HWY 331

We connect the people who live, work, and play in Walton County. In this episode we’re talking about one of our absolute favorite traditions—the Seaside Race Weekend—and kicking it off with one of the best culinary events in Walton County, The Taste of the Race!

TheSeaside School Half Marathon & 5K is the longest-running race in Walton County, and over the years, it has become a huge part of many local’s stories… From volunteering, to exhibiting goods and services -  to running their first race. 

But before we lace up for race day, we kick things off in the best way possible—withTaste of the Race! This event is an incredible celebration offood, community, and competition, featuring some of the best chefs on the Gulf Coast. It’s the perfect way to fuel up, toast to the weekend ahead, and support the oldest operating Charter school in Florida - the Seaside School - here in Walton County. 

Today, we’re joined byTeresa Horton, Executive Director of the Seaside School Foundation, to talk about what makes this event so special and how you can be a part of it. So let’s dive in and connect you! 

There was a time when live music in Walton County was a well-kept secret. No flashy promotions, no social media hype—just word of mouth, a little bit of luck, and the magic of being in the right place at the right time. And at the heart of it all? Hubba Hubba.

In this episode we dive deep into Walton County  music scene’s roots with two key players from this legendary band—John Reinlie and Bill Garrett. Learn about the reunion on February 9th to include Duke Bardwell, Case Cooper and many others at The Red Bar 30th Anniversary Super Bowl Party. 

The best part? It’s all packed into a 30-minute episode—just long enough for your countywide ride on HWY 331! Don’t miss it!

In this episode we connect you with Chef Jim Richard. It’s January in Walton County, and we cannot think of a more relevant subject than music - more specifically live music in Walton County. And while you may know Chef Jim Richard for his culinary expertise - the locals know how instrumental he has been in nurturing our unique  live music community. As the founder of Stinky’s Fish Camp and Stinky’s Bait Shack on the west side of 30A, Jim has spent decades building -lifting up local musicians - not only by hosting live music daily at his award-winning music venues but helping them stay employed in slow seasons. He inspired other business owners to make live music a part of their mix - creating an unusual culture where live music is almost always free to experience. Sometimes a standard that makes ticketed events a hard sell for locals. If you don’t know,  Stinky’s Bait Shack is a renowned music venue doubling as a live bait and tackle shop, breakfast stop, and full bar unlike anything else in Walton County or Northwest Florida for that matter. 

We are grateful that he has taken a detour from his crazy schedule to talk to us today about Swamp Writers Music Fest, a microfestival that started 15 years ago and runs mostly simultaneously to the prestigious 30A Songwriters Festival beginning next week in mid January. We learn about how it all began and get a sense for his passions - and we find out how he plans to spend some of his time now that he's passed the torch to new owners.

Fasten your seatbelt, turn up the volume and get connected with a local icon, Chef Jim Richard.

Trenasse Restaurant in New Orleans

In this episode of the HWY 331 podcast, we continue our conversation with Anthony Vallée, City Councilman and member of the Transportation Planning Organization. Vallée discusses the importance of:

Vallée highlights several upcoming projects and initiatives:

Vallée emphasizes the need for community input and encourages listeners to connect with him through ⁠the city website⁠ or email to share their ideas and concerns. 

So Listen in and Connect with Anthony Vallee.

This is the first of a special two-part episode, where we connect you  with architect and DeFuniak Springs city councilman Anthony Vallée. With over 25 years of experience and a deep commitment to community, Anthony brings an inspiring perspective on the intersection of architecture, public service, and perseverance. He shares his passion for design, a legacy sparked by his parents, as well as insights into the intricate balancing act required to lead arduous projects. In part one of this episode, Anthony talks about the sales tax opportunity we missed that would have helped speed up and fund projects. He focuses on looking ahead with pedestrian safety projects underway to help all of our community - from the young to the young at heart. 

Join us for both episodes. You won’t want to miss his insights on creating lasting impact, especially if you're passionate about local progress and resilient planning.

Business Website: http://www.mvr.design

In this episode of the HWY 331 podcast, host Kerri Parker delves into the life of aviation pioneer Jackie Cochran, exploring her groundbreaking achievements and the efforts of a creative team dedicated to reviving her legacy through a documentary. Featuring insights from playwright Nancy Hasty, cinematographer Jessica Plowden Anderson, Dave King, President of the SOWAL Foundation and founder of SOWAL House and artist Ray Houseknecht, the conversation highlights the challenges of bringing historical narratives to life and the importance of fostering a creative community in Walton County. The discussion also emphasizes the significance of local stories and their potential to resonate on a global scale.

SOWAL Foundation Website

In this episode we connect you with Kim Wennerberg, a tried and true local and real estate broker in Walton County. Kim  shares her experiences and insights on the community and her career. She discusses the importance of connections and community involvement, as well as the role of faith in her work. Kim also addresses the recent changes in the real estate industry. If you know Kim, you probably know about her recent diagnosis of breast Cancer. She dives into her diagnosis and shares the early stages of her treatment journey. Her transparency is a sincere outreach for others who may feel alone in their journey. 

Learn more about Kim & Company on her website,

Connectwithkim.com

Grit and Grace is a theatrical performance that aims to entertain and create a connection between generations. The show has been running since 2000 and this year will be the 22nd performance series. Each season a new script is crafted through interviews about folks in Walton County. In this episode of the HWY 331 podcast we connect you with Latilda Hughes-Neel, president and producer of Grit & Grace and the show's playwright and director, Nancy Hasty. The cast includes a wide range of ages, from 8 to 97, and people with diverse abilities and talents. Grit and Grace relies on community support. So listen in - get connected and show up for this live theater performance! The show opens July 19  with four total performances, including one in South Walton.

Get performance details and learn more about Grit & Grace on their website.

In this episode we connect your with Tracy Louthain. She is championing the Anchored in Freeport Art in Public Spaces Project. The project aims to bring art to public spaces in the town by placing concrete cast anchors decorated by local artists throughout the city. The project is a collaboration between the city of Freeport, the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, Walton County Tourism and local businesses and residents. The goal is to create a sense of place, community, and beautification, as well as promote economic prosperity. The project is open to artists and sponsors, and the deadline for applications is July 30th.

Apply as an artist or a sponsor online at https://www.culturalartsalliance.com/post/anchored-in-freeport-artist-call-announced

In this episode we connect listeners to Leigh Moore, executive director of Scenic Walton. We discuss the mission of Scenic Walton and projects this worthy nonprofit organization is currently focused on; while elevating safety and beauty for all of Walton County. So tune in and get connected with Leigh Moore. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and SHARE what connects with you! 

You can sign up for the newsletter, order your specialty license plate and learn more about the organization at www.scenicwalton.org