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!

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: Zoning Diversity: DeFuniak Springs needs a variety of zones (rural, suburban, and urban) to accommodate different lifestyles. Rural areas offer more freedom but fewer services, while urban areas provide greater access to amenities and infrastructure. Preserving DeFuniak Springs' Identity: Development should reflect the town's unique character and heritage, avoiding the generic roadside development seen in many other places. Protecting Property Values: Rules and regulations, while sometimes unpopular, are essential for preserving and even increasing property values. Community Involvement: Residents need to be active participants in shaping the future of DeFuniak Springs. Vallée highlights several upcoming projects and initiatives: Safe Streets for All (SS4A): A grant to develop a safety action plan, allowing the city to address specific safety concerns and apply for funding to fix problems. Reconnecting Communities: A federal grant focused on improving access along the railroad tracks, impacting areas like Baldwin, downtown, and Dorsey. Sun Trail Project: A state-funded project to create multi-use paths, potentially connecting DeFuniak Springs to a larger regional trail network. Trail Town Designation: An effort to establish DeFuniak Springs as a trail town, capitalizing on its proximity to Eglin Air Force Base and other trails. Veterans Memorial Trail: A proposal to create a network of smaller memorials along the East-West Connector, honoring veterans from all branches. Complete Streets: An initiative to make Highway 90 more pedestrian-friendly, revitalizing the north side of downtown. 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.

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

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 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