COMMUNITY CALENDAR May 18

All area codes are 850 unless noted.

Destin City Hall

All City Council meetings, workshops, executive sessions and CRA Board meetings are held at the City Hall Annex, 4100 Indian Bayou Trail. All other board and committee meetings are held at City Hall, 4200 Indian Bayou Trail.

City Council, 6 p.m. May 20

Special Magistrate Hearing, 5:30 p.m. May 21

Destin Youth Council, 4 p.m. May 22

Memorial Day, closed May 27

Parks and Recreation, 4 p.m. May 28

Open House

The US Coast Guard Station at Destin will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 18 to kick off National Safe Boating Week. Hosted by the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Station Destin is located on the west side of the Marler Bridge near Crab Island.

Meditation Class

Learn how to meditate at a free class about meditation and self-realization using the method of Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi at the Destin Library conference room at 10 a.m. May 18.

Love All Tennis Tournament

Food for Thought announces the return of the Love All Tennis event from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 18 at Rosemary Beach Racquet Club. The tournament will host 24 doubles teams. All proceeds will benefit the FFT programs to help fight childhood hunger in your community. Players this year will also enjoy an event T-shirt, swag bag, lunch provided by Chiringo, beef and Mimosa, silent auction and cocktail hour following the tournament. Register at https://fftfl.org/.

Symposium

American Business Women’s Association Emerald Coast Chapter presents the Third Annual Women Empowering Women Symposium from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 18 at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. Attendees will have access to an extensive local job board, several opportunities to shop the expo, not to mention several chance drawings for top notch items. A light breakfast, hearty lunch and coffee/tea/water break will be provided. Tickets are available at http://www.abwa-ecc.org/women-empowering-women/.

Seminar

Strategic Proposal Development: Cost Buildup Simplified for Small Contractors is offered from 1-4 p.m. May 21 at Greater Pensacola Chamber, 890 S Palafox St, Ste 202. This seminar is designed for small contractors to understand actual costs and indirect rates. No fee, but pre-registration is requested at www.sbdc.uwf.edu “Training & Events” or call 474-2528.

Starting a Business

The Florida SBDC at UWF offers the “Starting a Business” workshop from 5:30-9:30 p.m. May 23 at Pensacola Chamber, 890 S Palafox, Ste. 202. Attendance fee is $50 (required, non-refundable online payment). Register at www.sbdc.uwf.edu and click on “Training & Events."

Republican Party

The Okaloosa County Republican Party will meet at 6 p.m. May 23 at American Legion Post 235, 105 Hollywood Blvd. SW in Fort Walton Beach. Guest speaker will be State Representative Mike Hill from Pensacola. Cost of dinner is $15. Make reservations by email at nathanlepper@yahoo.com.

Silver Sands Gift with Purchase Promotion

In celebration of warmer weather, Silver Sands Premium Outlets is offering a special Gift With Purchase throughout May. From May 1-31, fashionistas and families stocking up on the latest spring trends who purchase $200 worth of American Express Simon Giftcards at the Information Center will receive a free $25 Columbia Sportswear gift card.

Democratic Women’s Club

Two icons of the Tallahassee lobbying scene, Karen Woodall and Barbara DeVane, will be the guest speakers at the May 23 meeting of the Democratic Women’s Club of Okaloosa County. The meeting is open to all Democrats and will be held at noon at the Niceville City Hall Chambers, 208 Partin Drive N. Reservations must be made by May 20 and lunch is available for $12. For reservations call or text 862-0416.

Embroiderers' Guild

The Sand Dunes Chapter of Embroiderers' Guild of America will have a luncheon and stitch-in from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 25 in the Parish Hall (rear parking lot) in the Religious Education building, Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 1200 Valparaiso Blvd. in Niceville. Visitors are welcome. Call 496-3466.

Memorial Day

American Legion Post 296 Destin will conduct a service for Memorial Day at 11 a.m. May 27 at the Destin Memorial Cemetery. Refreshments will be available at the post at 311 Main Street after the short service. The public and media are welcome.

Memorial Day Ceremony at Beal Memorial Cemetery

The Veterans Tribute Tower Committee will host the Annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Beal Memorial Cemetery at 10 a.m. May 27. Guest speaker for this year’s ceremony is Colonel Patrick Colloton, commander of the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Eglin, AFB. During the traditional salute to our veterans and fallen comrades, guests and organizations are invited to place a fresh flower in the Community Wreath at the base of the flagpole, and render appropriate honors. The inclement weather site for the ceremony will be The America Legion Post 235, 105 Hollywood Blvd. For more information, contact Tom Rice at 850-302-0266 or by email at magnoliafgrillfwb@gmail.com.

ECPRO Lunch and Learn

The Emerald Coast Public Relations Organization (ECPRO) will meet from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 28 at AJ’s on the Bayou, 200 Eglin Parkway NE, in Fort Walton Beach. New member Bob Pinard, media consultant with Cox Media, will discuss digital marketing capabilities today and what will be coming in the future. Lunch is $15/members, $20/associates of members, $25/non-members and $10/students. Program only is $10. Guests are always welcome.

RWOF Bunco Party

The Republican Women of Okaloosa Federated (RWOF) will host a Spring Bunco Party to raise funds for its outreach programs. No previous Bunco experience is necessary. Party starts at 6 p.m. May 30 at the American Legion Hall, 105 NW Hollywood Blvd. in Fort Walton Beach. Tickets are $25 and includes food, fun and prizes. There will also be an auction of fun items.

Summer Food Service Program

Nutritionally balanced meals will be available at Destin Elementary from 7:15-8:15 a.m. for breakfast and 11 a.m. to noon lunch June 3-July 26 for children regardless of race, color, sex, disability, age or national origin during summer vacation when school breakfasts and lunches are not available. All children 18 years old and younger are eligible for meals at no charge. The programs are only approved for geographical areas of need where 50 percent or more of the children qualify for free and reduced-price meals during the school year.

Candidate University

Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections will hold Candidate University June 11and June 13 for anyone interested in running for public office or wanting to learn about the candidate process. Two sessions are available: 9 a.m. to noon June 11 in Crestview at the Supervisor of Elections Headquarters, and 6-9 p.m. June 13 at the Okaloosa County Administration Building in Shalimar. Contact Katie Fults at 689-5600 or kfults@myokaloosa.com to register. The registration deadline is June 7 by 5 p.m.

Genealogical Society

The Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County (GSOC) will hold a Beginner DNA Workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. June 11 and 18 at the Niceville Library. Did you get your DNA test results back, but do not know what to do with them? This lecture and hands-on workshop will help you to better understand your DNA results and how to use them to get started on your family history. Bring your computer and questions. Call the Niceville Library at 850-279-6436 to reserve your seat.

Flag Day

American Legion Post 296 Destin will conduct a flag retirement at 9 a.m. June 14 at the post. This is an opportunity for all Americans to share in the respectful retiring of Old Glory. The public and media are encouraged to attend. The Sons of the American Legion Squadron 296 is hosting a raffle for a $10 donation. A Browning BPS 410 pump 26-inch barrel shotgun will be won.

McCaskill & Company

McCaskill & Company hosts Konstantino Trunk Show from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. June 15 in the Destin gallery, 13390 US Hwy. 98 W. Designed and made in Greece, each sterling and 18K gold piece is inspired by the art, architecture, mythology and people of Greece fused through the creative genius of Konstantino Sioulas. Call 650–2262.

• June 26- July 6: Marco Bicego Italian Takeover

Handcrafted by skilled artisans in Italy, each piece of Marco Bicego jewelry combines old world tradition with contemporary design. This designer is known for his unique “guitar string” coils, dynamic use of colored gemstones and hand-engraving. The seven-day trunk show will feature the best of the best from Bicego’s collections centered around beautiful Italian gold.

• Aug. 24: Diamond Expo

The community is invited to McCaskill & Company for the exclusive opportunity to buy a diamond straight from the diamond cutter with more than two million dollars worth of certified diamonds to choose from.

• Sept. 10-12: The Great Estate Buying Show

Estate-buying company National Rarities will be at McCaskill for guests who are ready to sell valuables such as gold, sterling silver, diamonds, jewelry, coins and currency, watches, artwork, paintings, autographs, old photos, antique toys, vintage advertising and other collectible and rarities. National Rarities will pay on site in exchange for any of the above valuable items.

• Nov. 8-9: The Erica Courtney Adventure

Named as one of the Top 3 Jewelry Designers in the World by United Brands, Erica Courtney travels the world and mines for some of the rarest and most beautiful gems. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet her in person and experience her exquisite collection of jewelry and gemstones.

Topsail Talks

Learn about “Geology of the Florida Panhandle” by Dr. Jon Bryan at a Topsail Hill Preserve State Park presentation from 10-11 a.m. June 21 at the park in Santa Rosa Beach. This program is free with regular park admission.

Amateur radio 'Field Day'

Members of the Emerald Coast Amateur Radio Association will participate in the National Amateur Radio Field Day exercise, June 22-23, on Santa Rosa Island in Navarre, next to the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station. Since 1933, ham radio operators across North America have established temporary ham radio stations in public locations during Field Day to showcase the science and skill of Amateur Radio. The event is open to the public. Field Day will start at noon June 22 and will operate until 1 p.m. June 23.

Independence Day Celebration

The City of Destin will host a Family Independence Day Celebration & Bike parade for children 14 and under at 5:30 p.m. July 1 at the Destin Elementary School Track. Registration begins at 4:45 p.m. The event is free to the public. Come show off your decorated bike, scooter, or wagon. Awards will be given for different categories in each age division. Spectators are welcome and refreshments will be available to all participants.

Seniors of Destin

The Seniors of Destin meet the fourth Friday of the month for a covered dish and to celebrate all birthdays for the month. The program is sponsored by the city of Destin and Gentiva Home Health. Each month has a featured guest speaker that pertains to senior living. Call 685-5310.

Fitness on the Lawn

The Market Shops, at the entrance to Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, will host free, weekly fitness classes on the lawn through July 29 with Pure Narre at 5:30 p.m. Mondays and Orange Theory Fitness at 9 a.m. Fridays.Code Club

Learn about Android app design using MIT’s Scratch language at The Destin Library’s Code Club for middle schoolers at 4:30 p.m. Fridays. For more information or to sign up call 837-8572 or message Library on Facebook.

Tai Chi Class

The Destin Library will offer one-hour Tai Chi classes with Barbara Rezmer, a certified Tai Chi for Health instructor, on Monday mornings at 9 a.m. The cost is $5/session. Enrollment is limited to 12 participants with registrations (on a first-come first-served basis) accepted by phone or in person. Call 837-8572.

Good Grief luncheons

An Emerald Coast Hospice\ lunch is open to anyone who has experienced a loss and is looking for some support and company through the grieving process. We encourage attendees to also bring a friend or family member. Everyone orders off the menu and pays for his or her own lunch. To RSVP, call 837-2589. Third Monday lunch is at Olive Garden Destin and third Tuesday lunch is at Applebee’s Miramar Beach, 8670 Hwy. 98 West.

Healing Walking Group

The Emerald Coast Hospice walking group is open to bereaved individuals who have experienced the death of a significant person in their life. Walk and talk, at a relaxed pace, with others who are grieving and share ideas, comfort and companionship from 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays in Miramar Beach and Thursdays in Destin. RSVP at 837-2589

Caregiver Support Group

Covenant Alzheimer’s Care support group for those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related illness is held at 5:30 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at Brookdale Fort Walton Beach, 233 Carmel Ave. Call 864-4600.

Kiwanis Club of Destin

The Kiwanis Club of Destin meets at 8 a.m. the 1st and 3rd Thursday in the Coffee Café at the Village Baptist Church, 191 Matthew Blvd. in Destin. Visitors welcome.

Destin Rotary

The Destin Rotary meets at 7:15 a.m. every Tuesday at Rutherford’s 465. Visit www.facebook.com/pages/Rotary-Club-of-Destin/241220675890226.

Flotilla 1-4 USCG Auxiliary

Flotilla 1-4 USCG Auxiliary meets at 8 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month at Coast Guard Station Destin on Okaloosa Island. Anyone wishing to become a member is welcome to attend. Prior military duty is not required. Call 865-9130

Grand Boulevard Farmers’ Market

The market will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday in Grand Park in Miramar Beach between Cantina Laredo and Tommy Bahama’s. Vendors will offer locally sourced food-based items including produce, eggs, milk, butter, grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb and pork, honey, pickled vegetables and gourmet jams.

30A Farmers’ Market

This community event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays in Town Center in Rosemary Beach features fresh vegetables, fruits, eggs, honey, cheese and more. Market is held on Sundays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Seaside Farmers Market

Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Amphitheatre behind Raw & Juicy. Enjoy special cooking demos and activities.

Destin Life Center

Recreation and fitness activities at Destin Life Center at Destin United Methodist Church, 200 Beach Drive, are from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Closed Sundays. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday visit the Soul Café for lunch. Call ahead for dine in or pick up. For information, call the DLC at 837-2021. Only recreation right now is Pickle Ball. Please call the Connection Desk for the current calendar at 837-2021.

Destin Community Center

All activities are at the Destin Community Center, unless noted. Call 654-5184 or email recreation@cityofdestin.comfor information and to register. Persons with disabilities who require assistance are asked to notify the center 48 hours in advance.

‒ Capoeria: Class in the Brazilian martial art that combines the elements of dance, acrobatics and music will be held Wednesdays at 7 p.m. for all ages.

‒ Chair Yoga: Classes from 10-11 a.m. Thursdays. Fee is $4/class and is open to everyone.

‒ Dance Exercise: Class will be held from 12-1 p.m. every Wednesday and Friday for men and women of all ages and incorporates modern dance styles, yoga, and Tai Chi movements. Fee is $3/session non-residents and $2/session residents.

‒ Destin Senior Chair Exercise 50+ years: Monday and Wednesday mornings from 10-10:45 a.m. consists of performing light exercises to help improve balance, flexibility, strength, and circulation. Free/residents.

‒ Destin Senior Membership: Join the Destin Seniors to enjoy multiple festivities including the senior lunch bunch, potluck, casino trips, cruises, bingo, chair exercise, knitting, scrabble, and Mexican dominoes. Members must be a Destin resident.

‒ Game Room: Open to children age 10 and older from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays.

• Line Dancing: Class will be held Thursdays with beginner lessons at 12:30 p.m. Open dance is 1:15-1:45 p.m. Intermediate lessons are at 1:45 p.m. Class us $6.

• Dodgeball: Open Dodgeball will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursdays for children ages 8 to 14. Fee is $3/non-residents and $2/residents per session. A waiver will be required for your child.

‒ Senior Book Club: The Destin Senior Members meet at 10 a.m. the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Destin Library, 150 Sibert Ave.

‒ Senior Drop-In Hours: The Destin Senior Center at Buck Destin Park, 724 Legion Drive, offers senior drop-in hours from 9 a.m. to noon every Tuesday and Thursday for Seniors (50 years and older) to meet and enjoy each other’s company, participate in games such as Mexican Train Dominoes, Scrabble, cards, etc.

‒ Senior Knitting: Sessions and lessons for beginners and all skill levels from 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the Destin Senior Center at Buck Destin Park, 724 Legion Drive. No registration required.

‒ Senior Walking Club: The Destin Senior Members walk around the Destin Community Center’s gymnasium from 8-9 a.m. Monday-Friday. All of the miles that you walk will be added to the “team map” as we travel from one region to the next.

‒ Table Tennis: Play from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Paddles and balls provided. Fee is $2/resident and $3/non-resident.

Betterment Alliance

The Main Street Betterment Alliance meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the American Legion, 311 Main Street. Call 837-3818.

Destin Business Builders

Destin Business Builders Networking group meets from 7:15-8:45 a.m. every Wednesday at the Destin United Methodist Life Center. Call 651-1300 ext. 13.

Food Buying Club

A small group interested in eating healthy and purchasing smart meets at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at 125 Scottsdale Court in Mary Esther. On the second Tuesday, the group meets at Fountain Square in downtown Fort Walton Beach for the Growing Local film series. Call 863-4040.