OKALOOSA ISLAND —Sandy Trimble never thought she’d adopt a dog at Saturday’s Home Show.
But as she and her friend Helen Shortn wandered the Emerald Coast Convention Center looking for renovation ideas, they came across the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society booth.
Trimble couldn’t say no to Chihuahua Reuben, with his cute looks and happy personality.
“I can see him with the other two (dogs) at home,” Trimble said.
Reuben — who is soon to be renamed — was PAWS’ second adoption by 1 p.m.
“These are people with homes and room for our dogs and cats,” said Zo Carlson, fundraising and events coordinator for PAWS.
Although the PAWS had one of the more popular booths, hundreds of people visited dozens of exhibits to get ideas and direction on kitchen remodels, shutter installation and more at the 34th annual Home Show hosted by the Building Industry Association of Okaloosa & Walton Counties.
View a photo gallery from the show. >>
Keith and Karen Nielsen have come to the show every year since they moved to Fort Walton Beach in 1992. Although it has gotten smaller over the years, Karen said it still has a good variety of vendors for people to choose from.
“It‘s kind of a nonthreatening situation where you can go and question stuff,” she said.
Karen Peterson had a specific look in mind for her future kitchen: traditional with a bit of French flair. Not Tuscan, she said adamantly.
“I just want to see what’s new and improved,” Peterson said.
CHECK IT OUT: The Home Show continues today from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Emerald Coast Convention Center. Admission is $5.