Real Estate on the NW Florida Beaches

Capt Anderson's Famous Feud Cake and Key Lime Pie Recipes!!

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 23:16:47 -0500

One of the best things about vacationing on Panama City Beach, Florida is Capt. Anderson's Restaurant.

This famous seafood restaurant has won many culinary awards over the years, far too many to list here. You can read all about this beach icon on their website:

Capt. Anderson's Restaurant

And one of the best things at Capt. Anderson's is the Dessert Tray!

By far, the two favorite desserts seem to be Feud Cake and Key Lime Pie! For years these recipes were kept as a family secret. Now they are published in the Capt. Anderson's Cookbook that you can order on their website.

On one post I wrote about Capt. Anderson's, several people have commented that they LOVE these desserts. Many have asked that I post these recipes. I am trilled to be able to do that for you right now straight from the cookbook!

CAPT. ANDERSON'S FAMOUS FEUD CAKE

CAPT. ANDERSON'S KEY LIME PIE

Enjoy these recipes and share them with everyone you know! And when you come to Panama City Beach for your summer vacation, be sure to enjoy them at the award-winning Capt. Anderson's Restaurant! And don't forget to give me a call so I can meet you there!

By the way, the seafood entress are absolutely fantastic!!!

JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL

Important FAQs About Buying Your First Home

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:32:49 -0500

You might feel a bit intimidated at the thought of buying your first home. You might be a fairly young, recently married couple, and it’s important to you to feel that you aren’t making any big mistakes.

You want to go through this experience feeling like you asked the right questions and that you can trust the people who help get you through this big step. The two best qualified people to help you find the right answers and the right home are a great lender and your REALTOR®.

Some important FAQs to consider would be:

1. How much can you really afford to pay for your first home?
2. How will you know if you’ve found the right lender and what does it take to qualify for your first mortgage?
3. How much cash will you need “out of pocket” – 3%, 5%, or more?
4. What closing costs will you be expected to pay and how much will it be?
5. How much will your monthly mortgage payment be and will that include home owner’s insurance and county taxes?

These are all great questions … and there are a lot more questions that will come up along the way from “just looking” to actually closing on your first home purchase. However, if you can get clear and accurate answers to these 5 questions, you will be way ahead of most first time buyers and well on your way to your goal of home ownership. As an experienced full-time real estate agent, it is my job to answer these questions for you and to help you avoid making mistakes that you may not even know about yet.

Some answers to these 5 FAQs:

1. The absolutely best way to know how much you can afford to pay for your first home is to make an appointment with a mortgage lender or financial loan officer. I know you’ve heard it before, but it really is best to pre-qualify for a future purchase. A good lender will ask you some basic questions about your current income and debts, monthly expenses and obligations, and any past debts that you still pay. A great lender will talk openly with you about your debt ratio (your income vs your debt), and he/she will go over your credit report with you to make sure there are no surprises.

2. When you find the right lender you will go from feeling completely overwhelmed by the process to realizing that you are in a good place. When you find a professional loan officer, loan originator, or mortgage broker, you will get solid answers to the questions that usually trouble buyers the most. The right lender will take or return your calls in a timely manner and he/she will take the time to explain all the costs that come along with the loan. You need to ask how much they charge for the credit report, the appraisal, underwriting, and other closing costs. Ask for a closing cost estimate of the lender’s charges in writing! In order to qualify for your first mortgage, you will need to provide personal information including proof of your income, your social security number, and bank statements. You will need to give them permission to run your credit report.

3. The amount of “out of pocket cash” that you will need will depend on the kind of loan or financing you qualify for with that great lender you’ve found. The amount of down payment – 3% or 5% for example – will depend on whether you get an FHA, VA, or Conventional loan. The kind of loan you get will be decided between you and the lender based on your credit report, the condition of the property you are planning to buy, and the types of loans the lender has available.

4. There are some specific closing costs that are usually paid by the buyer, and these can vary depending on what is typical in the area where you plan to buy a home. Most of these costs have to do with your loan such as the appraisal, underwriting, and any other lender fees or state taxes on the new loan monies. In addition, you may be required to pay for inspections such as termite or home inspections, as well as a property survey. In some areas it is typical for the seller to pay for a termite inspection, but in others the buyer pays for any inspections he/she orders. The two most important people who will help you estimate the closing costs are the lender and your REALTOR®.

5. You know better than anyone else what you can realistically afford to pay each month. Chances are you’ve already made a budget based on your current income and monthly expenses. Go ahead and make a list of all your bills that you think will continue to stay with you after you buy a home, such as car payments, student loans, credit card monthly payments, and any other credit obligations. Your monthly mortgage payment (P/I or Principle and Interest) will depend on the amount of the loan and the interest rate the lender charges. Your lender should give you these numbers in writing! The taxes and insurance will depend on the value the local property appraiser assigns to the property you buy and the amount of home owners insurance required to sufficiently protect your home. Once you’ve found the right home, decided on a purchase price, and have qualified with a lender the next step is to find the right insurance agent. It doesn’t hurt to “shop” rates when considering home owner’s insurance costs. Don’t skimp! And if you are in certain areas, you may need flood, wind, or other forms of extended home owners insurance. Be sure to ask for any requirements and for written quotes on these as well.

Detailed answers to these FAQs and other important questions can and should be answered by the real estate professionals you choose to work with you on this most important first time home purchase. There are great programs available for first time home buyers through various lenders in addition to the federal $8,000 tax credit. There are limitations on all of these, so be sure you find a lender and a REALTOR® who will to spend the time necessary to answer your questions. You will be glad you asked these questions when you close on the purchase of your first home.

Education, experience, and expertise are the values I bring to every real estate transaction. You will feel confident when you have all your questions answered and you find the perfect first home to buy!

POSTED BY JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL

Would you buy a fixer-upper or a totally renovated like-new townhouse?

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:09:05 -0500

Given the choice between 2 units in the same neighborhood, would you buy an out-dated, run down fixer-upper OR would you buy the totally renovated, updated, like-new townhouse? Why wouldn't you buy the beautifully remodeled townhouse for less money than it would cost you to buy and fix up the out-dated townhouse? Not to mention all the hard work, blood, sweat, and tears it takes to update and renovate a fixer-upper!

I just listed this beautifully renovated townhouse in Panama City. It's an end unit which is always a good thing! It has a little more square footage than the interior units, and it has a wonderful back and side yard complete with a new gated privacy fence in front!

This is 3908 Venetian Circle! It reflects the true pride of ownership inside and out. The location is great ... conveniently located off Hwy 390 ... near shopping, schools, and restaurants.

What's new?

ALL NEW light fixtures in the living room and dining room, new plumbing and bath fixtures, new tub and ceramic tile, new vanity counter tops, new lighted ceiling fans throughout ...

new stove, new kitchen countertops, new granite sink, new hinges/handles on all cabinet doors, new raised panel interior doors, new front door, new vinyl windows throughout.

And it's beautifully decorated with fresh paint including chair rail and bead board wainscoting, ceramic tiled baths and kitchen, and pergo flooring throughout.

Isn't this a great townhouse? It's a 2 story townhouse with 1022 square feet, and it's been a great starter home for a very special couple. But they're going to need a larger home now that their second child is on the way!

Privacy fenced back yard with covered patio and new brick open patio

with new double french patio doors, and a new open brick patio off the covered patio in the privacy fenced grassy back yard.

All the new updates and remodeling were done in 2007/08, and the HVAC and roof were replaced in 2005. This townhouse is all electric and with the new vinyl windows, it's very energy efficient.

JUST LISTED: $134,500

NO ASSOCIATION FEES!

POSTED BY JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL

New Listing: 2110 E. Norwood Drive, Panama City, FL

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 22:03:50 -0500

JUST LISTED!

Address: 2110 E. Norwood Drive, Panama City, FL 32405

Approximate Sq Ft: 1660 $/Sq Ft: $99.34 List Price: $164,900

This nice 3 bedroom home is conveniently located off 23rd Street near Northside Elementary School.

The owners have made many improvements in 2007-2008 including new carpet in the family room, new flooring in the hallway, new vanity and fiberglass insert in hall bathroom, and more upgrades that rejuvenate this home. The large yard features a covered patio in back. There is ample covered parking. There is an inside laundry room and full bath off the family room. Nice kitchen with new dishwasher, upgraded counter tops and cabinets. This home has so much to offer and is much larger than it looks from the outside. There is a transferable American Home Shield Warranty.

Lot Size: 100X135 Lot Access: Paved Road, City Road

Zoning: City, Residential Single Family

Parking Features: Carport Lot Features: Interior Lot

Room Type Dimensions

Family 19x18

Living Room 14x12

Bedroom 1 13x10

Bedroom 2 10x10

Bedroom 3 11x10

Exterior Features: Patio Covered, Sprinkler System, Yard Building

Interior Features: Breakfast Bar, Ceramic Tile, Carpet

Appliances: Stove/Oven/Dishwasher, Disposal, Range Hood, Refrigerator

Utilities: Electric, Public Water, Cable TV, Public Sewer

Energy: Heat/A/C: Central Electric

Const/Siding: Block/Frame, Foundation: Slab On Grade

The family room is the heart of this home. There is a full bath off the family room as well as a large laundry room. The family room opens to the kitchen with breakfast bar.

The side door of the family room opens to the covered carport parking area, and the back door opens to the covered patio in the back yard.

POSTED BY JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

Where do locals go to celebrate the family milestones of life?

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 09:37:22 -0500

In Panama City Beach on the NW Florida Gulf of Mexico, locals go to Capt. Anderson's Restaurant to celebrate the family milestones of life. Our family gathered tonight to celebrate my dad's 82nd birthday ... and the evening couldn't have been better!

Candi organized our plans as she drove from Orlando to Panama City today. It 's always so much fun when she comes home for a visit!

We had a wonderful time choosing our favorite Capt. Anderson's entrees beginning with Greek Salads. From the classic Scamp Imperial with fresh lump crabmeat to the rich and creamy she-crab pie, every dish was delicious!

Of course the best part of finishing your entree is the arrival of the Capt. Anderson's dessert tray.

Yummm!

Our server, Robin, was just tremendous!!! She has been doing this for quite a while, so her attention to detail and anticipation of our needs made the experience even more special.

Robin is showing off the world famous Feud Cake that she selected for Dad's birthday celebration ... served with a lighted candle!

Thank you, Robin, for being part of our special evening!

And "Thank You" to the entire Capt. Anderson's family for making us feel so welcome and appreciated!

It was a very Happy 82nd Birthday!

You can read more about Capt. Anderson's in these articles I've written about the restaurant:

A SPRING BREAK FAMILY TRADITION and A SPECIAL MOTHER'S DAY INVITATION

For more information about Panama City Beach restaurants, read the RESTAURANT VACATION GUIDE FOR PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA written by Jan Evett, Broker Associate, Century 21 Ryan Realty, Panama City Beach, FL.

POSTED BY JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

Facebook Testimonial ... This is too much fun!

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:09:00 -0500

I admit I was playing around on Facebook ... late at night, should probably have been asleep. However, my niece made up one of those "How well do you know me?" quizzes, and it was kind of fun, so I thought I would make one up about me. I sent it out to a few people just for fun.

Suddenly, there's that little red flag in the bottom right corner! Sommer took your "How well do you know me?" quiz... click to see her results!! Sommer is in Alaska ... she's on FB now ... it's not late in Alaska!

Turned out to be one of my favorite TESTIMONIALS of all time!

Thank you, Sommer! That is just about the sweetest thing I could ever want to hear from one of my favorite military relocation families! I found their first home when they came to Tyndall Air Force Base and was honored to be asked to list and sell it for them when they got orders to Alaska. THIS is what makes real estate a very special profession and why I love what I do!

POSTED BY JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

Panama City Beach Chamber FREE Social Media Workshop

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Mon, 25 May 2009 19:24:52 -0500

The Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce will be presenting a "Text 2 Twitter Workshop" presented by David Allred, Principal with LWT Communications this Thursday, May 28, from 1:30 to 3:00 pm at the Calypso Cafe located at 15812 Front Beach Road on Panama City Beach, Florida.

This is a *FREE* workshop event and will be focusing on social media tools such as Twitter, blogging, networks, and more with special emphasis on how these tools can help you track marketing efforts and make new connections.

POSTED BY JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

You're invited to join me at this private, secluded, tropical Martinique Home!

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:51:04 -0500

Come join me for a fun and relaxing afternoon at Martinique, a private gated community on beautiful Panama City Beach. I will be hosting an Open House this Sunday, May 10, from 3:00-6:00 pm.

The Martinique community is conveniently located near schools, shopping, restaurants, seafood markets, and lots of entertainment venues in the Thomas Drive area. However, this up-scaled gated neighborhood is secluded by plush natural landscaping indigenous to coastal Florida.

From Thomas Drive, turn onto North Lagoon towards Capt. Anderson's Restaurant, then turn left into the gated community of Martinique.

This home is located on a nicely landscaped large corner lot at 5301 Hopetown Lane.

This is a custom built new construction home by LEDMAN CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT, INC. The two story home features 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. The large family room with 10' ceilings opens to the gourmet kitchen featuring granite counter tops, all wood cabinets, pantry closet, and full Stainless steel appliances and a breakfast area. You will enjoy the formal dining room with decorative columns.

Flooring choices include Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors, large ceramic tile in kitchen and baths, and the decor is completed with crown molding and custom built-ins. The master suite is fit for a king with direct access to a private covered balcony. The master bath features a garden tub, double vanity with granite counter tops and two large walk-in closets. Extra features include wired audio speakers in kitchen, family room, and screened porch. The home features Good Cents energy efficient construction, all electric, complete security system, and all rooms and kitchen are wired for high speed Internet service.

Imagine the hours of family fun you will enjoy in the in-ground pool by Cox Pools within an enclosed court yard featuring privacy wall and a brick paver pool deck surrounded by beautiful landscaping. This home has 2845 square feet and is priced at $589,000. Qualified 100% FINANCING is available as an incentive.

Come enjoy all the peace and tranquility that Martinique has to offer at Open House, Sunday, May 10, 2009.

This Martinique home is listed with Century 21 Ryan Realty, 8212 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, Florida.

Posted by JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE

CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY

PARADE OF HOMES OPEN HOUSE, SUNDAY, MAY 10, 2009

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Wed, 06 May 2009 14:31:12 -0500

I am excited to be hosting OPEN HOUSE in MARTINIQUE during the annual Bay County HOMEBUILDERS PARADE OF HOMES. This week long event begins every Mother's Day in Bay County, FL, which basically includes Panama City, Panama City Beach, Lynn Haven, and surrounding areas.

MARTINIQUE is a unique gated community located between the bay and the beach on Panama City Beach. It's esquisite community features include this tropical swimming pool.

Other family centered amenities feature a PLAYGROUND, COMMUNITY PAVILLION where cookouts often take place for residents and guests, and peaceful LAKE offering a serene area for casual walks.

MARTINIQUE homes are carefully secluded just off Thomas Drive in one of the most beautiful areas of Panama City Beach. From the South Thomas Drive, turn onto North Lagoon Drive at CAPT ANDERSON'S RESTAURANT, then left into the gated community of MARTINIQUE.

Follow the Open House signs to the Builder's Home at 5301 HOPETOWN LANE where I will be from 3:00-6:00 pm.

JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

A VERY SPECIAL MOTHER'S DAY INVITATION

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Wed, 06 May 2009 12:56:25 -0500

For the first time in the 42 year history of Capt Anderson’s Restaurant on Panama City Beach, they will be open for Mothers Day this Sunday, May 10.

The Patronis family is advertising the event by “inviting your family to join them for a beautiful … and slightly sentimental ... Mother’s Day feast.”

For reservations for lunch or dinner, CALL 850-234-2225 or visit their website Capt. Anderson's Restaurant.

POSTED BY JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

Vacation Restaurant Guide for Panama City Beach, Florida!

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 17:54:55 -0500

When you plan your vacation to Panama City Beach you must treat yourself to the wonderful seafood dinners that await your visit. You will love our warm Southern Hospitality, hot she-crab soup, fresh fish and shellfish, and homemade desserts.

Save a couple of nights to enjoy a nice dinner and local music and entertainment. And if you are bringing the little ones for vacation, you'll need to know which restaurants are 'kid friendly' and which ones cater to more adult tastes.

There are literally hundreds of restaurants in the area making it possible even for locals to try a new menu every week. For many families, going to the beach for summer vacation has become a way of life. We see church groups, civic clubs, business organizations, sororities and fraternities, as well as out-of-state families and international tourists returning year after year.

Here are some restaurants for you to enjoy!

Captain Anderson's Restaurant is #1 in my opinion when you want some fine seafood, excellent service, and pristine waterfront dining. Read my "local expert" feature article about this Panama City Beach tradition. Florida Classic and Open Hearth Seafood, Steaks, and Desserts. Excellent family friendly dining. 5551 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City, FL 32408, (850) 234-2225.

Kingfish Floribbean Cuisine & Sushi Bar

Kingfish is located at the Bay Point Marriott Resort on the Bay. Florida and Carribbean Cusine, Sushi, Steaks, Fish, Seafood, and Desserts. Family oriented restaurant style with excellent wait staff. 4200 Marriott Dr. 850-236-6075

30 Degree Blue

This upscale bar gets its name because it is located at 30 degrees north latitude overlooking the blue waters of the Bay Point marina and the Grand Lagoon on Panama City Beach, Florida. Beautiful views for adult tastes. Steaks, Seafood, Desserts, plus a full bar. 3900 Marriott Dr. 850-236-1115.

The Kingfish and 30 Degree Blue are both located at the Bay Point Marriott Resort and Golf Club.

Angelo's Steak Pit

Angelo's is also a tradition with families who vacation on Panama City Beach year after year. This western-style family restaurant is worth the wait if you like a big ole steak with all the trimmings. Bring the entire family. Steaks, Ribs, Seafood 9527 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL 32417, 850-234-2531

Bay Street Deli & Bagel Bakery

This little deli and bakery is a favorite with locals and winter visitors. The bakery part is really important because they do their own baking... breads, bagels, cream cheese danish, muffins, and desserts. They make home made soups, quiche, chicken and tuna salads daily. The "mile high" New York style Ziggy Reuben is fabulous! They open very early for breakfast and ONLY serve breakfast and lunch. 7806 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL 32407, 850-233-1755

Bayou Bill's Crab House

Located on the West End of Panama City Beach behind the new Winn Dixie shopping center, this is one of the most family friendly casual dining restaurants on the beach. Wear your beach clothes, bring the kids, and prepare yourself to eat too much fresh steamed seafood. Buckets of crab legs, corn on the cobb, and boiled potatoes are waiting to be served. Hickory Smoked Ribs, Steaks, Fish & Seafood, Cajun Cuisine, and Desserts. Located at 23100 Front Beach Rd., 850-235-1010

Boar's Head Restaurant

The Boar's Head Restaurant is a casual fine dining dinner house featuring fresh Gulf seafood and the finest Steaks and Prime Rib on the west end of Panama City Beach. For more than 30 years, they've been serving Fried Lobster, available as an appetizer or entrée. The Venison and Quail dinner is equally popular year round. Live music is available in the tavern Wednesday - Saturday at 6:00 pm. Families are welcome. Steaks, Fish & Seafood, BBQ, Desserts, and Expresso Beverages. 17290 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL 32413, 850-234-6628

The Boatyard

This is a local's favorite inspired by the casual nature of coastal and island living with the rustic, open-air feel of the docks of Grand Lagoon,offering cuisine with the flavor of the islands. Great for large groups or families. The Boatyard is located on the docks of Grand Lagoon behind Capt. Anderson's restaurant. Dress is casual, and prices are reasonable. Open for lunch and dinner, seven days a week all year ‘round. Reservations are not necessary and plenty of boat slips are available if you are coming by boat. Steaks, Fish, Seafood, Carribbean Cusine, Desserts, and full bar. 5323 N Lagoon Dr., Panama City Beach, FL 850-249-9273

Breaker's Restaurant

This is one of the best GULF FRONT restaurants with an incredible view of the Gulf of Mexico from every table in the house. Their menu features local fresh seafood, angus steaks, and mouthwatering desserts. The new 40' bar is a major feature. They say they are the only gulf front restaurant that takes reservations. Call 850-234-6060. 12527 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, FL 32407.

Calypso Beach Cafe

Located across the street from the new Calypso Condo Resort, Recipes from New Orleans and the Caribbean are featured on the delightful menu at this restaurant that is open daily for lunch and dinner and offers something for everyone such as outstanding appetizers, delicious steaks, made-from-scratch soups and salads, fresh from the Gulf seafood, and award-winning desserts. A daily happy hour is also available, as well as an entertainment schedule. Located at 15812 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413.

Captain Jack's Family Buffet

Panama City Beach's best seafood buffet is housed in an unusual building on Thomas Drive (next door to my office at Century 21 Ryan Realty). This buffet styled restaurant is hosted by renown local restauranteur, Jack Bishop, serving Panama City Beach since 1971. They serve three great buffets daily: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Crab legs are included with every dinner buffet. Adults Dinner Buffet is $23.95, Kids 3 & under EAT FREE! The breakfast buffet for Adults is $8.95, Kids 3 & under EAT FREE! 8208 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, Florida (850) 236-8555

Dusty's Oyster Bar and Dining

They're inexpensive and good! They have one of the best Grouper Baskets on the beach. Here's a quote from their website: "Home of warm beer, lousy food, ugly waitresses and Scotty'O, two time U. S. National Oyster Shucking Champion 1999-2000 & 2001-2002. Competing in Ireland for the world title as seen on Discovery Channel, Food Network and the Today Show. Try our world famous Fried Green Tomatoes. Happy Hour every day 2-6 $2.99 doz. raw oysters, $.75 draft. Come party with the crew and have an adventure on your vacation." Directions: HWY 79 to Front Beach, head East on Front Beach Rd located 1mile on you're left Rates: $8 daily Lunch and $12 daily Dinner.

The Treasure Ship

Three restaurants and a gift shop in one big ship. This tourist event is located at 3605 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408, 850-234-8881 on Grand Lagoon.

Main Dining Room offers a panoramic view of Grand Lagoon. They serve a traditional Angus beef steak and fresh local seafood harvested from the Gulf of Mexico.

Hook's Grille & Grog is a colorful dockside restaurant on the lower level of The Treasure Ship. They serve a "Bountiful Caribbean" cuisine with live entertainment, and a menu with a wide variety of appetizers, sandwiches, entrées and desserts. Captain Crabby's Bar is the more casual of the three Treasure Ship restaurants which offers a choice of either indoor or spacious open deck dining with a beautiful panoramic view of Grand Lagoon.

Montego Bay Restaurant

Two locations on the beach, the same great menu. One is located at 4920 Thomas Dr. (Near St Andrews State Park), 850-234-8686; the other is located at 473 Bechrich Rd. (In Shoppes at Edgewater), 850-233-6033. Both serve a great menu of Steaks, Fish, Seafood, Carribbean & Cajun Cusine, and Salads.

Pineapple Willy's Restaurant

This is a fun place to be when you are serious about being ON the beach. There is an inside restaurant, a beachfront pier bar, and a sports bar with a whole lot of TVs. Pineapple Willy's claims to be the original home of the famous Jack Daniel's BBQ Ribs. They are located directly on the beach at the original Panama City beach "Pier 99" built in 1935. Willy's also features a sports bar inside on big TVs and projector screens. They have something for everyone including seafood, prime rib, salads, sandwiches, and a kids menu. Located at 9875 Thomas Dr., Panama City Beach, FL 32417, 850-235-1225

Saltwater Grill

This "dinner only" restaurant is truly unique in that it offers a panoramic view of a seven foot high, 25,000-gallon tropical saltwater aquarium. Both the Café Dining Room and Mermaid Room Piano Bar offer dazzling views of this tropical reef and its nonstop parade of exotic sea creatures. It's located on Middle Beach Road, also known as Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL.

Schooner's Last Local Beach Club

Schooners, the Last Local Beach Club, is open 7 days a week from 11 in the morning till the wee hours of the night. You can enjoy a delicious lunch on the beachfront deck - awesome any time of the year. Dinner is accompanied by some terrific bands on stage in front of a great dance floor. You must experience at least one amazing sunset at Schooners! Every day at sunset, they fire off the cannon... right on the beach facing the Gulf of Mexico! 5121 Gulf Dr., Panama City Beach, FL 32408, 850-235-3555

The Spicy Noodle Restaurant

Spicy Noodle serves Italian "Comfort Food with Attitude" and they are renowned for homemade bread, made from scratch daily and served with a signature olive oil dipping sauce. They are a "Kid Friendly" restaurant, with a separate menu for children 10 and under. Open daily 11 AM-9:30 PM. Located on the West End of the Beach on Hwy. 98, just west of Carillon Beach and the Phillips Inlet Bridge. 13667 Back Beach Rd. 850-231-0955

Pier Park

The newest mega attraction on Panama City Beach is Pier Park, a retail shopping extravaganza with some great places to eat! Beginning with a steaming cup of coffee at Starbucks for breakfast, followed by juicy burgers and fries at 5 Guys Famous Burgers and Fries and ice cream at The Marble Slab Creamery, then on to a casual dinner at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville - this place has it all located at the Panama City Beach Pier between Front Beach Road and Panama City Parkway (Hwy 98).

Smokin' Butts BBQ

If you're driving down Hwy 79 South from Enterprise, Alabama, you'll come right through the little town of Vernon, FL. If you're starving and can't wait til you get to the beach for lunch, stop for a pork BBQ sandwich and a glass of sweet tea!

You can't miss their signs right on Hwy 79!

THIS IS WHY YOU LOVE TO COME TO PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA!!

JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

FRIDAY AT THE BEACH .... PANAMA CITY BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:16:54 -0500

The PANAMA CITY BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE sponsors a unique event, FRIDAY AT THE BEACH.

Members of the Beach Chamber as well as welcome guests benefit from this opportunity to meet local community leaders in a casual, fun atmosphere. It's a great way to get the weekend started early on Panama City Beach, Florida!

FRIDAY AT THE BEACH focuses on local projects of interest to the residents and businesses on the beach as well as the "in town" communities of Bay County. You can read more about the Panama City Beach Chamber and contact them for membership information. This event is free to the public, however an RSVP to attend is required. You can contact the Chamber at (850) 235-1159 for additional details or to sponsor an event.

I took this photo of a heron feeding along the shore of St Andrews Bay along Beach Drive in downtown Panama City. You can see the sun shining on the intracoastal waterway connecting St Andrew Bay with the Gulf of Mexico surrounding Panama City Beach.

JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, CENTURY 21 RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

Celebrating America's Freedom on July 4th!

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:24:05 -0500

Wishing you all a fun-filled "Fourth of July" weekend! Keep it safe enjoying friends and family, and don't forget to think about the freedom we share in the United States ... freedom to celebrate who we are, what we do, when we work and play, where we worship, why we are a nation of free people, and how we protect the gift of freedom.

This is a beautiful, moving music video of a song about a son who became an American Soldier. It tells the story from his mother's view point of her son's service to his country. It is a tribute to all Americans who have served in the military and to their families who prayed for them while waiting for their safe return home.

This music video is so worth watching! Surprise happy ending! Celebrating America's Freedom. Enjoy!

"Letters from War by Mark Schultz"

Do you want to know the secrets to success on Active Rain?

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 10:04:30 -0500

I've never really been good at keeping secrets! I confess. Maybe it's a character flaw ... maybe it's just my kind of personality! I've always been a "tell all" sort of person.

If something is so good, so much fun, so successful, so worth talking about ... I say why keep it a secret? Maybe some people say if the secret is so good they don't want to share it with everyone else.

They may want to keep it all for themselves and let everyone else figure it out the hard way. I'm just not like that ... It's so much fun to tell good secrets! Look at those cute little girls giggling and whispering about their happy secrets! Friendships are formed and lifelong bonds are made when we share our good secrets.

I'm not talking about gossip or telling something someone shared in confidence. It's not good when we share other people's secrets. I'm talking about sharing something you and I have learned that has made our journey easier, better, more fun, and we naturally want to share it with our friends!

I've discovered the SECRETS TO SUCCESS ON ACTIVE RAIN and I want to share them with you ... all 90,000+ of you or at least the 4,000+ of you who are online now!

NEWBIES sign up for Active Rain every day ... and some of them never get any farther than entering in the required information .... some never even post a profile photo of themselves or at least their business logo.

I don't get it! Why don't you want to post your image on your profile?

The first day I discovered Active Rain I spent a couple of hours setting up my profile, loading up a photo, and filling in the blanks. It seemed pretty clear to me that I needed to take some of the content from my current real estate website, copy and paste it into my new Active Rain PROFILE PAGE.

YOUR ACTIVE RAIN PROFILE PAGE IS THE NUMBER ONE SECRET TO SUCCESS ON ACTIVE RAIN!!

If you don't know what to say about YOU ... then I promise you that no one else does either. If you aren't interested enough in YOU to talk about you... guess what ... no one else is either. If you don't have an image to share ... create one. Better yet, use your business card photo or the most recent picture that was taken of you when you were having fun!

When you begin filling in the blanks on your profile page, please tell us where you are ... where do you live? Where do you work? Where is your area of expertise? Name that city where you are a Local Expert! And then tell us what you know about your area of expertise. Tell us about your recent successes, your motivation to do what you do, what makes you unique in your market, and what makes you a specialist in your field.

The second best person to talk about you is a satisfied customer or client. Testimonials are very important and they can help you see yourself the way others really see you. They also help your future prospective customers see you through the eyes of someone who believes in you and cared enough to write a few words about you.

Most of us felt the same way about getting those first Testimonials ... unsure of how to ask for them. One of the best things I've ever done in my career was learning to ask for a testimonial. You have the perfect opportunity to ask for them now.

"Mr. Customer, I have to post a brief testimonial on my new business profile. Could you help me by writing a few words about our recent transaction that would help other people get to know me, so that I can help them like I was fortunate enough to help you? I really appeciate it! Thank you."

Post those testimonials! You will be humbled and amazed by the nice things people are willing to say about you when you give them the chance by asking for a brief testimonial.

THE SECOND SECRET TO SUCCESS IS JOINING SEVERAL GROUPS ON ACTIVE RAIN!

On the menu bar at the top of the AR page, you see GROUPS, and when you click on it you see a very intimidating list of groups in the drop-down box. If you begin to read about all these groups... well, it can be overwhelming! So, start with those featured groups in the right column. Those have the most members and posts. All that activity is good and all those members in those groups are the ones who will read your blog when you post to these groups. When you find blogs that "speak" to you, look at the groups they are posted to and join those groups. Chances are you will find "like minded professionals" in these groups.

One of my favorites is the IT'S ALL ABOUT THEM (THEMTHEM) GROUP. I recently became one of the moderators for this group, and I have to say the posts to this group are some of the best on AR. That's because they are about others ... bloggers have written these posts to shine the light on some one else's success or to thank someone special. We always gain the most when we give credit to someone else's efforts. Feel the love when you join this group and write your own ThemThem about someone today!

MAKING POSITIVE COMMENTS IS SUCCESS TIP #3 ON ACTIVE RAIN!

When you give more than you receive you can't go wrong! If you read, read, read lots of posts on Active Rain some really great things will begin to happen for you.

You will learn a lot of great new stuff ... real estate and technology stuff ... interesting information about people and places all over the world ... and you might even learn something about yourself.
You will begin to make new friendships when you read about the experiences of other AR members, and when you comment in a positive way on their posts, you will create new relationships.
You will find that your new RAIN-FRIENDS will begin to read and comment on the posts you write!

When you read a lot of posts, you learn what to write about. Posts that get lots of comments usually are written about the things that are happening to other people in our industry or in a local market. You'll find that you have lots of things in common with other real estate professionals. You will learn more about SEO, technology, marketing, staging, mortgages, taxes, contracts, real estate law, and The Code here on AR than anywhere else on the web. It's all in one place, but it's not just one person's opinion ... it's 90,000+ opinions!

Now that you know the TOP 3 SECRETS to ACTIVE RAIN SUCCES ... tell everyone! Don't be a secret agent, tell everyone about your success, and reach out to encourage others in the ACTIVE RAIN NETWORK!

JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

Who's #1 Who's #1 Panama City Beach, FL Is #1

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:29:20 -0500

We all love a winner! Whether it's AMERICAN IDOL's TOP 5, or David Letterman's TOP 10 REASONS WHY, we all want to see, hear, and be aligned with the winner!

Panama City Beach, FL has been named as the #1 "place" to own a summer home, according to an article called TOP FIVE PLACES TO OWN A SUMMER HOME on AOL's Money and Finance. Kelli B. Grant, a reporter for SmartMoney.com, named the "Top 5" and offered the reasoning behind the poll.

1. PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL

2. POCONO MOUNTAINS, PA

3. THE CRYSTAL COAST, NC

4. LAKE TAHOE, CA

5. GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS, TN

If you've read many of my posts on this Active Rain blog, you already know that my 2 most favorite places on this earth are the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and Panama City Beach, FL. It's pretty cool to have 2 faves in the TOP 5!

(My son, Lee, and daughter, Candi, in the Great Smoky Mountains, TN)

According to the article, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL has "something for everyone" on the Gulf of Mexico. The 6 Championship Golf Course that I blogged about in AWARD WINNING GOLF COURSES IN BAY COUNTY FL,

and the fantastic restaurants and nightlife that I blogged about in WONDERING WHERE TO GET A GREAT SEAFOOD DINNER? were mentioned in the article as 2 of the main reasons to choose Panama City Beach for your summer home destination.

Did you realize that you can buy a gulf front condo for under $100,000 on PC Beach? Prices have adjusted back to normal from the inflated prices of just a couple of years ago.

Touted as the main reason to buy NOW is the NEW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT currently under construction that I blogged about in QUIETING THE NAYSAYERS-BAY COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RELOCATION PROJECT. I don't want to say "I told you so...." however, do you see a pattern developing here? With the opening of this monumental airport, weekend travel in and out of Panama City Beach should be a snap!

I am certain there are many Active Rain members who live in PA, NC, or CA who are planning to brag on these Top 5 winners! And I know my East Tennessee friends on Active Rain will be writing lots of Localism posts about The Great Smoky Mountains! Congratulations to everyone in all of the TOP 5 PLACES TO OWN A SUMMER HOME!

JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

The American Flag Through the Eyes of a Veteran - In Honor of Memorial Day

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Mon, 26 May 2008 08:28:41 -0500

Memorial Day 2008 gives us an opportunity to pause to remember those brave American men and women who have served this country under the banner of The American Flag. Today, in honor of Memorial Day, I am re-posting a story I wrote called "The American Flag Through the Eyes of a Veteran." ##

THE FLAG THROUGH THE EYES OF A VETERAN

The phone call had surprised me. Jerry's brother, Claude, Jr, was saying that he was passing through town on the way to his weekend Guard duty. Could he come by and visit with us? "Sure, that would be fine, but Jerry is out of town, gone to training for his new job," I answered. He said he would still like to come by to see the kids. I answered the knock at the door and thought how much more he looked like his dad. Usually he looked so much more like Jerry, but age was favoring his dad now that he was over 40.

Claude Jr was the oldest of seven brothers and sisters. Jerry was in the middle somewhere. The kids were clinging to his pants legs and he carried Gloria riding on his foot as he made his way to the sofa. He hadn't been able to get here for Jerry's retirement from the base. No one in the family had made it. It had just been the guys in the squadron and me. We wisely chose not to bring the girls and baby, Lee.

Jerry's commander and I had tried to talk him out of retirement and back into another tour of duty. A recent promotion had come with orders for another tour of duty overseas. Jerry was the most committed family man I had ever known, and he was not going to leave his family. I knew that I was not going to the island of Guam with a newborn and two little girls. Retirement was Jerry's only option in his way of thinking. The only thing I remember from the ceremony was fighting back tears of regret for the shortened military career of a man who never planned to retire less than a Chief Master Sergeant.

I vaguely remember seeing him receive the American Flag that had flown over the Capitol in Washington, D.C., which had been provided by our state representative. We sort of knew him because his "right-hand-man" was an active member of our church orchestra.

"Oh, I want to show you Jerry's flag," I exclaimed as I rushed down the hall to get it from the bedroom where it was mounted in a triangular display case. I took it out and said, "It flew over the Capitol, you know."

As I turned to face Claude Jr, he stood to his full height and reached his arms forward to receive the American Flag. As I walked across the room to him, there was a hollow ringing sound in my ears. I heard my voice as if it was very far away. I didn't have time to think about what I was saying. My eyes locked with those of my brother-in-law and the world blurred into slow motion. I watched his face as the flag slowly passed from my hands into his. I saw his eyes drop from my face to the stripes of red and white, and I knew that I would never see this man again.

He was beaming with pride and his eyes glistened as he looked at this precious symbol of the freedom he had fought for in Viet Nam.

I swallowed hard as I forced the dark, bitter-strong thought from my mind. I felt faint and nausea was rising in my throat as the brown carpet swirled at my feet.

Jerry came home that night. I made my voice sound light and unconcerned as I told him how Claude Jr had played with the children, and that I hoped he didn't mind that I had taken the flag out of the case to show it to his brother. When the phone call came from their sister three days later, I wasn't even surprised. I drove out to the base, and wept as I told Jerry that his big brother had died. He didn't seem to understand what I had said at first and then he put his hand on his forehead and sank back in the chair at his desk. I never told him of the slow-motion premonition. I don't recall ever telling anyone at all.

We drove to the family's hometown in North Alabama. It didn't occur to us to drive over to the base where Claude Jr had been serving his weekend Guard duty, although it was only a couple of hours from our house. When we arrived with children-in-tow, Grandpa's house was already full of family. We sat in the kitchen with the rest of the family trying to comfort their daddy. He was a man of very few words and there were no words at all for this day. Someone finally said that he wanted his oldest boy brought home and that it just wasn't fair to have to wait a week for the funeral service.

I didn't fully understand but I knew that something wasn't happening the way it should be. Why would they wait a week to have the service? The sisters put together an explanation about the confusion that was delaying the body from being shipped home. "See, Claude Jr was in the Army Guard, but they sent his troop to work at the Air Force Base in Florida," the sisters explained. "The Army has no control over when the Air Force will release the body," they continued, "and Daddy is upset about it." I walked to the phone and said, "I need to make a few calls, okay?" Our church office had the phone number for our state representative's "right-hand-man." After thanking him for sending Jerry's flag, I told him about the circumstances we were facing. I explained that Jerry's brother's body was being held at Eglin and the Air Force wouldn't release it.

"Do you know where I am?" this friend of our family asked. "And do you know who is right here with me?" he continued. I had no idea that he and our state representative were at that very moment at Eglin Air Force Base. The number given to me by the church secretary had been forwarded to a meeting room directly across the street from the office where the decision would be made to release the body of my husband's brother that same afternoon. How marvelous are His ways! We all acknowledged that God had intervened to unravel the red tape on our behalf.

This is an excerpt from the manuscript of a future book called The Widows Walk. This book will be about people who have survived grief experiences written to encourage those who are struggling with grief issues.

Written by Jan Evett, Broker Associate, Ryan Realty, Panama City Beach, FL

UPDATED: A friend sent this link to me today for Memorial Day:

A TRIBUTE TO THE VETERANS OF THE KOREAN WAR AND WORLD WAR II

Bay County Florida Parade of Homes Week- Panama City Beach

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Tue, 13 May 2008 14:20:04 -0500

It's PARADE OF HOMES WEEK sponsored by The National Home Builders Association in Bay County, Florida! The area includes Panama City, Panama City Beach, Lynn Haven, Southport, and surrounding communities. This year there are 47 new homes in The Parade.

Right now I am hostessing OPEN HOUSE at one of the Parade Homes in the beautiful waterfront community of Martinique on Panama City Beach, FL.

My brokerage, Ryan Realty, has the exclusive listing on the Martinique Model Home, where I am right now. We also have a brand new construction home just completed in time for the annual Parade, which we also have open to show today. And, we have an owner occupied home listed for resale next door to the new one. I had the pleasure of hostessing an Open House there on Sunday.

3405 MARTINIQUE LANE $599,000

This Parade home features 3 bedrooms, with a downstairs Master suite and full bath, plus 2 full baths upstairs with each bedroom, and a half bath downstairs off the main living area. The approximate 2700 square feet have a bright open feel with oak hardwood floors. The family room has a built-in entertainment center surrounding the gas fireplace, and the open inviting kitchen has a gas stove, lots of cabinets, and open natural wood shelving. One of my favorite features is a built-in reading nook. The Master suite has a high ceiling and a luxurious Master bath with walk-in separate shower, claw-foot tub, and double sinks. There is a huge walk-in closet, plus a side patio that opens from the Master and living area.

Martinique is a charming gated waterfront community designed with distinctive "Old Florida" coastal charm. The community offers nature trails for walking, a community pool and other desirable amenities with an emphasis on protecting and preserving nature.

This is the Gazebo in the Common area which is the center of the community. On Sunday, there was a cookout in this area sponsored by one of our great lenders in Panama City Beach, Regions Bank.

The Builder is John Spillars Construction, Inc., a well-known area builder who specializes in custom homes with disctinctive architectural detail.

John focuses on a stress-free experience for the home buyer, and builds in both Bay and Walton Counties in Northwest Florida.

JAN EVETT, BROKER ASSOCIATE, RYAN REALTY, PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

Armed Forces Day Celebration in Panama City Florida

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:53:03 -0500

Show your love, respect, admiration, dedication, and pride in the United States Armed Forces!

Saturday, May 17, 2008

10:00 am - Meet the Main Street Striders at the Visual Arts Center, corner of 4th St and Harrison Avenue

11:00 am - Enjoy Patriotic Music by Margo Anderson at the Panama City Marina

ARMED FORCES DAY is May 17, 2008.

This is a nation-wide celebration to honor the US military men and women who have served or are now serving our country. President Harry Truman led the way to establish a holiday honoring the military to commemorate the unification of the brances of the armed forces under the Department of Defense. In 1949, Secretary of Defense, Louis Johnson, announced the creation of Armed Forces Day.

Join the Main Street Striders on a walk through

Downtown Panama City, Florida and

music by Margo Anderson at the

Downtown Marina as Panama City celebrates

The United States Armed Forces!

Sponsored by Tyndall Federal Credit Union and

The Downtown Improvement Board.

Active Rain-ferral Just Listed!

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Sun, 04 May 2008 14:23:34 -0500

"Active Rain-ferral"(noun): ACTIVE RAIN + REFERRAL = JUST LISTED!!!

Look at this great new home I "Just Listed" on Panama City Beach, Florida! This is an above average home located on the West End of Panama City Beach at 124 South Wells Street. List price: $369,900

It really is so nice, so neat - absolutely immaculate actually - with a beautifully landscaped lawn. There is a sprinkler system on a shallow well that helps to keep the plush lawn green and the magnolia tree blooming.

This home has a new standing seam metal roof and the high-grade stucco exterior is protected by "Rhino Shield" coating making it virtually maintenance free and in great condition.

Inside the home is a great open floor plan with a vaulted ceiling throughout the living area. The kitchen has lots of cabinets and new solid surface quartz counter tops that sparkle! The island workstation has a smooth surface cook top stove and oven. The lighting is more than efficient ... it's also beautiful.

The laundry room is off the kitchen "eat-in" area and so is the garage, which has peg board walls for easy organizing of your tools and lawn equipment.

This is a view from the great room facing the kitchen. There is a built in desk on the left and breakfast bar on the right. The high ceiling and large windows provide a light, open atmosphere for the main living area.

The home has a transferable termite bond with Orkin, and the seller is offering an American Home Shield Warranty for the buyer at closing.

The home has ceramic tile throughout the main living areas and bedrooms, which is great for Florida living ... helps to keep all that sand under control.

This home has a split bedroom floor plan with the Master Suite on one side and the other two bedrooms and full bath on the opposite side. Every bedroom has at least one window looking out on the beautiful landscaping.

View of the great room from the kitchen

Bedrooms have chair railing and crown molding.

The Florida Room was built under roof during the construction of the 2300 square foot home in 1995.

There are french doors opening to the Florida room from the Master bedroom and from the great room.

The great room overlooks the back yard and opens to the screened enclosed patio room.

This is a view of the back of the home showing all those Florida room windows. Every window has roll down hurricane shutters (electric) and the back yard is beautifully landscaped.

The screened enclosed patio room is bright, breezy, and very comfortable! Outdoor living at its best any time of the year ... no bugs in here! Just plenty of cool breezes making for a great place for a short nap!

The private fenced back yard includes a wooden deck. The landscaping is designed to provide minimal maintenance while offering a pleasant view.

And... the sellers of this home were referred to me by one of my favorite ACTIVE RAIN real estate agents in the Central Florida area! The owners are considering relocating to be closer to family members, who purchased their home from this agent. She called me after searching through the Active Rain Network! I am so grateful to her for giving me the opportunity to meet the owners, present a marketing analysis for their home, and list their home!

ENJOY THIS MUSICAL VIDEO TOUR OF THIS LOVELY ACTIVE RAIN-FERRAL!

Meet one of my new best friends, Nicole Stolberger! Check out Nicole's Active Rain Profile!

Jan Evett
Broker Associate

Century 21 Ryan Realty, Inc.
8212 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Mobile: 850-625-9073

Email: RealEstate@JanEvett.com

Search Homes for Sale: www.JanEvett.com

The Pledge of Allegiance from the heart of a P. O. W.

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 21:49:06 -0500

Someone sent the story below to me in an email today (I added the photos). Then Steve Dalton - Northwest Indiana of the ActiveRain group: Real Estate Professionals for John McCain also sent an email today asking for members to post more to the group.

So........... here we go:

John McCain's remarks about the Pledge of Allegiance:

'The Pledge of Allegiance' - by Senator John McCain

'As you may know, I spent five and one half years as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War. In the early years of our imprisonment, the NVA kept us in solitary confinement or two or three to a cell. In 1971 the NVA moved us from these conditions of isolation into large rooms with as many as 30 to 40 men to a room.

This was, as you can imagine, a wonderful change and was a direct result of the efforts of millions of Americans on behalf of a few hundred POWs 10,000 miles from home.

One of the men who moved into my room was a young man named Mike Christian.

Mike came from a small town near Selma , Alabama . He didn't wear a pair of shoes until he was 13 years old. At 17, he enlisted in the US Navy. He later earned a commission by going to Officer Training School Then he became a Naval Flight Officer and was shot down and captured in 1967. Mike had a keen and deep appreciation of the opportunities this country and our military provide for people who want to work and want to succeed.

As part of the change in treatment, the Vietnamese allowed some prisoners to receive packages from home. In some of these packages were handkerchiefs, scarves and other items of clothing.

Mike got himself a bamboo needle. Over a period of a couple of months, he created an American flag and sewed on the inside of his shirt.

Every afternoon, before we had a bowl of soup, we would hang Mike's shirt on the wall of the cell and say the Pledge of Allegiance.

I know the Pledge of Allegiance may not seem the most important part of our day now, but I can assure you that in that stark cell it was indeed the most important and meaningful event.

One day the Vietnamese searched our cell, as they did periodically, and discovered Mike's shirt with the flag sewn inside, and removed it.

That evening they returned, opened the door of the cell, and for the benefit of all of us, beat Mike Christian severely for the next couple of hours. Then, they opened the door of the cell and threw him in. We cleaned him up as well as we could.

The cell in which we lived had a concrete slab in the middle on which we slept Four naked light bulbs hung in each corner of the room.

As I said, we tried to clean up Mike as well as we could. After the excitement died down, I looked in the corner of the room, and sitting there beneath that dim light bulb with a piece of red cloth, another shirt and his bamboo needle, was my friend, Mike Christian. He was sitting there with his eyes almost shut from the beating he had received, making another American flag. He was not making the flag because it made Mike Christian feel better. He was making that flag because he knew how important it was to us to be able to Pledge our allegiance to our flag and country.

So the next time you say the Pledge of Allegiance, you must never forget the sacrifice and courage that thousands of Americans have made to build our nation and promote freedom around the world. You must remember our duty, our honor, and our country.'

'I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.'

So, now that you've read this inspirational message........

VOTE....

However you decide to vote is your right. And that right, that freedom was given to you by brave men like John McCain and Mike Christian and the other 30-40 men who shared a living hell that most of us have never had to face. They faced it for their Country, for their American Flag, for their Pledge of Allegiance, for their brothers and sisters in service to their country ... and they faced it for you and for me.

So......

Jan Evett
Broker Associate

Century 21 Ryan Realty, Inc.
8212 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Mobile: 850-625-9073

Email: RealEstate@JanEvett.com

Search Homes for Sale: www.JanEvett.com

Spring Farmer's Market, Downtown Panama City, FL

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 22:12:57 -0500

This is one of the best ideas I've heard about in a long, long time! With all the fresh fruits and vegetables that are grown in our local area in the spring and summer, this event is going to be a success! This is a great idea for local families and for visitors to our warm climate.

Panama City's Downtown Improvement Board is sponsoring a Farmer's Market starting April 12 at McKenzie Park!

WHEN: Saturday, April 12, 2008

TIME: 8:00am-12:00pm

WHERE: 3rd Court at McKenzie Park

The Farmers Market will be held on the Second Saturday each month.

More information about this event is available from the Panama City Downtown Improvement Board on their website: www.pcdib.com

Jan Evett
Broker Associate

Century 21 Ryan Realty, Inc.
8212 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Mobile: 850-625-9073

Email: RealEstate@JanEvett.com

Search Homes for Sale: www.JanEvett.com

Coastal Systems Station Relocation Guide

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 02:33:40 -0500

Congratulations! "You have been selected!" You just got the dream assignment ... whether you are active duty military or a civilian contractor... it's a great assignment!

Welcome to the Coastal Systems Station on Panama City Beach, FL!

The first thing you'll notice is all the water ... St Andrews Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and the IntraCoastal Waterway! Of course the waterfront access is the very reason why CSS is located on "The World's Most Beautiful Beaches." CSS is home to military families associated with the US Navy and the US Coast Guard. CSS is also a major employer for civilian support for the military. Engineers and contractors abound! Many of the more than 3000 retirees in the area were once employed at the CSS. It's a huge part of the economy and lifestyle of Panama City Beach.

Yeah, you get to go to the beach ... the sugar white sands are just about half a mile down the road from the Coastal Systems Station.

This dream assignment can be really sweet, but it's still another relocation to a new town, new job, new school, new church, new shopping centers, new restaurants, new doctors, new day care, new babysitters, new everything!

Have you ever had to do something new for the first time that you've never had to do before, and wished that someone had written a guide or book or manual to help you do it?

Like parenting, how many times have you heard some one say that kids don't come with an owner's manual?

How many times have you wondered how to add something to your post on Active Rain and found that someone (usually Brad Andersohn) had already written a post giving detailed instructions on how to do that very thing?

Instruction manuals are good, but they are only good if you know about them or know where to find them. And they are only as good as the information they contain. Guess what military families ... there is a Guide to Military Installations 6^th Edition by Dan Cragg published 2001 by Stackpole Books.

Maybe you already know about this book, certainly it has been around a while, but if you haven't heard of it, you must "Google" it! This guide tells you the basics on ALL the military installations... everything you wanted to know about approximately 300 Navy, Marines, Air Force, Army, and Coast Guard Installations all over the world.

It's easy to understand and full of great information. Here is a direct quote from the guide about CSS:

"Established originally in 1942 as a naval section base, the Panama City Coastal Systems Station (CSS) has been involved with surface warfare research and development since it became a mine countermeasures station in 1945. Today it is a major activity under the Naval Surface Warfare Center with an active-duty complement of 750 military personnel and a civilian workforce of over 1,100 persons."

CSS is a place where important research, development, testing, training, and studies are done in engineering and scientific expertise for the military.

CSS also offers support missions for Mine, Amphibious, and Special Warfare operations and training. The deep waters of the Bay and the Gulf of Mexico are perfect arenas for the Navy and Coast Guard exercises and training maneuvers.

Of course there's always swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, sunbathing, volleyball, jogging, and Spring Break!

Did someone say "Spring Break" on Panama City Beach?

Okay, guys, let's get back to business... here's a quote from the Department of Defense describing in detailed acronyms the purpose of CSS.

"The Naval Sea Systems command is an integral component of the Naval Surface Warfare Center's Dahlgren Division. CSS is on the Navy's major RDT&E laboratories with a wide base of expertise in science, technology, engineering, modeling, simulation, and T&E. The Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) and Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center (NDSTC)-CSS provides the nucleus for all Department of Defense diving efforts."

Focus....... I bet I lost you in all those capital letters above, didn't I?.......

In addition to being located on Panama City Beach, (CSS) has a lot to offer those who are lucky enough (or smart enough) to be stationed here. There is a Navy exchange and mini-mall, plus a nice bowling facility, full library, recreation center, excellent gym, and auto hobby center. In the surrounding area there are multiple opportunities for golf, fishing, camping, swimming, tennis, and a multitude of outdoor activities, and great seafood restaurants.

However there is one thing CSS doesn't have a lot of... and that is on-base housing. There are approximately 65 family housing units for active duty. Obviously, most personnel and all civilians live away from CSS. There is a large variety of housing options available from single family homes and townhouses to condominiums in Panama City Beach. You're going to need an experienced real estate agent! (It would be my pleasure to share my experience with you!)

There are also plenty of educational opportunities available for children from day care facilities, pre-school, elementary, middle and high schools, as well as college courses for adults through Gulf Coast Community College and Florida State University's Panama City Campus, both located on beautiful St Andrews Bay.

There are a lot of new opportunities and developments in Panama City Beach that you will want to explore. This sleepy little Southern coastal community has come alive in recent months with the development of Pier Park, a retail shopping and dining extravaganza on Panama City Beach. In the town of Panama City which is just over the Hathaway Bridge, Bay County is building a new state-of-the-art Library. And the big news in development opportunity for all of Northwest Florida is the Bay County International Airport relocation to Panama City Beach.

To sum it all up ... you're going to love living here. I'm proud to be your military relocation Guide to CSS!

Jan Evett
Broker Associate

Century 21 Ryan Realty, Inc.
8212 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Mobile: 850-625-9073

Email: RealEstate@JanEvett.com

Search Homes for Sale: www.JanEvett.com

Beginning Today ... Your Life Will Never Be the Same.

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 22:47:59 -0500

"Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness and understanding you can muster, and do so with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again." - Og Mandino

I first remember hearing about Og Mandino (Born December 12, 1923 - Died September 3, 1996) in the first Zig Ziglar book that I read. I was about 23 years old, and just realizing that a sales career was in my future. Every word in that book rang true with me, and I've had that experience many times again when reading books by Ziglar and Mandino.

Og Mandino got the nickname "Og" from his full name Augustine Mandino, a family name... he was named after his grandfather. His family immigrated to the US from Italy. He knew the value of hard work, but more importantly he knew the value of people. He didn't let work or things effect the way he treated people. He learned what he lived by being an avid reader.

These are some of Og Mandino's favorite books:

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, by Benjamin Franklin

Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill

Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude, by W. Clement Stone and Napoleon Hill

The Power of Faith, by Louis Binstock

Your Greatest Power, by J. Martin Kohe

I Dare You, by William Danforth

Acres of Diamonds, by Russell H. Conwell

The Ability to Love, by Dr. Allan Fromme

How I Raised Myself From Failure to Success In Selling, by Frank Bettger

The Magic Power of Emotional Appeal, by Roy Garn

As a Man Thinketh, by James E. Allen

The Holy Bible

When a person becomes an avid reader, something else wonderful can also happen. He can become an avid writer. Not only was Og considered to be "the world's greatest salesman" but he wrote some good books, too.

Books Written By Og Mandino

U.S.A. in a Nutshell
Cycles
The Greatest Salesman In The World
The Greatest Secret In The World
The Greatest Miracle In The World
The Gift Of Acabar (with Buddy Kaye)
The Choice
The Christ Commission
Mission: Success!
The God Memorandum
The Greatest Salesman In The World Part II: The End Of The Story
The Ten Ancient Scrolls For Success: From The Greatest Salesman In The World
He Is Tough
University of Success (Compilation from other works)
A Better Way To Live
The Return Of The Ragpicker
The Twelfth Angel
Spellbinder's Gift
The Greatest Mystery In The World
Secrets For Success And Happiness
The Greatest Success In The World
A Treasury Of Success Unlimited

Not only does an avid reader become a writer, but usually he becomes a better person. And that better person learns how to treat others around him like they are better people, too.

Og's Words and My Thoughts

"Beginning today..." It's never too late to raise your standards.

"... treat everyone you meet ..." Meet new people.

"... as if they are going to be dead by midnight ..." You never know how long you'll have the people you love.

" ... Extend to them ..." Reach out to others... extend a hand to someone who needs your support.

" ... all the care, kindness, and understanding you can muster." Muster means you have to work at it.

" ... and do so with no thought of any reward." That's the hard part, isn't it? Be unselfish, not self-centered.

" ... Your life will never be the same again." Life will have more meaning. You and your life will be better.

One of the great things about loving to read and loving music is when they come together it can be amazing! If you're satisfied with your status quo, then you may not know what I mean. But if you sometimes long to be a better person, more than you already are, then you might really enjoy this song.

I Will Never Be the Same Again!

Australia Hillsongs

I will never be the same again,
I can never return, I've closed the door.
I will walk apart, I'll run the race
And I will never be the same again.

Fall like fire, soak like rain,
Flow like mighty waters, again and again.
Sweep away the darkness, burn away the chaff,
And let a flame burn to glorify Your name.

There are higher heights, there are deeper seas,
Whatever you need to do, Lord do in me.
The Glory of God fills my life,
And I will never be the same again.

Fall like fire, soak like rain,
Flow like mighty waters, again and again.
Sweep aways the darkness, burn away the chaff
And let a flame burn to glorify Your name.

I will never be the same again,
I can never return, I've closed the door.
I will walk the path, I will run the race
And I will never be the same again.
And I will never be the same again.
And I will never be the same again.

Jan Evett
Broker Associate

Century 21 Ryan Realty, Inc.
8212 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Mobile: 850-625-9073
Email: jevett@gmail.com
http://www.linkedin.com/in/janevett
HometownBayCounty.com

Precious Easter Tea for Little Girls

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 01:38:37 -0500

One of my favorite Rainers commented this week that she remembers dressing up and enjoying chocolate candy eggs ... her childhood Easter memories. Those are some of my favorite Easter memories, too... Easters with my little girls. My favorite Easter picture was Gloria (age 3) stealing Easter eggs from Candi's (age 5) Easter basket while I was taking a photo of them... talk about getting caught with your hand in the Easter basket!

Unfortunately, since my girls are now 22 and 25 years old, there were no digital cameras to make posting that photo easy ... it's somewhere in a picture album.

I loved dressing them in the frilly white ankle socks and white patent leather shoes, and the pastel lacey dresses with white gloves which were always chocolate stained before we got home from church.

Easter baskets, bunnies, and chocolates are as much a part of Easter to me as the real meaning of Easter, the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Christian meaning does not keep me from enjoying a fun Easter Tea Party. Part of the celebration for me is the excitement of precious little girls in all their frills and bows, hats, gloves, and baskets ... sparkling eyes and beautiful smiles, and chocolate eggs.

This weekend I was honored to participate in an Easter Tea sponsored by the GFWC Woman's Club of Panama City held at the Clubhouse in The Cove area downtown. A special event ... for some very special little girls.

The tea party guests enjoyed finger sandwiches made with egg salad, chicken salad, and peanut butter and jelly, along with fresh strawberries and scones, cookies, cupcakes, milk, lemonade, and tea prepared and served by the Club members.

These delights were served on beautifully decorated tables with china tea cups, plates, and tea pots, linen napkins, ribbon bows, flowers, and baskets full of candy and toy baby chicks.

Pictured here is a precious little girl with her grandmother. This is her second year to be a guest at the Easter Tea, and doesn't that smile say it all? She was such a sweet little lady with her white rose purse. She loved helping Grandmother pour from the china tea pot.

She was one of the first to be seated while many of the other girls were still working on the paper Easter bonnets and beaded jewelry at the arts and craft tables. The girls also each made an Easter wreath decorated with crosses and sunrises to take home.

It was amazing to see how much little girl energy can suddenly turn into the most dainty manners imaginable when china dishes and tea sets are involved! Every one of the young ladies was extremely polite and gracious to each other as they enjoyed the sandwiches and desserts.

Some of the girls, ages 4 to 12, were daughters or granddaughters of club members and friends. However most of the girls who were invited to be our guests are not living with their own families right now. Some of these girls have never been invited to a tea before, and their pretty dresses were most likely donated. Three of these girls were given "matching" dresses, and they were thrilled and grateful to wear them.

Some of these young ladies might not have had an Easter dress or a reason to wear one without this special annual Easter Tea.

All of these little girls were delightful as they crossed the stage in their Easter dresses, stopping to twirl and receive heartfelt applause as the Club's Sunshine Singers sang "In Your Easter Bonnet."

The Easter Bunny made a surprise early arrival as everyone joined in singing "Here Comes Peter Cottontail" -making the entire day just divine!

The Easter Bunny and each girl had photos made in the clubhouse gardens as they were leaving.

The annual Easter Tea is a community service project of the Public Affairs Department of the *GFWC Woman's Club of Panama City, Florida.

*GFWC stands for The General Federation of Woman's Clubs, which is a nation-wide service organization.

Jan Evett
Broker Associate

Century 21 Ryan Realty, Inc.
8212 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Mobile: 850-625-9073
Email: jevett@gmail.com
http://www.linkedin.com/in/janevett
HometownBayCounty.com

Easter - A Chance to Give A Gift of Spring Blessings

Jan Evett Panama City Beach, FL (Century 21 Ryan Realty ) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 23:14:06 -0600

Easter Sunday will be "early" this year! I'm sure you've already realized this if you've looked ahead at your monthly calendar for March, 2008. But... do you know why it's early this year? A friend sent an email to me this week explaining "why" ... answering some interesting questions about Easter.

First, it's always the first Sunday after the first full moon after the Spring Equinox (which is March 20). The Easter date is based on the lunar calendar used by the Hebrew people to identify Passover. Based on all the information above, this year Easter will be March 23.

The amazing fact that you might not realize is that this Easter is the earliest that any of us will ever see for the rest of our lives. Really. The next time Easter will be this early (March 23) will be the year 2228 (220 years from now). Another amazing fact is that only folks who are 95 years old or older have ever seen Easter this early. The last time it was this early in the year was in 1913... so if you are 95 years old (plus), you are one of the few who were around for that Easter. The last time that Easter was earlier than that was in 1818 ... and I don't think any of us were around for that one!

Easter has a lot of cultural and religious significance especially to those who celebrate the Christian faith. But for some people Easter is just another sad day without enough food, money, and no place to live. Even in our beautiful coastal Panama City, there are homeless people. Most of them will find their way to the Rescue Mission in downtown Panama City. And if we didn't have the Rescue Mission, many men, women, and children would have no place to stay while trying to get back on their "feet."

The people who find themselves in unfortunate circumstances need some help and hope. The Easter season offers the hope of redemption to those who believe. When you help the Rescue Mission, you also offer hope to those who have no place else to turn. The following paragraph is from an email that I received today from the Rescue Mission... it tells how you can give "hope and a new beginning" to people who need some help.

"It only costs $1.92 to provide a warm Easter meal to a hungry, homeless person. Please consider a special gift of $19.20 to feed 10 people… $38.40 to feed 20 people… or $192 to feed 100 of Panama City’s homeless. And whatever you give this Spring. . . in March and April . . . will be matched by our generous friends at the Feinstein Foundation to help end hunger! After all, Easter should not be just another day of sad existence for anyone."

Easter, 2008, can be your chance to give the gift of a Spring blessing to someone who needs help and hope!

Volunteer Opportunities

Easter Egg Hunt- March 22. Needy families will hear the Resurrection story, hunt for 1,000 eggs, enjoy a picnic lunch, and receive Easter baskets.
Easter Dinner- March 23, 2008

Panama City Rescue Mission, P. O. Box 2359, Panama City, FL 32402

Panama City Bargain Center

401 E 6th St

Panama City, FL 32401

Tel (850) 215-5778

panamacitybc1@pcrmission.org

4th Street Emporium

Household appliances repaired and re-sold.

Tel (850) 215-3720

Donation Center/Production

1801 E 11th St

Panama City, Fl 32401

for pick-up: 850-769-5777

donationcenter@pcrmission.org

Jan Evett
Broker Associate

Century 21 Ryan Realty, Inc.
8212 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Mobile: 850-527-9819
Email: jevett@gmail.com

http://www.linkedin.com/in/janevett
HometownBayCounty.com

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