Liveblog: Hurricane Isaias Coverage for the Emerald Coast
Niceville declared a state of emergency as Tropical Storm Isaias approaches the Emerald Coast. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surge up to seven feet are expected. Meanwhile, Okaloosa County School District has canceled all Thursday and Friday classes, rescheduling major high school football games to next week.
Does the Proposed Emerald Coast Motor Club Have a Location Problem?
Is a motorsports club in north Walton County a good idea? Kim Falconer explains why it may
Hospital claims low screening rates, offers free mammograms.
Ascension Sacred Heart wants to address low local screening rates for breast cancer, offering free donor-funded mammograms for uninsured women 40+. Here’s how you can sign up:
Fiscal Reality or ‘Monopoly Money’? Commissioners Clash Over Discretionary Spending
As the Board of County Commissioners weighs the impact of a potential $4 million budget shortfall driven by Florida Amendment 3, a contentious debate has erupted over discretionary spending. Commissioners clashed over allocating funds to local groups, with resident Barbara Morano warning, “This money is not monopoly money.”
Ponder Highlights Maritime, Innovation Initiatives At Walton Chamber Lunch
Northwest Florida State College President Mel Ponder recently unveiled a bold strategic plan at the Walton Area Chamber’s Power of Business Lunch. With new investments in maritime training, hospitality, public safety, and engineering pathways, the college is aggressively aligning its curriculum with regional economic demands to transform students’ future success.
Walton Commission says ‘flock you’ to controversial cameras in rapid vote
The Walton County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to remove Flock license plate reader cameras from county rights-of-way. While proponents noted the system’s success in locating missing persons, skeptics raised concerns about data privacy, facial recognition, and surveillance, leading to a 5-0 vote to disconnect the devices on county-controlled roads.
Heads up, Freeport: CHELCO’s office is moving!
CHELCO claims its Freeport Member Services Center will move August 25, promising new operational hours at a new site.
Officials Confirm Local West Nile Virus Case in Walton County.
DOH-Walton claims a confirmed local human West Nile virus case, spurring prevention efforts.
Today on 30A
Although school is back in full gear, high season continues with visitors along the Emerald Coast. Temperatures continue to be high, and everyone is looking for some shade. Stay hydrated and have a great weekend. -Steven Photo credit: Steven Saul. Related
14 Years Behind Bars After Fatal Highway 90 Collision
Justin Echternacht was sentenced to 14 years in state prison followed by one year of probation for DUI manslaughter after a 2023 Highway 90 crash killed another driver. Prosecutors said Echternacht crossed the center line, while investigators later found cocaine, THC and alcohol in his system.
