January 2015 - Snowbirds Gulf Coast

SnowBIRDS
!
E
E
FR
Gulf Coast
A Winter Visitor Publication
January 2015
Take a Class
Okaloosa Memories
page 16
page 18
Farmers Markets
Chautauqua
page 22
page 24
In print and online
SnowBirdsGulfCoast.com
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4
Gulf Coast
SnowBIRDS
ON THE COVER
It’s all about the cannolis...and the
friendly nature of our cover couple
and full time RVers Dee Dee and
Don Buechler from Wisconsin.
They spend six months each year
in Navarre, Fla............................... 8
INDEX
Winters are Wonderful
Winter Wednesdays 2015
January 7 - After Christmas Sale
January 14 - Winter Garden Walk
January 21 - Porcelain Tales
January 28 - Birding on the Gulf Coast I-10 to Exit 15A s Theodore, Alabama s 800.247.8420
www.bellingrath.org
February 4 - “Mardi Gras in Mobile” Lecture & Book Signing
February 11
- Raising
Feb
5 - GreatRoses
Plants for the South from the Southern Living Plant Collection
Feb
12 -Amazing
Raising Roses
February 18
- The
World of Orchids
Feb
19
SUPER
Wednesday:
China &Welty’s
Glass in
the Bellingrath
Collection
February 25 - “One Writer’s Garden: Eudora
Home
Place” Lecture
and Book Signing
Feb 26 - Camellias!
Open Daily 8am to 5pm
Shopping s Dining s Groups Welcome
1.800.247.8420 s www.bellingrath.org
Publisher’s Welcome.............................................................................................. 6
Snowbird Clubs................................................................................................ 10-11
Historic Pensacola................................................................................................. 12
Books Alive........................................................................................................... 14
Events Calendar............................................................................................... 16-17
Fort Walton Beach Expo..................................................................................... 18
Take a Class........................................................................................................... 16
Casino Fun............................................................................................................ 21
What’s Cooking?.................................................................................................. 22
Chautauqua........................................................................................................... 24
Snowbird Fundraisers........................................................................................... 25
Health.................................................................................................................... 26
New Snowbird Events.......................................................................................... 27
Mardi Gras Fun..................................................................................................... 28
Winter Sports Roundup....................................................................................... 29
Publisher: Karen Harrell / [email protected] / 850.291.1266
Art Director: Renee Culpepper / Culpepper Publications
Writers and Contributors: Karen Harrell
Clubs, Calendar and Website: Donna Ball
Photography: Randy Hamilton/Hamilton Art Agency and Joe Culpepper/Shuttergig Photography
NINTH ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT
- Sponsored by the Missouri Club -
Benefit Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Libraries
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2015
Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf
Doors Open at 5 p.m. Trivia Begins at 6 p.m.
Teams of 8 @ $120 per table
Costumes and table decorations at Trivia Night are welcomed!
Need inspiration? Consider books, songs, or movies.
Bring Your Own Libations and Snacks.
Sponsored by Missouri Snowbird Club | Information: Judy Collier 314-609-0275
SOGO
SHOPPING DISTRICT
A most enjoyable day awaits you in historic Downtown Pensacola. Stroll in warm sunshine,
browse eclectic shops and art galleries, grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee. The fun is happening in
the SOGO District, located South of Government at Palafox.
Established 2013
SoGourmet is committed to the joys of cooking and
entertaining. Shop for unique culinary tools and gifts, peruse our
fine selection of international wines and cheese, and stay for a
scrumptious cooking class in our beautiful teaching kitchen.
•
Cooking Classes & Demonstrations Provided During The Week
See website for details.
•
Private Parties and Private Cooking Classes
•
All Your Kitchen Needs
•
Wine Tastings
sogour metpensacola.com • 850-438-7857
The Bodacious Olive will entertain your senses and captivate
your palate with a dizzying array of the finest artisanal olive
oils and balsamic vinegars available on the market.
•
Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Flavor-infused Olive Oils and
Aged Balsamic Vinegars
•
Gourmet Salts
•
Handmade Pastas and Sauces
•
So Chopped Salads with In-house Dressings
bodaciousolive.com • 850-433-6505
One of the most popular coffeehouses in downtown Pensacola,
The Bodacious Brew has a wide selection of coffees and
teas and a full breakfast menu featuring quiches, breakfast
wraps and flaky croissants, muffins and sweet rolls.
•
•
•
•
•
Teas, coffees, and specialty drinks
Fresh-baked pastries
Healthy breakfast options
Indoor and outdoor seating
Complimentary WiFi
bodaciousbrew.com • 850-434-6300
I T ’ S A LL AT SO GO, S OUT H O F GOVER N M EN T. S O G O AL R E AD Y !
O PEN MO N. – FRI. 1 0 – 6 • SAT. 9 – 3
QS0406 SOGO Snowbird Magazine (January).indd 1
12/16/14 10:51 AM
6
Welcome!
We’ve spent generations preserving
a piece of florida for yours.
Gulf Islands National Seashore, a beach where the tallest
attraction is a giraffe. Crossroads towns, where trails lead your
family into history and the outdoors. Places where adventure
can take the form of zip-lining, kayak fishing or the simplest
thrill of all: just being together.
www.navarrebeach.com
800.480.7263
As I write this it is mid-December, sunny and temperatures in the low 70s.
I wish I could promise that we will see these temperatures in January. But one
thing I will say is we probably won’t see snow.
Isn’t that why you are here?
Our cover couple, Dee Dee and Don Buechler, are among the earliest Snowbird
arrivals. Full-time RVers, they spend six months in Wisconsin and return each winter
to Navarre, Fla. They couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.
This edition is packed with things to do. From educational opportunities to fundraisers, expos and other events, there is no chance you will be bored.
Some of the original Snowbirds brought the Chautauqua Assembly to the Gulf
Coast from New York in the late 1880s and the small historic community of DeFuniak
Springs puts together great themes. This year Apollo 13 astronaut Fred Haise will be
the keynote speaker and the theme is “A Journey Into The World of Transportation:
From the River to the Rocket.”
The Fort Walton Beach Winter Guest Fest is this month and the Northwest
Florida Daily News will have its “Okaloosa Memories” which features some of the top
stories from the past 100 years on sale and to order. The book includes Destin’s first
Snowbird, Red Lyon, who formed the burgeoning club in the early 1970s.
Book lovers will enjoy the many authors at the annual BooksALIVE festival in
Panama City, Fla. Former University of Alabama coach Bill Curry and his wife Carolyn
Curry are keynote speakers. Both are authors of separate books and they will sign
autographs.
Have you taken a tour yet of Historic Pensacola? Guides in period dress are
featured on Friday and Saturday although regular tours are available throughout the
week.
The region’s temperate climate keeps most of the area’s Farmers Markets open
year-round and we feature a few in this edition.
So much to do! The time will just fly by!
Enjoy. If you see me out and about be sure to say “hello.”
Karen
Your Publisher,
Karen Harrell, [email protected]
850-291-1266
Gulf Coast
SnowBIRDS
Are you looking to reach
the Snowbird Market?
The Navarre Snowbird Appreciation Social,
February 4th, 1-4pm • Hidden Creek Country Club, 3070 PGA Blvd
Fun, food, and door prizes • Navarre Business Crawl
Contact us to advertise in our February and Spring editions!
We also offer new digital options. Don’t let the winter get away from you!
Deadline to advertise in the February edition is Jan. 10.
Contact us today! 850-291-1266 or [email protected]
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like visiting multiple Wyndham Vacation Rentals® destinations throughout the Southeast! That’s
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Northwest Florida:
Perdido Key
Pensacola Beach
Navarre Beach
Okaloosa Island
Destin
Beaches of South Walton/30A
Panama City Beach
Alabama’s Gulf Coast
Orlando, Florida
South Carolina:
Hilton Head Island
Charleston’s Islands
Myrtle Beach
Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
8
Home Sweet Home on Wheels
They met when she was 16 and he was 18. This year they
will mark their 48th wedding anniversary.
Dee Dee and Don Buechler arrive in Navarre, Fla., in
October and don’t venture back to their home state of
Wisconsin until April.
They consider themselves part-time residents of the Gulf
Coast and they take advantage of Navarre’s central location
to make day trips into Pensacola, Destin and other nearby
communities to shop, dine and take advantage of the many
events that are staged throughout their six-month stay.
“We discovered Navarre because of family who live
nearby,” Dee Dee said. “And we had some friends who were
work campers.”
The Buechlers are retired full-time RVers. Dee Dee worked
in customer service for Time Warner Cable for more than 30
years and after an eight-year military stint, Don worked in
maintenance.
With three grown children and eight grandchildren
scattered from the West Coast to Wisconsin, their lifestyle allows
them to spend time when and where they want.
Each year they reserve the same space at Navarre Beach
Campground – in the center where they can entertain and
easily access the park and amenities.
Six years ago the couple bought a gently used motorhome
and have customized it to fit their personalities. They brought
along treasured artwork, framed family photos and other
decorative touches. The interior features a plush leather sofa and
comfortable swivel captain’s chairs.
Dee Dee loves to cook and their kitchen is outfitted with
the pots, pans, cutlery and dinnerware needed to prepare the
Italian feast the couple put on at the park each year.
“We make our own pasta, raviolis, calzones and, of course,
cannolis,” said Dee Dee whose closely held family recipe for the
tasty dessert is a big hit each year.
They added homey and inviting touches to their RV site with
three outdoor seating areas, including a screened gazebo, fire
pit, bistro table and table and chairs near their grill. His metal art
is prominently featured.
One of their favorite things to do on full moon evenings
is to take the drive along the unspoiled Gulf Islands National
Seashore between Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach where
they can view the moonlight dancing off the Gulf of Mexico.
Don also enjoys fishing off the Navarre Beach Pier and at Fort
Pickens.
This year the Buechlers will spend part of their stay in one
of the park cabins while Don recovers from an accidental fall
that required extensive surgery in December. The independent
couple learned just how important their family and friends are
when Don had his accident. Their three children and other family
members arrived to help Don through his hospital stay and to
give Dee Dee support.
They had immediate offers of help from friends at the RV
park and many who hadn’t yet arrived.
“People were calling us from all over the country,” Dee Dee
said. “There is a family of origin and family from heart.”
“What we have here
is family from heart.
We’ve created a bond.”
10
Snowbird Clubs
PUBLISHER’S NOTE:
Stay in touch throughout the year!
Don’t forget to sign up for our new e-newsletter
“Seasons” to stay up to date. We reach more
than 5000 Snowbirds in each edition. Each year
new Snowbirds find the Gulf Coast through this
magazine and are looking for things to do, people
to meet and recreational opportunities.
Email items to:
[email protected].
Questions? Call Karen Harrell at 850-291-1266
FLORIDA
PENSACOLA: Visit Pensacola has introduced
a free “Snowbird Savings Cards” available at
visitor centers in Perdido Key, Pensacola and
Pensacola Beach. The card features discounts
for area attractions, retail outlets, golf courses,
restaurants and more. The list and directions are
available at: www.visitpensacola.com/snowbirds.
CANADA DAY: The annual celebration of
Canadian Snowbirds who winter in the Panama
City, Fla., and surrounding areas has been set for
Feb. 15. Tickets will be on sale from 9 a.m. - noon
Feb. 4 in the lobby at the Wyndham Bay Point
Resort, 4114 Jan Cooley Dr, Panama City Beach,
Fla. Details: [email protected]
OKALOOSA TDC: The Island Dance Party
will be staged 7 p.m.ñmidnight Feb. 21 at the
Emerald Coast Conference Center, 1250 Miracle
Strip Pkwy, Okaloosa Island, Fla. The event will
include a live band playing 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s
music. Tickets are $10 per person and proceeds
will be donated to the Special Operations Warrior
Foundation. Details: www.islanddanceparty.com
Send your club news to Publisher@
SnowbirdsGulfCoast.com
party. Boat Cruise dates are Jan. 26 and Feb. 9.
Details: http://destinsnowbirds.org
FORT WALTON BEACH: The Fort Walton Beach
Snowbird Club is located on Okaloosa Island in
Fort Walton Beach, Fla. With over 600 hundred
members, the club offers many activities and
events to it members besides the camaraderie
and fellowship of others who are in Fort Walton
WALTON COUNTY SNOWBIRDS: Season dues Beach area to enjoy the warmer weather and
are $9 and registration is held 30 minutes before beautiful beaches during the winter months.
each meeting. Jan. 7, 10 a.m., United Methodist
Initial Registration ñ Jan. 2, 5 & 6 after that
Church of Destin, 200 Beach Drive, Destin, Fla.
Tuesdays only in January, February and March 3 at
Jan. 21, Village Baptist Church, 101 Matthew
The Elks Club from 10 a.m. to noon. Next general
Blvd., Destin, Fla. Volunteers are needed in many meeting ñ Jan. 6. Registration and meetings are
areas and this is a great to meet new people and at the Elks Club, 1335 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort
make friends. Snowbird activities are many from Walton Beach, Fla. The club sponsors craft, cards,
golf, recreation and fitness to a singles group,
games, golf outings and social events. Details:
arts, crafts, computer club, day trips and more.
[email protected] or www.fwbsbc.com/.
Details: www.waltoncountysnowbirds.com.
NAVARRE: A Snowbird Welcome is Feb. 4, 1-4
p.m. at Hidden Creek Golf Club, 3070 PGA Blvd.
DESTIN: The ìRoostî is officially open at the
Navarre, Fla. Organizers are forming a community
Destin Community Center, 101 Stahlman Ave,
Snowbird club. Vendors will be on hand and there
Destin, Fla. January meetings will be held on
will be prizes and a Business Crawl.
the 6, 13, 20 and 27. Meeting times are 8:30
and 11 a.m. Each weekly meeting features live
entertainment. The club sponsors many activities PENSACOLA BEACH: The Pensacola Beach
Community Church welcomes Snowbirds to
including mixers, golf, fashion show, craft show,
its monthly potlucks always held on the foruth
bowling, casino trips, chorale and Christmas
Sunday of the month plus other church activities
to include a Jan. 10 - Snowbird Pancake
Breakfast, 7 a.m. - 10 a.m., winter Trivia night
Jan. 23 and other social events, including a
potluck luncheon. Date to be announced on the
website. Details: 850-932-6628 or http://www.
thebeachchurch.com/
SNOWBIRD BEACH BASH: The first Pensacola
Beach Snowbird Beach Bash is 9-10:30 a.m.
WHEN at the Pensacola Beach Community
Church. Vendors will be on hand and a light
breakfast will be served. Free Trolley Tours
of the island begin at 10:45 a.m. The event is
sponsored by the Santa Rosa Island Authority
and the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Snowbirds from all areas of the Gulf Coast are
welcome to attend. Details: 850-932-1500 or
www.pensacolabeachchamber.com.
PERDIDO KEY: Perdido Key’s 2015 Snowbird
Roosts will be held on Jan. 8, Feb. 12 and
March 15 at the Perdido Bay Community Center
on Innerarity Point Road in Perdido Key. The
afternoons feature a $5 lunch and tons of fun and
helpful vendors! Doors will open at 11 a.m. and
lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. Call the Visitors
Center at (850) 492-4660 for more information.
11
Join the Club !
ALABAMA
GULF SHORES MEN’S COFFEE CLUB: First
meeting is 7:30 a.m. Jan. 2 at Gilbey’s Restaurant
at 25775 Perdido Beach Blvd in Orange Beach.
The club will meet at the restaurant every
Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings
from 7:30 ñ 8:30 a.m. for coffee. The oldest
continually active snowbird club has more than
200 members plus spouses from 25 states and
three Canadian provinces. Besides raising money
for local charities, the club holds golf outings
for men and women twice each week, sponsors
weekly casino trips and conducts breakfast
meetings for members and spouses each month.
The club also throws horseshoes on Monday,
Wednesday and Fridays at noon at Meyer Park
in Gulf Shores. The first breakfast meeting of the
season will be at Gilbey’s Restaurant in Orange
Beach on Jan. 16 at 8 a.m.
ILLINOIS: Illinois Club 2015 “Welcome Back”
coffee is Jan. 2 at 9:30 a.m. at Orange Beach
Adult Center on Canal Rd. next to the Library.
Breakfast Meetings are scheduled at 8 a.m. on
Jan. 16 and 30, Feb. 13 and 27, and March 13 at
Lulu’s on the north side of the Intracoastal Canal
Bridge in Gulf Shores. Contact Glenn Philpott
618-978-1897.
INDIANA: Indiana Club meets for breakfast at 8
a.m. on Jan. 8 and 22, Feb. 12 and 26, and March
12 at Lulu’s (200 East 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores)
on the north side of the Intracoastal Canal Bridge
in Gulf Shores. Contact Bev Lockhart at 317-4328708 for reservations.
IOWA: The 2015 Iowa-Alabama Snowbird Club
will meet for breakfast (8:30 a.m.) at Perdido
Beach Resort on 27200 East Beach Blvd. Perdido
Ballroom, Conference Center, 1st floor. Jan. 14
and 28, Feb. 11 and 25. Details: Shari DeCook at
641-521-0929 or Sharon Hesselmann at 563-3572721 for reservations.
MICHIGAN: The Michigan Snowbird Club will
meet at the Erie Meyer Civic Center, 344 West
19th Avenue, Gulf Shores at 9:30 a.m. for coffee
with the meeting beginning at 10 a.m. on Jan.
8 and 22, Feb. 5 and 19 and March 5. www.
michiganclubalabama.com.
Jan. 14 and 28, Feb. 11 and 25 at Perdido Beach
Resort (27200 Perdido Beach Boulevard, Orange
Beach). Business meetings are held at Phoenix
V will alternate with breakfast. A Welcome Back
party is 7 p.m. Jan. 10 at Phoenix V. Trivia Night is
set for 5 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Orange Beach Event
Center at the Wharf. Contact Bob Moore 225937-4785. www.mosnowbirds.org.
NEW YORK: The New York Snowbird Club will
meet for lunch at 11 a.m. on Jan. 8 and 19, Feb. 5
and 19, and March 5 at Cayman Grill (26189 Canal
Road, Orange Beach). Reservations required.
Contact Frank Panczyszyn 251-981-3120.
NORTH DAKOTA/SOUTH DAKOTA: Meets the
2nd and 4th Tuesdays of January ñ February and
the 2nd Tuesday of March at 9 a.m. at Hazel’s
Seafood Restaurant, 25311 Perdido Beach Blvd.,
Orange Beach, Ala.
MINNESOTA: From January through mid-March,
Tuesday morning meetings will be at Lulu’s 200
East 25th Avenue, Gulf Shores, Ala. Also join us
for twice weekly golf! Details: /www.mnal.org
OHIO: The 2015 Ohio Snowbird Club will meet at
8 a.m. Jan. 7 and 21, and Feb. 4 and 18 at Lulu’s
on the north side of the Intracoastal Canal Bridge
in Gulf Shores (200 East 25th Ave., Gulf Shores).
For information call Gayle Hofacker at 937-447-3795.
MISSOURI: The Missouri Snowbird Club will
meet for breakfast at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesdays
PENNSYLVANIA: Breakfast meetings are 8 a.m.
Wednesdays at Hazel’s Seafood Restaurant,
25311 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, Ala.
Upcoming dates include: Jan. 7, 14, 28; Feb. 4, 11,
25 and March 4, 11. Richard K. Smith: Contact
person year round at: 908-420-8806 and/or
[email protected]
SENIOR SNOWBIRDS: A casual weekly potluck
gathering of Snowbirds resumes on Thursdays
starting Jan. 8 and running through March.
Participants are asked to bring a dish to feed
10 and the cost is 50 cents. Table service and
drinks are provided. Weekly at 12:30 at the Adult
Activity Center, 260 Clubhouse Dr., Gulf Shores,
Ala. Table service and drinks provided. Details:
Michael O’Rourke 251-981-6060
WISCONSIN: The Wisconsin Snobird Club boasts
a membership of over 700. Activities are open to all
winter visitors in the southern Alabama and northern
Florida areas. The club is for the recreational,
social, fellowship, travel and enjoyment of all who
participate. 2015 meetings will be Jan. 7 and 21,
Feb. 4 and 18 at the Orange Beach Event Center
(located by the Wharf, Orange Beach Alabama)
at 9 a.m. The club sponsors many luncheons and
social outings. A full meeting and activity schedule
is available at the club’s website at https://sites.
google.com/site/wisconsinsnowbirdclub/ or Kenn
Krouse, 251 967 2463.
12
Historic Pensacola Village
Just how did folks get by back in the “olden
days” when there wasn’t a convenience store on
every corner and supplies were limited? You can
learn all about life in the 19th century at the Historic
Pensacola Village located in Downtown Pensacola,
Fla.
The popular Living History program is featured
each Friday and Saturday. Regular tours are offered
Tuesday - Saturday. Living history interpreters
demonstrate 19th century cooking techniques and
trade-skills. Cooking takes place in an authentically
recreated detached kitchen house using actual 18th
and 19th century recipes. Trades demonstrated
include broom making, sewing, basket weaving, and
wood working and recently added, butter churning.
Historic Pensacola Village consists of twentyseven properties in the Pensacola National Register
Historic District. Eleven of these properties are
interpreted facilities that are open to the public. The
T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum, originally
the 1908 City Hall building, is a virtual treasure trove
of historic artifacts, Americana, and West Florida
history. The T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Museum houses
three floors of permanent and traveling exhibits. The
Arcadia Mill Archaeological Site, located in Milton,
Florida, is an antebellum industrial site as well as a
unique wetland ecosystem. The Norman Simons
Building houses the Pensacola Historical Society
Resource Center.
Ticketed visitors to Historic Pensacola Village
also now have the option of a 45-minute walking
tour of a portion of the Pensacola Historic District
and the Barkley House. Tours leave from the Tivoli
High House at 2 p.m. To learn more: 850-595-5985
or www.historicpensacola.org. Guides will lead
guests past historic structures along Zaragoza Street, Historic Pensacola regularly scheduled tours are Tues. - Sat. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tour times are
11a.m., 1p.m, and 2:30p.m. Admission Fees: Adults $6/Seniors $5/Children $3 (3-15).
highlighting significant architecture and local history.
Located on Pensacola Bay, the circa 1825 Barkley
Tickets for the complex may be purchased at the Tivoli High House
House is the oldest surviving example of a highShop, the T. T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum, the Pensacola
house in the city. Visitors will have the opportunity
Children’s Museum, and the Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center in
to learn about the Barkley family, catch a glimpse
Downtown Pensacola.
of Pensacola during the American Territorial Period
Group tours also are available but should be arranged in advance..
and enjoy the vista of Pensacola Bay from this unique
To learn more: 850-595-5985 or www.historicpensacola.org.
home.
HEATED POOL
SNOWBRID
APPRECIATION DAYS!
Make us your winter home!
January 10, 31 and February 21
$43 includes lunch, golf, cart, range balls
Convenient
to area restaurants
and attractions
Discounts on 6-Pack and 10-Pack Rounds
On the Gulf of Mexico between
Fort Walton Beach and Destin
Visit the Legends Premium Wine Bar and Grille
GREAT RATES
Group activities and
winter guest social calendar
1530 Miracle Strip Pkwy,
SE, Fort Walton Beach, Fla.
1-800-428-2726 or www.seaspraycondos.com
2015 Snowbird events
Boardwalk Beach Resort Hotel & Convention Center
JAnuARy ScheduLe
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
1
DJ Jim Lawson
All Snowbird entertainment in January Schedule at
Rusty Anchor Bar & Grill is Free to Attend!
Snowbird dance at Boardwalk Beach Resort
hotel & convention center
* All of these Snowbird Dances are held in the Convention Center
at Boardwalk Beach Resort. General Admission is only $3!
4
5
6
7
SnoWBiRd
dAnce
with DJ Jim Lawson
The LeGendS ShoW
Boardwalk
convention center
Boardwalk
Boardwalk
convention center convention center
11
SnoWBiRd
dAnce
with DJ Jim Lawson
3-6pm
at Boardwalk Beach Resort hotel & convention center
2
3
Live MuSic in
RuSTy AnchoR
BAR & GRiLL
Live MuSic in
RuSTy AnchoR
BAR & GRiLL
Woody &
The Peckers
Sweet
Harmony
6-10pm
6:30-9pm
staring Todd Allen
Herendeen
7:30-9pm
3-6pm
Todd Allen Herendeen Live
Saturday
Boardwalk
convention center
18
* All of these Todd Allen Herendeen shows are held in the Convention Center
at Boardwalk Beach Resort. 2 Different Shows on 2 Different Nights! $10 for
General Admission to the Show and only $20 for Dinner and a Show!
12 Jan 13 onLy!13
Tuesday,
WinTeR ReSidenT
hoMecoMinG dAnce
& SociAL
$5 advanced tickets
available to be purchased
at 17001 PCB Parkway
850-233-5070
19
oPen houSe
AT The
WeLcoMe
cenTeR
2-4pm
25
SnoWBiRd
dAnce
with DJ Jim Lawson
3-6pm
Boardwalk
convention center
26
20
3-6pm
14
10
Live MuSic in
RuSTy AnchoR
BAR & GRiLL
Live MuSic in
RuSTy AnchoR
BAR & GRiLL
Woody &
The Peckers
Sweet
Harmony
6-10pm
6:30-9pm
15
16
17
Live MuSic in
RuSTy AnchoR
BAR & GRiLL
Live MuSic in
RuSTy AnchoR
BAR & GRiLL
Boardwalk
convention center
Woody &
The Peckers
6:30-9pm
Sweet
Harmony
6-10pm
3-6pm
21
SnoWBiRd
staring Todd Allen
dAnce
Herendeen
with DJ Jim Lawson
3-6pm
22
The eLviS ShoW
staring Todd Allen
Herendeen
7:30-9pm
Boardwalk
Boardwalk
Boardwalk
convention center convention center convention center
27
9
SnoWBiRd
dAnce
with DJ Jim Lawson
The LeGendS ShoW
7:30-9pm
8
SnoWBiRd
dAnce
with DJ Jim Lawson
28
23
24
Live MuSic in
RuSTy AnchoR
BAR & GRiLL
Live MuSic in
RuSTy AnchoR
BAR & GRiLL
Woody &
The Peckers
6:30-9pm
Sweet
Harmony
6-10pm
30
31
29
RoyAL AMeRicAn BeAch GeTAWAyS - WeLcoMe cenTeR
9400 South Thomas dr, Panama city Beach, FL
• 16 Condos to choose from!
• FREE Coffee & Doughnuts!
• Exclusive Open House Condo
Rental Deals for Snowbirds!
Snowbird diSCoUnted MenU SeLeCtion at rusty Anchor bar & Grill
Located at Boardwalk Beach Resort Hotel & Convention Center
850-234-3484
BoardwalkBeachResort.com
9600 S Thomas dr. Panama city Beach, FL
Rusty Anchor & Grill will be featuring a 2-4-1 dining Special!
2 People Eat for Only $20!
14
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The theme for the 2015 Panama City BooksAlive festival is “Suffer and Grow Strong.”
The event will be staged Feb. 6-7 at the Panama City’s Florida State University campus
at 4750 Collegiate Dr., Panama City, Fl.
Keynote Speakers
BooksALIVE is presented by the Bay County
Public Library Foundation and the Northwest Regional
Library System, which services Bay, Gulf and Liberty
counties in Florida.
Keynote speakers are former standout NFL player
and college football coach Bill Curry and author of
“Ten Men You Meet In the Huddle: Lessons From a
Football Life” and his wife, Carolyn, author of “Suffer
and Grow Strong: The Life of Ella Gertrude Clanton
Thomas 1834-1907.”
Bill has practiced what he preaches. His mantra
is, “There are two pains in life – The Pain of Discipline
and the Pain of Regret – You choose.” In her work as a
Billy Curry
teacher, writer and founder of the non-profit Women
Alone Together, Carolyn shares Bill’s dedication to
perseverance and dedication to worthy endeavors.
Her new book, Suffer and Grow Strong: The Life of
Ella Gertrude Clanton Thomas 1834-1907, tells the
story of a Georgia woman who kept a diary before,
during and after the Civil War. She had to have that
grit and determination to survive the losses of the war
and thrive afterwards to be a leader in the fight for
women’s suffrage in Georgia.
Tickets for the keynote luncheon are $30. There
are dozens of authors and presentations. The schedule
is online at www.booksalive.net. Details: Bettina Mead
850-785-0912 or [email protected]
Carolyn Curry
OTHER LIBRARY NEWS
Jane Waters Little Free Library
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Must be 21. Official rules posted. Gambling Problem? Call 1-888-777-9696.
No need to fill up your travel bags with books because you’ll never know what you
might find on the shelf at the Jane Waters Little Free Library. Located at 1203 Ariola Drive
on Pensacola Beach, the library is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Named in honor
of Jane Waters, founder of the Islander Newspaper and the Krewe of Wrecks, who truly
believed if you can read, you can do anything.
Free Movies: Two area libraries offer free movies for Snowbirds.
Perdido Key: The Friends of the Southwest Branch Library will present “The Pink Panther”
at 6 p.m. Jan. 8 and “On Golden Pond” on Feb. 5.
Free popcorn and bottled water are provided compliments of The Friends of
the Southwest Branch Library. The library is located at 12248 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola,
FL. Details: 850-453-7780.
Destin: The Destin Library will host a free weekly Wednesday movie matinee for winter
visitors with the first set for 2 p.m. Jan. 7.
The film selections will feature new release DVD movies touted as this year’s Oscar
contenders. Seating will be limited to 30 on a first-come, first-serve basis.
For further details on film title on specific dates please contact the Destin Library at
850.837.8572.
15
Events
16
16
and JT have said their “I do’s” and Mary
Lee has left this world. She and Mama
Alma return to the realm of the living to
help her daughter and husband adjust
to Montgomery finding love again in
the person of Chelli, a vegetarian, exnun from New Jersey. All the favorite
characters return in this heartwarming
dramady. Details: 251-968-6721 or sbct.
biz/schedules-and-synopsis-2014/alert-andvertical.html
C ALENDAR
1/8
2015 Snowbird Roost, Perdido Bay
Community Center, 13660 Innerarity Point
Road, Perdido Key, FL. Lunch, Meet and
Greet, Club Sign-ups, $$$$ Off Coupons,
Perdido Goodie Bag, Local Vendors, Area
Info, Door Prizes, Live Music. Tickets must
be purchased in advance. Doors open 11
a.m.; Lunch 11:30 a.m. Details: 850-4924660.
2/16 Legendary crooner Tony Bennett will be in concert at the Marina Civic Center in Panama City Beach, Fla.
The show also features Bennett’s daughter, Antonia. This is a not-to-miss event. Find out more: www.hessentertainment.net
Tuesdays & Thursdays
City Trolley Tour, Pensacola Visitor
Information Center, 1401 East Gregory
St., Pensacola, FL. All aboard the
Snowbird Express for a narrated
tour of historic downtown Pensacola.
Tuesdays and Thursdays only.
Reservations are required as seating
is limited. Trolley departs 10 a.m. & 2
p.m. Details: 850-941-2876
Wednesdays
Winter Wednesdays, Bellingrath
Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath
Gardens Rd, Theodore, AL. Topics
include gardening, history and the
collections in the beautiful Bellingrath
Museum Home. 251-973-2217 or
http://www.bellingrath.org/
Thursdays
Seat Weaving Workshop, Heritage
Museum of Northwest Florida,
115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso, FL.
Participants will learn how to replace
the seats on their own chairs. Weaving
styles to be taught include the
classical cane open weave, closed
weave of fiber rush common on
ladder-back chairs and herringbone
pattern using flat or oval reed. Some
chairs and stools are available for
learning. The fee is $10 per day ($8 for
Museum Members), plus a one-time
$10 fee for materials & use of tools.
850-678-2615 or [email protected].
thru 2/5
Beaches, Creatures, and
Cowboys: Florida Movie Posters
T. T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State
Museum, 330 S Jefferson St,
Pensacola, FL. Tues. thru Sat. 10
a.m. - 4 p.m. The exhibit explores
Florida as the backdrop for major
motion pictures from Sci-Fi classics
to modern favorites. http://www.
historicpensacola.org
http://tallahasseeswing.com, info@
dixietheatre.com
thru 2/22
1/4
Harborwalk Concert Series The
free popular Snowbird concert series
returns this winter at the Harborwalk
Village, 66 Harbor Boulevard in
Destin. January performances
include: 11 – Shoreline Chuch; 18 –
Living Faith Church; 25 – Shoreline
Church. February 1 – Chuck Lawson;
8 – Coconut Radio; 15 – Flash Flood
and 22 – Soundstations Choir.
Dreamcatchers Vocal Studio will open
the show. Details: (850) 337-8500 or
www.emeraldgrande.com.
Snowbird Dance featuring DJ Jim
Lawson, Boardwalk Beach Resort
Hotel & Convention Center, 9600 S.
Thomas Dr., Panama City Beach, FL.
Details: 850-234-3484
1/6
Seniors Softball, Frank Brown Park,
16200 Panama City Beach Pkwy,
Panama City Beach, FL. Join us for a
55+ non-competitive afternoons of
Seniors Softball! Just bring your glove
and join in the fun! Seniors Softball
takes place every Wednesday at 1
p.m. at Frank Brown Park. Details:
850-238-0549
MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL
National Tour, Mattie Kelly Arts
Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville,
FL. Inspired by a hot flash and a
bottle of wine, MENOPAUSE THE
MUSICAL is a certified mega-hit about
four women at a lingerie sale with
nothing in common but a black lace
bra AND memory loss, hot flashes,
night sweats, not enough sex, too
much sex and more! The laughterfilled, 90-minute production is “the
perfect destination for a girls’ treat
out” according to the Baltimore Times
Herald. Details: (850) 729-6000 or toll
free 1-888-838-ARTS (2787) or online
at www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org.
1/1
1/7
thru 3/11
Polar Bear Dip Flora-Bama
Lounge,17401 Perdido Key Dr, Perdido
Key, FL 32507. We ring in the New
Year by taking a dip into the Gulf of
Mexico at high noon. The Flora-Bama
provides the traditional feast with
black-eyed peas, cornbread, ham and
more for those who take the plunge.
850-492-0611, www.florabama.com
1/3
Tallahassee Swing Band
Dixie Theatre - 21 Market Street
Apalachicola, Fl. Returning for their
second season at the Dixie Theatre,
this band wowed audiences when
they open the 2014 Season 17.
Bay Day at St. Joseph Bay Buffer
Preserve, 3915 State Road 30-A,
Port St. Joe, FL. Join us for this
wonderful bi-annual Shrimp Boil
and Open House! Enjoy live music,
take a free tour of the preserve,
dine on a local Shrimp Boil, learn
more about the Buffer Preserve and
more. (800) 229-1787 or http://www.
stjosephbaypreserves.org/
1/8, 9, 10
Alert and Vertical, South Baldwin
Community Theatre, 2022 West
2nd Street, Gulf Shores, AL. The
latest chapter in the Whitfield family
saga begins five years after Crystal
we are honored to have this incredible
musician grace the Dixie stage. www.
spencerbohren.com or http://www.
dixietheatre.com
1/12
Sister Act at Pensacola Saenger Theatre,
118 S. Palafox Pl., Pensacola, FL SISTER
ACT” is Broadways feel-amazing musical
comedy smash! The New York Post calls it
Ridiculously Fun, and audiences are jumping
to their feet in total agreement! Details:
www.pensacolasaenger.com
1/13
Sister Act at the Marina Civic Center,
7:30 p.m. 8 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL.
850-763-4696 or marinaciviccenter.com.
1/13
Winter Resident Homecoming Dance
and Social, Boardwalk Beach Resort Hotel
& Convention Center, 9600 S. Thomas Dr.,
Panama City Beach, FL. Don’t miss the
1/9
Pensacola’s 12th Night - Mardi Gras Kick Homecoming Dance & Social, featuring
Off, Downtown Pensacola, FL. The Historic entertainment provided by Todd Allen
Herendeen. Business Expo from 3-5 p.m.,
streets of Downtown will host Pensacola
and dinner will be served at 5 p.m. Details:
Mardi Gras Kick Off Celebration! FREE
850-233-5070. Tickets on sale starting Jan.
to everyone! Come join us and Celebrate
5 at 8 a.m. at the Visitor Information Center
the 2015 Mardi Gras Season along with
the Krewes; their King and Queens for the
upcoming season, King Cake*, and the town
1/13
crier. Details: 850-436-7638
“The Brothers Four,” Erie Meyer Civic
Center, 1930 W. 2nd Street, Gulf Shores,
1/9
Winter Resident Appreciation Day, 17001 AL. American folk revival pioneers, The
Brothers Four, kick off the Entertainment
Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City
Series with “An Evening With The Brothers
Beach, FL, 9-11 a.m.
Four.” With hits like “Try to Remember,”
1/10
“Greenfields,” and “Michael, Row the
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra
Boat Ashore,” their elegant harmonies
Beethoven & Blue Jeans, 8 p.m. Pensacola blend flawlessly with traditional folk
Saengar Theater. 118 S. Palafox St.,
instrumentation of the guitar, mandolin,
Pensacola, Fl Details: 850-595-3880 or
banjo and bass. Details: 251-968-1174 or
www.pensacolasymphony.com.
www.gulfshoresal.gov
1/10
Americana Music at the Lodge, Camp
Helen State Park, 23937 Panama City Beach
Pkwy., Panama City Beach, FL. 6:30-8 p.m.
This impressibe series of six indoor concerts
at Camp Helen’s historic log cabin style
lodge. Camp Helen presents Brian Smalley,
a singer/songwriter/guitarist with an
ability to turn original songs into “musical
novellas.”
1/10
Branson Show Camp. Barbara Fairchild
and Roy Morris, entertainers direct from
Branson, Mo., will put on two shows, 2
p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Fort Walton Beach
Civic Auditorium, 107 Miracle Strip Pkwy.
SW, Fort Walton Beach, Fl. Fairchild had
a number of hits in the 1970s and 80s
including the Grammy-nominated “Color
My World.” The married couple have
regularly performed gospel and country
in the Mel Tillis Show. The event is the
first of two Branson-style shows set to be
staged this winter with a second in February.
Tickets start at $15 for the afternoon show
and $17 evening. Details: 850-243-3809 or
[email protected].
1/10
Spencer Bohren-Dixie Theatre. After
traveling the Globe and playing such U.S.
venues at New Orleans Jazz Festival,
1/14
Snowbird Dance featuring DJ Jim
Lawson, Boardwalk Beach Resort Hotel &
Convention Center, 9600 S. Thomas Dr.,
Panama City Beach, FL. Details: 850-2343484
1/15
Snowbird Lecture Series presents: Gulf
State Park with naturalist Kelly Reetz.
Orange Beach Welcome Center, 23685
Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach,
AL. Kelly talks about the sea turtles and
shorebirds that are native to the Gulf Coast
region. Visit www.alapark.com/gulfstate for
more information.
1/16
Winter Guest Fest. Emerald Coast
Convention Center, 1250 Miracle Strip
Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.
The Winter Guest Fest is the area’s largest
and only Winter Guest tradeshow featuring
entertainment, food and fun. Over 2,000
Winter Guests attend each year. 8 a.m. - 1
p.m. Admission is $1. 244-8191 or visit
fwbchamber.org.
1/16-17
Oyster Cook-Off, Riverfront Park,
Downtown Apalachicola, FL
The 5th Annual Oyster Cook-Off to benefit
the Apalachicola Volunteer Fire Department
will be held on Saturday, Jan. 17. The Friday
evening event will be a preview of the oysterrelated silent auction items, along with a
sampling of the Apalachicola Bay’s tasty
bivalves 6-8 p.m. http://www.oystercookoff.
com/
1/16-18
PCA Rodeo Finals. MS Coast Coliseum,
2350 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, MS. More than
$250,000 in prize money is on the line
among Rodeo’s biggest superstars. www.
mscoastcoliseum.com. (800) 726-2781 or
(228) 594-3700
1/22
Sand Spurs Open House, PASARDA Hall,
17 Industrial Street, NW, Fort Walton Beach,
FL. The Sand Spurs Square Dance Club, in
affiliation with Northwest Florida Square and
Round Dance Association, is sponsoring two
free nights of introductory square and line
dancing. You’ll meet some wonderful folks,
hear some great, live, top 40’s music, and get
some exercise too!!! No partner required.
Details: 850-974-0091
1/17, 1/31
Traditional Basket Weaving, Saturdays,
Heritage Museum of Northwest FL, 115
Westview Ave., Valparaiso, FL. Learn a new
skill and create something uniquely yours.
Small Tote Basket, All supplies included.
Details: 850- 678-2615 or [email protected].
1/19
Snowbird Open House, Royal American
Beach Getaways, 9400 S. Thomas Dr.,
Panama City Beach, FL. Free Doughnuts,
Free Coffee plus Exclusive Discounted Rental
Deals by Royal American Beach Getaways.
Stop by our Welcome Center 2-4 p.m. and
explore hundreds of condo unit options at 16
different Panama City Beach condominiums.
Details: 800-224-4853
1/20
Bobby Hendricks’ Drifters with Danny &
The Juniors. Erie Meyer Civic Center, 1930
W. 2nd Street, Gulf Shores, AL. Jump back
to the fifties and sixties when songs held
meaning, music had rhythm and the singers
produced the greatest harmony on earth.
Take a stroll down memory lane with Bobby
Hendricks Drifters as they play “Save The
Last Dance For Me,” “Under The Boardwalk”
and “This Magic Moment,” and relive the
excitement of your youth while listening to
Danny and The Juniors perform “At The
Hop,” “Rock And Roll Is Here To Stay,” and
more. Details: 251-968-1174
1/20
Baldwin County Heritage Museum, Gulf
Shores Welcome Center, 3150 Gulf Shores
Parkway, Gulf Shores, A. Meet the folks
from Baldwin County Heritage Museum. To
preserve the culture of the farm communities
of early Baldwin County through the creation
of a home for historically significant buildings,
documents and artifacts from community life.
Details: 251-968-7511
continuous weave on a square loom from
Clara’s Loom. Award-winning Tran-seasonal
hand-woven wraps and scarves, where thirty
years of weaving experience and art merge in
wearable products. Details: 251-974-1510
1/27
The Gatlin Brothers, Erie Meyer Civic
Center, 1930 W. 2nd Street, Gulf Shores, AL.
One of country music’s most popular groups,
The Gatlin Brothers, takes the stage for a
special one-night-only performance. Over
50 years ago, Larry, Steve, and Rudy Gatlin
started singing in their little hometown of
Abilene, Texas, and from there went on to
make music history. Details: 251-968-1174.
1/27
Snowbird Fly-In, 9 a.m. National Naval
Aviation Musuem, Pensacola, Fl . Tour
the world-renowned museum and enjoy
discounts. Details: 800-327-5002 or www.
navalaviationmuseum.org
1/23
Brad Paisley with Parmalee and the
Swon Bros, Pensacola Bay Center, 201 East
Gregory St, Pensacola, FL. Country headliner
Brad Paisley is joined by The Swon Brothers
who made a name for themselves on Blake
Shelton’s team on The Voice and another
rising band, Parmalee. Details: http://www.
pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/bradpaisley
1/23
Winter Resident Appreciation Day, 17001
Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City
Beach, FL, 9-11 a.m.
1/23
Sinfonia Presents Seeing is Believing
featuring Tracy Silverman, Destiny Worship
Center, Miramar Beach, FL World-renowned
electric violinist Tracy Silverman and Sinfonia
perform the world premiere of the full
orchestra version of American composer
Nico Muhly’s “Seeing is Believing”. Additional
works on the program are W.A. Mozart’s
“Overture to the Marriage of Figaro,” from
the opera of the same name and the brilliant
orchestral suite from “The Firebird” by Igor
Stravinsky. Details: www.sinfoniagulfcoast.org
1/24
Americana Music at the Lodge, Camp
Helen State Park, 23937 Panama City Beach
Pkwy., Panama City Beach, FL. 6:30-8 p.m.
A series of six indoor concerts at Camp
Helen’s historic log cabin lodge. California
twosome Paul Kamm and Eleanore
1/21
MacDonald perform providing a complete
Snowbird Dance featuring DJ Jim Lawson, package in every sense. Beautiful lyrics,
Boardwalk Beach Resort Hotel & Convention infused with killer guitar and harmonies that
Center, 9600 S. Thomas Dr., Panama City
stir listeners, are their hallmark.
Beach, FL. Details: 850-234-3484
1/22 MIDTOWN MEN - National Tour,
17
1/24
Navarre Chamber’s Annual Health &
Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Business Expo, 9 a.m. – Noon at the Navarre
Niceville, FL. This sensational production is a Conference Center. Learn the many small
one-of-a-kind concert experience, with top- businesses, restaurants and health care and
shelf choreography, note-perfect harmonies lodging options available from Pensacola to
and dynamic onstage chemistry that includes Fort Walton Beach. Details: 850-939-3267.
all your favorite ‘60s classics by The Four
Seasons, The Beach Boys, Motown and much 1/26
more! Details: (850) 729-6000 or toll free
Clara’s Loom, Orange Beach Welcome
1-888-838-ARTS (2787)or online at www.
Center, 23685 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange
MattieKellyArtsCenter.org.
Beach, AL. Watch a demonstration on
1/28 & 29
Sterling Open House – Jan. 28 - Panama
City Beach; Jan. 29- Destin and 30A. Jan. 28
Laketown Wharf Open House Party, Panama
City Beach. Enjoy refreshments and take
vacation rental tours. Details: Sterling 888874-8593 or Laketown Wharf 877-684-1007.
1/29
Guys and Dolls, Saenger Theatre, 118 S.
Palafox Pl., Pensacola, FL. Set in Damon
Runyons mythical New York City, this oddball
romantic comedy considered by many to be
the perfect musical comedy soars with the
spirit of Broadway as it introduces us to a cast
of vivid characters who have become legends
in the canon. Details: 850-595-3882 or www.
pensacolasaenger.com
1/29, 30, 31, 2/1
10th Annual Girls Getaway, Rosemary
Beach activities, parties & more! (850) 231-7382
or rosemarybeachfoundation.org/girls-getaway
1/31
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Mozart
Madness, 8 p.m. Pensacola Saengar Theater.
118 S. Palafox St., Pensacola, Fl Details: 850595-3880 or www.pensacolasymphony.com
2/2
The Diamonds, Erie Meyer Civic Center,
1930 W. 2nd Street, Gulf Shores, AL. In 1957,
The Diamonds released an instant millionselling hit called “Little Darlin’.” This song
continues to sell worldwide and has been
dubbed “the National Anthem of Rock and
Roll.” With impeccable tight vocal harmonies,
snappy choreography, and remarkable
musicianship, The Diamonds entertaining
stage show is a non-stop nostalgic trip.
Details: 251-968-1174 or www.gulfshoresal.gov
2/15
Canada Day, The annual celebration of
Canadian Snowbirds who winter in the
Panama City, Fla. and surrounding areas has
been set for Feb. 15. Tickets will be on sale
from 9 a.m. – noon Feb. 4 in the lobby at the
Wyndham Bay Point Resort, 4114 Jan Cooley
Dr, Panama City Beach, Fla. Cost is $22
per person, cash only in U.S. funds. Tickets
are limited to 10 per person. All seating is
reserved. For details: CanadaDayPCB1@
gmail.com or call (850) 236-0624
18
If You Go
What: FWB Chamber Winter Guest Fest
When: Jan. 16, 8 a.m. - Noon
Where:Emerald Coast Conference Center
Details: www.fwbchamber.com or 850-244-8191
Fort Walton Beach Expo
Each year more than 2000 winter visitors trail through the Emerald Coast Conference
Center on Okaloosa Island in January for the Fort Walton Beach Chamber’s Winter Guest Fest.
Some have been coming to the area for years while others are relative newbies. Many have
never heard of Red Lyon – also known as the original Destin snowbird.
Lyon’s story is included in the new 144-page hard-bound coffee table book, “Okaloosa
County Memories,” which chronicles 100 years of Okaloosa County history. The book was
compiled by the staff at the Northwest Florida Daily News and it will be available to purchase
on-site or order at the Jan. 16 Winter Guest Fest.
We asked Daily News editor William Hatfield to tell us about “Okaloosa County
Memories.” He does so eloquently. Here is an excerpt:
From the days when there was not a single paved road in Okaloosa County, to when F-35
jet fighters first roared across the sky, “Okaloosa County Memories” presents the stories and
photos that tell us who we were, and how far we’ve come the past 100 years.
While the Daily News had many photos in its files, the vast majority were supplied by the
people who’ve lived here for decades and the organizations charged with protecting our history.
This book would not have been possible without all the community contributions.
While preparing the 144-page coffee table picture book for the county’s centennial in
2015, The Daily News pored over historical accounts of the area, talked to the descendants of
Okaloosa natives, and consulted our archives for stories about how the county has changed over
the last century.
We divided our findings into two lists focusing on the key events and people in our
county’s history. After much deliberation, we settled on The Ten — 10 moments that proved to
be turning points in the county’s past and 10 history makers who shaped our future.
One of those is Red Lyon. The original Destin snowbird. Here’s his story.
It’s only fitting that the man recognized as Destin’s first snowbird was a pilot.
After Ivan “Red” Lyon, who flew for TWA, was forced to fly the coop and retire at 51 due to
a heart problem, he and his wife, Virginia, flew south.
They left their home in Missouri behind for a new life in Florida, where they spent their first
winter season in Destin in 1973.
Leading a small group of retirees who had recently become Florida residents, Red
organized potluck dinners, card games and other activities.
“They made me president because I was the youngest one of the bunch,” recalled Red in a
1994 article in the Northwest Florida Daily News. “They kind of framed me. Our meeting room
wasn’t much bigger than this living room.”
By the winter of 1978, the club had more than 270 members, and the following year, it
incorporated, becoming the nonprofit Destin Snowbird Club still active today. Red died in April 1994.
Catch up with old friends… and meet new ones!
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19
Take a Class!
Each winter thousands of retirees descend on the
Gulf Coast looking to escape winter’s harsh weather.
Some stay for a month or a few weeks while
others spend six months or more. Many eventually
choose to become full-time residents.
And as the winter “Snowbird” population
has grown, area colleges have responded with
enhanced short-term and non-credit enrichment courses.
“Our temporary residents often take advantage of Continuing Education classes as a way
to meet new people and connect with the community,” said Frances Yeo, Pensacola State
College Leisure Learning Coordinator. “The relaxed atmosphere in our classes provides the
perfect place for participants to enjoy learning and getting to know each other. Taking a
class is another opportunity to socialize with those who share some of the same interests.”
Pensacola State’s five campuses include one north of I-10 in Milton, Fla., a south end Santa
Rosa County between Gulf Breeze and Navarre; a west-side Pensacola campus near Perdido
Key, and a Downtown Pensacola and a main campus in central Pensacola.
Dozens of non-credit courses are offered each semester and they range from Ball
Room Dance Refresher, Belly Dancing, Fitness, or Aquatics to leaning a new language,
special computer classes to special interest in creative writing, history and the arts such as
photography and interior design.
Northwest Florida State College offers a program called “Prime – or Positive Retirement
through Imaginative Education – Time.” These are recreation and leisure classes offered
to senior citizens. Classes range from art, lunch-and-learns, computers, history, Just for
Fun, food and entertainment.” Prime Time courses are offered at Northwest Florida State
College’s campuses in Niceville, South Walton, DeFuniak Springs and Crestview. Fees for the
classes vary, with most ranging from $25 to $40.
Gulf Coast State College in Panama City also offers courses that may be of interest to
snowbirds. Encore classes are held on six consecutive Fridays, beginning the third Friday in
January and concluding on the last Friday in February. Gulf Coast State College’s Education
Encore courses range from linguistics to history and photography to computer competency.
The cost for Education Encore classes range from $88 for courses taught at the Panama
City campus to $66 for the offerings at the Gulf/Franklin campus. Gulf Coast State College
Winter Enrichment classes include topics like jewelry making and using Facebook. Winter
Enrichment classes are free, with students paying only for supplies.
Faulkner State Community College in Baldwin County, Ala., also welcomes snowbirds
as students and instructors. Those courses are offered through Faulkner’s Center for
Professional Development, which offers a variety of classes between January and March
geared toward Snowbirds, including culinary classes, computer classes, and nutrition classes,
all on the Gulf Shores Campus.
It StIll ExIStS.
Small-town Florida isn’t our theme. It isn’t a look, a style or
a gimmick. Outside the fudge counter, the sidewalk leads to the
river and the river flows to the beach, the zoo and the biggest
fishing pier around. Call it the Canoe Capital of Florida. Call
it Gulf Islands National Seashore. We call it home, and we’re
willing to share.
www.navarrebeach.com
800.480.7263
FOR
MORE INFORMATION:
Pensacola State College: www.pensacolastate.edu/ce, 850-484-1797
Northwest Florida State College: www.nwfsc.edu or call (850) 729-6085
Gulf Coast State College: www.gulfcoast.edu/educationencore or (850) 872-3823
Faulkner State Community College: www.faulknerstate.edu or (251) 580-2271
The Navarre Snowbird Appreciation Social,
February 4th, 1-4pm • Hidden Creek Country Club, 3070 PGA Blvd
Fun, food, and door prizes • Navarre Business Crawl
20
Unsung Heroes
SNOWBIRDS GULF COAST
Every life has a story
Someone who gives back?
We are accepting nominations for unsung heroes
It could be a
Snowbird or
a local hero.
We want to hear
about them!
$10
Enter me to win 2 Nights in Biloxi
Name:
Phone:
E-mail:
Vist our website at www.snowbirdsgulfcoast.com where you can
fill out a form or email details to [email protected]
Destin, Ft. Walton, Mary Esther, Perdido Key
Navarre, Gulf Breeze, Pensacola
Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, Fairhope
Perdido Bay (Lillian), Spanish Fort
New subscribers to our E-newsletter receive first ride free
Casino Fun
21
1/17 Elton John Tribute
Rocket Man, Hollywood Casino, 711 Hollywood Blvd., Bay St.
Louis, MS. Details: 800-229-2683 or www.hollywoodbsl.com.
1/23 Rick Springfield
Beau Rivage Resort &Casino, 875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, MS. Actor
and musical performer. Tickets start at $24.95. Details: 888-5667469 or www.beaurivage.com.
1/23 Captain Fantastic
The Magic of Elton John, Hard Rock Casino, 8 p.m.
Hard Rock Casino 777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, Miss.
Tickets start at $9.99. Details: (877) 877-6256 or
(228) 374-7625 or www.hardrockbiloxi.com.
1/24 The MIDTOWN MEN
1/17 Don Williams
8 ap.m. IP Casino Resort & Spa, 850 Bayview Avenue, Biloxi ,
MS. A Country Music Hall of Fame member, Williams is known
as the “Gentle Giant” with dozens of country hits spanning three
decades. Details: (888) 946-2847 or www.ipbiloxi.com.
1/9 Foreigner
Hard Rock Casino, 8
p.m. Hard Rock Casino
777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi,
Miss. British American
rock band Tickets start at
$49.99. Details: (877) 8776256 or (228) 374-7625 or
www.hardrockbiloxi.com.
8 p.m. Golden Nugget Biloxi, MS. Four stars From
The Original Broadway Cast of Jersey Boys. They
took Broadway by storm in one of the biggest hits of
all-time and now they’re together again. This is their
fifth national tour bringing to life their favorite “Sixties
Hits” from The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Motown, The
Four Seasons and more. Tickets start at $30. Details:
800-745-3000.
1/30 Kathy Griffin
1/30 Merle Haggard
Beau Rivage Resort &Casino, 875
Beach Blvd., Biloxi, MS. Country
legend and songwriter. Tickets start
at $44.95. Details: 888-566-7469 or
www.beaurivage.com.
1/31 Fab Four Tribute Band
Hard Rock Casino, 8 p.m. Hard Rock Casino 777
Beach Blvd., Biloxi, Miss. Tickets start at $9.99.
Details: (877) 877-6256 or (228) 374-7625 or www.
hardrockbiloxi.com.
8 p.m. IP Casino Resort & Spa, 850 Bayview Avenue,
Biloxi , MS. Comedian known for her “Life on the D List”
brings her irreverent humor to the Gulf Coast. Tickets
start at $50. Details: (888) 946-2847 or www.ipbiloxi.com.
21525-PCR SnowBirdsJanuary_21525-PCR SnowBirdsJanuary 10/22/14 2:35 PM Page 1
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*Residents of Florida, Mississippi and Louisiana excluded. Present coupon to Player
Services with receipt for cash or credit card purchase of lunch or dinner buffet. Power
Play coupon must be redeemed on date of buffet purchase. No cash value. Players
Club membership required. Membership is free. Offer cannot be combined with any
other offer or promotion. Limit one coupon per month. Coupon valid for up to two
guests. Photocopies are not valid. Expires January 31, 2015.
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22
What’s
Cooking?
The Mary C. O’Keefe
Cultural Center in Ocean
Springs, Miss., has some
special guest chefs each
Thursday in January from
the Beau Rivage Resort &
Casino.
Known as “the Mary C”
- the popular Lunch & Learn
series is a fundraiser for the
expansive cultural center housed in a landmark 1927
public school building. The facility includes space for
creative arts, performances, classes and more.
Lunches are held in the Mary C. Culinary Arts
Café and feature a gourmet meal, interactive cooking
demonstration and take-home recipes. Lunch is from
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and costs $12 per person.
The January schedule includes: 8 – Beau Rivage
Pastry Chef Amanda Owen; 15 – Beau Rivage BR
Prime Chef James Balster; 22 – Beau Rivage Jia Chef
Robert Minor and 29 – Beau Rivage Coast Restaurant
Chef Sarah Cormier.
If you can’t make one of the Beau Rivage chef sessions, the
series is offered every Tuesday-Friday and guests, locals and
area foodies are connected with a great line-up of local culinary
experts for a lunchtime filled with cooking demonstrations,
lessons and conversation.
The Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center whose mission is to
inspire citizens to engage in arts, culture and education, while
serving as stewards of the located at 1600 Government Street in
Ocean Springs, Mississippi.
Space may be limited, so participants are encouraged to
make a reservation. Additional information about the classes can
be found on the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center website: http://
Farmers Markets
One of the advantages of a winter stay along the Gulf Coast is the opportunity to
purchase fresh farm goods, seafood and home-baked items at local farmers markets.
Here are a few:
Palafox Market: This popular market is located in an idyllic
downtown setting in Pensacola, Fla. The Palafox Market
spans three blocks on the main downtown thoroughfare,
Palafox St., between Garden and Wright streets. Farmers
display their fresh produce and fruit in season and sell farmraised beef, fresh eggs and baked goods from a variety
of vendors. Artisans occupy at least one block with handcrafted items on display from furniture to paintings, wind
chimes to nifty doggy wear. The market is rain or shine from
8 a.m. – 2 p.m. year-round. Details: www.palafoxmarket.com.
30A Farmers’ Market at Rosemary Beach: Town Center, Rosemary Beach, Fl. Open 1-4 p.m.
Sundays. Nestled on Scenic Highway 30-A the prettiest Farmers’ Market and gulf front
community around. Come enjoy the 30A Farmers’ Market and be transported to the West
Indies. Walk through the beautiful park like setting with shade trees, a pretty fountain,
cobblestone walkways and visit. Details: www.30afarmersmarket.com.
Seaside Farmer’s Market: Seaside Amphitheater, Santa Rosa Beach, FL . Get your pick of fresh
produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings during the
Seaside Farmers Market Saturday mornings. Find local specialties that will help sustain our
growers. Enjoy special cooking demos and activities sure to liven up your morning. 9 a.m.- 1
p.m. Details: www.seasidefl.com.
themaryc.org/Classes/Cafe.html
ALABAMA: Rouses Market has been in business since 1960
and has recently expanded into the Alabama Gulf Coast and
Mississippi Gulf Coast’s. This winter Rouses will sponsor two
Snowbird cooking classes each Friday at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. in
January and February at its Gulf Shores, Ala., location. Other
locations also offer scheduled cooking classes. Rouses features
many unique and self-branded items in its grocery and café with
flavors from Louisiana and the Gulf Coast. Looking for a recipe?
Rouses shares dozens at: www.rouses.com. For information on
cooking classes, call the Gulf Shores store at (251) 948-4715.
Grand Boulevard Farmers Market: Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach, FL Open Saturdays.
The market is located between Cantina Laredo and Tommy Bahama. The new outdoor
market will feature dozens of unique vendors offering locally sourced food items, such as
produce, eggs, milk, cream, butter, grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb, pork, local honey, pickled
vegetables, and gourmet jams. On the artisanal and green side, Grand Boulevard Farmers
Market will offer flowers,
herbs, soaps, and lotions.
www.grandboulevard.
com.
Grand Lagoon
Waterfront Farmers
Market: Named one of
the Top 10 Things to Do”
in Panama City Beach,
the Grand Lagoon
Waterfront Farmer’s Market recently relocated to the famed Captain Anderson’s Restaurant
parking lot where it has seen impressive growth.
Popular among the area’s local and Snowbird crowds, the market is open from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays. Details: Captain Anderson’s is located at 5551 North
Lagoon Drive, Panama City, Fla.. WaterfrontMarkets.org or 850-763-7359.
Coastal Alabama Farmer’s and Fisherman’s Market: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. The market is located at
20733 Miflin Road, Foley, Ala., on 32 acres near Wolf Bay Lodge restaurant on County Rd. 20
between Hwy. 59 and The Foley beach Expressway. Details: [email protected]
or 251.943.1545 (ask for Heather).
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24
Chautauqua
“Houston, we’ve had a problem”
Those are the famous words heard around
the world in 1970 when three American astronauts suddenly became stranded close
to the moon. Television viewers around
the world were transfixed to their television screens for days as the dramatic news
unfolded about the three men who may
never come home. However, with the ingenuity of
scientists on the ground and the bravery
and hard work of the three men in space,
a catastrophe was avoided and all three astronauts made it home. One
of them to tell the story first hand is Apollo 13 Astronaut Fred Haise, the
featured keynote speaker of the 2015 Florida Chautauqua Assembly. The 2015 Florida Chautauqua Assembly is a 4-day educational program
for families themed “A Journey into the World of Transportation: From
the River to the Rocket.” The event begins Jan. 22, with tours of the
original campus of the Florida Chautauqua Assembly (1885-1927) and a
Welcome Party to greet many others attending this historic event. The
second day begins early with the featured keynote presentation by Astronaut Fred Haise followed by educational breakout sessions on various
transportation topics throughout the day. For those who enjoy the mix of “edu-tainment,” performance teas
are available to attend where actress Joanna Maddox will interpret
If You Go
What: When: Where: Details: Chautauqua Assembly 2015
Jan. 22-25
DeFuniak Springs, Fl.
850-892-7613
the first black female pilot Bessie Coleman, Rosa
Parks, and the first black female astronaut Dr. Mae
Jamison. The day ends with an evening dinner
performance. The third day (Saturday) begins with a keynote
presentation by Archivist Andrew Beckman of the
National Studebaker Museum in South Bend, Indiana
followed by more breakout sessions, performance
teas and another wonderful evening dinner performance. There is an option on Saturday of a special daylong excursion by motor coach to the National Naval
Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida. Guided tours will be provided by
the museum’s team along with passes to the IMAX theater presentation. Lunch will be provided, and the motor coach will return to DeFuniak
Springs in time for a wine social with area artists and Saturday’s evening
dinner performance. Sunday is the time to enjoy the many free living history exhibits in the
DeFuniak Springs Lake Yard and to watch a Civil War battle performed
by the Walton Guard. Exhibits include: Civil War Camp, Florida Frontiersmen Settlement Camp, Tin Can Campers Antique RV and Camper Show,
Muscogee Indian Camp, Florida Forest Service, Emerald Coast Wildlife
Refuge, Studebaker Corral, Chautauqua Cruisers Antique Car Show.
Florida Chautauqua History Exhibit. Plein Air Paint-Out & Art Sale, Student
Museum Exhibit on the History of Travel, Porcelain Art Show and more.
Florida’s
Historic
Chautauqua
The original
Florida Chautauqua
Assembly was spearheaded by leaders of the Chautauqua Assembly of Chautauqua,
New York who wanted to expand
their multi-week program in New
York to include a winter program
in a warmer climate. They opened
the Florida Chautauqua Winter
Assembly on February 10, 1885
in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. The
assembly thrived until 1920 when
the Florida Chautauqua, ended its
long and successful run.
In 1993, an organization was
formed for the sole purpose of
reviving, promoting, and sustaining the original Florida Chautauqua
Assembly. In 1996, after a hiatus
of more than 75 years, organizers
officially brought back the Assembly. Much like the original Assembly, the program includes history,
health, art, and current events
along with entertainment from
performers across the country and
throughout the world.
Look What’s Cooking At ROUSES Right Now!
Free Snowbird Series Cooking Classes with Rouses chef nino
Full Service Grocery Store Fully Stocked & Ready to Serve
• Café Dining open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Free Snowbird Series Cooking Classes with Rouses
Chef Nino every Friday in January at 10am & 3pm
•
Rouses Chef Nino
Sign up at rouses.com to receive our exclusive emails.
We’ve been baking real Louisiana king cakes for
over 55 years. Our bakers start with our exclusive
gourmet cinnamon dough — it’s a Rouses original
— and hand decorate every king cake we sell.
King cakes are a local tradition
that’s meant to be shared.
KING CAKE HOTLINE: 1-800-688-5998
Order Online at www.rouses.com
We ship anywhere in the continental U.S.
1545 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL • (251) 948-4715 • STORE HOURS: 7am-10pm
Stay in Touch with Rouses
•
@RousesMarkets • facebook.com/rousesmarkets • #rouses • www.rouses.com
Snowbirds Fundraisers
Just how much fun can you have and still raise money for good causes in
the region? Plenty! Snowbirds have formed their own fundraisers or joined
with various organizations to help support causes and organizations in their
winter communities. Here are some highlights:
ALABAMA
Missouri Trivia Night: Each year the Missouri Club
has staged an annual “Trivia Night” – a popular
fundraiser in the “Show Me State.”
Known for its fun format, teams of eight
decorate their own table “tailgate” and furnish
their own food and drink. The event has helped
raised well over $60,000 in the past eight years,
including $12,000 in 2014.
Date for this year is Feb. 21 at the Orange
Beach Event Center at The Wharf which can
accommodate about 100 tables that are
expected to sell out.
Doors open at 5 p.m. and Trivia begins at 6
p.m. Teams of eight are $120 per table. The event includes Snowbirds and community
members alike. Proceeds are donated to
Alabama Gulf Coast libraries and other local
charities. Information: 314-609-0275 or www.
mosnowbirds.org.
Bratfest: The date for the annual Bratfest has
been set for Feb. 7. Eleven Alabama-area state
Snowbird clubs participate in the event staged
at the Gulf Shores Adult Activity Center. Club
members begin cooking the brats early in the
morning and serving at 10:30 a.m. The brats are
served with all the fixings including homemade
sauerkraut. Proceeds are donated to area fire
stations.
Eight-Pin Bowling Tournament: Date has
been set for Feb. 10 at the Gulf Bowl in Foley.
The event benefits the Baldwin County Heritage Museum.
Pancake Breakast: This year you can take your sweetheart out to breakfast and help raise
money for the Gulf Shores Fire Department. A pancake breakfast is 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. Feb. 14 at
the Erie Meyer Civic Center.
Low Country Boil: The date for the annual Low Country Boil is Feb. 20. The event is a
fundraiser for the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
FLORIDA
FWB Club Crafters: A crafting group meets at 9 a.m. on Mondays during the Snowbird season
at the Islander Condominiums on Okaloosa Island, Fla.
More than 1000 items were made by some 80 Snowbird crafters in 2014. These were
donated to various groups including FWB Medical Center, Healthy Start. Emerald Coast
Advocacy Center, Sharing & Caring and the Emerald Coast Cancer Center. Details: 850-2189241 www.fwbsbc.com
Destin Golf and Music: The date for the Jack Kline and Lise Walsh Memorial Golf Tournament
is Feb. 26 at Bluewater Bay Country Club. Proceeds are donated to the American Cancer
Society in honor of Kline, Walsh and others who have other who have battled the disease.
Details: Mike Krueger 708-822-5137.
Destin Snowbirds also participate in the Northwest Florida State College “Soundstations
Showchoir” Benefit Concert set for 2 p.m. Feb. 15. Tickets are $10 and proceeds are donated
to NWFSC ensemble scholarships. Details: www.destinsnowbirds.org.
Walton County: Snowbirds will hold a 50-50 raffle at each meeting to raise money for its
annual scholarship donated to a local high school student.
25
26
Is it an old-fashioned cold,
flu or a sinus infection?
Doctors are saying that this year’s flu vaccines isn’t working so many people –
particularly those with compromised immune systems from diabetes or heart problems
and other ailments – have to be particularly diligent.
Prevention is difficult unless you limit contact with people this winter - never eat out,
socialize with friends or shop at a local store, but how much fun would that be?
Flu symptoms often mimic cold symptoms with nasal congestion, cough, aches,
and malaise. But a common cold rarely has symptoms of fever above 101 degrees. With
flu symptoms, you will probably have a fever initially with the flu virus and you will feel
miserable. Body and muscle aches are also more common with the flu. Cold sufferers
typically have a runny nose for two to three days, followed by a stuffy nose for two to
three days. After that, most people begin to feel better. A sinus infection will hang around
for seven days or more.
Colds generally produce clear mucus while bacterial infections can produce greenish
or yellow mucus.
Sinus infection treatment includes drinking lots of fluids, breathing steam, and
irrigating the sinuses with saline spray or a neti pot, a container used to rinse the sinuses
with saline solution.
If the infection lingers a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic as a precautionary
measure against meningitis.
Sources: Health.com and HealthMd.com
National Naval Aviation Museum
“Snowbird Expo” – January 27 at 9 a.m.
Snowbirds are invited to visit the museum and enjoy special
offers on museum attractions.
Glenn Miller Orchestra Concert – February 5 at 7 p.m.
Tickets on sale now at www.navalaviationmuseum.org/GlennMiller.
continuingEDUCATION
Recreation and Leisure Courses for Adults and Children
Breakfast and a Movie – $8.00 per person
Watch a classic film on the IMAX® Giant Screen while
enjoying a light breakfast. Movies start at 9 a.m.
and doors open at 8 a.m. for the first 500 visitors.
Feb. 3rd
Feb. 17th
Feb. 10th
Feb. 24th
OPEN 9–5 DAILY ON NAVAL AIR STATION PENSACOLA • FREE MUSEUM ADMISSION
850-453-NAVY • 800-327-5002 • NavalAviationMuseum.org
Have FUN!
LEARN
something new!
facebook.com/NavalAviationMuseum
Pensacola State College
offers Recreation
and Leisure courses
in a variety of locations.
850-484-1797
pensacolastate.edu/ce
Registration open
for new classes
4553_Snowbirds_Holiday.indd 3
Pensacola State College does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, color,
gender/sex, age, religion, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or genetic information in its educational programs,
activities or employment. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Associate Vice President of
Institutional Diversity at 850-484-1759, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola, Florida 32504.
11/14/14 10:20 AM
New
Snowbird Events
Several new Snowbird-oriented events have been developed for the
2015 season. Most are open to Snowbirds from across the region.
NAVARRE SOCIAL AND CLUB: Business leaders are forming a Snowbird club to help give
winter visitors a place to connect and meet.
A Snowbird Appreciation Social is 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Feb. 4 at Hidden Creek Golf Club, 3070
PGA Blvd. Navarre, Fl. The event will features light refreshments, prizes and the unveiling of
the Navarre Business Crawl. Snowbirds are encouraged to give feedback on the formation
of a club. The event is a collaboration between the Santa Rosa County Tourist Development
Council and Hidden Creek. Details: Susan Poggione 850-939-8666 or TJ Goulet, Hidden
Creek 850-939-4604.
OKALOOSA ISLAND DANCE: The Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council is
presenting The Island Dance Party, 6 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Emerald Coast Conference Center,
1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Okaloosa Island, Fl. The event includes music from the 50s,
60s, 70s and 80s, food and refreshments. Event proceeds will be donated to the Special
Operation Warrior Foundation. Tickets are $10 person or buy four and get one free. Details:
850-243-2266 or www.islanddanceparty.com.
PENSACOLA BEACH BASH: A Snowbird Beach Bash will be staged Jan. 29 at the
Pensacola Beach Community Church, 920 Panferio Dr., Pensacola Beach, Fla. Coffee and
a light breakfast will be served from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. with local businesses on hand to
provide information followed by free beach trolley tours of area attractions. The event
is sponsored by the Santa Rosa Island Authority and the Pensacola Beach Chamber of
Commerce. Details: 850-932-1500 or 850-932-2257
Returning upcoming events include:
SNOWBIRD FEST: The 2015 Snowbird Fest is 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Orange Beach
Event Center in Orange Beach, Al. Details: 800-123-4567
ALABAMA LIFESTYLE EXPO, 8 p.m. Feb. 5. at The Caribe Resort in Orange Beach, Ala.
Details: www.alabamadvantage.com
CANADA DAY, tickets for the annual Canada Day set for Feb. 15 in Panama City are on sale
9 a.m.- Noon Feb. 4 at the Wyndham Bay Point Resort, which is hosting the event. Tickets
are $22. Details: [email protected] or call (850) 236-0624
27
Missing a little bit of home?
Looking for some action?
Come experience the excitement of Pensacola Ice Flyers Hockey!
Tickets start
at only
$
10
www.pensacolaiceflyers.com
or call 850-466-3111 for more information.
Home Dates: Jan 9,10,16,17,18,30
Pensacola Beachfront
Great Winter Rates at Your Place Under the Sun
16 Via DeLuna
850-934-3300
daysinnpensacolabeach.com
For reservations, call:
800-934-3301
Marta Ray, Director of Sales, ext. 604
Days Inn Pensacola Beachfront is offering
a discounted winter rate for Snowbirds!*
• Reserve your room from November 1, 2014 until February 6, 2015
• Inland room, $395.00 weekly rate (plus 14.3% tax)
• Beach/Gulf front room, $535.00 weekly rate (plus 14.3% tax)
• Includes complimentary breakfast
*Some restrictions apply
28
Mardi Gras Celebrations!
It doesn’t take long to realize that the northern Gulf Coast is Mardi Gras central.
Mardi Gras in New Orleans: The biggest celebration happens in nearby New
Orleans, La., and each year Good Time Tours offer special one-day trips to the Big Easy.
This year’s dates are Feb. 7, 8, 14 and 15.
The cost is $50. The bus has various departure points. The Pensacola terminal
departure is 6:30 a.m. with a return departure of 6 p.m.
Details: www.goodtimetours.com or 850-476-0046.
Mardi Gras on the Island: One of the earliest parades in the beach communities
is on Okaloosa Island, Fla. The Abita Mardi Gras on the Island is set for 1 p.m. Jan.
17. Local clubs and businesses sponsor floats and walkers – parade goers add to their
festive collections of beads. There will be after parties at the Boardwalk and Helen Back
restaurant. Details: 850-244-8191 or www.fwbchamber.org.
Mall Ball: One way to enjoy the fancy side of Mardi Gras – especially when you don’t
belong to a Krewe is the don your finest gowns and tuxedos for the annual
Sacred Heart Mall Ball. The event is Jan. 24 at Cordova Mall in Pensacola,
Fla.
This annual party is held by the Krewe of Les Petits Enfants (the Order
of the Small Children) to benefit the sick and injured children and infants at
The Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart in Pensacola.
The event features six live bands, food from area restaurants, a New
Orleans-style French Market and more. Tickets are $50 per person. Details:
www.sacred-heart.org/mallball
1/9 Pensacola’s 12th Night - Mardi Gras Kick Off, Downtown Pensacola, FL. The
Historic streets of Downtown will host Pensacola Mardi Gras Kick Off Celebration! Free.
Come join us and Celebrate the 2015 Mardi Gras Season along with the Krewes; their
King and Queens for the upcoming season, King Cake*, and the town crier. Details: 850436-7638
1/17 and 1/24 Dauphin Island, Al - Two January parades including Jan. 17 Krewe de
la Dauphine and Jan. 24 Island Mystics. Both parades start at 1 p.m.
Full Mardi Gras schedule will be in our February edition!
Where Snowbirds go to Get Comfortable
From spacious suites with full kitchens to the rich, warm décor, Staybridge Suites® hotels offer all the comforts you need.
Start every day with our complimentary hot breakfast buffet. Then unwind at our complimentary Social Reception every Monday,
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening where we serve light dinner, beer, wine, and sodas. You can always stop by our
onsite convenience store for an easy-to-prepare meal, work out in our fitness center or use our complimentary laundry facility.
Enjoy an evening outside in our outdoor living area while keeping warm next to the fireplace. Catch up with friends in the
library or enjoy activities provided by the hotel. Best of all while you are out enjoying your day let us tidy up the place with our
complimentary housekeeping services. We’re conveniently located near hospitals and medical facilities, so you’re always right
where you need to be. Plus, enjoy the company of your pet just like at home, with our pet-friendly accommodations.
That makes an extended stay an extended pleasure.
staygulfshoresal.com
251.975.1030
3947 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Studio, One-Bedroom
and Two-Bedroom
Suites Available*
n Fully equipped kitchens
with refrigerator,
microwave, stovetop
and dishwasher
n Separate spacious
living and work areas
n Expanded cable TV
and more movie
entertainment options
n Free wireless Internet
n Speaker phones
n Free local calls
n Pet-friendly
accommodations**
* Suite types vary by hotel
** Contact hotels for pet deposit and fee information
29
Winter Sports Roundup
THE PERDIDO BAY GOLF
CLUB: once again features the
Snowbird Appreciation Days this
winter.
Dates are Jan. 10, Jan. 31
and Feb. 21. Golfers are invited
to enjoy 18-holes with free golf
cart, balls and lunch at Legend’s
Bar & Grille. The cost is $43,
including tax.
The public course was once
home to the Pensacola Open
Golf Tournament for 10 years.
Many golf legends from Jack Nicklaus, Tom Kite and Payne Stewart have played there.
Details: 850-492-1553 or www.perdidbaygolf.com.
BUBBA GOLF: Two-time
Masters Champion Bubba
Watson returned to his
hometown of Bagdad, Fla.,
last spring wearing the spoils
of his win – the signature
green jacket.
Watson visited several
schools in the area where he
Milestone
interacted with the kids and made sizable
donations. He also donated a golf bag, towel
and other memorabilia to the Bagdad Village
Historical Museum. The museum is housed
in an historic church in the small community
north of I-10 near Milton, Fla. The museum is
located at 4512 Church Street, Bagdad, Fla.,
Tuesdays 9 a.m. to Noon and first Saturday 9
a.m. to Noon. Details: 850-983-3005
PICKLEBALL: Snowbirds are invited to join
a new Pickleball group that launched at
Shoreline Park in Gulf Breeze, Fla.
The informal group plays from 9 a.m. – 11
a.m. on Wednesday mornings. Players mix
and match rotating in and out on two indoor
courts made available by the City of Gulf
Breeze Recreation Department.
Many of the players are new to the game
which is played with a paddle racquet on a
badminton-sized court. Some have tennis
experience.
There is no cost to play. Details: Victoria
Mullet 850-346-5827.
Pace
Crestview
Niceville
Pensacola
Tiger Point
Perdido
Destin
Say “Snowbird” Discount!
Up to 20% off services thru 3/1/2015
Sign up for our new
e-newsletter, Seasons,
to stay up-to-date
year-round!
www.shuttergig.com
Capturing your Special Moments
Joe Culpepper 850.572.4663 [email protected]
Be the first receive Snowbirds Gulf Coast in full pdf before it hits the streets!
Also, keep up to date digitally year-round on activities and events that are
offered in other “Seasons.” Discover area Snowbird-friendly communities.
Thinking to retire on the coast? Learn more about quality of life, taxes,
health care, volunteer opportunities and continuing education courses.
Seasons also features side destinations, tips on planning vacation destination
family reunions, beach weddings for all ages, waterfront dining options, Gulf
Coast recipes and more.
Don’t forget to also “Like” us on Facebook!
PRINT MAGAZINE
Services at 10:00 a.m.
Sunday school 8:30 a.m.
Free Snowbird
Pancake Breakfast Jan. 10
E-NEWSLETTER
Trivia Night Jan. 23
Fellowship Hall Available for rental
SNOWBIRD
Marketplace
Give a warm Snowbird welcome . Call for our media kit: 850-291-1266
Snowbirds Gulf Coast saturates this market
from the panhandle of Florida to the Alabama Gulf Coast!
WEBSITE
Give a warm Snowbird welcome . Call for our media kit: 850-291-1266
Holley Hill Pottery & Art Studio
RV and Van For Sale
Showroom open
by appointment.
Groups welcome.
1999 Holiday
Rambler and
1998 Toyota Van
$20,000 for both!
State Rd. 87 and
Buckeye Dr.
Navarre, FL
850-939-2744 or www.holleyhillpottery.com
FIRE SIGN
JEWELRY
One-of-a-Kind and
Custom Pieces.
Natural gemstones
and Swarovski
crystals
Locations from Orange
Beach to Pensacola Beach
850-723-0427 or find us on Facebook
Gently Used. Never Smoked In! David/850-324-3319
Winter RENTAL Available NOW!
2 bdrm, 2 bath
2-car enclosed
garage.
$1850 per mo.
plus sales tax &
cleaning fee.
850-291-0722
1214 Via DeLuna Drive, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Advertisers - send an email to [email protected] to find
out about our integrated marketing packages through print, online, social
and email. Snowbirds are active retirees who bring family and friends to the
area throughout the year. Extend your reach year-round!
Details:
Email: [email protected]
or call us at 850-291-1266.
Our Network of Care
Niceville
6 1
7 9
Navarre
Fort Walton Beach
4
2
8
Santa Rosa Beach
5
Destin
Panama City
11
3 12
10 13
Panama City Beach
1
1000 Mar-Walt Drive • Fort Walton Beach
(850) 862-1111 • www.FWBMC.com
A full-service hospital offering 24/7 Adult
and Pediatric ERs and Express ER 10AM
to 10PM.
2 2190 Highway 85 North • Niceville
(850) 678-4131 • www.TCHospital.com
An acute care hospital offering the area’s only
Certified Spine Surgery Program and the first
Certified Orthopedic Joint Replacement Program,
all private rooms, and 24/7 emergency services.
4 Niceville Family Practice
4400 Highway 20 East, Suite 201 • Niceville
(850) 897-3678 • Family Practice • Same day appointments
available. Staffed by physicians Mon–Fri 8AM to 5PM.
5
Destin Emergency Care Center
996 Airport Road • Destin
(850) 837-9194 • 24/7 Emergency Care
Free blood pressure checks on Tuesdays from 1PM to 3PM
January through March.
6 Northwest Florida Heart Institute
1032 Mar-Walt Dr, Suite 230 • Fort Walton Beach
(850) 862-3194 • Cardiovascular Surgery
7 Northwest Florida Orthopedics
341 Racetrack Road NW, Ste. B • Fort Walton Beach
(850) 862-BONE (2663) • Accepting new patients
8 The Rehabilitation Institute of
Northwest Florida
9
3 449 W. 23rd Street • Panama City
(850)-769-8341 • www.GCMC-PC.com
The area’s largest Pediatric specialty unit,
Nationally Accredited Breast Center, Certified
Primary Stroke Center, accredited Chest Pain
Center, and 24/7 emergency services.
Florida Institute of Neuroscience
1032 Mar-Walt Dr, Suite 250 • Fort Walton Beach
(850) 863-3463 • Neurosurgery
10 Seawind Medical Clinic
4121 W Highway 98, Panama City
Same-day appointments; walk-ins welcome
(850) 872-9701 • Family Practice
11 Seawind Medical Clinic
16181 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach
Same-day appointments; walk-ins welcome
(850) 249-1000 • Family Practice
12 Gulf Coast Cardiology
2202 State Avenue, Suite 303, Panama City
(850) 872-3939 • Cardiovascular Surgery
13 Gulf Coast Pediatric & General Surgery
2202 State Avenue, Panama City
(850) 784-1856 • Pediatric and General Surgery
996 Airport Road • Destin
(850) 863-7651• Inpatient Rehabilitation
iTriage provides access to medical information on over 300 symptoms, profiles of local doctors and more from your computer or
web-enabled smart phone. You may download iTriage free from the iTunes® App store, Google Play,® or visit www.iTriageHealth.com.
A Community Service of Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, Twin Cities Hospital, and Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center.
Text “ER” to 23000 for Average ER Wait Times*
*Wait defined as arrival time until seen by a qualified medical professional.
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