HISTORY: The Emerald Coast’s upstart third-party Florida governor and his controversial legacy
In 1916, Sidney J. Catts achieved a historic political upset, becoming Florida’s only third-party governor. Running under the Prohibition Party banner after a disputed Democratic primary, the populist preacher campaigned across rural Florida in a Model T, leaving behind a fascinating and turbulent administration.
Historic Woman’s Club gets crucial boost for needed repairs.
Eglin Federal Credit Union has donated $23,548 to the DeFuniak Springs Woman’s Club to fund renovations at its historic clubhouse. According to a news release, the credit union presented the check to the club on Oct. 22 to support the preservation of the facility, located at 23 S. Sixth Street.
HISTORY: 1898 fire ignites new future for DeFuniak Springs
In 1898, a devastating fire swept through downtown DeFuniak Springs, charring 22 wooden structures on Baldwin Avenue. Yet, this catastrophe sparked transformation. Forced to rebuild, merchants turned to durable brick, creating the safer, denser downtown we recognize today. This shift helped solidify the town’s future, leading to official incorporation and essential new municipal services.
Fire Assessment Passes in DeFuniak Springs, but Many Questions Remain
The DeFuniak Springs City Council voted 3-2 to impose a $100 annual fire assessment on homeowners and businesses. The decision comes amid debate over the future of the city’s fire department, including a potential transfer to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office and concerns about costs, control and unanswered questions.
CHELCO Golf Tournament Scores Big for Local Children, Raises Nearly $18,000
CHELCO’s 2026 Charity Golf Tournament raised a record $17,946.27 for three Northwest Florida nonprofits serving children and families. The event drew 30 teams and 35 sponsors to Eagle Springs Golf and Recreation Center in DeFuniak Springs. Since 2021, the tournament has raised more than $75,000 for local organizations.
What would a Miccosukee Casino mean for Walton County? Expert weighs jobs, revenue and costs
The Miccosukee Tribe has not announced plans for its 25-acre DeFuniak Springs property, but a potential casino has sparked questions about jobs, tax revenue, tourism and costs. An economic expert examines what a casino could mean for Walton County and whether it would be the best use of the land.
DeFuniak Springs, where the audits are better, but maybe not the water pipes?
DeFuniak Springs leaders celebrated improved audits but faced heated debate over aging water pipes, airport rent relief, and future city infrastructure projects.
DeFuniak Springs Welcomes New Eglin Federal Credit Union Branch
Eglin Federal Credit Union celebrated the grand opening of its new DeFuniak Springs Branch, expanding financial services and member access in Walton County.
Cruise on in to Eglin Federal Credit Union for America’s 250th Celebration Giveaway
Eglin Federal Credit Union is celebrating America’s 250th birthday with patriotic branch events and a chance to win a cruise vacation for two.
CONFIRMED: Remains of DeFuniak man who vanished in 2016 found on Eglin reservation
Skeletal remains discovered on Eglin Air Force Base property have been positively identified as John Thomas “JT” Watson, a DeFuniak Springs man who vanished in 2015. While the breakthrough brings a measure of closure to Watson’s family after a decade of searching, the Walton County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that the active investigation into his disappearance and death is far from over.
