The powerful story of Defuniak’s unlikely WWII Hero, Ewart Sconiers
From childhood hardship in DeFuniak Springs to the cockpit of a B-17, Ewart Sconiers’ life was defined by resilience. After flying his first combat mission on August 17, 1942, Sconiers displayed extraordinary valor just days later, piloting his crippled bomber to safety and securing a place in aviation history.
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.
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.
Jessica Laird believes she’s the better option in the tricky Walton Tax Collector Election this summer. Here’s Why:
Tax collector candidate Jessica Carter Laird is making her case as a seasoned public servant for Walton County, emphasizing her 19+ years of experience, deep local roots, and commitment to innovation and public safety in the office. Her plans include addressing geographical challenges by pursuing remote self-service kiosks and bringing TSA PreCheck enrollment services to the county. Laird also highlights her focus on public policy, such as shifting immigration credential vetting back to the state level to reduce burdens on local offices, and shared a striking example of how her office’s diligence led to the identification of a human trafficking operation.
Growth, Change, and Opportunity: CHELCO Maps the Future
CHELCO leaders outlined future energy challenges while awarding scholarships and confirming board leadership at their annual meeting.
She’s fighting cancer, with the entire community behind her.
One of the bright spots of the local community is the support that is generated during the most difficult times. At the DeFuniak Springs City Council meeting held last week, Kim Wennerberg took the initiative to share a local outreach opportunity to “do something good” for a friend and neighbor of DeFuniak Springs. Wennerberg introduced an effort called “Cami’s Day” that will take place on May 30 at the Amphitheatre, 1184 Circle Dr. in DeFuniak Springs, from 4 -8 p.m. Cami Dewees Morgan is a local business owner who lives, works, and serves with an attitude that calls everyone to “Live Fully” in everything you do.1
Florida Man Delivers Again With 40 Charges in Walton
A Walton County man is facing 40 charges after deputies say a traffic stop uncovered drugs, weapons, and a brief attempt to flee.
