisisfl.org
Each year this season, leadership students from Fort Walton Beach High School (FWBHS)
become “heroes” for many parents in our community who have no way to provide a joyful
Christmas for their children—10 days of meals, holiday gifts and any other necessities such as
utilities and maintenance for families in Okaloosa County. In December, students shop at
Walmart to select gifts such as bikes for the children. Donations are also spent on necessities
such as bread, butter, milk, eggs and turkeys and even family bills. Through Christmas
Connection, you can join these amazing hometown heroes by making a monetary donation for
gifts and bills or contributing canned goods and boxed food. $100 provides a holiday package
for one child. Simply send your check to FWBHS with “Christmas Connection” written in the
memo section. A tax receipt by request can be provided.
The Angel Tree Program, a collaborative effort of the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office School
Resource Officers (SROs) and the OCSO Sheriff's Star Charity, is in full gear! SROs provide a list
of names of children within their schools whose families may be experiencing financial hardship
and could benefit from the program. Children fill out a wish list with their SRO and guidance
counselor asking for things sucha as bikes, video games, new pajamas or socks. OCSO
employees purchase gifts, but you can help by making a monetary donation to help fulfill the
wish lists. Since the program began in 2010, more than 1,000 Okaloosa County children have
received special deliveries from their SRO before Christmas. To donate, contact Brian
Muhlbach, PIO for the Sheriff’s Star Charity, at [email protected] or visit
ocsostarcharity.com.
Help support the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) in its annual Santa Patrol Mission,
helping the less fortunate families in our area this Holiday Season. Santa Patrol's goal is to seek
out those in the community with a need and lighten the burden of providing Christmas to their
Children. Santa Patrol accepts NEW and UNWRAPPED toys, games, crafts and art supplies for all
ages. Gift cards to clothing stores, hygiene items and hoodies or jackets in all sizes for ages
newborn to 18 years. Please contact event director [email protected] to
schedule a drop off through Dec. 15. You can also make a monetary donation at WCSO on
PayPal.
Fatboys and Holi Indian Restaurant has launched a month-long non-perishable food drive
spanning all of its locations, benefitting different local hunger relief organizations throughout
the area. The campaign runs now through December 23, 2023. Fatboy’s Miramar Beach and
Destin locations as well as Holi’s Miramar Beach location will support Destin Harvest. Patrons
are invited to participate in Fatboy’s efforts this holiday season by bringing nonperishable and
canned food items to receive 20% off their meal. To make the donation process as convenient
as possible, labeled boxes will be placed in each Fatboy’s location for the collection of donated
items.
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Andrea & Paul McArthur
5 Tips for a Winter-Ready North Florida Home:
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
Merry Christmas fellow Destinites!!! In between shopping, wrapping presents, cooking and general holiday festivities… don’t neglect your home!! But, because it’s Christmas, it’s just a short list this month!
Preparing a Florida home for winter varies somewhat from preparations made for homes in other parts of the country simply because we get very few days that are below 40 degrees. However, winter is still an ideal time to check major systems and ensure that they are in working order before colder weather does arrive – especially if you are a seasonal resident who has been gone for part of the year.
Don’t be a Scrooge and wait until a cold snap happens to get your Destin home ready for winter. Your home is likely your biggest single investment. Treat it with care and it will pay dividends! Not handy person??? As always, if you need a little help with any of these items, the best place to look is the Destinites Local Business Directory!
Until next year… May your heart and home be filled with all of the joys the Christmas season brings. Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! From… the Agape Home Pros family!!
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
Merry Christmas fellow Destinites!!! In between shopping, wrapping presents, cooking and general holiday festivities… don’t neglect your home!! But, because it’s Christmas, it’s just a short list this month!
Preparing a Florida home for winter varies somewhat from preparations made for homes in other parts of the country simply because we get very few days that are below 40 degrees. However, winter is still an ideal time to check major systems and ensure that they are in working order before colder weather does arrive – especially if you are a seasonal resident who has been gone for part of the year.
- Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear. If you live near trees, you might be surprised by the amount of organic matter that can build up and cause drainage problems for gutters. Prevent overflowing gutters by cleaning and rinsing gutters and downspouts, or hiring a gutter cleaning service.
- Check the roof and attic. Summer storms may have damaged shingles or loosened flashing. A thorough inspection by a qualified Destin roofer can catch problem areas before they become a leak. Also ask your roofer to evaluate the insulation in your attic space for the recommended R-30 value.
- Schedule a HVAC maintenance check. Ensure your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system is running properly by calling a qualified contractor for a tune-up. The air filter in your furnace should be replaced as well.
- The beginning of December is a good time to check all of your appliances. If you notice something is off while cooking, contact your appliance tech. Specifically, inspect your oven’s heating element for issues and clean your oven using the self-cleaning feature. Clean the filter on your range hood. Also, make sure your disposal is running smoothly, check to see that your fridge is cooling properly, and that your dishwasher is in top shape.
- Reverse ceiling fans. By reversing the switch on your ceiling fans to a clockwise direction, you push warm air from the ceiling back down into the room for better heat circulation.
Don’t be a Scrooge and wait until a cold snap happens to get your Destin home ready for winter. Your home is likely your biggest single investment. Treat it with care and it will pay dividends! Not handy person??? As always, if you need a little help with any of these items, the best place to look is the Destinites Local Business Directory!
Until next year… May your heart and home be filled with all of the joys the Christmas season brings. Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! From… the Agape Home Pros family!!
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Daniel Jones
Places to volunteer during holidays:
provided by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
Between the sparkle of the coastline and the sparkle of the Christmas lights going up around town, I can’t think of many other places as magical as Destin. But the magic doesn’t seem to reach everyone this Christmas Season. There are young, old, and furry in our neighborhood that won’t be feeling much excitement this year. Let’s spread the magic of the Season to everyone in our town and give back a portion of the many blessings we have received.
LOCAL NON-PROFITS
Food for Thought: Help feed over 3,600 food-insecure children across Walton and Okaloosa County. Feed
over 700 families during the Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks when food-insecure children are at risk to
miss an average of 30 meals. Help empower food-insecure children across your community to get the most out
of their education and development.
Donate by sponsoring and family’s holiday meal for $40 or by participating in the Holiday Food Drive.
Volunteer: Help package, organize, and distribute food for the families in Okaloosa and Walton County
Harvest House: A faith-based ministry that provides, food, clothing and shelter for the needy in our area.
Donate by bringing non-perishable food items to the Food Pantry. Or you can shop or donate to the
Thrift Store which provides the financial assistance needed to run our ministry and feeding and clothing
those in need.
Volunteer: Whatever time you have to help out, we could put to good use. You may volunteer weekly
in the morning or afternoon, all day, or every other week, or even seasonally.
Caring and Sharing of South Walton provides crisis relief to our neighbors in need by providing food,
clothing, financial assistance, and counseling.
Donate monetary funds, thrift store items, or food pantry items to serve more than 530 families in our
area.
Volunteer at the food pantry, thrift store, or warehouse. If you have special skills as a translator or
counselor, those are welcome as well.
Junior League of the Emerald Coast promotes developing the potential of women and improving the lives of
women, children, and families in their community.
Donate to help clothe a child through Child Clothing, to provide children school supplies through Back
to the Books Bash or assist in the expenses of Leadership Training for our volunteers.
United Way Emerald Coast fights for the health, education, and economic mobility of every person in
Okaloosa and Walton counties. Together, we'll address big issues - like low high school graduation rates, food
insecurity, or homelessness - issues that no single organization can address by itself.
Donate financially to funds the many programs that help our neighbors when they fall on hard
times and are struggling to meet their basic needs each month.
Volunteer many ways including being Reading Pal for children, advocating for United Way or
being in the Retired & senior Volunteer Program. There are always ways to utilize your
specialized skills (like photography, web design, or home repair) or get involved with UWEC's
annual initiatives, like Day of Caring or Stuff the Bus.
CHILDREN
Northwest Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation, Inc provides a way to make things a little better for the
abused, abandoned, and neglected children in your local community and brings us together in new ways.
Donate financially or by sponsoring a group of children by purchasing items on their wishlist. Email
[email protected] for more information.
Volunteer as a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer or a Mentor for an abused, abandoned, or neglected child
in your community. Training is provided for free and no experience is needed.
Destin Elementary School, Middle School, High School
Contact school counselors at each respective school and they can provide you with a family to adopt. By
either providing gift cards or shopping off a child’s list, you’ll be giving Christmas magic to the family in
need.
Destin Elementary School-850-833-4360
Destin Middle School-850-833-7655
Destin High School- 850-204-4044
ELDERLY
Emerald Coast Health Care connects the community with adopting the elderly. Many elderly are alone for the
holidays and don’t have many of their basic needs being met. Providing time and small gifts can go a long way
to lift the spirits of the elderly. Donating can be as basic and helpful as giving pajamas, socks, toiletries, or
treats.
Brookdale Assisted Living needs caring people to visit, entertain, or eat with residents. Past helpful
experiences have included caroling, playing games music, painting nails, and reading to residents. There is a
piano and many card and board games on site. Please schedule a time with the recreation department to set
up a time to come in! 850-931-2340
The Blake needs caring people to visit, entertain, or eat with residents. Past helpful experiences have included
caroling, playing games music, painting nails, and reading to residents. Please schedule a time to set up a time
to come in! 850-424-1519
MILITARY
Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge,
while a loved one is in the hospital.
Donations accepted in forms of financial, hotel points, airline miles, assets (stocks, securities) and
vehicles. In the past, with special authorization, dinners and meals are also accepted and given to the
families staying at Fisher House.
ANIMALS
Paws (Panhandle Animal Welfare Society) seeks to provide the resources, education, and programs needed
to improve animal welfare.
Donate to the Food Pantry for those pets that have owners that are facing financial hardship. Or you
donate to the Angel Tree where you can help make their holiday season a little brighter and cozier.
Click the list to see the things the dogs and cats are needing right now: Angel Tree List
Volunteer by playing and exercising with our dogs either at our facility or by taking them on a walk or
home or you can help wash towels, blankets, and dishes at the shelter. You can also volunteer at
Junkyard Dog by helping to organize donations and doing administrative tasks.
Alaqua Animal Rescue
Donations such as stocks and bonds, vehicles and ordering things from our wish list will all contribute
to providing the needs of the animals we rescue. Bricks for Life, Love, and Legacy is a campaign
where you can purchase a personalized, commemorative brick that will remain a part of the newly
completed Dog Adoption Center. All proceeds from brick sales will be used to provide care, comfort,
food, medicine, and medical care for our precious residents.
Volunteer by taking animals on walks or cleaning and sanitizing kennel and stalls. Another way to
volunteer is to lend a hand at fundraising events throughout the year, interacting with the public and
energizing them about our mission.
Saving with Soul Pet Rescue of NW Florida loves special needs dogs and cats. When we do shelter runs,
we are drawn immediately to the pets with mange, heartworms, broken limbs and other obvious medical
issues. We know that these pets are unlikely to make it out of the shelter if we don’t take them in.
Donating financially will pay for gas, spay/neuter an animal, provide medical care and house to the
rescued animal. You can also shop from our wishlists on Amazon, Chewy, and Cuddly.
Volunteer your time by going with us when we visit area shelters, you can offer to help our foster
families with their pets and of course, you can foster yourself and/or attend our weekly adoption
events. If you are an amateur photographer, good photos are ALWAYS appreciated. If you have
grooming experience (or just a willingness to give baths) you can help us get our rescue pets ready for
their next event.
Road Dogg Rescue saves dogs from being euthanized from kill shelters. We are 100% foster-based rescue.
Donate to provide care directly to the animals in our rescue. Donations provide medical care, basic
animal needs like housing and food, and continuing our cause. You can also shop from our Amazon or
Chewy Wishlist.
Volunteer by helping either foster or playing and/or walking the dogs.
provided by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
Between the sparkle of the coastline and the sparkle of the Christmas lights going up around town, I can’t think of many other places as magical as Destin. But the magic doesn’t seem to reach everyone this Christmas Season. There are young, old, and furry in our neighborhood that won’t be feeling much excitement this year. Let’s spread the magic of the Season to everyone in our town and give back a portion of the many blessings we have received.
LOCAL NON-PROFITS
Food for Thought: Help feed over 3,600 food-insecure children across Walton and Okaloosa County. Feed
over 700 families during the Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks when food-insecure children are at risk to
miss an average of 30 meals. Help empower food-insecure children across your community to get the most out
of their education and development.
Donate by sponsoring and family’s holiday meal for $40 or by participating in the Holiday Food Drive.
Volunteer: Help package, organize, and distribute food for the families in Okaloosa and Walton County
Harvest House: A faith-based ministry that provides, food, clothing and shelter for the needy in our area.
Donate by bringing non-perishable food items to the Food Pantry. Or you can shop or donate to the
Thrift Store which provides the financial assistance needed to run our ministry and feeding and clothing
those in need.
Volunteer: Whatever time you have to help out, we could put to good use. You may volunteer weekly
in the morning or afternoon, all day, or every other week, or even seasonally.
Caring and Sharing of South Walton provides crisis relief to our neighbors in need by providing food,
clothing, financial assistance, and counseling.
Donate monetary funds, thrift store items, or food pantry items to serve more than 530 families in our
area.
Volunteer at the food pantry, thrift store, or warehouse. If you have special skills as a translator or
counselor, those are welcome as well.
Junior League of the Emerald Coast promotes developing the potential of women and improving the lives of
women, children, and families in their community.
Donate to help clothe a child through Child Clothing, to provide children school supplies through Back
to the Books Bash or assist in the expenses of Leadership Training for our volunteers.
United Way Emerald Coast fights for the health, education, and economic mobility of every person in
Okaloosa and Walton counties. Together, we'll address big issues - like low high school graduation rates, food
insecurity, or homelessness - issues that no single organization can address by itself.
Donate financially to funds the many programs that help our neighbors when they fall on hard
times and are struggling to meet their basic needs each month.
Volunteer many ways including being Reading Pal for children, advocating for United Way or
being in the Retired & senior Volunteer Program. There are always ways to utilize your
specialized skills (like photography, web design, or home repair) or get involved with UWEC's
annual initiatives, like Day of Caring or Stuff the Bus.
CHILDREN
Northwest Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation, Inc provides a way to make things a little better for the
abused, abandoned, and neglected children in your local community and brings us together in new ways.
Donate financially or by sponsoring a group of children by purchasing items on their wishlist. Email
[email protected] for more information.
Volunteer as a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer or a Mentor for an abused, abandoned, or neglected child
in your community. Training is provided for free and no experience is needed.
Destin Elementary School, Middle School, High School
Contact school counselors at each respective school and they can provide you with a family to adopt. By
either providing gift cards or shopping off a child’s list, you’ll be giving Christmas magic to the family in
need.
Destin Elementary School-850-833-4360
Destin Middle School-850-833-7655
Destin High School- 850-204-4044
ELDERLY
Emerald Coast Health Care connects the community with adopting the elderly. Many elderly are alone for the
holidays and don’t have many of their basic needs being met. Providing time and small gifts can go a long way
to lift the spirits of the elderly. Donating can be as basic and helpful as giving pajamas, socks, toiletries, or
treats.
Brookdale Assisted Living needs caring people to visit, entertain, or eat with residents. Past helpful
experiences have included caroling, playing games music, painting nails, and reading to residents. There is a
piano and many card and board games on site. Please schedule a time with the recreation department to set
up a time to come in! 850-931-2340
The Blake needs caring people to visit, entertain, or eat with residents. Past helpful experiences have included
caroling, playing games music, painting nails, and reading to residents. Please schedule a time to set up a time
to come in! 850-424-1519
MILITARY
Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge,
while a loved one is in the hospital.
Donations accepted in forms of financial, hotel points, airline miles, assets (stocks, securities) and
vehicles. In the past, with special authorization, dinners and meals are also accepted and given to the
families staying at Fisher House.
ANIMALS
Paws (Panhandle Animal Welfare Society) seeks to provide the resources, education, and programs needed
to improve animal welfare.
Donate to the Food Pantry for those pets that have owners that are facing financial hardship. Or you
donate to the Angel Tree where you can help make their holiday season a little brighter and cozier.
Click the list to see the things the dogs and cats are needing right now: Angel Tree List
Volunteer by playing and exercising with our dogs either at our facility or by taking them on a walk or
home or you can help wash towels, blankets, and dishes at the shelter. You can also volunteer at
Junkyard Dog by helping to organize donations and doing administrative tasks.
Alaqua Animal Rescue
Donations such as stocks and bonds, vehicles and ordering things from our wish list will all contribute
to providing the needs of the animals we rescue. Bricks for Life, Love, and Legacy is a campaign
where you can purchase a personalized, commemorative brick that will remain a part of the newly
completed Dog Adoption Center. All proceeds from brick sales will be used to provide care, comfort,
food, medicine, and medical care for our precious residents.
Volunteer by taking animals on walks or cleaning and sanitizing kennel and stalls. Another way to
volunteer is to lend a hand at fundraising events throughout the year, interacting with the public and
energizing them about our mission.
Saving with Soul Pet Rescue of NW Florida loves special needs dogs and cats. When we do shelter runs,
we are drawn immediately to the pets with mange, heartworms, broken limbs and other obvious medical
issues. We know that these pets are unlikely to make it out of the shelter if we don’t take them in.
Donating financially will pay for gas, spay/neuter an animal, provide medical care and house to the
rescued animal. You can also shop from our wishlists on Amazon, Chewy, and Cuddly.
Volunteer your time by going with us when we visit area shelters, you can offer to help our foster
families with their pets and of course, you can foster yourself and/or attend our weekly adoption
events. If you are an amateur photographer, good photos are ALWAYS appreciated. If you have
grooming experience (or just a willingness to give baths) you can help us get our rescue pets ready for
their next event.
Road Dogg Rescue saves dogs from being euthanized from kill shelters. We are 100% foster-based rescue.
Donate to provide care directly to the animals in our rescue. Donations provide medical care, basic
animal needs like housing and food, and continuing our cause. You can also shop from our Amazon or
Chewy Wishlist.
Volunteer by helping either foster or playing and/or walking the dogs.
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Kim Schneider
'Tiss The Season To Be Jolly:
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la. Now that you’ll be singing that song for the next few hours, let’s talk about decorating for Christmas. Most of us spend a lot of time and energy decorating our home for the holidays. It’s fun, festive and is on display for everyone to see but most of us forget about our bedrooms. Yes, you read that correctly… let’s talk about decorating our bedrooms. This is not just for the kids but for master bedrooms
too. Decorating your bedroom for Christmas is magical! Imagine falling asleep and waking up every morning surrounded by the spirit of Christmas. It’s easier than you think and can be done inexpensively too. I’m sharing some ideas below to help you get started.
Shop items in your home. Mixing your existing décor with Christmas items is
budget friendly.
Tie ribbon (wired ribbon works best) around your everyday décor to coordinate
with your Christmas color scheme.
Bring in some natural elements like pinecones, twigs, holly berries and trimmed
Christmas tree limbs in a vase, large dish or bed tray.
String a strand of Christmas tree lights across your headboard or footboard.
Hang garland on your mirror or headboard.
Add a Christmas tree with lights in the corner of your bedroom or a small one on
your dresser. You don’t have to add ornaments if you don’t have extra. I love a
naked tree with tiny fairy lights.
Add a pop of color with Christmas throw pillows on the bed, sitting chairs or
benches.
Add a plaid or Christmas throw at the foot of the bed.
When you decorate in unexpected ways it rewards you in unexpected ways too! Twinkling soft lights on a Christmas tree in the corner, a Christmas throw at the end of the bed, a plaid decorative pillow with a vase full of ornaments and twigs on the nightstand brings pure holiday joy! Wishing you and yours a festive holiday season!
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la. Now that you’ll be singing that song for the next few hours, let’s talk about decorating for Christmas. Most of us spend a lot of time and energy decorating our home for the holidays. It’s fun, festive and is on display for everyone to see but most of us forget about our bedrooms. Yes, you read that correctly… let’s talk about decorating our bedrooms. This is not just for the kids but for master bedrooms
too. Decorating your bedroom for Christmas is magical! Imagine falling asleep and waking up every morning surrounded by the spirit of Christmas. It’s easier than you think and can be done inexpensively too. I’m sharing some ideas below to help you get started.
Shop items in your home. Mixing your existing décor with Christmas items is
budget friendly.
Tie ribbon (wired ribbon works best) around your everyday décor to coordinate
with your Christmas color scheme.
Bring in some natural elements like pinecones, twigs, holly berries and trimmed
Christmas tree limbs in a vase, large dish or bed tray.
String a strand of Christmas tree lights across your headboard or footboard.
Hang garland on your mirror or headboard.
Add a Christmas tree with lights in the corner of your bedroom or a small one on
your dresser. You don’t have to add ornaments if you don’t have extra. I love a
naked tree with tiny fairy lights.
Add a pop of color with Christmas throw pillows on the bed, sitting chairs or
benches.
Add a plaid or Christmas throw at the foot of the bed.
When you decorate in unexpected ways it rewards you in unexpected ways too! Twinkling soft lights on a Christmas tree in the corner, a Christmas throw at the end of the bed, a plaid decorative pillow with a vase full of ornaments and twigs on the nightstand brings pure holiday joy! Wishing you and yours a festive holiday season!
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Travel & Day Trips Around Florida
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
Events Calendar
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AREA EVENTS! <-- Please click the picture to view some of our local events for the Destin area. Monthly Calendar. |
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Destin City www.cityofdestin.com
Volunteer Opportunites: Posted from the Destin City website at Volunteer Opportunities | Destin, FL - Official Website (cityofdestin.com)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
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Okaloosa County Master Gardeners: Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OCMGA
If you want to know what to plant and when, check out this Planting calendar on the OCMGA website. https://www.ocmga.org |
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December at the Destin Library: Click on the picture to be taken to the Library's calendar of events for the month of May. They have some exciting, fun things taking place! I think you just may be surprised at what all goes on there. There is a lot more than just books at that place. Check it out! |
Christian Corner: by Patricia Lee
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Luke 2: 7-14
7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Glory be to Father God for giving us His son! How precious our souls must be in His eyes for Him to give us such a miraculous gift. Jesus taught us about unconditional love, forgiveness, kindness, mercy, and miracles while He walked this earth. Lessons for us live by; raise our children by. Even after He left this earth, He still works on our behalf, as He constantly intercedes for us to Father God. Sometimes asking God for favor for us while other times having to ask for mercy. 24/7 He is there for us. How can we ever be worried or stressed with Him by our side caring about us so much? My burdens are lighter because of Him. I can face anything because of Him. If you don't know Father God yet, I invite you to visit a local church to speak with one of the leaders there. You won't be sorry. It will change your life and for the better. Get in prayer and watch God work in your life. Let Him guide and provide!
John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not parish, but have everlasting life."
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Luke 2: 7-14
7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Glory be to Father God for giving us His son! How precious our souls must be in His eyes for Him to give us such a miraculous gift. Jesus taught us about unconditional love, forgiveness, kindness, mercy, and miracles while He walked this earth. Lessons for us live by; raise our children by. Even after He left this earth, He still works on our behalf, as He constantly intercedes for us to Father God. Sometimes asking God for favor for us while other times having to ask for mercy. 24/7 He is there for us. How can we ever be worried or stressed with Him by our side caring about us so much? My burdens are lighter because of Him. I can face anything because of Him. If you don't know Father God yet, I invite you to visit a local church to speak with one of the leaders there. You won't be sorry. It will change your life and for the better. Get in prayer and watch God work in your life. Let Him guide and provide!
John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not parish, but have everlasting life."
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Website Est. 2018
Newsletter Est. Dec. 2021