The Deep South Experience

02/06/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1P92PaKJGq/

Bay Anthropological Society
GCSC’s Anthropology Club and the Bay Anthropological Society Proudly Present “Early Spanish Florida: Unearthing the History of America’s Oldest Colony"
Panama City, FL – The Gulf Coast State College Anthropology Club and the Bay Anthropological Society proudly present “Early Spanish Florida: Unearthing the History of America’s Oldest Colony."
The presentation will be led by Dr. Judith A. Bense, president emerita and professor of anthropology at the University of West Florida. Dr. Bense was raised on a small family dairy farm near Panama City, which instilled an ethic of hard work and teamwork. Always interested in the ancient roots of humanity, she earned her doctorate in archaeology at age 27, eventually joining the University of West Florida in 1980, where she built a nationally respected archaeology and anthropology program. She later served as university president for nine years. The recipient of numerous awards, Dr. Bense has written four academic books and two for the public, and she will share her story in preparation for her forthcoming book.
Event Details:
• Date: Thursday, February 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
• Location: GCSC Panama City Campus, Language and Literature Building, Sarzin Lecture Hall
• Admission: Free and open to the public
For more information, please contact Dr. Jason Wenzel at [email protected] or 850-769-1551 x4817

01/07/2026

Foggy Mississippi Morning

03/31/2025

UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 24

This is not the update we wanted to share. We want to first say that our hearts hurt for Bret's family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved him.

We also want to thank everyone who helped search for Bret, from strangers to the Cajun Navy, Civil Air Patrol, and retired law enforcement. Your efforts are so appreciated. We are in debt to all of you.

On September 14th, our agency was called out to Point Washington State Forest after a father and son found human remains and a campsite while hiking. The Walton County Sheriff's Office immediately responded, and the Medical Examiner's Office was notified. Because of the belongings found at the scene, Bret's family was immediately notified.

Our agency did not make public notification at the request of Bret's parents until positive identification could be made.

This morning, the District 1 Medical Examiner has confirmed the remains found are those of Bret.
Please join us in offering comfort to Bret's family in their time of loss. Rest peacefully, Bret. Semper Fi.

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UPDATE APRIL 23: On Thursday, April 24th, the family of missing 36-year-old Bret Valona will be conducting a search beginning at 10 am at the Eastern Lake Trailhead of S County Highway 395.

Several organizations have offered to help in the search, and the family also welcomes anyone in the public who would like to assist in finding Bret.
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SUNDAY EVENING UPDATE: Search efforts in the area have been discontinued for the day.

Again, there is no immediate indication of foul play or that Valona is in danger.

We will keep all of you updated as we continue to find Valona to ensure he is okay.
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WCSO, WALTON CORRECTIONAL K-9 TEAMS SEARCHING FOR 36-YEAR-OLD "PRIMITIVE OUTDOORSMAN" NEAR EASTERN LAKE TRAILHEAD

The Walton County Sheriff's Office and Walton Correctional K-9 Team are currently in the area of the Eastern Lake Trailhead searching for a 36-year-old who was reported missing by his sister.

Bret Valona was last seen approximately four weeks ago when he was dropped off at the trailhead. Valona is an avid outdoorsman who uses minimal equipment and gear to camp and survive.

Before the missing persons report to our agency, it was not unusual for Valona to go without being heard from for three weeks at a time. However, his family hopes to make contact with him to ensure he is okay.

He was last seen wearing a flannel shirt and Dickies khaki pants and had a yellow rainjacket. He has brown hair, blue eyes, and a sandy brown goatee.

If you have any information about Valona's whereabouts, you're asked to contact the Walton County Sheriff's Office at (850)-892-8111.

08/11/2024

Been carrying this for about 6 months now. Case stockman has always been my go to EDC since my first one back in the late 60s . Love this smooth bone finish.

07/09/2024

I have a private group under the same name. If you are from the South you are welcome to join.

02/29/2024

PCB Ci**rs

12/17/2023

Let The Adventures Begin!