Restaurants on Pensacola Beach could soon see some new patrons of the four-legged variety. The Santa Rosa Island Authority voted Feb. 12 to green-light pursuing the adoption of a state ordinance called the Dixie Cup Clary Act, which would give restaurants with outdoor eating areas the option to allow patrons to bring their pets with them as they dine.

Some unique geological and historical features in Walton County lie roughly 50 miles north of the Gulf beaches, which attract exponentially more visitors each year. Off the beaten path, just a short drive north of DeFuniak Springs, is the highest point in Florida and a natural limestone bridge.

Local deaths from the H1N1 have resulted in an increased number of residents protecting themselves against the flu virus recently.

Lisa Santos wants participants and attendees at the “Raise Your Voice 5k” on Navarre Beach March 1 to celebrate local residents who are currently battling colon cancer. Her son, Josh Lee Santos, died from colon cancer related complications in November 2012 at the age of 24.