Summer Happenings

This has been the busiest summer in a long, long time. Did I say busy and does that include real estate? The answer is yes and yes. Thank the Lord, it's about time things got moving again. Not like it was in '05 and '06, but enough to stay very, very busy, and that is a good thing.

Scallop Season, which began July 1 will soon end shortly after Labor Day. Lots of people found their way to Steinhatchee and Keaton Beach this year to enjoy snorkeling in the shallow flats for these scrumptious mollusks, which were found all along the coastline from Steinhatchee to Spring Warrior.

No hurricanes (knock on wood) have threatened our coastline so far this year. What a relief, as the previous several years have kept us constantly on our toes with hurricanes circling menacingly around us causing much chagrin to everyone. Hurricanes also affect tourism, but this summer the roads to the boat ramps were lined with vehicles, and the rentals at the beaches were pretty much booked all season.

Keaton Beach Ridge Subdivision, located approximately 2.5 miles from Keaton Beach, was completed and has its first model home available for showing. Home packages or vacant lots may be purchased. The subdivision roads are paved; the lots are nice and cleared and ready for building; some lots are designated specifically for site-built homes; other lots are available for RV parking. This is a great alternative for people that want to be near the Gulf in a nice location but may not want to be directly on the water.

A new convenience store is planned for construction on the Beach Road. Site clearing is underway.

Walgreen's just opened its nice new store in Perry a couple of weeks ago at the intersection of US-19, Jefferson St., and Puckett Road. Across the streets from KFC, Hardee's, and Winn-Dixie. Great location on the busiest street in town.

Pouncey's Restaurant was leased to new managers, who opened under the name of Hill's Country Kitchen. Different menu, different food, mixed reviews. The restaurant building itself is still for sale.

The new Holiday Inn Express is still under construction but coming along very nicely. It will add another great option for hotel guests seeking nice accommodations, and particularly during festivals and big football games when local motels and hotels are at capacity.

The Chapparal is still on the market for sale, but there are rumblings of a potential purchase for another fine eating establishment. Stay tuned!